From Landfill to Green Oasis
Before Donaupark became one of Vienna’s largest recreational spaces, the area had a very different purpose. In the early 20th century, parts of the land were used for industrial purposes, including a landfill and other undeveloped spaces. However, the biggest transformation came in the 1960s when the city decided to reclaim the area and turn it into a massive green park.
The turning point for the area came in 1964, when Vienna hosted the Wiener Internationale Gartenschau (WIG 64)—a large-scale international garden exhibition. The city wanted to showcase modern landscape architecture and urban greening projects, which were gaining importance as Vienna continued to expand. To prepare for this event, the entire area was redesigned into a sprawling park with carefully planned gardens, water features, and open spaces.
One of the centerpieces of WIG 64 was the Donauturm (Danube Tower), which was constructed as a landmark for the exhibition. At 252 meters, it remains Austria’s tallest structure and an important symbol of Vienna’s modern development. The tower originally featured a revolving restaurant and an observation deck, attracting visitors from all over the world.
After the conclusion of WIG 64, the exhibition site was permanently converted into a public park, ensuring that the newly created green space would remain accessible to Vienna’s residents. Over the decades, Donaupark has continued to evolve, incorporating playgrounds, sports facilities, walking trails, and a small scenic lake.
One of the park’s unique features is the Donauparkbahn, a miniature train that circles the park, offering a relaxing way to explore its vast grounds. Additionally, in later years, the Korea Kulturhaus was established within the park, adding an intercultural element with its small but beautiful Korean-style garden.
Today, Donaupark is a beloved recreational space for locals and visitors looking for a peaceful retreat. While it doesn’t attract as many tourists as Prater or Schönbrunn, it remains a hidden gem for those who appreciate spacious greenery, jogging paths, and panoramic views from the Donauturm.
