Contrasting
1 / 10

MFO-Park Zurich

4.6
·2k reviews·Zürich, Switzerland

A unique urban oasis featuring a 17m-high steel trellis covered in climbing plants, offering multi-level relaxation and stunning views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Summer afternoons

Vibrant blooms and sunny skies

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Contrasting

MFO-Park Zurich

Best Time

Spring & Summer afternoons

Vibrant blooms and sunny skies

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A unique urban oasis featuring a 17m-high steel trellis covered in climbing plants, offering multi-level relaxation and stunning views.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"A beautiful park hidden in Zurich, perfect for reading, picnics, or simply enjoying the green scenario."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access from Oerlikon

Just a 5-minute walk from Oerlikon train station, making it super convenient to reach.

🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot

Bring a book or snacks; it's ideal for a peaceful lunch break or quiet time.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Living Trellis

The Living Trellis

Central Structure

A towering steel frame draped in lush climbing plants, creating a unique, vertical garden experience.

Rooftop Views

Rooftop Views

Top Level

Ascend to the highest platform for panoramic views of the park and surrounding greenery.

Peaceful Retreat

Peaceful Retreat

Various Levels

Find a quiet spot on benches or platforms to read, picnic, or simply unwind.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Vertical Greenery

MFO Park's unique design features a 17-meter-high steel trellis covered in climbing plants. Explore its multiple levels for different perspectives and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, especially during off-peak hours. It's a great spot for a quiet break or a picnic.

Conveniently Located Gem

Just a short walk from Oerlikon train station, MFO Park is easily accessible. While it's a lovely spot for locals to relax, consider if it's a primary destination for tourists or a pleasant addition to your itinerary if you're in the Oerlikon area.

Best Times

When
Spring & Summer afternoons
Why
Vibrant blooms and sunny skies
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter atmosphere for relaxation
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

the only guide you need if you wanna see everything in a short time! ZURICH CARD is your bestie if you are planning to visit, unlimited public transport, free museum visits, lots of perks etc check it out at @klooksg @visitzurich use my code SHIUMOONKLOOK for 5% off! #visitzurich #klookkreatorlabs #placestogoinswitzerland #sgtravel #creatorsearchinsights
@shiumoon
21.1K likes • 733.3K views

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access from Oerlikon

Just a 5-minute walk from Oerlikon train station, making it super convenient to reach. Instagram

🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot

Bring a book or snacks; it's ideal for a peaceful lunch break or quiet time. InstagramReddit

Part 4: Things to Do For FREE in Zurich ✅ A Visit to the Zoological museum! The Zoological Museum in Zurich is completely FREE of charge and is home to around 1500 different animals and skeletons. Fun day recommendation: ✔️ Hop on the Polybahn (lil funicular which is part of the public transport in Zurich) and takes you almost all the way up to the museum. ✔️ Visit the museum ✔️ enjoy a picnic on...
@jas.decker
17.1K likes • 652.2K views
👉 MFO Park was once an old machine factory in Zürich & has now been transformed into this unique public park! 😍 We really loved the rooftop area with views of the garden with plenty of space to rest and recharge up there! We noticed a lot of people visit for their lunch breaks or even to simply relax and read a book. 📖 It’s a very peaceful sanctuary with the growing vines & we would highly rec...
lifeinadventureland
25 likes • 1.4K views

⬆️ Ascend for Views

Don't miss the top level for great views of the park and city. Instagram

📸 Great for Photos

The unique structure and greenery make for stunning photo opportunities. Instagram+1

A beautiful park hidden in Zurich 😍 The former Maschinenfabrik Oerlikon (MFO) gives now place to a steel open construction involved in green plants ✨ The perfect place to read, picnic, chill with friends or enjoy the green scnenario! 🌱 If you go, make sure you go to the top and enjoy the sun ☀️ 📍MFO-Park, Elias-Canetti-Strasse, 8050 Zürich Do you also like your spend sunny days in green parks...
zurich_roamer
67 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access from Oerlikon

Just a 5-minute walk from Oerlikon train station, making it super convenient to reach. Instagram

🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot

Bring a book or snacks; it's ideal for a peaceful lunch break or quiet time. InstagramReddit

⬆️ Ascend for Views

Don't miss the top level for great views of the park and city. Instagram

📸 Great for Photos

The unique structure and greenery make for stunning photo opportunities. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

MFO Park is praised as a beautiful and unique green escape, particularly appreciated for its tranquil atmosphere and distinctive architectural design. Visitors enjoy its multi-level structure and the opportunity for peaceful relaxation or picnics. While it's a lovely spot, some feel it might be more of a local gem than a primary tourist destination.

"Nice little green escape about five minutes or less from the Oerlikon SBB Banhof. The place has 3-4 floors and it is worth to go to the very top on a nice clear day.

I recommend taking a walk through here with your coffee or drink for a relaxing time in one of the few greener areas in central Oerlikon. Highly recommended!"

Nabil R

"Relaxing place to hang out close to Oerlikon station. The ground is covered with gravel. There are some objects on the ground, eg a metal ring that looks nice. The main point of interest is the giant structure, made of metal and wood, covered with climbing plants. There are 3 floors, some made from metal grids, some made from wooden planks. Since the top platform is over 15m high, people with fear of heights might stay on a lower level. All over the place are benches and other objects to sit or lie on it. If it's sunny, you can sit in the shadow, or bath in the sun. We went around 1pm and there was plenty of room to chill. If you are in the area, this is a nice place to go to."

Dani A.

"This is a beautiful location to spend time outdoors. It provides an area to relax and spend time enjoying the sunlight. Even in a cold foggy day the place looks great."

Josh C

What People Like

Unique vertical garden
Peaceful and quiet atmosphere
Great for picnics

What People Dislike

Can be less of a tourist draw

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

MFO Park is conveniently located in Oerlikon and is a short, approximately 5-minute walk from the Oerlikon train station. You can easily reach Oerlikon via public transport, including trams and S-Bahn trains, which are part of Zurich's efficient network. Instagram

Yes, MFO Park is very well-connected by public transport. The nearest major hub is Oerlikon station, which serves numerous S-Bahn lines and trams, making it easy to access from anywhere in Zurich. Instagram

While driving is possible, parking in the Oerlikon area can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport to reach MFO Park due to its excellent accessibility and the convenience of nearby train and tram connections. Reddit

The best way to experience MFO Park is by exploring its multi-level structure. Take your time to walk through the different tiers, enjoy the views from the top, and find a quiet spot to relax or have a picnic. Instagram+1

MFO Park is a great addition to a day trip in Zurich, especially if you're exploring the Oerlikon area. It offers a unique and peaceful escape from the city bustle, perfect for a relaxing hour or two. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, MFO Park is a public park and entry is completely free of charge. You can visit and enjoy its unique structure and greenery without any admission cost. TikTok

MFO Park is generally open to the public during daylight hours. While specific official closing times might vary seasonally, it's typically accessible from morning until dusk. It's always a good idea to check local listings if you plan a very late visit. Instagram

No booking is required for MFO Park as it is a free public space. You can visit anytime during its open hours without needing to reserve a spot. TikTok

As a public park, general rules of conduct apply. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the space and other visitors, keeping noise levels down and disposing of trash properly. It's a place for relaxation and quiet enjoyment. InstagramReddit

While MFO Park is a lovely place to relax, its unique structure and limited open spaces might make it less ideal for very large, boisterous groups. It's best suited for individuals, couples, or small gatherings looking for a peaceful environment. InstagramReddit

🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience

The main attraction is the park's distinctive architecture: a 17-meter-high steel-framed trellis covered in climbing plants, creating a unique vertical garden. It offers multiple levels to explore and relax on. Instagram+1

Absolutely! MFO Park is a popular spot for picnics. There are benches and platforms throughout the park where you can sit and enjoy your food amidst the greenery. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, the unique design of MFO Park, with its steel structure and abundant plant life, makes it a fantastic location for photography, offering interesting angles and textures. Instagram+1

While MFO Park itself is primarily an outdoor green space, public restrooms are typically available in the vicinity, especially near the Oerlikon train station. TikTok mentions a high-tech public bathroom nearby.

The park features interconnected walkways and platforms made of metal grids and wooden planks, allowing you to ascend to the top. Take your time to navigate these pathways and enjoy the changing perspectives. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire structure offers great photo opportunities. Focus on the interplay of the steel frame and the climbing plants, the views from the upper levels, and the textures of the walkways. Instagram+1

Late afternoon light can be beautiful, casting interesting shadows through the trellis. Morning light is also good for softer illumination. Consider visiting during less crowded times for unobstructed shots. Instagram

Drone usage in public parks in Zurich is generally restricted to protect privacy and safety. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park management before attempting to fly a drone. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the structure. A standard zoom lens will also be versatile. Consider a tripod for sharper shots, especially in lower light conditions. Instagram

Yes, the unique backdrop of MFO Park makes it an excellent location for portraits. The greenery and architectural elements provide a distinctive setting. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

MFO Park offers a unique environment for families, though it's more about quiet exploration than active play. The multi-level structure can be an adventure for children to navigate, and the greenery provides a pleasant backdrop for a family picnic. Parents should supervise children closely, especially on the higher platforms and metal walkways. Instagram+1

While there aren't traditional playgrounds, the park's design itself can spark curiosity. It's a good spot for a calm outing, perhaps combined with a visit to nearby Oerlikon attractions. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as amenities within the park are limited. Reddit

📚 Bookworms & Relaxation Seekers

For those who love to read or simply find a peaceful spot to unwind, MFO Park is an ideal destination. The numerous benches and platforms scattered throughout the park provide ample opportunities to settle in with a good book. InstagramReddit

The park's reputation for being quiet and serene makes it a perfect escape from the city's noise. Whether you're looking for a sunny spot or a shaded nook, you can find a comfortable place to relax and recharge. InstagramReddit

📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts

MFO Park is a dream for photographers and those who appreciate unique architectural designs. The striking steel trellis interwoven with lush greenery offers endless creative possibilities for capturing stunning images. Instagram+1

Experiment with different angles, focus on the textures of the plants and metal, and utilize the multi-level structure to create dynamic compositions. The park's distinctiveness makes it a standout location for both amateur and professional photographers. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architecture of MFO Park

MFO Park is a remarkable example of modern landscape architecture, transforming a former industrial site into a vibrant public space. The park's defining feature is its 17-meter-high steel-framed trellis, which is completely covered in a variety of climbing plants. This creates a unique, living structure that changes with the seasons, offering a lush green canopy in warmer months and an interesting skeletal form in winter. The design emphasizes verticality, providing multiple levels for visitors to explore and experience the park from different vantage points. Instagram+1

The park's design is not just about aesthetics; it's also about creating a functional and peaceful urban oasis. The multiple tiers, constructed from metal grids and wooden planks, offer spaces for relaxation, reading, and picnicking. Redditors often highlight its calm and quiet atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to unwind with a book or simply enjoy a moment of tranquility amidst the city. Reddit+1

Originally the site of the Maschinenfabrik Oerlikon (MFO), the park retains a connection to its industrial past through its robust steel framework, yet it has been softened and revitalized by the abundant greenery. This blend of industrial heritage and natural elements makes MFO Park a truly distinctive destination in Zurich. Instagram

Experiencing MFO Park: A Local's Perspective

Locals and frequent visitors often describe MFO Park as a hidden gem, a place to escape the urban hustle without leaving the city. It's a popular spot for people on their lunch breaks or those seeking a quiet corner to read or reflect. The park's design encourages a slower pace, inviting visitors to wander and discover its different facets. InstagramReddit

Many appreciate the peaceful ambiance and the feeling of being immersed in nature, despite being in an urban setting. The multi-level structure provides a sense of discovery, with each level offering a slightly different perspective. The top platform, in particular, is often recommended for its elevated views, especially on a clear day. InstagramReddit

While it might not be a primary tourist attraction for those on a short visit, MFO Park is highly recommended for anyone looking for a tranquil and unique urban green space. It's a testament to how former industrial sites can be transformed into beautiful and functional public areas that benefit the community. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2