Admittedly, when it's raining, windy and rather low temperatures, we don't immediately think about going out in the fresh air. And perhaps it takes a bit of effort to go out with a rain jacket, wellies or umbrella. But wet weather has its very own charm and brings with it a special atmosphere: this is a plea for a rainy day at the zoo, a song of praise for a city trip in bad weather and an unconditional recommendation for a hike in a low-pressure area.
Bad weather, good spirits
Tips for rainy days
Four times pleasure
Our top tips
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- Alone at the zoo
Bielefeld Learn moreNo searching for a car park, empty paths and a good view of all the animals: In contrast to the crowds on fair weather days, the atmosphere in zoos is relaxed when it rains. In addition to the classic wet weather attraction, the All-weather zoo Münster with its mostly covered paths, other destinations also offer plenty of fun in the rain. For example, if you are surprised by a shower at Heimat-Tierpark Olderdissen (Olderdissen Home Animal Park), you can observe animals in various shelters. In the rodent house, you can get up close to wild and domestic guinea pigs and dwarf rabbits. There is a particularly beautiful rain shelter at the European beaver: a footbridge takes you to the hut in the middle of the pond, where a large viewing window allows you to see inside the beaver lodge. So: look forward to the next low and your chance to have the zoos and wildlife parks in your NRW all to yourself.
Johannes Höhn, Tourismus NRW e.V., Murmeltier im Tierpark Olderdissen in Bielefeld - Mysticism in the Siebengebirge
Königswinter Learn moreInstead of far-reaching views, there is a view of rising clouds of mist, the landscape has a magical effect and hikers feel close to the stories surrounding the legendary Drachenfels: the mystical atmosphere of the Siebengebirge is ideal for a bad weather hike. Drachenburg Castle, which not only offers a beautiful roof over the Köfpen, but also two exhibitions, is a splendid place to stop for refreshments on the way up to Drachenfels. Our tip for cloudy days: a tour along the Beethoven hiking trail, which passes both sights. With the metres in altitude, you certainly won't start to freeze.
Tourismus NRW e.V., Drachenfels Castle Ruins in the Siebengebirge Nature Park - Out into natureLearn more
Do you feel ready for your adventure in nature, want to brave the forces of nature and no weather is too bad for you? Then get out into nature - in the twelve nature parks or the Eifel National Park, for example. Or to the large peat bog in Lübbecke, where wooden footbridges guarantee dry feet. Signposts along the paths provide information about the formation and special features of the moor in the Teutoburg Forest. More interesting facts are provided by the NABU-Moorhus, which offers changing exhibitions and information about the development of the moor. Whichever tour you choose: At the end of the day, you'll be proud to have overcome your inner couch potato - and the cosy warm sofa will feel even cosier.
Johannes Höhn, Torfmoor Out into natureLearn more - Düsseldorf in the rain
Düsseldorf Learn morePack your umbrella and off you go! With art, Altbier beer, architecture and little stops to enjoy, Düsseldorf makes a visit in bad weather a pleasure. We have tried it out: Nina takes you on a city trip and shows you her favourite places and discoveries that are fun even in the rain. Start on the covered Carlsplatz square, take a city tour past the Old Town, Media Harbour and Rhine Tower and take a look at groundbreaking works from the 20th century under the roof of the Kunstsammlung NRW (NRW Art Collection) K20.
Nina Hüpen-Bestendonk, Sarah Morris Wand-Mosaik
