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Our family took a trip to Germany, and no Germany trip is complete without going to Oktoberfest. It was everything we had imagined, and more, with some hidden treasures thrown in. This list will help you navigate through Oktoberfest, and know what stops can’t be missed. We also visited Dachau Concentration Camp while in the area, see our post here on what to expect at Dachau.
- Beer Tents
Our travel group went to the Traditional Beer Tent. There were some old traditions, along with more modern traditions throughout the tent. It was one of the more simple designs inside but still breathtaking. If a pint of German beer seems a little too strong, then order a Radler. It is a beer and lemon-flavored soda mixture, which equals delicious! It is a lighter version of beer, not too sweet, and no aftertaste. There were whole chickens, traditional German dishes, and giant pretzels to eat.
You will see the Tradition Beer Tent if you walk to the back entrance by the Ferris Wheel. As you enter you will be shocked with the wood framing throughout.
Every tent has a different theme, and atmosphere to it, so check them all out! They all have their own brand of beer, so you could have a different beer option at every tent. You don’t have to order a drink to enter the tents to look around and take pictures, but if you want to sit you will need to have a drink. Just a reminder, German beer has a higher alcohol content than most countries, most commonly around 6.5%, so pace yourself at a marathon speed, not a sprint. All tents had clean restrooms, food, and some had souvenirs for purchase.
2. Pastries and Baked Goods
Outside, and inside of the Pastry Beer Tent are amazing pastries. They taste as amazing as they look! Our family all ordered a different ones so we could share, and we didn’t have to decide on just one. If you have the opportunity with your family, it is highly recommended to do the same. If you cannot find the pastry beer tent, simply ask someone. Everyone knows where to find the best pastries on the grounds. While there are alternate pastry shops throughout Oktoberfest, all of the locals we spoke with, pointed us in this direction every time. The best part, you’re on vacation, the calories don’t count!
3. Horses and Horse Drawn Wagon
Throughout Oktoberfest there are horses with beautiful halters placed what seemed to be randomly throughout the grounds. People were able to go up to them, pet them, take pictures and talk with the handlers. We were lucky enough to see a horse drawn wagon with beer barrels being walked through the grounds. We spent some time admiring the horses and were awestruck by them pulling the wagons. Just a little piece of advice, do watch where you step, as there are no cleaners directly behind the powerful animals.
4. Amusement Park Rides
There are many different rides scattered throughout the park. There are rides for people of all ages. There is even a ferris wheel so large that you can get a birds eye view of the park. The most amazing piece of information we gathered about these marvelous wonders, was all of them are typically erected within 3 days, and just as easily taken down after all have had their fun.
5. Bavaria Statue
This statue can be seen throughout the Oktoberfest grounds. It is a bronze statue with white stairs leading to it. If you climb the white stairs and go around the back of the statue you will find a small single door. For a small price (Around 5 Euro per person) you have the ability to go into the statue, and climb to the top. There is someone standing at the entrance taking the fee, and only allowing so many people in at a time. Once you enter the door, and walk up the stairs directly in front of you, the reason for minimal people is quickly apparent.
There is a spiral stair case with a few landings if you need to catch your breath. Most of the stair case is metal but there are parts that are a concrete type material that is worn in the middle of the step with the millions of people before. The statue is made of bronze so it is a little warm while you climb the stairs. Roughly halfway, you get to an opening that you can look out over the Oktoberfest grounds. But you’re not to the top yet! Upon reaching the top, you will find bronze couches for you to catch your breath, and you quickly realize you are at the top, looking out of the statue’s eyes. The view is amazing! Take a moment to enjoy the view, and snap a couple of pictures. Careful not to drop your phone out of the eye sockets.
We had so much fun at Oktoberfest and finding only a small part of its hidden gems. We recommend everyone to go at least once. Remember to drink safely, but enjoy the sights and sounds of Oktoberfest. If you found a hidden treasure on your visit feel free to post it in the comment section. Thank you for taking this trip with us!
