Berlin, a city pulsating with history and brimming with modern energy, holds a unique treasure within its urban landscape: Tempelhofer Feld. This expansive green space, a sprawling testament to Berlin’s resilience and reinvention, wasn’t always a haven for recreation and relaxation. Its past is interwoven with the shadows of Nazi Germany, its grounds once intended for grand displays of power and military might. Transformed from a Nazi-era airport and rally ground into one of the world’s largest inner-city open spaces, Tempelhofer Feld offers a compelling glimpse into Berlin’s multifaceted history and its vibrant present.
The story of Tempelhofer Feld begins with Tempelhof Airport, a colossal structure envisioned by the Nazi regime between 1936 and 1941. Designed to be a symbol of the Third Reich’s ambition and architectural prowess, the airport was never fully completed as the exigencies of World War II diverted resources and attention elsewhere. For decades, the airport stood largely abandoned after its closure to air traffic in October 2008, a silent monument to a turbulent past.
However, Berlin refused to let this significant space remain dormant. In 2010, Tempelhof Airport was reborn as Tempelhofer Feld, a sprawling 954-acre (386-hectare) park that has become a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. This vast expanse of green offers a diverse range of recreational opportunities, fostering a sense of community and providing a much-needed escape from the urban clamor.
Strategically located between the vibrant neighborhoods of Neukölln and Tempelhof, just south of Berlin’s city center, Top Things to Do in Berlin’s Tempelhofer Feld is easily accessible and welcomes visitors with open arms. With free admission at its three main entrances (Columbiadamm, Tempelhofer Damm, and Oderstrasse), the park beckons exploration, its hours of operation thoughtfully adjusted to the rhythm of the seasons.
Unveiling the Allure: Top Activities at Tempelhofer Feld
Tempelhofer Feld isn’t just a park; it’s an experience. It’s a place where history whispers on the wind, where open spaces ignite the imagination, and where the spirit of Berlin thrives. Here’s a curated guide to the top things to do in this remarkable urban oasis:
1. Embrace the Freedom of Open Space
Escape the confines of the city and revel in the boundless expanse of Tempelhofer Feld. This vast park offers a welcome respite from Berlin’s bustling streets, providing ample space for a variety of non-motorized activities. Unleash your inner child and fly a kite, feeling the wind tug at the strings as it soars against the backdrop of the Berlin skyline. Pack a picnic basket and spread out a blanket, savoring a delightful meal amidst the tranquility of the outdoors. Lace up your rollerblades, roller skates, or grab your skateboard and glide across the smooth surfaces of the former runways, feeling the thrill of movement and the freedom of open space. Cyclists can enjoy leisurely rides along the paved pathways, exploring every corner of the park. Or simply take a leisurely stroll, soaking in the atmosphere and appreciating the beauty of this unique urban landscape. For those seeking tranquility, Tempelhofer Feld is an ideal spot to settle down with a good book, losing yourself in its pages as the world drifts by.
2. Delve into History with a Guided Tour
Top Things to Do in Berlin’s Tempelhofer Feld include exploring the history of this site. The Tempelhof Airport building, now a central feature of Tempelhofer Feld, stands as a potent reminder of Berlin’s complex past. Embark on a guided tour and unlock the secrets of this monumental structure, one of Europe’s largest monuments. Knowledgeable guides lead you through the airport’s fascinating history, recounting tales of its Nazi-era origins, its role in the Berlin Airlift, and its eventual transformation into a public park.
These tours, available in English and other languages, provide invaluable insights into the airport’s architecture, its mysterious underground floors, and the legendary tunnels that purportedly lead to inner Berlin. Learn about the Berlin Airlift, a pivotal moment in the airport’s history, when the United States responded to the Soviet blockade of West Berlin by airlifting essential supplies to the city. This heroic effort, which lasted for over a year, cemented Tempelhof’s place in history and earned it worldwide recognition.
3. Ride the Runways: A Surreal Experience
Walking on an airport runway is an inherently surreal experience, a feeling amplified by the sheer scale of Tempelhofer Feld. Even amidst the throngs of visitors, a sense of the slightly verboten lingers, a reminder of the space’s former exclusivity. Today, however, these runways are open to all, offering a unique recreational opportunity.
With over four miles (6.4 kilometers) of paved former runways and taxiways, Tempelhofer Feld provides ample space for wheeled adventures. Forget your average city bike; here, you’ll encounter a diverse array of vehicles, from unicycles and skaters to Segways and land windsurfers, each adding to the park’s eclectic charm. Embrace the freedom and explore the park on wheels, discovering hidden corners and relishing the exhilaration of gliding across these historic surfaces.
4. Panoramic Vistas and Historical Echoes
While the open space itself is a major attraction, Tempelhofer Feld also offers stunning views of the surrounding cityscape. Gaze upon the Fernsehturm (television tower), Berlin’s tallest structure, a towering landmark that dominates the skyline. Capture the beauty of the surrounding urban landscape and witness breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant hues.
As you explore the grounds, keep an eye out for subtle reminders of the site’s past. Look for the German eagles adorning various buildings, relics of the Nazi era. Witness the park’s present-day role as a refuge for migrants, with temporary housing providing shelter for those in need. These juxtapositions of past and present create a powerful and thought-provoking experience.
5. Immerse Yourself in Events and Festivities
Tempelhofer Feld is a hub of activity, hosting a wide range of events and festivals throughout the year. From spontaneous pop-and-lock dance competitions to educational bird migration workshops and charity walks, there’s always something happening at this dynamic park.
Attend the City and Country Festival of Giant Dragons, a spectacular event featuring enormous kites flown by world-renowned champions, attracting over 100,000 visitors. Celebrate special occasions like weddings and birthdays in this unique setting. And experience the thrill of attending large-scale concerts at this historic airfield, partying alongside thousands of fellow music lovers.
6. Grill and Chill: A Berlin Tradition
For Berliners, grilling is more than just cooking; it’s a social ritual, a celebration of good weather and good company. Tempelhofer Feld provides the perfect setting for this beloved tradition, offering ample space for groups of all sizes to spread out and enjoy a relaxed cookout.
Bring your own grill and set up in one of the designated grilling areas near the park entrances. Remember to adhere to the park rules and dispose of waste responsibly. Gather your friends and family, fire up the grill, and savor the flavors of summer amidst the expansive green landscape of Tempelhofer Feld.
7. A Canine Paradise
Finding ample space for dogs to run freely in a city can be a challenge. Top Things to Do in Berlin’s Tempelhofer Feld include bringing your furry friend to this unique park. Tempelhofer Feld offers a haven for canine companions, providing plenty of room to roam and explore.
Dogs are welcome throughout the park on a leash, and designated off-leash areas allow them to run and play freely. Remember to clean up after your dog and utilize the provided trash cans for waste disposal. Let your four-legged friend enjoy the freedom and open space of Tempelhofer Feld, making it a memorable experience for both of you.
8. Get Involved: Community and Creativity
Tempelhofer Feld is more than just a place to observe and enjoy; it’s a place to participate and contribute. Get involved in the community gardens, cultivating plants and connecting with fellow gardening enthusiasts. Propose new ideas and join the diverse social and cultural projects that have been flourishing in the park since 2011.
From unicycling and circus schools to outdoor science classes for children, Tempelhofer Feld is a hub of creativity and community engagement. Explore Vogelfreiheit, an urban sports culture center and meeting place for skateboarders, dancers, and BMXers. Contribute your skills and passion to the park, making it an even more vibrant and enriching space for all.
Tempelhofer Feld: A Symbol of Berlin’s Enduring Spirit
Tempelhofer Feld stands as a powerful symbol of Berlin’s enduring spirit, its ability to transform and reinvent itself. From its dark past as a Nazi-era airport to its present-day incarnation as a vibrant public park, Tempelhofer Feld embodies Berlin’s resilience, its commitment to community, and its unwavering embrace of the future. A visit to Top Things to Do in Berlin’s Tempelhofer Feld is not just a recreational experience; it’s a journey through history, a celebration of freedom, and an immersion into the soul of Berlin.
