Helene Fischer - 360° Stadium Tour 2026
Helene Fischer returns to the VELTINS-Arena in Gelsenkirchen with a gigantic 360-degree stage production.
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Zoom Erlebniswelt Gelsenkirchen
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Animal habitat
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Highlights of 2026
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Helene Fischer - VIP Packages Gelsenkirchen
Enjoy Helene Fischer's concert highlight with exclusive VIP benefits and premium access at VELTINS-Arena.
Helene Fischer - Business Seat Experience
Experience Helene Fischer's 360° tour with ultimate comfort and first-class views of the stage.
Monster Jam - Monstertruck Action
Experience the high-octane power of monster trucks live at VELTINS-Arena with spectacular stunts and racing.
The ZOOM Erlebniswelt in Gelsenkirchen is a modern zoo built on the site of the former Ruhr Zoo and was completely redesigned following extensive reconstruction between 2004 and 2010. Spanning about 30 hectares, the facility is divided into three major themed worlds: Alaska, Africa, and Asia, each reflecting the characteristic flora and fauna of these continents. A special feature is the 'invisible borders' concept, where natural barriers such as watercourses and rock formations separate the enclosures to provide visitors with an immersive nature experience. Highlights include underwater observation of polar bears, a boat ride on the Africa lake, and the large jungle hall in the Asia section. The zoo emphasizes species-appropriate husbandry in spacious communities and serves as a significant educational and recreational center in the Ruhr region. It is operated by the city of Gelsenkirchen and welcomes over one million visitors annually.
- Location: North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
- Top sights: Europäischer Luchs · Schneeeule · Waschbärengehege
- Nearby: Herten (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 2 | 2 | 5 | 10 | 13 | 17 | 19 | 18 | 15 | 11 | 6 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 84 | 67 | 61 | 45 | 65 | 68 | 78 | 82 | 62 | 67 | 77 | 86 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
Zoom Erlebniswelt Gelsenkirchen is open year-round, but the best time for animal watching is spring when animals become more active after winter. Autumn has pleasant temperatures and often fewer visitors.
Best time of day
Morning hours are convenient as the animals are most active after the night's rest. Also plan for afternoons, especially if you want to experience the thematic feedings in the various continent worlds.
Etiquette
Please stay on the visitor paths and respect the boundaries of the themed worlds to avoid disturbing the animals. Feeding the animals is not permitted as their diet is strictly controlled.
What to bring
Binoculars are recommended to better see animals in the large, naturalistic enclosures. Comfortable shoes are important as the park is extensive and you will walk a lot.
Getting there
Zoom Erlebniswelt is located in Gelsenkirchen in the Ruhr area and is easily accessible by car via the A2 or A40 motorways. Ample parking is available, and the park is also well connected by public transport.
What to expect
In the large themed worlds, animals can hide in dense vegetation - patience and attentive observation are key. Visit different areas at different times of day to experience the diversity.
Geography
Facts
- Complete reconstruction of the former Ruhr Zoo from 2004 to 2010
- Covers approx. 30 hectares in the center of the Ruhr area
- Divided into the themed worlds of Alaska, Africa, and Asia
- The polar bear habitat in Alaska is among the largest in Europe
- The Africa lake can be explored via the 'African Queen' boat
- Welcomes over 1 million visitors to the facility each year
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Zoom Erlebniswelt Gelsenkirchen (10)
Waschbärengehege
Waschbärengehege is an attraction at Zoom Erlebniswelt Gelsenkirchen.
Bleckkirche
Bleckkirche is a church in Gelsenkirchen.
Schloß Grimberg
Schloß Grimberg is a castle ruin in Gelsenkirchen.
Hafen Grimberg
Hafen Grimberg is a nature reserve in Gelsenkirchen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.
Resser Wäldchen
Resser Wäldchen is a nature reserve in Gelsenkirchen, Germany.
Consol Theater
Consol Theater is a theatre in Gelsenkirchen.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What themed worlds are at ZOOM Erlebniswelt?
There are Alaska, Africa, and Asia themed areas.
Is the boat trip in Africa included?
Yes, the trip on the Queen Awa is included in the entrance fee.
How long does a visit take?
You should plan at least 5 to 6 hours for all three worlds.
Are there parking spaces on site?
Yes, there are large paid parking lots right at the entrance.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs on a leash are allowed for a small fee.
Zoom Erlebniswelt Gelsenkirchen: where is it located?
Zoom Erlebniswelt Gelsenkirchen is located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.
Zoom Erlebniswelt Gelsenkirchen: what is there to see?
Highlights include Europäischer Luchs, Schneeeule, Waschbärengehege.
Zoom Erlebniswelt Gelsenkirchen: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Zoom Erlebniswelt Gelsenkirchen: why is it worth visiting?
The ZOOM Erlebniswelt in Gelsenkirchen is a modern zoo built on the site of the former Ruhr Zoo and was completely redesigned following extensive reconstruction between 2004 and 2010.
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