Olympic Park was constructed in 1972, when Munich hosted to the 20th Summer Olympic Games. The 69,000-seat Olympic Stadium, the Olympic Hall and the Olympic Swimming Pool are all linked together by a sprawling tensile canopy roof. Today, the park is a venue for sporting events of all kinds as well as various forms of entertainment, such as concerts, plays and open-air movie screenings. Situated only 4.8 kilometres (3 miles) northwest of Munich, the park is easily accessible from the city.
For an exhilarating and unique excursion, take a guided roof climb tour and enjoy a breathtaking view of Munich from atop the Olympic Stadium. For a small entrance fee, you can imitate your favourite Olympic swimmer or diver with access to the swimming centre’s pools and diving boards. If the winter Olympics are more your style, take a turn on the year-round ice skating rink, which resides in the former Olympic Boxing Hall.
In winter, the snowy Olympic Hill, made out of World War II rubble, attracts sledders young and old. In summer, the park hosts a variety of events, including fireworks displays, plays and extreme sports, to name a few. Check the Olympic Park website for an up-to-date schedule. The park has an array of other attractions as well, such as the Sea Life Aquarium and the Olympic Regatta Course. After an activity-filled day, dine in the rotating restaurant on top of the Olympic Tower.
The Munich Olympic Games are primarily remembered for the acts of violence committed against the Israeli team. For those who wish to pay their respects, there is a large stone memorial in the Olympic Village dedicated to the victims.
There is no admission fee for the Olympic Park, but expect to pay for special events and activities. To get to the park from Munich, take the U-Bahn (subway) to the Olympiazentrum stop, or drive and park at one of the lots for a fee.
