The name 'Planten und Blomen' has its origins in the old Hamburg dialect for 'plants and flowers'. With a huge variety of trees, plants, flowers, a Japanese garden and an ice skating rink for winters, the park attracts thousands of visitors throughout the year. One of the major summertime attractions is the water, music and light show. This impressive display takes place on a regular basis attracting a decent crowd of tourists. There is also an adventure playground and numerous other activities to ensure that kids enjoy themselves amidst the scenic beauty that is Planten und Blomen.
Aussenalster has been deemed to be the heart of the city of Hamburg. Nestled in the core of the city, Aussenalster or Outer Alster, is one out of the two artificial lakes that lends Hamburg its inimitable atmosphere. Covering an area of 160 hectares (395 acres), the lake and its shores are a recreational rendezvous point for locals and tourists alike. Verdant parks lace the banks of the lake while its glistening waters are dappled with bobbing yachts and gliding canoes. The spectacular architecture of Rotherbaum district creates a stunning backdrop for the lake. Away from city's bustle, the surrounding green parks give a great view of the lake and make for an ideal spot for a lakeside picnic.
The Alsterpark is located in the heart of the city, on the western shore of the outer Alster lake. It is equally popular among locals and visitors. Its huge lawns are inviting for those who like to watch the world go by while lying in the sun. People come here to walk, skate, cycle and jog; you also see them walking their dogs and pushing prams. There are also cafés and little kiosks that offer food and drinks, but if you prefer to barbeque, there are several marked areas where you are free to do so.
Covering an area of 148 hectares (365 acres), the Stadtpark - or City Park - is the city's second-biggest park and a magnet for joggers, cyclists and sunbathers during warm summers. The lake here is a great place for a swim (temperature permitting), while sports enthusiasts may find themselves being asked to join in a game of football with the locals. The southern part of the park contains a garden for the blind, while a fantastic Planetarium is located in the north-western section. On balmy summer nights films and concerts - often featuring the biggest names in the music industry - take place on the open-air stage that is the City Park Freilichtbühne; an experience not to be missed by visitors touring Hamburg in the summer.
At the Niendorfer Gehege there are 120 hectares of recreational grounds for the entire family, so everyone should be able to find something nice to do. In addition to big lawns and old trees, there are playgrounds for children and gymnastics apparatus for sporty people. Barbeques are also allowed in specially designated areas. The main attraction at the Niendorfer Gehege is the deer preserve where you can watch roe and fallow deer. If you are longing for a quiet hike there are several marked tracks you can follow. A real kid magnet is the pony farm at Niendorf preserve where they can go riding.
Hamburg's eastern districts also have a large and attractive park with a big lake and many facilities for leisure activities. The Öjendorfer Park was created in 1958 on the grounds of a former gravel pit. At 143 hectares, it is now Hamburg's third biggest park and offers hiking trails, sunbathing lawns, a little hill for sleigh-rides and skiing in the winter, a miniature golf course, a kiosk and plenty of parking spaces. You can even go pony-riding here. A lake with an island is also part of the park. On the island there is an area for the protection of birds. There are several bathing places on the lake which are rather popular in the summer, when visitors from both the neighborhood and far away places gather here.
One of the last sand dunes remaining in Hamburg, this one has become quite popular over the years. A major outdoor attraction among locals and tourists alike, the dunes offer amazing space for hiking and scenic viewing. Located in close proximity to the city and public transport, makes it even more accessible. A good place to relax amidst tranquility, these dunes are a great place to be photographed as well. Hop into your car, and drive here, to witness picturesque views of these dunes located between marshes and heathland.