By Jessica Lonero
USAG Stuttgart Public Affairs Intern, Military Spouse, Mom of 3
As summer winds down and the school year peeks around the corner, I find myself holding tighter to the last of these summer days with my girls. Thankfully, there’s still some time left to squeeze in at least one more adventure. Below, I’ve gathered a few of my family’s favorite daytrips within 90 minutes of Stuttgart. These close-to-home spots are the perfect place to make memories that will carry you and your family happily into the fall.
Rubble Hill (Birkenkopf): Free and Full of Perspective
Just 10 minutes from Patch Barracks, Rubble Hill (known in German as Birkenkopf) offers one of Stuttgart’s most meaningful views. This historic overlook was built from the city’s World War II rubble and stands as a quiet but powerful reminder of the resilience of our host nation’s citizens. You can reach the summit on a short, stroller-friendly paved path or opt for the scenic staircase route.
On a clear day, the 360-degree panorama of Stuttgart is worth every step.
Even better? It’s completely free. Whether you’re coming from Panzer (17 minutes), Kelley (15 minutes) or Robinson (22 minutes), Rubble Hill is an easy detour that packs history and natural beauty into one unforgettable visit.
Plan your free trip and catch the view while summer’s still on your side.
Hundestrand Epplesee, Rheinstetten: Sun, sand and a place to get your paws wet!
Just 50 minutes from Patch Barracks, Hundestrand at Epplesee is a lakefront escape that’s perfect for family and dogs. This pet-friendly beach features shallow waters, a blend of sand and pebbles, and plenty of open space to spread out. For future visits we plan on bringing water shoes to better enjoy the stoney shore.
No pets? No problem. Check out the map of the lake ahead of time as in addition to a dog beach that allows pets, this spot also offers textile-free bathing and a (clothed) family beach where pets are not welcome.
Entry to the lake is free, but I recommend paying for parking in advance. On-site pay stations are available (with euro coins) but you’ll get through the entrance faster with a pre-booked parking pass. For current lake access updates and seasonal info, visit Rhinestetten’s official announcement.
Barfusspark Dornstetten: Go Barefoot, Awaken your senses
If you are looking for a unique sensory experience that doubles as family fun, don’t miss out on Barfusspark Dornstetten located about an hour and 15 minutes from Stuttgart. Our kids loved walking through the mud pits and along the wooded trail designed to wake up your senses with pebbles, bark paths, and stream crossings. We had the best time and at the end you will be pleasantly surprised by how soft your feet are. Between the fresh forest air, you are bound for a refreshing escape from screens and sidewalks for around 5 to 7 euros per person.
Experimenta Science Center, Heilbronn: Play Meets Discovery
Located just over an hour from Stuttgart in Heilbronn, Experimenta is Germany’s largest science center. Our family first discovered it during a Patch Elementary field trip, and it’s remained one of our top locations for school breaks ever since.
Tickets range from 13 to 17 euro, and on-site parking easily accommodates vehicles of all sizes. Plan to spend a few hours exploring the hands-on exhibits, and don’t miss the rooftop terrace or the motion lab.
Tripsdill Wildlife Park: Walk Among the Animals
Less than 90 minutes from Stuttgart, Tripsdill Wildparadies offers an immersive way to connect with wildlife in a peaceful, forested setting. Entry to the wildlife park is separate from the nearby amusement park and costs between 15 and 17 euro per person.
Guests can stroll along shaded paths where deer, both young and full-grown, freely approach visitors, creating a unique petting zoo-style experience. We found ourselves going back repeatedly to the animal food vending machine so I suggest carrying plenty of euro coins. Along the way, you’ll safely observe birds of prey (we found the owls to be most fascinating) and tucked back into the park don’t miss the wolves and bears. No need to worry– the animals are kept at a safe distance.
My kids especially love the wooden play structure that includes a kugelbahn (marble track) woven throughout the forest. Parking is free and accessible for all vehicle sizes, and there is food available for purchase. Hands down, this is one of our family’s favorite spots to visit year-round! More details here.
Whether it’s feeding deer in a nearby forest, digging your toes into a barefoot trail, or watching science come to life, some of our favorite local escapes prove you don’t need to travel far from USAG Stuttgart to make memories. I suggest packing a snack for the ride– and don’t forget your sunscreen and euro coins!