Visiting Frankfurt (or have visitors) over the Christmas break, and looking for fun all-age activities in the cold and the dark? After attending a few Christmas Markets, the Winter Lights at Palmengarten may be the answer to entertaining the grandparents, grouchy teens, and a few visiting toddlers all at the same time.
The Palmengarten, located in the Westend-Süd district, is one of three botanical gardens in Frankfurt. For several weeks in the winter, they light up the grounds with colorful displays giving visitors something festive to enjoy in the cold and dark. In the nicer weather, enjoy paddle boats on the small pond, a few playgrounds, and a little train for the kids.
When to See the Lights: Dry Days Are Better
The evening light show and displays run daily from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m until Jan. 12, 2020. Depending on your crowd of people, allow between 1 to 2 hours for strolling through the 54 acre-park. There’s quite a bit to explore, including some small paths between the main ones. The indoor palm garden is open, and it makes for a warm tropical break from the cold. By arriving right at 5 p.m., you’ll likely have to wait in a queue, but it moves quickly.
While the lights will be on rain or shine, this is probably not the best activity for the rain, at least any kind of rain that requires umbrellas. There are areas where people are walking close together, and when you throw in little kids and older people, it’s just not a good mix. Save this activity for a dry day.
TravelTeening Tip: Unlike many other holiday-themed activities, this one is open after Christmas. It’s a great activity for between Christmas and New Year’s or even while waiting for school to start back up.
Related: Beginner’s Guide to Savoring Any Christmas Market Wherever You Are
What to Expect: Lighted Art Exhibit
If you’re from the States, this garden light show is not what you may be used to from other botanical gardens where you feel like you’re walking through a fully lit magical Christmas world. It’s very much understated in comparison. Instead of twinkling lights and Santa with reindeer, you’ll feel more like walking through a tasteful lighted art exhibition. Several areas are coordinated with music, like the musical lighted boxes and the main fountain.
However the colorfully light trees and moving light productions will make it feel like an urban wonderland of color, especially with the Telekom tower in the background. Kids will enjoy the music and the lights. If you’re lucky, teens will try to figure out how it all works (or just roll their eyes about the whole thing). Without a doubt, the understated wonderment will be a big hit with grandparents. Stop along the way for a few glow-in-dark gifts to add to the fun or drop in at the cafe for a snack.
Related: 4 Reasons Not to Miss Van Gogh in Frankfurt
What Else To Know: Parking/Prices
Parking is available in the garage under the gardens, which is great if you have strollers or elderly grandparents. We managed to find parking along the road as some places have free parking after 5 p.m.
One of the great things about Germany is students and families usually get a nice break. Pricing is reasonable, especially for groups: Adults €7; Child €2 (from 6 to 13); Students €3; Senior €6; Small Family (1 Adult and Children) €9; Big Family (2 Adults and Children) €16.
Main photo by Palmengarten
All other photos © Linda Kerr, TravelTeening
