Germany’s Tropical Getaway… in a Blimp Hangar? 🏝️

Welcome to the Tropics—by Way of Brandenburg

If you’ve never heard of Tropical Islands, you’re not alone. Tucked away in the quiet countryside of Krausnick, Germany, this unexpected slice of summer is located inside one of the largest free-standing buildings in the world. It was originally built to store massive airships (which, fun fact, were never actually constructed). The structure is so enormous, you could fit the Statue of Liberty standing inside it and still have room to lay the Eiffel Tower across the floor.

Today, the cavernous space has been transformed into a full-blown tropical escape. Picture real palm trees, sandy beaches, indoor lagoons, high-speed water slides, and a steady 80°F temperature all year long. It feels like a mix between a theme park, a spa, and a resort hotel.

What You'll Find Inside

Tropical Islands is part indoor water park, part family resort, and part surreal fever dream. Inside, you’ll find:

• A massive indoor beach with real sand

• Themed areas like the Tropical Sea, Bali Lagoon, and Amazonia

• Germany’s highest water slide tower (88 feet!)

• A full indoor rainforest with over 50,000 real plants

• Tethered hot air balloons offering panoramic views inside the dome

• Live flamingoes and tropical birds wandering near the water

• Sauna areas, steam baths, and wellness zones for grown-up relaxation

• Numerous dining options ranging from buffet-style to tropical cocktails

And if you want to stay overnight? You can.

Options range from family-friendly hotel rooms to glamping-style tents pitched right on the sand—inside the dome. Yes, you can sleep under palm trees in a hangar in Germany.

Who’s It For?

This is one of those places that’s oddly perfect for everyone. Families love the slides, lazy rivers, and open space for kids to run wild. Couples book spa treatments or sauna sessions and float in the lagoons with drinks in hand. Even solo travelers (or the mildly skeptical) tend to leave surprised by how much fun they had.

If you’re American, it feels a little like Great Wolf Lodge meets Epcot, but with flamingoes, hot air balloons, and no one rushing you through it. The vibe is more relaxed than a typical U.S. water park—and that’s part of what makes it so appealing.

Worth the Detour

Tropical Islands might not be what you expect when you picture Germany, but that’s half the fun. It’s quirky, over-the-top, oddly relaxing, and unforgettable in the best way. If you’re traveling through Berlin and want to add a splash of the unexpected (or just need a break from museums and weather), this is one stop that’s worth making.

FAQ: What to Know Before You Go to Tropical Islands 🌴

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Generally, no. Outside food and drinks aren’t allowed inside Tropical Islands for hygiene reasons. But if you have specific dietary needs, like baby food or meals for allergies or diabetes, you are welcome to bring your own food.

Is Tropical Islands accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes! Most areas of the resort are wheelchair accessible, with wide paths, ramps, lifts, and adapted restrooms and changing spaces. Even the rainforest paths are paved and accessible. Some of the resort’s Woodland Homes are also specially designed for accessibility. And if you ever need assistance, the staff is happy to help.

Can I rent towels or a bathrobe there?

Yep! You can borrow a towel for €4.50 (about $4.85) with a €30 (about $32) deposit, and a bathrobe for €6 (about $6.45) with a €60 (about $65) deposit. Just return them at the end of the day to get your deposit back.

Are pets allowed?

Pets aren’t allowed inside the dome itself, but dogs are welcome at the nearby Tropical Islands campsite, which even has its own doggy shower! Some of the vacation rentals also allow dogs—just ask in advance. Tip: Don’t leave your pet in the car (seriously—they’ll call the police). There are also local kennels that can care for your furry friend while you enjoy the park.

Is admission to the Tropical World included in overnight stays?

Yes! If you're staying the night, your entry to the Tropical World (including all the pools and attractions) is included. Some packages also come with sauna access. If yours doesn’t, you can always add it on once you arrive.

Do I get free entry on my birthday?

You sure do! All birthday guests—kids and adults—get free admission to the Tropical World and the AMAZONIA outdoor area. Just show your ID at the door. Important: Don’t book a ticket in advance for the birthday person, or you won’t be able to claim the free entry.

If you're staying overnight and have a birthday during your stay, you’ll get cocktail vouchers instead—one for you and one for a guest—so you can toast at one of the bars. 🥂

What are the hours?

Tropical Islands never really sleeps. It’s open 24/7 for overnight guests, including holidays. For day visitors, opening hours are 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Attractions inside the dome may have slightly different hours.

Good to know: Between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., one of the two main pools stays open while the other gets cleaned—so you can technically swim almost all night.

How much are tickets?

• Adults (18+): €34.90–€53.90 ($37.70–$58.20) online, or €53.90 ($58.20) on site

• Teenagers (13–17): €29.90–€46.90 ($32.30–$50.65) online, or €46.90 ($50.65) on site

• Children (4–12): €29.90–€43.90 ($32.30–$47.40) online, or €43.90 ($47.40) on site

• Discounted tickets (for certain guests): €29.90–€43.90 ($32.30–$47.40) online, or €47.90 ($51.75) on site

• Children under 3: Free of charge, always