The Die Kleine Sachsische Schweiz Miniature Park is an accurate reproduction of the Bohemian-Saxonian countryside in miniature located about 21 miles southeast of Dresden in southern Germany. The park has a mountain railway, working historical ships, stagecoach, trolley bus, castles, palaces and natural wonders all in miniature.
Bavaria Filmstadt is a movie-themed park located about six and a half miles south of the Munich city center. The park has famous TV and movie sets, a 4-D cinema, a 3-D interactive experience and lots of outdoor attractions.
Berchtesgaden is an authentic old world ski town set in the Bavarian Alps near the Austrian border about 96 miles east southeast of Munich. In the summers, Berchtesgaden is a paradise for hikers, rafters, climbers, mountain bikers and lovers of all forms of outdoor sport. In the winter, Berchtesgaden transforms into a ski, skate and sled destination for families who come and stay in local chalet-style inns and pensiones.
Oberammergau is a picturesque Alpine village set in a valley and surrounded by snow-capped peaks and the home of the once-per-decade passion play of the same name (next held in 2020). The town is known for its hiking trails, indoor water park, downhill and cross-country skiing.
Neuschwanstein is Germany's most famous castle and its fairy-tale towers were the inspiration behind Disney's Magic Kingdom. The castle sits atop a mountain about 79 miles south of Munich. The castle was home to Mad King Ludwig II who is believed to have committed suicide by jumping off a nearby ledge. Admission is free for those under 18.
Heidelberg Castle is located in the northeast of the country about 74 miles northeast of Stuttgart. The castle was erected through the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries and sits as the medieval heart and landmark of the city of the same name.
The Munich Spring Festival or Munchener Fruhlingsfest is an annual celebration that features dozens of carnival rides, smaller kiddie rides, a parade, a giant flea market, fireworks and a vintage car expedition. Tuesdays are family days and ride prices are lower for kids.
Oktoberfest is the world-famous centuries-old annual Fall celebration in the city of Munich. The festival revolves around beer but has much more to offer including roller coasters, carnival rides, concerts, fireworks, parades, live shows, street performers, roving bands and all manner of food. The festival is held in the Theresienwiese in the heart of the city and runs from mid September to early October. Most German festivals have a heavy presence of alcohol. Keep in mind that the drinking age in Germany is 16 and teenagers will be served if unaccompanied.
