Waldau is a mostly forested neighborhood on the southern outskirts of Stuttgart. Known for its most popular attraction, a tall observation tower, the area is also a great place to take a walk in the woods. Follow trails in Wernhaldenpark and let the kids discover the Spielplatz im Bopser, a playground hidden among the trees.
The Stuttgart Television Tower Fernsehturm is the biggest attraction in the neighborhood. Built in 1956, the 712-foot-tall (217-meter) tower was one of the first of its kind anywhere in the world. It was designed not just for its technological function, but also as a tourism site. Make your way to the High Bopser hill, originally selected for the tower’s location because its height above the surrounding countryside would enhance transmission performance.
Ride the elevator to the two-tiered observation deck for panoramic views. Try to identify Stuttgart landmarks such as the clock tower of the Rathaus and the green spaces of Oberer Schlossgarten and Rosenstein Park. Gaze in other directions to find the Black Forest and Swabian vineyards in the Neckar Valley. Have a meal at the Panorama Café at the top of the tower or the Leonhardts restaurant at the base.
Near the tower are playgrounds, additional restaurants, accommodations and other attractions. Climb the rock walls of the DAVKletterzentrumStuttgart.Stop to watch the Stuttgarter Kickers or youth teams if they are playing or practicing soccer at the StadtWaldWelt field.
Continue about 1 mile (2 kilometers) south to the Haus des Waldes, the House of the Forest museum. Follow the Forest Adventure Trail, an accessible outdoor loop path that provides hands-on education about all things related to the woodlands. The StadtWaldWelt indoor exhibit provides even more information.
Drive to the Waldau region from central Stuttgart in less than 15 minutes. S-Bahn or subway travel takes about 25 minutes.
