Cowboy hat and rope. ()
If you wander into the southern edge of Bavaria, you may be surprised to find they’ve traded in the traditional lederhosen and fedoras for cowboy boots and a Stetson. Instead of alpine chalets, you’ll find log cabins and huts that feel as though they belong on the set of “Little House on the Prairie” rather than southern Germany. Welcome to the Old West—German-style—in Pullman City.
Founded in 1997, Pullman City is a one-of-a-kind stop near Eging am See, about two hours from Nuremberg and Munich. The city tells the tale of the American West spanning 140 years between 1740 and 1880 across more than 50 acres in the Bavarian forest. There are live-action shows and demonstrations, bison roaming the fields and cattle being herded through Main Street during the day. Special programming for kids includes panning for gold, archery and line dancing lessons. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back into the Wild West until you order your “Bratwurst und Bier, bitte” at the saloon.
Visitors aren’t just spectators in Pullman City; they’re part of the show. Costumed characters roam the streets and sidewalks, engaging with visitors at every turn. If you forgot your lasso or boots, there are plenty of shops to stop in and complete your ensemble. When you’ve worked up your appetite, stop into one of the many restaurants offering a smattering of different fare. From tacos and enchiladas to burgers and fries, there’s something for every palate.
If you’re not quite ready to leave, why not stay the night? Dotting the dusty landscape of Pullman City are log cabins, cozy huts, tepees and tents offering visitors a chance to experience the rugged and raucous evenings. Music spills out from the restaurants and saloon halls, while campfires provide an opportunity to tell ghost stories and warm up by the fire. As the holiday season approaches, keep a weather-eye out for the German-American Christmas market, which usually begins right around Thanksgiving.
Pullman City is open Friday through Sunday during November (except Thursday, Nov. 23 when it will be open), and varied hours through the holiday season in December. There German-American Christmas Market runs Fri.-Sun. from Nov. 10- Dec. 17. Admission prices range from €8 for adults and €2 for children ages 4 to 14. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit pullmancity.de.
