Münster District
Ruhr RegionVolksgarten Eickel Animal Park
Münster District
Ruhr RegionVolksgarten Eickel Animal Park
Highlight • Structure
Volksgarten Eickel Animal Park
Cycling
4.6
(89)
Hiking
4.7
(75)
Mountain biking
4.0
(4)
Running
5.0
(2)
The Tierpark Volksgarten Eickel is a cherished urban green space nestled in the Eickel district of Herne, Germany. This popular recreational area, situated at an elevation of approximately 63 meters, offers a refreshing escape from city life, providing a diverse range of leisure activities for visitors of all ages. Spanning 96,000 square meters, it serves as a vital green lung for the community, bordered by key streets like Lohofstraße and Burgstraße.
What truly captivates visitors to the Tierpark Volksgarten Eickel is its charming minizoo, a particular highlight for families with children. Here, you can get up close with a variety of domestic animals, including friendly goats and donkeys that can be petted, as well as cows, pigs, and various bird species. The park's ability to bring farm animals into an urban setting creates a unique and memorable experience, making it a beloved destination for those seeking "Tierpark Volksgarten Eickel information" and a free alternative to larger zoos.
Before your visit, it's helpful to know that the park is well-equipped for a comfortable outing. There are two playgrounds, one of which is notably shady and features slides, swings, and even trampolines, perfect for younger visitors. For convenience, automatic feeders are available near the goat enclosure, allowing you to purchase food for the animals, and public toilets are also on-site. While the park itself doesn't have a dedicated café within the minizoo area, drinks can be found at a nearby beer garden, ensuring you stay refreshed during your exploration of the "Volksgarten Eickel trails." Parking is generally available, with the main address being Lohofstraße 28, 44651 Herne.
The Tierpark Volksgarten Eickel is an ideal spot for walking, jogging, and family outings throughout the year, though the milder months offer the most pleasant conditions for enjoying the outdoor amenities. Its network of walking paths, stretching 2.6 kilometers, provides ample opportunity for leisurely strolls or more active pursuits. The park is particularly popular for those looking for "Tierpark Volksgarten Eickel with kids," offering a blend of animal encounters and play areas.
Many visitors cherish the opportunity to interact directly with the animals, with the chance to stroke goats and donkeys being a standout moment. The presence of a wetland biotope also adds to the park's natural appeal, providing a habitat for local amphibians and other wildlife. Seeing farm animals like cows and pigs in such an accessible urban environment is often an unexpected delight, creating a genuine connection with nature for city dwellers.
Whether you're planning a family day out, a leisurely walk, or a jog, the Tierpark Volksgarten Eickel offers a variety of experiences. You can discover numerous routes for walking and exploring the park's features, from the minizoo to the playgrounds and the war memorial. Hikers, walkers, and families can use komoot to plan their visit, finding the best paths to enjoy this green oasis in Herne.
Tips
October 1, 2018
Cycling
In the zoo, goats and donkeys can be caressed. Cows, pigs and some bird species are also present.
Automatic feeder and sink are also available.
The playground is more shady and offers slide, swing and trampoline and some exercises for cooperation; Squats on a swinging platform and balance exercises.
For the supply of drinks but you have to go to the nearby beer garden.
•
April 12, 2021
Hiking
•
March 22, 2022
Hiking
•
Sign up for a free komoot account to get 5 more insider tips and takes.
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Volksgarten Eickel Animal Park
5.0
(5)
30
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(8)
16
hikers
10.6km
02:45
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
11
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 60 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Tuesday 9 June
15°C
9°C
68 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain and paths can I expect at Tierpark Volksgarten Eickel?
The park features a well-maintained network of walking paths, totaling 2.6 kilometers. These paths are generally flat and suitable for leisurely strolls, jogging, and families with strollers. The terrain is not challenging, making it accessible for most visitors.
Are there any historical landmarks or notable features beyond the minizoo?
Yes, in addition to the minizoo, the park is home to a significant war cemetery where 440 war dead are buried. A monument called "Aufschrei" (Outcry), commemorating the victims of both World Wars, was unveiled there in 1961. The park also includes a wetland biotope, providing a natural habitat for local amphibians and other wildlife.
What are the best public transport options to reach Tierpark Volksgarten Eickel?
Tierpark Volksgarten Eickel is well-integrated into the local public transport network. While specific bus or tram lines are not detailed, its urban location in Herne suggests good accessibility via local services. It's advisable to check current routes and schedules from your starting point to Lohofstraße 28, 44651 Herne, using local transport apps or websites.
How long should I plan for a visit to Tierpark Volksgarten Eickel?
Most visitors find that 1 to 2 hours is sufficient to explore the minizoo, enjoy the playgrounds, and take a leisurely walk along the park's paths. If you plan to spend more time at the playgrounds or simply relax, you might extend your visit to half a day.
Is Tierpark Volksgarten Eickel dog-friendly?
While the park is a popular recreational area, specific rules regarding dogs within the minizoo enclosures are not provided. Generally, dogs on a leash are welcome in public parks in Germany, but it's always best to observe local signage or inquire on-site, especially around animal enclosures and playgrounds, to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone.
Is Tierpark Volksgarten Eickel accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
Given the park's network of well-maintained, generally flat paths spanning 2.6 kilometers, it is largely accessible for strollers and likely for wheelchairs. The playgrounds and minizoo areas are designed for family enjoyment, suggesting ease of movement. However, specific accessibility features for all areas are not detailed.
What are the opening hours for Tierpark Volksgarten Eickel, especially in winter?
As a public park, Tierpark Volksgarten Eickel is generally accessible year-round, typically from dawn till dusk. The minizoo animals are usually visible during daylight hours. There are no specific winter opening hours mentioned, but it's always a good idea to check local announcements for any seasonal adjustments or special events.
What kind of clothing should I wear for a visit to Tierpark Volksgarten Eickel?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you'll be exploring paths and potentially standing to observe animals. Dress according to the weather, as the park is an outdoor attraction. Layers are always a good idea, especially during transitional seasons, to adapt to changing temperatures.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots within Tierpark Volksgarten Eickel?
Beyond the popular minizoo and playgrounds, the park's wetland biotope is a quieter, natural area that serves as a habitat for local amphibians and other wildlife, offering a peaceful spot for nature observation. The historical war memorial also provides a moment for reflection away from the more active areas.
What types of animals can I expect to see in the minizoo, and can I feed them?
The minizoo primarily features domestic animals such as cows (including Aurochs back-breeds and Red Cattle), pigs, various breeds of dairy goats, dwarf goats, sheep, and different bird species. You can purchase food for the animals from automatic feeders located near the goat enclosure, allowing for direct interaction.
Are there any cafes or restaurants directly within Tierpark Volksgarten Eickel, or nearby?
The park features a café and a park restaurant. Additionally, while the minizoo area itself doesn't have a dedicated café, visitors mention a nearby beer garden where you can find drinks and refreshments. For more extensive dining options, the surrounding Eickel district of Herne would offer various choices.