Stuttgart Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Stuttgart
This weekend itinerary offers a fantastic blend of Stuttgart's best family attractions, balancing engaging ticketed experiences with wonderful free activities. It focuses on creating lasting memories for families with young children, incorporating opportunities for active play, cultural learning, and festive enjoyment, all while keeping budget in mind. Remember to dress warmly for outdoor evening events and check attraction websites for any last-minute changes.
Friday Evening - Magical Lights & Cozy Dinner
Friday, January 2Christmas Garden
Step into a winter wonderland at the Christmas Garden in Wilhelma, Stuttgart's zoological-botanical garden.
The grounds are transformed by stunning holiday illuminations along a two-kilometer circular path, offering a magical experience for the whole family. Enjoy festive music and light installations as you stroll through the enchanted gardens.
Perfect for all ages, children will be mesmerized by the sparkling lights and festive atmosphere. The path is suitable for strollers. Restrooms and food stalls offering warm drinks and snacks are available along the route. Dress warmly as this is an outdoor event. The experience typically lasts 1.5 - 2 hours.
Wilhelma is easily accessible by public transport (U14 to Rosensteinbrücke or Wilhelma). Limited paid parking is available on-site.
Family Burger Treat
Enjoy a casual and kid-friendly dinner at Four Brothers Burger Smash Flame Grilled Burgers, known for its very child-friendly atmosphere and sufficient parking.
They offer a variety of burgers that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Kids will love the classic burger options. The restaurant aims to be very child-friendly, providing a relaxed atmosphere after an evening of lights. Early dinner timing allows for sufficient rest before the next day's adventures.
Easily accessible by car with parking available in the area. Public transport options depend on the exact branch chosen.
Saturday - Adventure Park & Nature Discovery
Saturday, January 3Nature Museum Visit
Explore the wonders of the natural world at the Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde Stuttgart (State Museum of Natural History) at Schloss Rosenstein.
It houses extensive biological exhibitions, perfect for curious minds. Kids will love the impressive African elephant, whales, and diverse animal groups.
Suitable for children aged 5 and up, offering engaging exhibits that foster learning. Restrooms and baby changing facilities are available. Strollers can be brought into Schloss Rosenstein, but note that for Museum am Löwentor (the other location), a stroller garage is required until June 2026. The museum is generally well-equipped for families. Allocate 2-3 hours for a comprehensive visit.
The museum is located within Rosenstein Park, accessible by public transport (U1, U14 to Mineralbäder, then a short walk). Paid parking is available nearby.
Park Picnic & Play
Enjoy a budget-friendly picnic lunch within the expansive Rosenstein Park, surrounding the natural history museum.
The park offers plenty of green space for children to run around and enjoy the outdoors, weather permitting. There are playgrounds available for various age groups.
Kids can burn off energy on the playgrounds while you enjoy a relaxed meal. Pack a thermos with warm drinks if it's chilly. Public restrooms are available in the park and at the museum. This is a great free activity for active children.
Easily accessible from the Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde. Public transport stops like 'Mineralbäder' are nearby. Parking available around the park.
Adventstraum Theme Park
Experience the 'Adventstraum' (Winter Dream) at Schwaben Park, a family amusement park transformed into a festive wonderland with over half a million lights.
Enjoy various rides, shows, and a unique winter atmosphere. Some attractions will be open, and a free sledding hill with real snow may be available if temperatures are suitable.
Schwaben Park offers attractions for all ages, with many rides suitable for children aged 3-12. Restrooms, food stalls (Café Sam & Pizza stand), and a souvenir shop are available. Dress warmly for this outdoor park experience. Allow at least 3-4 hours for your visit. Children under 3 years have free entry.
Schwaben Park is located outside the city center, requiring a car. Parking is available on-site for a fee.
Cozy Dinner Out
After a day of excitement, settle down for a relaxed early dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Stuttgart.
Consider options that offer kid-friendly menus or a casual atmosphere, ensuring a pleasant end to the day. Many German restaurants offer hearty options that appeal to children.
Wirtshaus Ratze is known to be family-friendly. Check for current opening hours and if their play area is accessible or weather-appropriate. Good for winding down with a tasty meal before heading back for bedtimes.
Accessible by car (parking available) or public transport. Check VVS (Stuttgart public transport) for best routes.
Sunday - Automotive History & Winter Fun
Sunday, January 4Mercedes-Benz Museum
Embark on a fascinating journey through over 130 years of automotive history at the Mercedes-Benz Museum.
The museum offers a unique experience for families, with special audio guides, discovery books, and holiday programs designed for children. Kids will particularly enjoy seeing the Formula One cars and the various emergency vehicles.
Highly engaging for children who love cars and technology. The museum is stroller-friendly with elevators and ramps. Children's restrooms and high chairs are available. Mascot Carlotta appears on Sundays from 2 PM to 4 PM, so plan your visit to catch her! Allow 3-4 hours for your visit.
Ample parking is available in the museum's car park or P4 multi-story car park. Public transport (S-Bahn Neckarpark / Mercedes-Benz) is recommended, especially during major events at the stadium.
Lunch & Park Time
After your museum visit, grab a quick and easy lunch at a cafe or kiosk near the Mercedes-Benz Museum or head to a nearby park if the weather is pleasant.
Alternatively, consider a visit to a local playground for some free play and fresh air.
The Mercedes-Benz Museum has its own gastronomy options. Alternatively, a quick and budget-friendly lunch can be found at local bakeries or snack bars. Combine with some free play at a local playground if weather permits for an active break.
Conveniently located at the museum or a short walk/drive away.
Stuttgart Winter Dream
Wrap up your weekend with a visit to the 'Stuttgarter Wintertraum' (Stuttgart Winter Dream) at Schlossplatz.
This festive attraction offers a magical atmosphere with food stalls, warming mulled wine (for adults!), and a roller skating rink in the heart of the city. It’s a lovely way to enjoy the festive spirit before the new week begins.
This is a fantastic free outdoor activity suitable for all ages. Kids can enjoy the festive atmosphere and potentially try roller skating (rental fees apply). Restrooms are available. It's a perfect wind-down activity for Sunday, allowing for an early departure and prep for the school week.
Schlossplatz is centrally located and easily accessible by all major public transport lines (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, buses). Several parking garages are available in the city center, though public transport is recommended.
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