Spring Fun for Families: Exploring Basel and Basel-Land

Hey there, families! Spring is peeking around the corner, and it's time to dust off those winter blues and jump into some fun adventures! If you're around Basel or Basel-Land, get ready for a springtime blast of excitement. Here are some super cool activities that you and your family can enjoy together!

Self-Picking Flowers

This is one of our annual family traditions, to self-pick flowers for Mother`s Day and my daughter absolutely loves it. I recommend heading to one of the many flower fields in Basel or Basel-Land where you can hand-select your favorite blooms. Whether it's vibrant tulips, fragrant daisies, or delicate daffodils, the joy of choosing your flowers is a delightful experience for the whole family. Just google "Blumenfeld" and you can find the nearest one to you.

Cherry Blossom Walk in Basel-Land

Check out my Cherry Blossom Mini Session

Did you know that Basel-Land has beautiful cherry blossom trees that turn pink and white in spring? Take a stroll, enjoy the sweet scent, and snap some Insta-worthy family photos in this magical place.

Cherry trees typically blossom early to mid April, depending on local weather conditions and the specific variety of cherry tree. The peak bloom period can vary from year to year, so it's a good idea to keep an eye on bloom forecasts and local updates.

In the Basel area, there are several places where you can see cherry blossoms in bloom:

1. Nuglar-St. Pantaleon: This area in Basel-Land is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms. The village of Nuglar-St. Pantaleon offers a picturesque setting to admire the blossoms against the backdrop of the Swiss countryside.

2. Arlesheim: The gardens surrounding the Arlesheim Cathedral in Arlesheim have some cherry blossom trees that bloom in spring. While primarily known for its historical significance and beautiful landscaping, the gardens can offer a serene setting to enjoy cherry blossoms if they are present.

3. Liestal: While not known specifically for cherry blossoms, the town of Liestal and its surrounding areas have some cherry trees that bloom in spring. Taking a leisurely walk around the town or along the riverbanks may lead you to spots where you can find cherry blossoms.

4. Basel City: Some cherry blossom trees can also be found in parks and green spaces throughout Basel city, including along the Rhine River promenade and in botanical gardens. Keep an eye out for cherry blossom trees in bloom during your explorations of the city.

Meriän Garten

Merian Gärten in Basel is not just a garden—it's a botanical wonderland waiting to be explored! First of all, there are several smaller thematical areas with plenty of greenery:

Rose Garden: Explore a rainbow of roses in full bloom, filling the air with their sweet fragrance. It's a favorite spot, especially during peak blooming season!

Japanese Garden: Step into a tranquil oasis featuring cherry blossom trees, Japanese maples, and serene ponds. Don't miss the magical cherry blossoms in spring!

Herb Garden: Discover a world of aromatic herbs like lavender, rosemary, and mint. It's not just beautiful to look at—it's a treat for your senses too!

Mediterranean Garden: Transport yourself to sunny Mediterranean landscapes with olive trees, lavender, and colorful blooms like bougainvillea. It's like a mini vacation!

Tropical Greenhouse: Immerse yourself in a tropical paradise with exotic plants like orchids and palms. It's a vibrant and captivating experience for all ages!

But Merian Gärten isn't just about pretty flowers (although there are plenty of those!). It's a place for families to bond over picnics, for kids to run wild in playgrounds, and for everyone to learn something new through workshops and educational programs.

Lange Erlen

Lange Erlen Park in Basel is a peaceful place with beautiful lakes, trees, and even a free zoo! You can see lots of different animals there. It's a great spot for families because there are playgrounds for kids and space for picnics. They also have fun events sometimes, like concerts and nature walks.

Visiting Farms like Mathis-Hof

Experience the joys of rural life by visiting charming farms like Mathis-Hof in Basel-Land. These farms offer a unique opportunity for families to get up close and personal with farm animals, learn about sustainable agriculture, and even participate in hands-on activities. From petting adorable animals to picking fresh produce, there's something for everyone to enjoy. It's a fantastic way to teach kids about where their food comes from while immersing yourselves in the beauty of the countryside. So pack your boots and embrace a day of farmyard fun with your loved ones!

Outdoor Markets

Spring brings vibrant outdoor markets bursting with fresh produce, colorful flowers, and delicious treats. Take a family trip to one of the local markets in Basel or Basel-Land, and immerse yourselves in the lively atmosphere. Let the kids pick out their favorite fruits or snacks, and maybe even discover some new flavors together.

Museums

Basel is a cultural hub in Switzerland and this list couldn`t be complete without visiting museums. I know this is not outdoor, but we need a plan for rainy days too! For families with small kids, visiting museums can be a fun and educational experience. Here are some museums in Basel that are particularly well-suited for young children:

1. Naturhistorisches Museum Basel (Natural History Museum Basel): This museum is a great choice for kids who are curious about the natural world. With exhibits on dinosaurs, animals, and ecosystems, the Natural History Museum offers interactive displays and hands-on activities that are both engaging and educational for young visitors.

2. Spielzeug Welten Museum Basel (Toy Museum Basel): Kids will love exploring the world of toys at this charming museum. With displays of vintage dolls, teddy bears, trains, and other toys from different eras, the Toy Museum offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane for parents and a delightful experience for children.

3. Museum Jean Tinguely: The Tinguely Museum is filled with playful and kinetic sculptures created by Swiss artist Jean Tinguely. Kids will be fascinated by the moving parts and whimsical designs of Tinguely's artworks, and they can even interact with some of the exhibits to see them come to life.

4. Museum der Kulturen Basel (Museum of Cultures Basel): This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into cultures from around the world, with exhibits on art, artifacts, and traditions from diverse societies. Kids can explore different cultural practices and customs through interactive displays and hands-on activities.

5. Basler Papiermühle (Basel Paper Mill Museum): This unique museum allows kids to learn about the history of papermaking through interactive exhibits and workshops. Children can try their hand at making paper, learn about traditional printing techniques, and explore the art of bookbinding.

Springtime in Basel is bursting with fun activities for families with kids! From strolling through the gorgeous cherry blossoms in Nuglar-St. Pantaleon to taking nature walks along the Rhine River, there's so much to explore and enjoy. Don't forget to check out family-friendly museums like the Natural History Museum and the Toy Museum, where the little ones can learn while having a blast. And of course, let's not overlook the awesome playgrounds like the Robinsonspielplatz, where endless adventures await! With so many springtime activities, Basel is the perfect place for families to make unforgettable memories together.