Welcome to the Free State of Bavaria, the largest of Germany’s states. Stretching from the forests of Franconia in the north to the Alps in the south, this place is full of amazing historical sites, unique local cultures and incredible natural resources. Here are some highlights to get you started!

At Playmobil FunPark, you can splash in the pools and slip into a mermaid fin for a picture in Mermaid Kingdom. Sift for treasures in the sand at the Gold Mine. Test your skills on the balancing course. With everything from hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza, pasta, ice cream and beer gardens on-site, there is something for everyone to chow down on and enjoy.

Animal loving kids (and adults) will love the WildPark Waldhaus Mehlmeisel. Pet goats and sheep at the petting zoo. Marvel at the lynx, wild boars, wild cats and badgers. (The badgers are our favorite). There is also an environmental education center that helps put the work of German forestry into perspective.

We would be remiss not to mention the world famous, Munich Oktoberfest. Don your dirndl or lederhosen, reserve a table and drink beer that has been brewed following the same rules for more than 500 years every September (yes, Oktoberfest happens in September).

Make your way to the German-American Volksfest in Grafenwöhr. This USAG Bavaria-sponsored community festival is held every summer. There is live music, military vehicle exhibitions, local craft vendors, festival rides and food from all over the globe.

Following defeat in the war against Prussia in 1866, Bavarian ruler King Ludwig II lost his power to command troops in times of conflict. Ludwig dreamed of his own kingdom and began constructing Neuschwanstein Castle, a structure so grand that it inspired Disney’s Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty. Today, you can visit the castle grounds and take a guided tour of the interior.

Neuschwanstein isn’t the only monument left by Ludwig II. Construction of Linderhof Palace began in the 1860s. Terraced gardens, stunning fountains, a music pavilion and statues greet you on the outskirts and entrance to the palace. Explore one of Ludwig II’s “escape castles” or the “Moroccan House,” which was acquired at the Paris World Exhibition in 1878. Find out why there is a gate known as the “Forbidden Gate,” and take a stroll around Swan Pond.

Welcome to Germany