Wildpark Düsseldorf in Grafenberg Forest is one of the best things for nature lovers to do in Düsseldorf. The park houses a variety of native species.
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Wildpark im Grafenberger Wald
Recently, I had a little break from my regular Düsseldorf nature walks and garden visits due to Covid (I’m all well now, thanks!), so I could not get new wildlife photos and videos for the blog. Instead of getting bored and annoyed because I can’t go out birdwatching, I decided I should go back to some older material. Let’s start with Wildpark Düsseldorf Grafenberg, a beautiful wildlife park in Grafenberger Wald. This is one of the best things for nature lovers to do in Düsseldorf.
Wildpark Düsseldorf (AKA Wildpark im Grafenberger Wald) is a beautiful wildlife park in a forest, Grafenberger Wald. The park is not that far away from central Düsseldorf and is accessible by public transportation (although you might need to walk a bit, depending on which station you choose to stop at).
The Animals
The park houses a variety of native species. Among them are different species of deer, wild boars, fowls such as pheasants, and (my favorite part) small predators like wildcats, ferrets, and foxes. Apparently, there are also raccoons (which are not native to Europe) but I still have not seen them. The park also has an education center and playground for kids.
Here is a gorgeous European wildcat I saw there:
One of the park’s greatest attractions is that you can get close to the deer, who are roaming free in a large fenced pasture, and feed them. You don’t have to bring food from home. Deer/boar food is readily available for purchase throughout the park for just 1 Euro. Some animals can also get fruit and vegetables, such as apples and carrots. Just make sure you read the specific sign for each animal before you give any animal anything.
Also read: Wildlife photography courses
When Should I Visit Wildpark Düsseldorf?
Wildpark Düsseldorf provides a different experience each season. In the winter, the forest surrounding it is chilly and foggy, offering some great opportunities for the nature photographer.
In the spring, you get to enjoy the beautiful bright colors of the pasture and its flowers and meet all the new babies born in the park.
Summer days are always great for strolling when it’s not too hot. The fall, with its warm-colored leaves, offers another beautiful scene for photographers.
FAQ
How much does it cost to go to the Wildpark Düsseldorf?
Wildpark Düsseldorf has free admission.
Can you feed the animals?
You can feed the deer, wild pigs, and Mouflon sheep. Bring your own food or buy animal food at the park.
Can you pet the animals?
You can pet the deer at the open enclouser if they allow it.
How to get to Wildpark Düsseldorf?
By car: Use the free car park. The address is Rennbahnstrasse 60, 40629 Düsseldorf. By public transport: take the U73/U78 and get off at the stop Auf der Hardt/LVR-Klinikum. You’ll need to walk through the forest for 15-50 minutes to get to the park.
Visit Wildpark im Grafenberg Forest
To summarize, if you ever get to Düsseldorf and love nature, Wildpark Grafenberger Wald is worth visiting.
