Grugapark Essen

2025-06-09

The Grugapark in Essen is a versatile recreational area covering around 70 hectares in the district of Rüttenscheid. It was created in 1929 from the Great Ruhrland Horticultural Exhibition and has been expanded and redesigned several times since then. Today, the park combines nature, art, leisure and education in a unique way.

The heart of the Grugapark is the Botanical Garden, which was created in 1927 as a teaching and experimental garden. Here visitors will find an impressive collection of plants from all over the world, including tropical rainforests, cacti, bonsai trees and a Westphalian cottage garden. The plant show houses also offer exotic rarities from different climate zones.

The Grugapark is a real paradise for families. Children can let off steam on the numerous playgrounds, master the low ropes course or take a trip around the park on the Grugabahn. Ponies, goats, rabbits and guinea pigs are waiting to be stroked in the small animal garden. The free-flight hall is home to over 500 animals, including flamingos, ibises and various bird species.