Spreepark, Germany

The Story of Spreepark

In the middle of Berlin’s Plänterwald forest lies Spreepark—an abandoned amusement park that’s equal parts eerie and fascinating. Opened in 1969 in what was then East Berlin, the park was once alive with crowds, music, and rides. After reunification in the 1990s, though, Spreepark couldn’t keep up financially and eventually shut down. Today, its crumbling rides and overgrown paths tell a very different story—one of time, nature, and quiet decay.

Short History of Spreepark

Spreepark started out as "Kulturpark Plänterwald" in 1969 and quickly became a go-to spot for East Berlin families. It had more than 30 rides, including roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, and classic fairground attractions. At its peak, around 1.5 million people visited every year.

After the Berlin Wall came down, the park struggled to stay afloat. By 2001, it closed for good. Over time, the rides were left to rust, and plants began to take over. Today, only a few rides are still recognizable. Most are just skeletons hidden under weeds and trees.

Current State of Spreepark

Walking through Spreepark now feels like stepping into a forgotten world. The Ferris wheel still towers above the trees, but it’s silent—no lights, no motion, just rust and wind. Vines crawl through old bumper cars, and roller coaster tracks vanish into thick brush.

The whole place is quiet, except for the sounds of birds and the forest reclaiming what’s left. Urban explorers, photographers, and curious travelers are drawn here for its strange mix of nostalgia and ruin.

Exploring Spreepark

While Spreepark is tempting to wander through, it’s not open for free exploration. The structures aren’t stable, and safety is a concern, so the area is fenced off. That said, official guided tours are available and are the safest (and legal) way to explore.

Tours usually include a walk through the grounds, along with stories about the park’s past and plans to partially restore it in the future. If you're interested, check the official Spreepark website or local Berlin tourist info for current tour schedules.

How to Get to Spreepark

Spreepark is easy to reach using Berlin’s public transport. Just take the S-Bahn to Treptower Park station, then hop on Tram 27 or 37. From there, it’s a short walk to the park. The route goes through some scenic areas along the Spree River, which adds to the experience. If you're driving, there’s parking nearby.