1. Opel Zoo

The Opel Zoo is located in the scenic slopes of the Vordertaunus between Kronberg and Königstein. It presents around 1,600 animals from over 220 species, most of which come from Africa, Asia and Europe, in a unique way. These include the only elephants in Hesse, giraffes, zebras, meerkats, red pandas, cheetahs, kangaroos and many more.

As early as 1956, zoo founder Dr. hc Georg von Opel. Circular paths and nature trails allow unhindered insights into the diversely designed enclosures on the 27-hectare zoo grounds that are otherwise only possible with outdoor observations.

Another attraction is the spacious enclosure for African penguins, where zoo visitors can watch the birds swimming and diving through 8 cm thick panes.

2. The Palmen Garden

Located on Bockenheimer Landstrasse, the beautiful 54-acre Palm Garden (Palmengarten), the largest botanic garden in Germany (and one of three in Frankfurt), was an instant hit with the public upon its opening in 1871. The attraction lured some of the top performers of the time from around the world, including Buffalo Bill, who visited with his Wild West show in 1890.

Highlights of a visit today are the lovely outdoor botanical exhibits laid out according to their geographical location, along with a number of greenhouses containing subtropical and tropical plant species. The gardens also offer boating, a children's playground, and picnic spots, and guided tours are available.

The Europaturm - a 337-meter-tall telecommunications tower also known as the "Tower of Europe" - is just a short walk away and worth visiting for its viewing platform and restaurant. Great views can also be enjoyed from the viewing platforms of the city's Main Tower, one of its tallest skyscrapers.

Other Frankfurt parks of interest are the 72-acre Grüneburgpark and the even larger Nidda Valley People's Park (Volkspark Niddatal) covering some 415 acres on the outskirts of the city and a pleasant place for a stroll.

3. Frankfurt Zoo

Home to more than 4,500 animals representing at least 510 different species, Frankfurt Zoo covers 32 acres near the city's old Friedberger Tor. Founded in 1858, it's Germany's second oldest zoo and is noted for its excellent animal houses, including the unique Grzimek House with displays of Madagascar's diverse fauna.

Also of interest is the Exotarium, with animals from different climatic regions, including marine life, reptiles, and crocodiles. The Borgori Forest has a superb ape house in an authentic jungle setting.

Other highlights include the Nocturnal Animals House and the Bird Hall. A variety of events and programs are offered, including family festivals, exhibits, and themed tours.

4. River Cruises am Main Frankfurt

Interested in seeing the Frankfurt skyline and surrounding area from an entirely different perspective? Simply hop aboard one of the city’s many cruise ships and take in the sights of the metropolis from the the majestic River Main.

The 50-, 60- or 100-minutes relaxing scenic river cruises on bord of modern excursion vessels take you up and down the river Main towards the Western harbour, past Frankfurt’s impressive skyline or the beautifully fashioned banks of the Main to the Gerbermühle, with a detour to Frankfurt Osthafen. You are certain to be impressed by the views, which are even more beautiful at night.

5. Senckenberg Natural History Museum

Located in Frankfurt's Senckenberg Gardens, the Senckenberg Natural History Museum (Naturmuseum Senckenberg) is one of the most modern museums of natural history in Europe and the second largest of its kind in Germany.

Along with its numerous displays relating to our planet's biodiversity and the evolution of organisms, the museum houses Europe's biggest exhibition of large dinosaurs, making it particularly popular with families (a number of life-size replica dinosaurs greet guests in the museum's forecourt).

It's also home to the world's largest collection of stuffed birds, along with an extensive exhibit outlining the development of mankind. English language tours are available, and you can rent audio guides if you want to tour on your own. Educational workshops and lectures are also held regularly. A bistro and a souvenir shop are also located on premises.

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