Märchenzoo am Blauen See in Ratingen (Fairy Tale Zoo at Blauer See in Ratingen)

The Märchenzoo am Blauen See in Ratingen (Fairy Tale Zoo at Blauer See in Ratingen) is a unique destination that delights both children and adults alike. Nestled in a picturesque forest landscape near the scenic Blauer See (Blue Lake), this adventure park combines nostalgic fairy tale scenes with a charming petting zoo. Since its opening in 1952, the Märchenzoo has become a popular spot for families, school groups, and animal lovers.

The Märchenzoo am Blauen See in Ratingen combines two elements that are especially fascinating for children: classic fairy tale worlds and close-up animal encounters. At various interactive fairy tale stations, visitors can listen to famous stories like Snow White, Hansel and Gretel, Cinderella, or Little Red Riding Hood at the push of a button. The lovingly designed figures and scenes transport both young and old into the magical world of the Brothers Grimm.

At the same time, the Märchenzoo offers numerous animal enclosures featuring goats, rabbits, guinea pigs, ducks, and raccoons, among others. Especially popular are the two female raccoons Hanni and Nanni, who captivate visitors with their playful antics.

A special highlight for children is the opportunity to feed the animals with special food. The food can be purchased at the entrance for just 1 Euro – a wonderful experience that makes children’s hearts beat faster.

Anyone who wants to visit the Märchenzoo am Blauen See in Ratingen should check the current opening hours and admission prices. These are as follows:

• Monday to Friday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Saturday, Sunday & public holidays: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Children (2–17 years): €3.00
• Adults: €4.00
• Groups of 15 or more: discounted prices
• Dogs: Welcome, but must be kept on a leash

These fair admission prices make the Märchenzoo an affordable destination for families, kindergartens, and school classes.

A visit to the Märchenzoo usually takes about an hour – perfect for families with younger children. The paved paths make the park easy to navigate, even with strollers or wheelchairs. For the little ones, there is also a sandbox with slides, as well as changing facilities and children’s toilets.

Right next to the Märchenzoo is the beautiful Blaue See, which invites you to a leisurely walk or a picnic. On sunny days, it’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature.

The Märchenzoo am Blauen See is easy to reach and has two large parking lots nearby.

• Address for GPS: Zum Blauen See 20, 40878 Ratingen
• Ample free parking available

• From Düsseldorf Hbf: Take the S6 towards Essen to Ratingen-Ost, then bus line 771 towards Ratingen Blauer See.
• From Essen Hbf: Take the S6 towards Köln to Ratingen-Ost, then continue with bus 771.

The good transport connections make the Märchenzoo an attractive destination for visitors from Düsseldorf, Essen, and the entire Ruhrgebiet (Ruhr area).

The Märchenzoo is not only a great outing for families but also ideal for children’s birthday parties and group visits. With its combination of fairy tale world, animal park, and play areas, children experience an unforgettable celebration surrounded by nature.

Parents can give their children a unique experience here that sparks their imagination while playfully teaching them new things.

The Märchenzoo am Blauen See in Ratingen is a place full of nostalgia, magic, and nature experiences – perfect for a family outing, a walk with grandparents, or a special children’s birthday party.

✔ Perfect for families with young children
✔ Interactive fairy tale stations with well-known stories
✔ Direct contact with animals – feeding allowed!
✔ Affordable admission prices & family-friendly facilities
✔ Beautiful natural setting at the Blaue See
✔ Easily accessible by car and public transport

✅ Usually about 60 minutes, depending on how much time you spend with the animals.

✅ Yes! Special feed can be purchased at the entrance for €1.

✅ No, but there are dining options nearby and picnic areas at the Blaue See.

✅ Yes! All paths are paved and easy to navigate.