Demolition of Henninger Brewery building in Frankfurt am Main 2005

Henninger Turm

Henninger Turm Frankfurt: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Standing tall in Frankfurt’s Sachsenhausen-Süd district, the Henninger Turm is a remarkable blend of industrial heritage, modern architecture, and cultural significance. Originally built as a grain silo for the Henninger-Bräu AG brewery between 1959 and 1961, the tower quickly became a symbol of Frankfurt’s post-war recovery and economic resurgence (de.wikipedia.org; atlasobscura.com). With its iconic barrel-shaped observation deck and revolving restaurant, the original 119.5-meter tower served both functional and recreational purposes—a rare feat for a grain silo. Over time, the Henninger Turm became a focal point for city life, sporting events, and panoramic city views, before its demolition in 2013 and rebirth as a modern residential skyscraper in 2017 (meixner-schlueter-wendt.de; metallbau-magazin.de).

This guide explores the Henninger Turm’s rich history, architectural evolution, essential visitor information (including hours, ticketing, and accessibility), and nearby attractions. Whether you’re seeking the best city views, a unique dining experience at Franziska restaurant, or insights into Frankfurt’s cultural landscape, this article has you covered (mook-group.de; skylineatlas.com).

Demolition of Henninger Brewery in Frankfurt Main 2005

Demolition of Henninger Brewery tower in Frankfurt Main 2005

Demolition of Henninger Brewery in Frankfurt am Main 2005

Origins and Construction
Architectural Significance
Cultural Impact and Public Life
Evolution and Decline
Demolition and Rebirth
Visiting Henninger Turm: Hours, Tickets & Tips
Getting There
Nearby Attractions
Practical Tips and Accessibility
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion & Recommendations
References

Origins and Construction

The original Henninger Turm was conceived as a grain silo for the Henninger-Bräu AG brewery, designed by Karl Emil Lieser. Construction began in 1959 and finished in 1961 on Hainer Weg 60–64, in an area with deep brewing and industrial roots (de.wikipedia.org). The silo could store up to 16,000 tons of barley for beer production, making it one of the largest silos of its time (atlasobscura.com).

The structure featured an 87-meter rectangular silo, topped by a unique cylindrical observation tower and a barrel-shaped “Turmkorb” (tower basket), reaching a height of 119.5 meters (regiopia.com). Its foundation—a thick concrete slab supported by 36 pillars—was a feat of engineering.

Architectural Significance

Henninger Turm was groundbreaking for its dual function as both a silo and a public space, with the top housing two revolving restaurants and dual observation decks (atlasobscura.com). The main restaurant, at over 100 meters high, rotated to offer guests 360-degree city views (de.wikipedia.org). The silhouette, with a white façade and distinctive barrel crown, became a dominant city landmark and the tallest building in Frankfurt until 1974 (regiopia.com).

Cultural Impact and Public Life

Opened on May 18, 1961, Henninger Turm quickly became a public attraction, drawing locals and tourists to its restaurants and observation decks. It was also the site of major televised events, such as a famous 1995 “Wetten, dass..?” episode (de.wikipedia.org). The annual “Rund um den Henninger-Turm” cycling race, held from 1961 (and continuously from 1964), further cemented its place in the city’s collective memory (atlasobscura.com).

Evolution and Decline

Changing brewing technologies and increasingly strict fire safety regulations led to the closure of the observation decks and restaurants in 2002 (de.wikipedia.org). In 2005, the Henninger Turm lost its title as the world’s tallest silo, and with no feasible path for modernization, demolition was approved in 2012 (atlasobscura.com).

Demolition and Rebirth

Demolition began in January 2013, and by the end of that year, the site was cleared for redevelopment at a cost of nearly 1.5 million euros (de.wikipedia.org). From 2014 to 2017, the new Henninger Turm—designed by Meixner Schlüter Wendt—rose on the same site. At 140 meters tall and visually echoing the original’s silhouette, the new tower is a residential skyscraper with a public restaurant and viewing platform in its barrel-shaped crown (regiopia.com). The new building opened in 2018 and remains a distinctive feature of Frankfurt’s skyline.

Visiting Henninger Turm: Hours, Tickets & Tips

Observation Deck and Restaurant Franziska

Access: The panoramic restaurant “Franziska” at the top of the tower is the only way to access the observation area (skylineatlas.com). The observation terrace itself is not open to the general public, but restaurant guests can enjoy sweeping views.
Opening Hours: Franziska is open daily from 6:00 PM. Seasonal closures may apply, especially in autumn and winter. Always check the official website for current visiting hours.
Entry Fees: There are no separate tickets for sightseeing; access is included with your dining reservation.
Reservations: Essential due to limited seating and popularity, especially on weekends and holidays.

Dining Experience

Cuisine: Progressive German vintage cuisine, blending traditional and modern flavors (skylineatlas.com).
Dress Code: Smart-casual attire recommended.
Ambiance: Upscale yet welcoming, with floor-to-ceiling windows and an open show kitchen for a unique dining experience (mook-group.de).

Getting There

By Public Transport

Frankfurt’s comprehensive public transportation system makes visiting Henninger Turm easy (TripSavvy; Frankfurt.de).

Tram/Bus: Closest stops are “Hainer Weg” and “Textorstraße,” both a short walk from the tower.
From Hauptbahnhof: Take tram line 16 toward Offenbach Stadtgrenze or line 15 toward Südbahnhof, alighting at “Hainer Weg.”
Ticketing: Single tickets cost about €2.75–€3.40; day passes available. Purchase at blue RMV machines or via the RMV app. Remember to validate your ticket.
Accessibility: Most transport stations are barrier-free. For detailed info, consult traffiq.de.

By Car

Parking: Limited street parking; use nearby garages or Park & Ride facilities (My Europe Days).
Driving Restrictions: Only vehicles with green emissions stickers allowed in the city center.

Alternative Experience: Henninger am Turm Brewhouse

If you can’t secure a reservation at Franziska or prefer a relaxed setting, try the “Henninger am Turm” brewhouse at the tower’s base (Spotted by Locals; Stars and Stripes).

Atmosphere: Family-friendly, with brewery memorabilia.
Menu: Classic German fare—Frankfurter Schnitzel, Schweinshaxe, seasonal dishes.
Beer: Henninger and other regional brews.
Opening Hours: Mon–Fri 11:30 AM–10:00 PM; weekends/holidays 12:00 PM–10:00 PM. Kitchen closes at 9:00 PM.
Sports Events: Live broadcasts of Eintracht Frankfurt matches.

Nearby Attractions

Sachsenhausen District: Known for historic apple wine taverns and lively nightlife.
Museumsufer (Museum Embankment): Cluster of world-class museums within walking distance.
Main River Promenades: Ideal for strolls and city photography.
Frankfurt’s Old Town and Römer: Historic sites easily accessible by tram.
Villa Henninger: The former brewery director’s residence, preserved near the tower (de.wikipedia.org).

Practical Tips and Accessibility

Best Time to Visit: Clear days at sunset offer the best skyline views.
Photography: Cameras welcome; tripods may need prior permission.
Accessibility: Elevators and barrier-free entrances make the tower fully accessible.
Payment: Major credit cards and cash accepted.
Wi-Fi: Available in both dining venues.
Languages: Staff speak German and English.
Etiquette: Tipping is customary (5–10%), punctuality for reservations is appreciated.
Safety: Frankfurt is generally safe; use standard precautions, especially at night.
Smoking: Prohibited inside; pets only if service animals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Henninger Turm visiting hours?
A: Access is only for restaurant guests during dining hours, usually from 6:00 PM. Observation terrace may be closed in autumn/winter.

Q: How do I reserve a table at Franziska?
A: Reservations can be made online via the official Franziska website.

Q: Is the observation deck open to the public?
A: No, only for paying restaurant guests.

Q: Are there ticket fees for visiting Henninger Turm?
A: No separate entrance fee; access is included with your dining reservation.

Q: Is Henninger Turm accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, with elevators and barrier-free access.

Q: Can I park at Henninger Turm?
A: Limited underground parking; public transport is recommended during busy times.

Conclusion & Recommendations

The Henninger Turm is a powerful emblem of Frankfurt’s transformation from industrial roots to modern metropolis. From its origin as a pioneering silo with a revolving restaurant to its current incarnation as a luxury residential tower with panoramic dining, it offers a unique blend of history and contemporary elegance (de.wikipedia.org; meixner-schlueter-wendt.de). Visitors can enjoy spectacular skyline views, innovative cuisine, and the vibrant atmosphere of Sachsenhausen, all while experiencing a key chapter in Frankfurt’s architectural and cultural narrative.

Plan ahead: Check current hours and policies, reserve early for Franziska, and use public transport for convenience and accessibility. For cycling fans, consider visiting during the Eschborn–Frankfurt race, when the area comes alive with festivities (atlasobscura.com; wikipedia.org). Download the Audiala app for up-to-date travel tips and exclusive content.