Nestled in the vibrant city of Tampere, Särkänniemi theme park offers a range of attractions that promise an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a family exploring the wonders of Finland, Särkänniemi has something to delight and excite everyone.
In this post, we’ll delve into what makes Särkänniemi a must-visit destination if you’re travelling to Tampere and provide you with all the essential information you need to plan your visit.
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Meet Särkänniemi, the heart of Finnish fun and games
Perched on the stunning shores of Lake Näsijärvi, Särkänniemi amusement park is the place where fun and Finnish charm blend seamlessly. Located in Tampere, the country’s second largest city, it is easily accessible from all major cities and offers a complete package of entertainment and education.
Särkänniemi is not only an amusement park, but also includes an aquarium, a planetarium, an observation tower (Näsinneula Tower), a children’s zoo and an art museum. With such a diverse range of attractions, Särkänniemi is rightly considered one of Finland’s top destinations for family fun and excitement.
What to expect at Särkänniemi Amusement Park
With more than 30 rides, Särkänniemi caters to adrenaline junkies and families alike. For the more adventurous, the park boasts thrilling roller coasters such as “Tornado”, which spins and twists in the most unexpected ways. Younger children will enjoy family rides such as “Angry Birds Land“, which brings the famous game to life.
Roller coasters and thrill rides
For adrenaline junkies, Särkänniemi offers thrilling experiences. The Tornado roller coaster will twist your senses with its inversions, while the High Voltage (Salama) roller coaster offers an electrifying ride with its spirals and drops. Don’t miss Trombi’s aerial spins either, which will leave you breathless with excitement. Each ride comes with clear height and safety instructions to ensure an enjoyable experience for all.
Fun for the whole family
But it’s not all about extreme thrills. The park offers rides for the whole family. The Magic House (Taikatalo) is perfect for those who love surprises and tricks, while the family roller coaster Vauhtimato (Speedworm) is ideal for the little ones. Angry Birds Land, an area dedicated to the iconic birds from the popular game, is packed with activities and attractions that will delight children.
Beyond the attractions: Aquarium, planetarium and much more
The Särkänniemi experience is not limited to the attractions. A visit to the Särkänniemi Aquarium immerses visitors in the underwater world, home to a variety of marine life. The Planetarium acts as a gateway to the stars, offering captivating shows about the cosmos. Don’t forget to visit the children’s zoo either.
Näsinneula Observation Tower: Tampere’s tallest landmark
At 168 metres high, the Näsinneula Observation Tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of Tampere and its surroundings. You can also enjoy a meal at the revolving restaurant at the top, which combines fine dining with panoramic views.
Year-round entertainment thanks to seasonal events
Särkänniemi has many activities throughout the year. During the summer months, the park operates at full capacity with extended opening hours. However, in winter you can still enjoy specific areas such as the Aquarium and Planetarium, or attend special Christmas or Halloween themed events. Check the official park calendar before planning your visit to find out about any special events or seasonal attractions.
Practical information for visitors
When to go to the park?
The park is usually open from late April to late September, although some attractions, such as the observation tower and aquarium, are open all year round. Summer is usually the best time to make the most of Särkänniemi.
How to get to the park?
Tampere is well connected to Helsinki and other Finnish cities by train, bus and plane. Once in Tampere, getting to Särkänniemi is very easy. The park is a short drive from the city centre, and there are also public transport options.
Is it possible to eat in the park?
A day of fun in the park is never complete without good food and good memories. Särkänniemi offers a wide variety of dining options to suit all tastes, from fast food to restaurants. As for souvenirs, there are plenty of shops where you can buy unique items to take home a piece of the fun.
Tickets and opening times
Särkänniemi operates on a dynamic pricing model, which means that ticket prices can vary according to the day and the season. In addition, you can buy tickets for the whole park or pay per attraction.
It is advisable to buy tickets in advance online for convenience and savings. Please note that opening times vary, especially if you are visiting outside the summer season.
Where to stay?
If you’re looking for comfort, Tampere offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts. If you choose to stay near Särkänniemi, you’ll have more time to explore the park and its surroundings at your leisure.
For the more adventurous, camping is a great way to immerse yourself in Finland’s natural beauty. Around Tampere there are several campsites where you can pitch your tent or park your campervan. This provides a unique Scandinavian summer experience and can be an economical option.
Make the most of your time in Särkänniemi
Here is a list of tips to help you make the most of your visit to the amusement park:
- Prioritise your attractions: to get the most out of your day, make a list of the attractions you can’t miss based on your interests or the level of excitement you are looking for. This will ensure you don’t miss any of the ones you like the most.
- Check the calendar: shows such as zoo exhibits and planetarium screenings have specific times. Plan your day around these events to make sure you don’t miss them.
- Lunch in the park: Särkänniemi offers a variety of dining options, from fast food to gourmet experiences at the Näsinneula tower restaurant.
- Book in advance: buying tickets online can save time and sometimes money. Discounts and deals can be found online.
- Dress appropriately – the weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. Don’t forget to pack a mackintosh or umbrella either, just in case.
- Check height requirements: some attractions have height restrictions for safety reasons. Check online to avoid disappointment, especially for younger visitors.
- Be aware of opening hours: different attractions in Särkänniemi may have different opening hours. Always confirm the current opening hours on the official website.
In conclusion, Särkänniemi amusement park stands out as a destination for pure fun against the backdrop of Finland’s beautiful scenery. Whether you’re looking for the thrill of a rollercoaster, a dose of knowledge at the aquarium, or just the joy of watching your children laugh out loud at the Angry Birds playground, Särkänniemi has something to offer everyone.
Cover image: © Visit Tampere Ltd – Laura Vanzo