Animal museums in North Rhine – Westphalia

The Alexander Koenig Zoological Research Museum, located in Bonn, Germany, is a renowned natural history museum and zoological research institution. The museum is named after Alexander Koenig, a private scholar and passionate collector of specimens, who generously donated his collection to the institution. This collection forms the basis of the museum's exhibits and has been instrumental in its research endeavors.

The Cologne zoo (Cologne Zoological Garden) is a zoo in Cologne that was founded in 1860. The zoo is home to more than 10,000 animals of over 850 different species. The Cologne Zoo with its attached aquarium and invertebrate exhibit is active in various endangered species programmes. The zoo's highl

The Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo, previously known as Aachener Tierpark, is a zoo that spans across 8.9 hectares. It is situated between the districts of Forst and Beverau in Aachen's "Drimborner Wäldchen". The zoo is named after the former family of the mayors Hermann von Dremborn and Johann von Drimborn.

Adlerwarte Berlebeck is a bird park situated in the district of Berlebeck in Detmold. It was established in 1939 by Kati and Adolf Deppe. This park is a facility of the city of Detmold and is home to 46 different species of birds of prey, with a total of over 200 specimens.

The Geomuseum of the University of Münster, situated in the Westphalian city of Münster, is a historical institution that has been open since 1824. It is known for its extensive collection of fossils from different geological eras, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in paleontology and earth history.

The Kommern Open Air Museum, located in Kommern/Eifel, is recognized as one of the largest open air museums in Europe. It spans an impressive area of over 95 hectares and showcases approximately 67 historic buildings that originate from the Prussian Rhine Province. The museum is operated by the Rhineland Regional Association (Landschaftsverband Rheinland, LVR).

Allwetterzoo Münster is a zoo located in the German city of Münster, in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. The zoo spans an area of 30 hectares, providing ample space for a variety of animal species and exhibits.

Zoo Krefeld, situated in the German city of Krefeld in North Rhine-Westphalia, was inaugurated in 1938. The 13-hectare zoo is home to approximately 1300 animals from around 225 different species. The zoo offers a diverse range of animals for visitors to see and learn about, making it a great destination for families and animal enthusiasts.

ZOOM Erlebniswelt Gelsenkirchen, originally known as "Ruhr-Zoo", was established on April 14, 1949, and is recognized as one of the most modern zoological gardens in Germany. This historical establishment has evolved over the years to become a significant attraction for both locals and tourists alike.

Wildpark Reuschenberg is a zoo situated in the western part of the Reuschenberg forest in Leverkusen-Küppersteg, on the border with Bürrig. This location offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience wildlife in a natural forest setting, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and families alike.

Safariland Stukenbrock is a unique combination of an amusement park and a zoo, located in the scenic district of Hochsauerland, in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. It offers a diverse range of attractions, from thrilling rides to exotic animal exhibits, making it an ideal destination for both adventure seekers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Naturzoo Rheine is a zoo located in the northern part of the city of Rheine in Münsterland. The zoo spans an area of 13 hectares, providing ample space for a variety of animals and exhibits. It was founded in 1937 and initially focused on local fauna, but has since expanded to include species from outside Europe.

The Wildpark Tannenbusch, located in Dormagen - Delhoven, is a zoo that remains open throughout the year. It was first opened to the public in 1958, making it a long-standing part of the local community.

Anholter Schweiz, also known as Leopoldspark, is a landscape and wildlife park located near Anholt in Isselburg - Vehlingen. This park is situated close to the German-Dutch border in the far west of Münsterland, making it an accessible destination for tourists from both countries. The park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife, providing an immersive experience for nature lovers.

The Bird Park Heiligenkirchen, located in Detmold, is a scientifically managed zoological facility that specializes in exotic birds and small mammals. The park emphasizes direct contact with the animals, providing a unique and interactive experience for visitors. The park houses around 1000 animals, mostly birds, from 300 species.

The Hamm Zoo, situated in the southern part of the Westphalian city of Hamm, spans an area of about 9 hectares following an expansion in 2019. This makes it a spacious destination for visitors to explore and enjoy a variety of animal species in their habitats.

The Botanischer Garten der Stadt Neuss is a botanical garden nestled in the Dreikönigenviertel of Neuss. It is situated between Körnerstraße and Bergheimer Straße, spanning an area of approximately 1 hectare. This garden offers a serene environment for visitors to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature.

Wildwald Voßwinkel is a nature experience facility nestled in the Voßwinkel district of Arnsberg, North Rhine-Westphalia. The facility is situated within the Lürwald, a significant portion of which is part of the Luerwald nature reserve. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.

The Zoologischer Garten Wuppertal, in short Zoo Wuppertal or Wuppertaler Zoo, is a zoo in Wuppertal in Germany. The zoo was opened in 1881 and after an expansion in 2006, the zoo contains an area of 24 hectares. The park-like layout of the zoo features numerous trees and lanes. Zoo Wuppertal is home

The Nibelungenhalle is a unique dome structure located in the city of Königswinter, in the Rhein-Sieg district of North Rhine-Westphalia. It is situated on the path leading to the summit of the Drachenfels, a location steeped in legend where Siegfried is said to have slain a dragon. The hall houses a collection of paintings by Hermann Hendrich, which are based on Richard Wagner's opera cycle The Ring of the Nibelung and Wagner's Grail opera Parsifal.

The LWL-Museum für Naturkunde, also known as the Westphalian Museum of Natural History, is a state museum located in Münster. It is under the sponsorship of the Landscape Association of Westphalia-Lippe (LWL). The museum is a significant cultural and educational institution in the region, offering a wide range of exhibits and programs related to natural history.

The Haus Ruhrnatur museum focuses on the theme of 'Water'. It showcases the Ruhr ecosystem through various exhibits including fish from the Ruhr, small animals under the microscope, and sensory experiences such as sounds and smells. This provides a unique and interactive way for visitors to learn about the local ecosystem.

Wildpark im Grafenberger Wald is a 36 hectares wildlife park in the Grafenberger Wald (Grafenberg Forest). It is one of the oldest game parks in Germany and shows only native animals. Visitors can see over 100 animals living in spacious enclosures, with wild pigs, raccoons and more.

The Solingen Bird and Animal Park is a year-round open, approximately 1.5 hectares large animal park located in Solingen - Ohligs. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to interact with a variety of animals in a natural setting throughout the year.

The Monkey and Bird Park Eckenhagen is a zoo situated in the municipality of Reichshof, in the Oberbergischer Kreis, North Rhine-Westphalia. This park is a great place for animal lovers and families to explore and learn about various species of monkeys and birds. It offers a unique opportunity to interact with some of the animals, making it a memorable experience for visitors.

The Tierpark Recklinghausen is situated in the city garden of Recklinghausen, a little to the north of the city center. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors and provides a serene environment for the animals housed in the park.

Spanning an area of 3 hectares, Tierpark Herford is home to a diverse range of animals. As of 2022, the zoo houses 650 animals from 90 different species. This includes a variety of both local and exotic animals, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about and interact with a wide range of wildlife.

The Tierpark Alsdorfer Weiher, located in Alsdorf in North Rhine-Westphalia, is a part of the Broichbachtal recreational area. The park spans across 30 hectares and is home to 300 animals from 30 different species. This diverse range of species provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about and interact with a variety of animals in a natural setting.

The Tiergarten Kleve, located in Kleve, North Rhine-Westphalia, is home to approximately 350 animals. The zoo primarily focuses on preserving and showcasing mostly old, endangered domestic animal breeds. This provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about these rare breeds and their importance in biodiversity.

The Kinderbauernhof Neuss is a project that was established in 1978. It is situated in the Selikumer Park, within the recreational area of Reuschenberger Busch in Neuss - Selikum. This location offers a serene and natural environment, making it an ideal place for visitors who are looking for a peaceful and relaxing experience.

The Gräflicher Park Bad Driburg is a sprawling English landscape garden that spans 64 hectares. It is situated in the East Westphalian city of Bad Driburg in North Rhine-Westphalia. This park is a private property of the Graf von Oeynhausen-Sierstorpff family and is known for its unique location and design. It is one of the anchor gardens in the European Garden Network.

The Hochwildpark Rheinland is a spacious animal park, spanning approximately 80 hectares. It is situated in the scenic locale of Mechernich - Kommern, within the Euskirchen district. This park provides a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in a natural habitat teeming with diverse wildlife.

The Waldau is home to various wildlife species. Among them are the tawny owl, Bechstein's bat, fallow deer, badger, common toads, and grass snakes. These species contribute to the rich biodiversity of the area, making it a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts.

The Wildfreigehege Bend, opened in 1975, is a spacious wildlife park that spans over 7 hectares. It is nestled in the forest area between the Erft river and the highway in Grevenbroich, providing a serene and natural environment for visitors to explore.

The Westphalian Slate Mining and Local History Museum Holthausen is situated in the district of Holthausen in Schmallenberg, within the Hochsauerlandkreis region. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history and culture of the area while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Hochsauerlandkreis.

Nadermann Zoo, located in the Schöning district of Delbrück in North Rhine-Westphalia, is a privately owned zoo that has been in the family since its establishment in 1967. This long-standing family ownership has allowed the zoo to grow and evolve over the years, providing a unique and personal touch to the visitor experience.

A nature-focused park with a petting zoo, long walking trails and even a labyrinth. Nice day out.

The Museum für Vor- und Frühgeschichte is an archaeological museum situated in the city of Balve, within the Märkischen Kreis region. It offers a unique opportunity to delve into the past and explore the rich archaeological history of the area.

The Prinzenpalais is home to the NABU Nature Information Centre Senne, which features an exhibition. This provides an opportunity for tourists to learn about the local environment and its conservation efforts. The exhibition is a great way to engage with the region's natural history and current environmental initiatives.

The Eiskeller Altenberge is a significant historical site in Altenberge, Münsterland, in northern North Rhine-Westphalia. It is an underground ice cellar system that was part of the former Beuing Brothers Brewery. The site is recognized as a protected monument, making it a point of interest for those interested in history and architecture.

The Westphalian Horse Museum Münster is conveniently located within the Allwetterzoo in Münster, Westphalia. This provides an added advantage for tourists visiting the zoo as they can also explore the museum without any additional cost. The museum's admission is included in the zoo's entrance fee, making it a cost-effective option for those interested in learning about the history and culture of horses in Westphalia.

NaturGut Ophoven, located in Leverkusen, is an environmental education center that caters to both children and adults. The center was established in 1984 on the grounds of an old manor in the Opladen district. This location offers a unique blend of history and nature, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

The Deutsches Höhlenmuseum Iserlohn, situated in the Grüne district of Iserlohn, holds the distinction of being the largest German museum dedicated to speleology. This museum offers a comprehensive exploration of caves and their associated sciences, making it a unique destination for those interested in geology, archaeology, and natural history.

The Dobergmuseum, located in the East Westphalian city of Bünde, is a geological museum that primarily showcases fossils found in the nearby Doberg. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in geology and paleontology, offering a glimpse into the Oligocene era through its extensive collection of fossils.

The Museum für Naturkunde is a natural history museum in Dortmund. The focus of the museum's collection is on exhibits from the fields of biology, geology and paleontology. The zoological exhibition shows local fauna and flora with some extra focus on mushrooms. The museum also features an aquarium

The LVR Open Air Museum Lindlar, located near Lindlar, is one of the two open-air museums run by the Rhineland Landscape Association. Having opened its doors in 1998, it is considered one of the most recent and modern facilities of this museum type in Germany. The museum offers a unique insight into the rural everyday life in the Bergisches Land over the past centuries.