Just over a 30-minute drive from Kaiserslautern makes this a great option for families! Lots of space for kids to run and explore and they have TWO museums and a restaurant!
The Palatinate Musicians Land Museum at Lichtenberg Castle showcases the rich musical heritage of the region, celebrating the contributions of local musicians through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.
Great rainy day trip and just over 30 minutes away from Kaiserslautern!
Discover the diverse musical traditions that have shaped the Palatinate’s cultural landscape for generations.
Finally the best for last! The second museum at Lichtenberg Castle is the Prehistoric Museum Geoskop, and we LOVED this one! The museum offers a captivating journey through time, showcasing the rich history of our planet and its inhabitants. From ancient artifacts to interactive exhibits, visitors are immersed in the wonders of prehistoric life, uncovering the secrets of early civilizations and the natural world. Through engaging displays and educational programs, the museum invites exploration and discovery, providing a fascinating glimpse into humanity’s past and the forces that shaped our world.
Hours:
from April 1st to October 31st – Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m
from November 1st to March 31st – Tuesday to Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
It is also open on Mondays on public holidays, otherwise closed!
In this guide, we’ll explore the allure of Trier’s historic streets, immerse ourselves in the vibrant culture of Strasbourg, experience the captivating charm of Mannheim, and enjoy thrilling adventures at Fun Park Kaiserslautern. Whether you’re a local seeking weekend getaways or a visitor in search of unique experiences, these destinations offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor excitement all close to home!
Strasbourg, France
Visit Strasbourg Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg): Marvel at the stunning architecture of this iconic cathedral, known for its intricate Gothic design. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and the picturesque Alsace region.
Explore La Petite France: Wander through the charming medieval streets of La Petite France, a historic quarter with half-timbered houses, canals, and flower-filled balconies. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the Ill River for a unique perspective of this romantic neighborhood.
Relax in Parc de l’Orangerie: Spend a sunny day at Parc de l’Orangerie, Strasbourg’s oldest public park. Admire the beautifully landscaped gardens, rent a rowboat on the lake, or visit the mini zoo. Don’t miss the picturesque pavilion and the stunning Orangerie Palace.
These experiences capture the essence of Strasbourg’s beauty and charm during the summer months! 🌞🏰
Trier, Germany
Porta Nigra: Begin your exploration with a visit to Porta Nigra, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest Roman city gate north of the Alps. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Trier and learn about its fascinating history.
Trier Cathedral (Dom St. Peter): Discover the impressive Trier Cathedral, a Romanesque and Gothic-style church housing the Holy Tunic, believed to be the robe of Christ. Admire the stunning architecture, including the striking Liebfrauenkirche nearby.
Rheinische Landesmuseum: Dive into Trier’s rich past at the Rheinische Landesmuseum, showcasing artifacts from Roman times to the Middle Ages. Explore mosaics, sculptures, and treasures that illuminate the city’s ancient heritage.
After sightseeing, unwind with a stroll along the picturesque Moselle River, explore local vineyards, or indulge in regional cuisine at one of Trier’s charming outdoor cafes. Enjoy your summer adventure in this historic city! 🌞🏛️
Mannheim, Germany
Luisenpark: Spend a relaxing day at Luisenpark, one of Europe’s most beautiful parks. Explore lush gardens, exotic greenhouses, and scenic lakes. Enjoy boat rides, visit the butterfly house, or simply unwind in this serene oasis.
Mannheim Palace (Schloss Mannheim): Discover the grandeur of Mannheim Palace, a Baroque masterpiece and former residence of the Prince-electors of the Palatinate. Explore the palace museum to learn about its history and see its impressive architecture.
Water Tower (Wasserturm) and Friedrichsplatz: Admire Mannheim’s iconic Water Tower, a symbol of the city, located in Friedrichsplatz. This picturesque square is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with cafes, gardens, and often cultural events happening in the open space.
Additionally, don’t miss exploring Mannheim’s lively squares, like Marktplatz and Paradeplatz, where you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere, dine at outdoor restaurants, or shop in local boutiques.🌞🏰
Fun Park Kaiserslautern
🎢 Attractions: Enjoy a thrilling day with a variety of rides and activities suitable for all ages, including escape rooms, ninja warrior course, and traditional trampolines!
Full price for ages 7 and above: €13.50 for 60 minutes
Children (ages 3-6): €8.50 for 60 minutes
Children under 3: Free with adult during Mini Jump
Note: Prices and hours may vary, so it’s best to check the official Fun Park Kaiserslautern website or contact them directly for the most current information and any seasonal promotions.
Get ready for a day filled with excitement and adventure at Fun Park Kaiserslautern! 🎡🌞
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Have you heard of Leavenworth in Washington State? If you are able to visit it is a MUST-SEE and the perfect weekend away!
Location: Leavenworth, Washington 98826 USA
Best time to visit: Visiting any time of the year is going to be a great time because the city has so much detail in every building that it’s beautiful no matter the weather. Whether you decide to stay in the city and enjoy the shopping and restaurants or you can visit all the nearby hiking trails year-round making this a great destination no matter the season.
Spring, Summer, & Fall – Birding · Camping · Climbing · Fishing and Motorized Boat Rentals · Golfing · Hiking · Horseback Riding · Mountain Biking, Paragliding, Water Sports, and Ziplines!
Fall is great because they have their Oktoberfest activities and Winter is magical because they have their Christmas Market and are usually covered in snow!
More information on the Oktoberfest can be found here: https://www.leavenworthoktoberfest.com/
More information on the Christmas Market can be found here: https://christkindlmarktleavenworth.com/
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As I start to type this out I hesitate to post about this city because it really is one the cutest little towns I’ve visited while touring through Europe!
Location:
Stein am Rhein is a small town west of Lake Constance (Bodensee), in the northeastern region of Switzerland.
History:
It’s known for its preserved, half-timbered medieval houses with painted facades, clustered around Rathausplatz in the old town. On the banks of the Rhine River, St. George’s Abbey is a former Benedictine monastery complex with a museum. On a hilltop overlooking the town, Hohenklingen Castle dates back to the Middle Ages.
Things to do:
Museum Lindwurm – open from March to October Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am – 5 pm. This museum is good for children and adults alike, housing exquisite furniture showcasing life in the 19th century.
Tickets:
Adults: 5 CHF / Euro Reduced: 3 CHF / Euro Children and young people under 16: free Groups of 10+: 4 CHF / Euro per person
Combined ticket St. George’s Abbey Museum + Lindwurm museum Adults: 7 CHF / Euro Families: 14 CHF / Euro Reduced: 4 CHF / Euro
The ticket is valid for two consecutive days.
Free admission: Schweizer Museumspass, Raiffeisen-Karte, Bodensee Card, Swiss Travel Pass, Donau-Touristik Gutschein, KulturLegi, VMS und ICOM.
St. George’s Abby –
Open from April 9 to October 30, Tuesday to Sunday April – May, September – October: 11am to 5pm June – August: 11am to 6pm The museum is open on Good Friday, Easter Monday, Whit Monday and August 1st.
Tickets:
Adults: CHF 5 Groups of 10 or more: CHF 4 each FAHV, IV, VHB, Stein guest card, students: CHF 3
Children and young people up to 16 years free
Combined ticket for Sankt Georgen Monastery + Lindwurm Museum
Adults: CHF 7 Reduced: CHF 4 Families: CHF 14 The ticket is valid for two consecutive days.
Free entries: ICOM, VMS, VKKS/ASHHA, and the Swiss museum pass.
Cribs World Museum – This is a beautiful collection housed in Stein am Rhein’s oldest house dating to 1302. They have over 500 cribs from 80 different countries!
Tickets:
Adult CHF 10.-
Children (from 7 years) CHF 7.-
Infants (up to 7 years) FREE!
Holders of the Swiss Museum Pass (Raiffeisen) enjoy free entry
Love the Old Town area with all the painted houses!
Hohenklingen Castle – is located on the hillside next to Stein, overlooking the entire town and the Rhine River. This centuries-old castle still stands, and the cobbled paths in the castle tell the history of the castle. The scenery of the castle is beautiful and a must-see!
Restaurant – Open on Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 – 23:00 Sun 10:00 – 18:00 and serving French cuisine. Reservations can be made here!
Stein am Rhein Altstadt – A fairytale village with beautiful old architecture situated on the Rhine. Give yourself plenty of time to meander down the cobblestone streets. We visited during Christmas and it really was MAGICAL! Highly recommend!!
The Munot Bell – The Munot keeper lives in a flat in the tower and rings the bell by hand at 9 p.m. every evening. Since 26th August 2002 the bell on the tower is rung by hand at 9 p.m. for 5 minutes by the Munot keeper – the same way it has been done since 1589!
Strandbad Niderfeld – This is a gorgeous place to take a walk and enjoy the incredible views!
Open daily 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m
Water supervision is guaranteed during the following times:
In bad weather, the bathing facility remains closed.
Season: opening mid-May, end of season mid-September.
Admission: FREE 🙂
Equipment of the bathing facility near Stein a. Rhine:
1 and 3 m diving board in the Rhine (height depending on the water level)
Children’s wading pool, fenced and with sun sail
Seating area with umbrellas
Playground
Small slide
Table tennis tables
Volleyball field
Toilets and cloakrooms
Looking to extend your Switzerland trip? Stein am Rhine is an easy day trip from Zurich! Click here for my 2 day ZURICH GUIDE and maximize your trip with this ZURICH FREEBIE GUIDE!
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Escape to the enchanting world of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Bavarian Alps. This travel blog will serve as your comprehensive guide for a magical winter getaway, featuring a curated itinerary, top sites to see, and insider tips to make the most of your visit.
View of the Eibsee in the spring.
Itinerary for first-time visitors:
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
– Arrive in Garmisch-Partenkirchen and get settled in your accommodation.
– Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town, admiring the traditional Bavarian architecture.
Highlights: Enjoy hearty classics like schnitzel, roast pork, and homemade desserts in a cozy, rustic atmosphere. The restaurant also offers a selection of local beers and wines.
Cuisine: Modern Alpine cuisine with creative twists
Highlights: Korbinian’s menu features innovative interpretations of regional specialties using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Dishes are beautifully presented, and the restaurant offers a stylish ambiance.
La Baita:
Location: St. Martinstraße 30, 82467 Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Cuisine: Italian cuisine with a focus on pizzas and pasta
Highlights: La Baita is known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas, homemade pasta dishes, and authentic Italian flavors. The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a casual dining experience.
Day 2: Alpine Adventure
– Start your day with a visit to the Garmisch Classic ski area for a day of skiing, snowboarding, or hiking through the Alps.
– In the afternoon, explore the Partnach Gorge, a natural wonder with formations and stunning views.
Partnach Gorge in the winter.
Day 3: Zugspitze and Eibsee
– Embark on a day trip to Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak. Enjoy skiing or hiking on the glacier.
– Visit the Eibsee Lake for breathtaking year long scenery and photo opportunities.
Day 4: Cultural Delights
– Explore Ettal and its Benedictine monastery, Ettal Abbey.
– Visit the historic Linderhof Palace, surrounded by beautiful gardens and mountain vistas.
Ettal Abbey
Top Sites to See:
Garmisch Classic Ski Area: Perfect for winter sports enthusiasts, offering a range of slopes for all skill levels.
Partnach Gorge: A natural wonder with icy passages and stunning rock formations.
Zugspitze Glacier: Germany’s highest peak, with opportunities for skiing and breathtaking panoramic views.
Eibsee Lake: A frozen winter wonderland with crystal-clear waters and views of Zugspitze.
Ettal Abbey: A magnificent Benedictine monastery with Baroque architecture.
Linderhof Palace: A fairy-tale castle surrounded by beautiful gardens and mountain scenery.
Best Time of Year to Visit:
Winter (December to February): Ideal for winter sports and enjoying the snowy landscapes. The holiday season adds a magical touch to the atmosphere.
Spring (March to May): Ideal for blooming flowers, outdoor activities, and milder temperatures.
Summer (June to August): Perfect for hiking, outdoor adventures, and enjoying the lakes.
Fall (September to November): Witness vibrant fall foliage and experience cultural events.
Transportation Options:
Car Rental: Recommended for flexibility in exploring nearby towns and attractions.
Bike Rental: Lots of places have bike rentals, depending on where you are staying you may be able to rent from your hotel as well.
Train: Convenient for reaching Garmisch-Partenkirchen, especially if arriving from Munich.
During Oktoberfest in Munich, we stayed in Garmisch and used the train to get to the festival. It was so nice because we could escape to the relaxing mountains after the crazy of Oktoberfest!
Must-See Instagram Places:
Eibsee Lake: Capture the frozen lake with reflections of the surrounding mountains.
Partnach Gorge: Share the beauty of icy passages and towering rock walls.
Linderhof Palace Gardens: Showcase the elegance of the palace against a winter backdrop.
Overlooking Linderhof Palace Gardens.
Holidays and Festivals:
Christmas Markets (December): Experience the festive atmosphere with traditional markets in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations: Join locals and visitors for a lively celebration with fireworks.
GAPArt Festival (Spring): Celebrate the arts with exhibitions, performances, and cultural events.
AlpenTestival (Summer): Enjoy outdoor concerts, sports events, and cultural activities in the Alpine setting.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen Christmas Market (Fall): Begin the holiday season with festive markets and seasonal delights.
Looking for a fun activity to get the kids excited about? This hike is a 2.0-mile out-and-back trail generally considered an easy route. Make sure you wear clothes you don’t mind getting muddy and possibly rain boots for the kids!
Location: Black Diamond, WA 98010, United States
History: “In the 1880’s, fueled by coal mining activity in the area, the town of Franklin was born. Franklin and its associated Oregon Improvement Company mine have a storied past which includes the dubious distinction of having been the site of one of Washington State’s worst mine disasters. On August 24, 1894 thirty-seven miners suffocated due to a fire in the mine that appeared to have been intentionally started. The mine continued to operate for nearly 25 years after the incident, but by 1919 coal mining in the area had all but ceased. With no jobs to sustain them most of Franklin’s residents abandoned the town.
Now nearly 100 years later, some remnants of Franklin’s past can still be found.” (Source WTA)
Things to do: You will enjoy hiking along the mountain ridge, seeing a small waterfall, and wading through some colorful rocks along the way. Also, keep an eye out for TONS of wildlife!
Note: There is no street parking near the trailhead and be sure to check the weather because it can get muddy!
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Looking for more hiking ideas? Check out these other hikes in the PNW!
In this guide, we’ll uncover the charm of Heidelberg’s historic streets, dive into the vibrant culture of Frankfurt, cross the border to discover the beauty of Metz in France, and experience thrilling adventures at Fun Forest Abenteuer Park Homburg. Whether you’re a local looking for weekend getaways or a visitor seeking unique experiences, these destinations offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor excitement.
Heidelberg, Germany
– Travel Time: From Kaiserslautern to Heidelberg is approximately 1 hour by train or car.
– Price: Train tickets can vary but generally range from €15-30 for a round trip.
Things to see:
– Altstadt (Old Town): Explore the picturesque old town with its charming streets, shops, and the famous Heidelberg Castle.
– Heidelberg Castle: Consider purchasing a combined ticket for the castle grounds and the funicular railway for the best experience.
– Philosopher’s Walk (Philosophenweg): Enjoy a scenic walk along this path for beautiful views of the city and the Neckar River.
Frankfurt, Germany
– Travel Time: Direct train connections are available from Kaiserslautern to Frankfurt, taking about 1 hour and a half or by car or train.
– Price: Train tickets typically range from €15-25 for a round trip.
Things to see:
– Römerberg: Visit the historic square with its medieval buildings and the Frankfurt Cathedral.
– Museumsufer (Museum Embankment): Explore the museums along the riverfront, including the Städel Museum and the German Film Museum.
– Try local cuisine: Don’t miss trying traditional dishes like Grüne Soße (green sauce) and Apfelwein (apple wine).
– Frankfurt Zoo: We really enjoyed this Zoo! You can see it all in one day and the grounds are just beautiful with so many varieties of animals.
Metz, France
– Travel Time: From Kaiserslautern, it takes around 2 hours by car or 2 hours and 45 minutes by train to reach Metz.
– Price: Train tickets can vary but expect to pay around €40-60 for a round trip.
Things to see:
– Centre Pompidou-Metz: Explore this contemporary art museum known for its unique architecture.
– Metz Cathedral: Visit this stunning Gothic cathedral located in the heart of the city.
– Petite France: Wander through the charming district with its canals, bridges, and half-timbered houses.
Fun Forest Abenteuer Park Homburg, Germany
– Travel Time: The park is located near Homburg, which is about 30 minutes by car or train from Kaiserslautern.
– Price: Admission to Fun Forest varies based on activities chosen; generally, prices start from €10 for children or €25 for adults.
Things to see:
– Activities: Check out the various treetop adventure courses suitable for different age groups and thrill levels.
– Booking: It’s advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.
– Safety: Follow the safety guidelines provided and wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the activities.
General Tips:
– Language: While English is widely spoken, learning a few basic phrases in German or French can enhance your experience.
– Weather: Check the weather forecast before traveling, especially for outdoor activities.
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Welcome to the enchanting world of Plitvice Lakes! Nestled in the heart of Croatia, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of nature’s artistry. Prepare to be captivated by emerald lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush greenery that seem straight out of a fairy tale. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know for an unforgettable journey to Plitvice Lakes.
Top Sites to See:
1. Upper Lakes: Begin your adventure by exploring the Upper Lakes, characterized by their stunning turquoise waters and intricate network of cascades. Don’t miss attractions like Veliki Slap (the Big Waterfall) and Galovac Lake.
2. Lower Lakes: Spend a day wandering through the Lower Lakes, where boardwalks lead you through a series of breathtaking waterfalls, including the iconic Veliki Prštavac.
3. Plitvice Lakes National Park Museum: Dive deeper into the park’s history and biodiversity at the museum, located near Entrance 2. Learn about the geological forces that shaped the landscape and the diverse flora and fauna that call it home.
Best Time of Year to Visit:
The best time to visit Plitvice Lakes is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. During these seasons, you’ll also witness the vibrant colors of foliage, enhancing the park’s natural beauty.
Transportation Options:
– Car: Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore the park at your own pace and access remote areas.
– Public Transport: Buses run regularly from major cities like Zagreb, Split, and Zadar to Plitvice Lakes National Park.
– Guided Tours: Joining a guided tour is a convenient option for those who prefer hassle-free transportation and expert guidance throughout the park.
Must-See Instagram Places:
– The Boardwalks: Capture stunning photos of the wooden boardwalks winding their way over crystal-clear lakes and waterfalls.
– Veliki Slap: Take awe-inspiring shots of the tallest waterfall in Plitvice Lakes, framed by lush greenery.
– P3 Pogled na Prošćansko jezero: This viewpoint offers panoramic views of Prošćansko Lake and is perfect for capturing the park’s vastness.
Holidays and Festivals:
– Plitvice Marathon: Held annually in June, this marathon offers participants a unique opportunity to run amidst the park’s natural wonders.
– Croatian Independence Day (October 8th): Celebrate Croatian culture and history with special events and festivities throughout the country.
Souvenirs to Purchase:
– Handcrafted Wooden Items: Shop for intricately carved wooden souvenirs, such as figurines, kitchenware, and jewelry, inspired by the park’s natural beauty.
– Local Artisanal Products: Support local artisans by purchasing handmade textiles, pottery, and honey infused with flavors from the region.
Best Area to Stay in for First-Time Visitors:
For first-time visitors, staying near Entrance 2 of Plitvice Lakes National Park is recommended. This area offers easy access to the park’s main attractions, as well as amenities such as accommodation, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
We stayed at the Ethno Houses Plitvice Lakes Hotel and LOVED it. This was by far our favorite location we stayed at during our trip to Croatia. The grounds itself give you reason to visit but the close proximity to the National Park just make this a true gem!!
Hope we have inspired you to start your journey of wonder and discovery as you immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Plitvice Lakes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography aficionado, or simply seeking tranquility amidst pristine surroundings, this Croatian gem promises an unforgettable experience.
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Looking for more Malta inspiration? Make sure you check out all of the installments in my Exploring Malta series!!
Popeye Village Malta has grown from its days as a Film Set of the 1980 Musical Production ‘Popeye’ into one of the major tourist attractions in Malta!!
Visiting Popeyes Village:
Popeye Village, also known as Sweethaven Village, is a purpose-built film set village that has been converted into a small attraction fun park, consisting of a collection of rustic and ramshackle wooden buildings. It is located at Prajjet Bay/Anchor Bay, 3 km from the village core of Mellieħa, Malta.
Spring and early summer, April, May, and June is the best time to visit Malta. The weather is not hot (sunny days and the nights are cool) and there are fewer tourists. You’ll able to swim if you don’t mind the slightly cooler waters.
We went at the beginning of April and the weather was PERFECT! The temperature was great for getting out and exploring without being miserable in the heat.
Love the colorful grounds at Popeye’s Village!
Hope this inspired you to visit this incredible location! If you are looking for more options check out my Exploring Malta series!
This family-friendly trail goes around the Chambers Bay Golf Course and has great views of Puget Sound. This trail is ranked moderate and not easy because it includes steep rolling hills.
Location: Chambers Bay Golf Course, 6320 Grandview Dr. W, University Place, WA 98467, United States
History: This loop combines the Grandview Trail with the Soundview Trail to make 3.25 miles with some serious incline. Walk around the golf course at Chambers Creek Regional Park, and enjoy views of Chambers Bay and the vivid green grasses of the golf course.
Add a little more distance with the half-mile Central Meadow Inner Loop or the .75 mile
outer loop near the temporary off-leash area!
Things to do: This is a very popular area for birding, road biking, and running, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome and permitted off-leash in some of the areas.
There are also restrooms on site which is always a bonus! They offer tons of parking in their paved parking lot as well!
If you are interested in more information about the golf course, that can be found here at their website!
Looking for more hiking ideas? Check out these other hikes in the PNW!
