Alter Messplatz
Mannheim's dynamic public square, buzzing with summer water fun, thrilling fairs, diverse food, and vibrant community events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Splash pads are active!
Alter Messplatz
Best Time
Splash pads are active!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Mannheim's dynamic public square, buzzing with summer water fun, thrilling fairs, diverse food, and vibrant community events.
"Incredible spot to skate in the middle of the street, alongside flows a river you can chill."
Check Event Schedules
Always check what's on before you go! Festivals, markets, and concerts are common.
Bring Swim Gear
Kids love the water fountains in summer. Pack a towel and change of clothes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Interactive Water Fountains
Surprising and refreshing water jets erupt from the ground, delighting children and offering a cool respite on warm days.
Giant Ferris Wheel
Enjoy panoramic views of Mannheim from the iconic Ferris wheel, a popular attraction, especially during festivals.
Oktobermesse Thrills
Experience the excitement of the annual October Fair with thrilling rides like Devil Rock and Magic.
Street Food Delights
Savor diverse culinary offerings, from smash burgers and birria tacos to Brazilian snacks and BBQ.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Event Hotspot: Check Schedules
Summer Fun: Beat the Heat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Event Schedules
Always check what's on before you go! Festivals, markets, and concerts are common.
Bring Swim Gear
Kids love the water fountains in summer. Pack a towel and change of clothes!
Explore Food Options
From burgers to Brazilian treats, there's a wide variety of street food.
Public Transport Hub
Easily accessible by tram and train, making it a convenient meeting point.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Event Schedules
Always check what's on before you go! Festivals, markets, and concerts are common.
Bring Swim Gear
Kids love the water fountains in summer. Pack a towel and change of clothes!
Explore Food Options
From burgers to Brazilian treats, there's a wide variety of street food.
Public Transport Hub
Easily accessible by tram and train, making it a convenient meeting point.
Festival Vibes
Experience the lively atmosphere during events like the October Fair or Pride.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Alter Messplatz as a versatile public space, particularly enjoyable for its interactive water fountains in summer and its transformation into a vibrant event venue during festivals like the Oktobermesse. It's seen as a great spot for skating and a convenient transport hub, though some note it's primarily an event space with limited permanent amenities beyond a few bars/restaurants.
"Incredible Spot to Skate🛹in the middle of the street, alongside flows a river you can chill 😉.
Nice view of the city too."
WoodWise Skateboarding
"Nice place to spend a warm summer day with thekiddos in the city. Water coming from the ground, stop and start again... surprising the kids, it’s fun and refreshing. Chicken restaurant with good frenchfries in the area and also a nice terrasse with good coffee and also kiosk if you need to drink something and doesn’t want to spend to much!"
So Dou
"Nice area with great space and the tiny water fountains makes it a great site and little children love bathing in it during the summers"
Shirley Nora
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Alter Messplatz is well-connected by public transport. You can easily reach it via tram and train, as it serves as a significant station. Many visitors find it a convenient meeting point due to its accessibility.
While specific parking details can vary depending on events, the area is generally accessible by public transport, which is often recommended to avoid parking hassles, especially during large gatherings.
Mannheim is a bike-friendly city, and Alter Messplatz is centrally located, making it accessible for cyclists. Walking is also an option if you are staying nearby.
Alter Messplatz is a key hub for various tram and train lines within Mannheim, providing connections to many directions across the city and surrounding areas.
Yes, Alter Messplatz is a prominent location in Mannheim, often featured in local content and easily identifiable by its open space and event infrastructure.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Alter Messplatz itself is generally free. However, specific events like festivals, concerts, or fairs held there may require tickets for entry or specific attractions.
As an open public space, Alter Messplatz doesn't have fixed opening hours. However, access to specific attractions or venues within the area will depend on their individual operating times and event schedules.
The interactive water fountains are a public amenity and are typically free to use for visitors, especially during the warmer months.
It's best to check the official Mannheim city website, local event listings, or social media channels for Alter Messplatz and associated event organizers to stay updated on upcoming events.
Ticket deals can vary greatly depending on the specific event. It's advisable to look for early bird specials or package deals directly from the event organizers when available.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
Alter Messplatz hosts a wide array of events, including the popular Oktobermesse (October Fair), various festivals, concerts, markets, sporting events, and community gatherings like Pride parades.
Yes, especially during summer, the interactive water fountains are a major attraction for kids. The fairgrounds also feature rides suitable for various ages.
Don't miss the iconic Ferris wheel for city views, the thrilling rides during the Oktobermesse, and the refreshing water fountains in summer.
Yes, Alter Messplatz is described as an incredible spot to skate, with ample open space available.
During events, the atmosphere is typically lively and festive, with crowds enjoying rides, food, music, and the general excitement of a fair or festival.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
Alter Messplatz offers a diverse culinary scene, from popular smash burgers and halal birria tacos to Brazilian snacks like pastel and açai, as well as BBQ specialties.
While many food stalls focus on meat-centric dishes like burgers and BBQ, the variety of international food options, especially at festivals, often includes vegetarian and vegan choices. It's best to inquire at individual stalls.
Yes, there are usually kiosks and cafes around Alter Messplatz where you can grab drinks, including coffee, especially during events or on warm days.
While Alter Messplatz itself is known for its event-driven food stalls and temporary setups, there are bars and restaurants in the vicinity, and some venues like the Malzwerk offer dedicated dining experiences.
Food prices can vary. While some festival food can be on the pricier side, options like smash burgers and street food can offer good value.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the iconic Ferris wheel against the city skyline, the vibrant lights and rides during the Oktobermesse, and the joyful moments of families enjoying the water fountains.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful lighting for the Ferris wheel and general city views. For vibrant event photos, evenings during festivals are ideal.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, professional photography or videography might require permits, especially during organized events. Always check event-specific rules.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide shots of the space and details of rides or food. A wide-angle lens is useful for the Ferris wheel and open areas.
Drone usage is often restricted in public spaces and around events due to safety and privacy concerns. It's highly recommended to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Pack snacks and drinks, or explore the diverse food stalls for family-friendly options like chicken and fries. Visiting during weekdays or earlier in the day can help avoid peak crowds, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
🍔 Foodies & Street Food Lovers
Recommendation: Explore the different food stalls and be adventurous! Many visitors highlight the quality and variety of the food available, making it a culinary destination in itself.
🎉 Festival & Event Enthusiasts
Must-do: Check the event calendar before your visit to catch the best festivals and fairs. The Giant Ferris Wheel offers great views, especially during evening events when the whole place is lit up.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Mannheim's Oktobermesse
Beyond the rides, the Oktobermesse is a culinary adventure. You can indulge in classic German fair food, sweet treats, and international flavors. Many visitors rave about the diverse food stalls offering everything from hearty sausages and crepes to more modern street food options. It's the perfect place to experience the fun and flavors of a traditional German fair.
Planning your visit to the Oktobermesse is key. It typically runs for a few weeks in the autumn, so check the exact dates for the year you plan to visit. Arriving earlier in the day or on weekdays can help you avoid the largest crowds, allowing for a more relaxed experience on the rides and at the food stalls.
Family Fun: Water Fountains and More
Beyond the splash pads, the open space of Alter Messplatz is perfect for kids to run around and play. During events like the Oktobermesse, there are also numerous rides suitable for younger visitors, ensuring entertainment for the whole family. The presence of food stalls offering kid-friendly options like chicken and fries also adds to the convenience for families.
Tips for families include checking the event calendar to align your visit with family-friendly festivals or fairs. Consider visiting during off-peak hours if possible to manage crowds. The accessibility via public transport also makes it easier for families to navigate to and from the venue.
A Hub for Diverse Events and Community
The venue also sees sporting events and other gatherings, showcasing its versatility. For instance, the StartUpParty has been held here, marking the opening of the season for sports and leisure facilities. This adaptability means there's almost always something happening, from music festivals like Toxicator to local community events.
Experiencing Alter Messplatz means embracing its dynamic nature. Checking the local event listings is crucial to discover what's on during your visit. Whether it's a large-scale festival or a smaller community gathering, the Messplatz offers a glimpse into Mannheim's lively cultural scene.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit