Oberhausen might not be the first place you think of when planning a trip to Germany, but it offers a surprising variety of tours that cater to families, history buffs, and fun-seekers alike. Its blend of modern attractions and industrial heritage makes Oberhausen a lively destination for a day or two. We particularly enjoy the Sea Life Oberhausen — a place where you can get up close with sharks and rays — and the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, perfect for family fun. If you’re into unusual experiences, the Duisburg-Nord Landscape Park offers stunning views of a disused steelworks, and kids or adults interested in tech can try their hand at a Flight Simulator.
In this guide, you’ll find a selection of 10 top tours in Oberhausen, ranging from engaging aquariums and LEGO adventures to industrial history walks and flying experiences. Whether you’re traveling with kids, a history enthusiast, or someone simply looking for a fun day out, there’s something here that will catch your eye.
Let’s explore each of these options in detail and see what makes them stand out.
1. Oberhausen: SEA LIFE Oberhausen Entry Ticket
At number 1 is the SEA LIFE Oberhausen, which offers a fantastic glimpse into the underwater world without leaving the city. For around 1 day, you can explore Germany’s largest shark nursery, housing dozens of shark and ray species—an impressive sight for any marine enthusiast. The aquarium features over 35 lifelike tanks, including a panoramic reef display filled with tropical fish and corals that feel like a mini-vacation in itself.
What makes this experience special is the current theme weeks until January 6, like Snowy’s winter adventure, bringing seasonal magic to the displays. Visitors also get the chance to see European pond turtles and learn about the ongoing protection project. The aquarium is both educational and entertaining, perfect for families and curious adults.
Reviews note a solid 4.1/5 from nearly 400 reviews, with many praising the detailed exhibits and immersive atmosphere. If you’re short on time but want a fully engaging experience, this is a top pick.
Bottom line: A lively, educational, and visually stunning aquarium that’s ideal for families or anyone fascinated by marine life.
2. Oberhausen: LEGOLAND Discovery Centre and SEA LIFE Ticket
For a great value, the combo ticket that includes both the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre and SEA LIFE Oberhausen makes for a memorable family day out. At just about $37 per person, you get access to two popular attractions, saving time and money. The LEGO centre boasts over 4 million LEGO bricks, with interactive rides, a MINILAND featuring iconic buildings from the Ruhr area, and the chance to build and race your own LEGO cars.
The aquarium part complements this with its various zones, from the River Rhine to the Amazon, and Germany’s largest shark nursery, where you can observe blacktip reef sharks and catsharks. The reviews highlight how well this combination keeps kids engaged, with an average rating of 4.3/5. One parent mentions that despite language barriers, the guides and interactive elements made it a hit.
This tour is perfect for families looking for an all-in-one experience that combines creative play with marine discovery. Be sure to check availability before planning your visit.
Bottom line: This combo provides excellent value and variety, making it ideal for families wanting a full day of indoor fun with educational elements.
3. Hut tour Duisburg-Nord Landscape Park
Deep in the industrial history of the Ruhr region, the Duisburg-Nord Landscape Park offers a 105-minute guided tour of a disused Thyssen steelworks. This site has transformed from a functioning steel plant into a stunning outdoor space, where old machinery and towering structures tell stories of Germany’s industrial past. The tour highlights the beautiful landscape created by the rewilding and repurposing of the site, making it a favorite among history and architecture fans.
According to reviews, the tour is highly educational and well-explained by the knowledgeable guides, with a perfect score of 4.8/5. Visitors enjoy the fantastic views from the top of the blast furnace and appreciate the mix of industrial charm and natural beauty. The only caveat is that the tour starts at the visitor center, so arriving prepared is wise.
This experience suits those interested in industrial heritage, urban landscapes, or outdoor exploration. It’s a unique way to see a different side of Oberhausen’s surroundings.
Bottom line: A fascinating glimpse into Germany’s steel industry with impressive views and insightful commentary.
4. Oberhausen: HOUSE OF MAGIC – powered by Ehrlich Brothers
At number 4, the HOUSE OF MAGIC promises a magical journey over 3,000 square meters, filled with over 100 exhibits inspired by the Ehrlich Brothers’ spectacular illusions. This interactive exhibit is packed with puzzles, illusions, and challenges designed to surprise and amuse both young and old. It’s more than just a magic show; it’s a hands-on experience with opportunities to learn simple magic tricks and take memorable photos.
The reviews, averaging 4.2/5, highlight how engaging and fun this attraction is, especially for families who want to introduce children to the wonder of magic. The exhibits are designed to be discoverable, encouraging curiosity and participation. The Ehrlich Brothers’ reputation for spectacular illusions adds an extra layer of excitement.
This experience is best suited for families, magic enthusiasts, or groups seeking an interactive and playful activity. It’s a great way to spend a couple of hours immersed in wonder.
Bottom line: A lively, interactive magic-themed experience that appeals to all ages and offers plenty of photo opportunities.
5. Airbus Flightsimulator | Flying Experience | adults&children
For those who have ever dreamed of being a pilot, the Airbus Flight Simulator offers a realistic cockpit experience that feels authentic. For around $113 per group, you can operate a replica Airbus A320, including functioning instruments and realistic soundscapes. The simulator allows you to take off and land from various airports worldwide, and you’ll get to feel what it’s like to handle different weather scenarios and emergencies.
Guides with extensive experience will brief you beforehand, making this accessible even for first-timers. The 10 reviews praise the friendly staff and the genuine feeling of flying a real plane. It’s a perfect choice for aviation enthusiasts or groups looking for an adventurous, educational activity.
While the session can be physically engaging, it’s not physically demanding, making it suitable for most adults and even older children. Booking in advance is recommended, especially if you want to try different airports or scenarios.
Bottom line: A highly realistic, hands-on flying experience that offers a taste of the pilot’s life without leaving Oberhausen.
6. Oberhausen: Legoland Discovery Center Ticket
Number 6 on our list is the LEGOLAND Discovery Center, a must-visit for LEGO fans and families. For about $23 per ticket, you can explore more than 4 million LEGO bricks across rides, play zones, and creative workshops. Highlights include the Racers Build & Test zone, where you can build and race your own LEGO cars, and the 4D Cinema that offers LEGO-themed movies with effects like wind and water.
If you visit in May, you might join the Build The Thrill event, where you can act as part of a Formula 1® team—an exciting twist. Kids can also become Merlin’s magic students or jump on the merry-go-round for some classic fun.
This attraction is perfect for LEGO lovers of all ages, offering hours of creative entertainment. The reviews rate it 4.2/5, noting that it’s a full day of indoor fun for children and a great way to beat rainy weather.
Bottom line: A vibrant, creative play space that offers interactive rides, building challenges, and LEGO-themed movies, ideal for families.
7. Oberhausen: SEA LIFE Ticket and Behind the Scenes Tour
For the curious, the SEA LIFE Oberhausen also offers a behind-the-scenes tour for around $34. This 1.5-hour experience lets you see what goes on behind the tanks—feeding the sea creatures, exploring the largest shark breeding tank in Germany, and even peering into the aquarium’s laboratory through a real microscope.
This tour is a fantastic way to expand your understanding of marine life and aquarium operations. It’s especially engaging if you’re interested in aquaculture or want a more personalized visit. Visitors have praised the interactive feeding sessions and the chance to satisfy curiosity about what it takes to care for sea creatures.
This experience suits families, school groups, or anyone keen on marine biology. Check the availability ahead of time to secure your spot.
Bottom line: An engaging, behind-the-scenes look at marine life, perfect for those wanting a deeper connection with the sea.
8. Oberhausen: LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Adult Fan Night
Number 8 is the Adult Fan Night at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, where grown-up LEGO fans can explore the colorful world after hours. For about $24, you get two hours of exclusive access to the center, with chances to ride LEGO-themed attractions, build your own models, and chat with other enthusiasts.
What makes this event special is the chance to appreciate LEGO artistry without kids around and participate in master builder workshops. The reviews note it’s a fun, laid-back evening to indulge your inner child and meet fellow LEGO aficionados.
This tour is best suited for adults who still enjoy building or those interested in seeing LEGO from a new perspective. Planning ahead is wise, as spots are limited.
Bottom line: A fun, relaxed way for adult LEGO fans to enjoy the center in a more intimate setting.
9. Oberhausen: Virtual Escape Game Adventure in the Centro area
Ready for something completely different? The virtual escape game in Oberhausen’s Centro area offers a one-hour adventure that combines virtual reality with puzzle solving. Up to 24 players can join in teams of 2-6 people, exploring imaginative scenarios that challenge your problem-solving skills.
This experience is perfect for groups, corporate outings, or friends looking for a fun, high-tech challenge. The VR component makes it immersive and interactive, with various scenarios and difficulty levels to choose from. Reviews note that this is a unique group activity that’s both exciting and mentally stimulating.
While it’s not physically demanding, it requires teamwork and quick thinking. Be sure to book ahead, especially for weekends or peak times.
Bottom line: A cutting-edge virtual reality escape experience that’s engaging and perfect for groups.
10. The Formula 1® Exhibition
Finally, for motorsport fans, the Formula 1® Exhibition offers a 1.5-hour journey through the history, present, and future of F1®. You can see legendary race cars and original memorabilia, as well as participate in interactive challenges. It’s a compelling look at one of racing’s most exciting sports.
The exhibition also features exclusive interviews and never-before-seen footage, giving fans a behind-the-scenes feel. Although reviews are not provided, the exhibition’s content promises an engaging experience for car enthusiasts and sport lovers alike.
It’s a straightforward tour that appeals to visitors wanting a dose of fast-paced racing history. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during race season or special events.
Bottom line: A must-see for motorsport lovers, blending history and interactive elements into a compact, exciting display.
How to Choose Your Ideal Tour in Oberhausen
When selecting from these options, consider your interests, budget, and how much time you have. Families may prefer LEGOLAND Discovery Center or the Sea Life Aquarium, especially if traveling with children. History fans might enjoy the Duisburg-Nord Landscape Park tour, while adventure seekers may love the Flight Simulator or VR Escape Game.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed, educational experience, the Sea Life and behind-the-scenes aquarium tour offer fascinating insights. For something special, the Adult Fan Night at LEGO provides a unique evening for grown-up fans.
Booking early is a smart move, especially for tours with limited capacity or special events. Check availability in advance and consider combining options—like pairing the SEA LIFE with the behind-the-scenes tour for a fuller experience.
Final Thoughts
Oberhausen offers a diverse lineup of tours that cater to a broad range of interests. From the underwater marvels at Sea Life to the creative fun of LEGOLAND, and from the industrial beauty of Duisburg-Nord to high-tech flight simulators, you’ll find plenty to fill your days. For the motorheads, the Formula 1® Exhibition is a highlight, while the virtual escape game provides a modern twist on team challenges.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as part of a group, planning ahead will help you make the most of your time. Consider your personal interests and activity level, and don’t hesitate to book early for popular experiences. Oberhausen may surprise you with its mix of attractions—an underrated gem worth exploring.
Enjoy your trip and make sure to pick the tour that best fits your curiosity and energy level. Oberhausen’s unique mix of attractions guarantees a memorable visit.
