Georg Benedix at the opening ceremony of the 1st International Workers' Olympiad in Frankfurt 1925

Waldstadion

Waldstadion (Deutsche Bank Park) Frankfurt: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Visitor Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Deutsche Bank Park—historically known as Waldstadion—is a landmark stadium nestled in Frankfurt’s lush City Forest. Since its opening in 1925, it has evolved into a world-class football and cultural venue, hosting everything from Bundesliga matches to international tournaments and major concerts. This guide provides detailed information on visiting hours, ticketing, transportation, accessibility, architectural highlights, and nearby attractions, alongside a rich historical overview. Whether you are a sports enthusiast, cultural traveler, or history buff, discover why Deutsche Bank Park remains a must-see destination in Frankfurt.

Panoramic view of Commerzbank-Arena in Dortmund, Germany

Football match between FSV Frankfurt and MSV Duisburg

Football teams of Germany and Finland entering the field before the 1925 Workers' Summer Olympiad final in Frankfurt

Finnish high jumper Olavi Niemi competing at the 1925 Workers' Summer Olympiad in Frankfurt

Historical Overview
Major Sporting and Cultural Events
Stadium Architecture and Facilities
Practical Visitor Information
Event Highlights and Visitor Experience
FAQ
Conclusion and Visitor Tips
References and Further Reading

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Development (1925–1930s)

Waldstadion opened on May 21, 1925, as a modern multi-sport venue with an initial capacity of 35,000. Its early years were marked by hosting the German football championship final and the 1925 Workers’ Summer Olympiad, which attracted international athletes and spectators (Stadtgeschichte Frankfurt; Wikiwand). In 1935, the stadium was renamed “Sportfeld” and expanded to accommodate 55,000 spectators. The 1930s also saw the venue used for large-scale political events (Stadium Guide).

Post-War Reconstruction and Expansion (1945–1950s)

Post-World War II, Waldstadion was returned to Frankfurt authorities in 1946 after temporary American military use. Overflow crowds at a 1953 football match prompted significant renovations, expanding capacity to 87,000 and establishing Waldstadion as Germany’s second-largest stadium after Berlin’s Olympiastadion. The 1950s saw technological upgrades like floodlights and a new ice rink (Stadtgeschichte Frankfurt; Wikiwand).

Modernization for International Events (1960s–1970s)

The 1960s and 1970s brought global sporting prominence. Notable events included the 1966 cycling world championships and the heavyweight boxing match between Muhammad Ali and Karl Mildenberger. A major overhaul for the 1974 FIFA World Cup saw a full reconstruction, new reinforced stands, and advanced pitch technology (StadiumDB).

Transition to a Football-Only Arena & Recent Redevelopments (2000s–Present)

Between 2002 and 2005, the stadium underwent its most ambitious redevelopment: stands were rebuilt, the athletics track was removed, and a retractable roof was installed, transforming the venue into a modern, football-only arena (Around the Grounds; StadiumDB). It was rebranded as Commerzbank-Arena (2005–2020), then Deutsche Bank Park, but remains affectionately called Waldstadion. The latest renovations, completed in 2023, expanded safe-standing areas and improved facilities, focusing on sustainability and inclusivity (StadiumDB).

Major Sporting and Cultural Events

Waldstadion/Deutsche Bank Park has hosted:

German and European football finals, including the 1925 and 1959 German championship finals (OneFootball).
Multiple FIFA World Cups (1974, 2006), UEFA Euro 1988, UEFA Euro 2024, and the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup (Wikipedia; Stadiums Guide).
The 1966 Muhammad Ali vs. Karl Mildenberger boxing match (Wikiwand).
NFL Germany Games, American football, cycling, and athletics.
Major concerts and festivals, featuring global stars such as Bruce Springsteen, Coldplay, and Kendrick Lamar (FR.de; Journal Frankfurt).

Stadium Architecture and Facilities

Design Evolution and Retractable Roof

The stadium’s design reflects a century of innovation, evolving from an open-air multi-sport venue to a cutting-edge football arena. The 2000s redevelopment introduced a world-class retractable roof, ensuring events continue regardless of weather (sportstips.info; Wikipedia).

Seating, Accessibility, and Hospitality

Capacity: Up to 58,000 for Bundesliga matches, 51,500 for international fixtures (Wikipedia).
Seating: Includes regular, business, and VIP suites. The Nordwestkurve safe-standing area is famed for its passionate atmosphere (Football Ground Guide).
Accessibility: 187 wheelchair spaces, seats for visually/hearing-impaired guests, and specialized services such as the “Kohler Transfer” for mobility-limited fans (Football Ground Guide).
Hospitality: VIP boxes, business lounges, and premium catering (ticketgum.com).

On-Site Amenities and Museum

Food and Beverage: Wide selection of German and international cuisine, with recent upgrades ensuring efficient service (Football Ground Guide).
Restrooms: Ample family and accessible facilities.
Merchandise: The main Eintracht Frankfurt fan shop offers official memorabilia.
Free Wi-Fi: Available stadium-wide.
Eintracht Frankfurt Museum: Located within the stadium, it features club history, interactive exhibits, and themed events (mysportstourist.com).

Sustainability

Recent upgrades emphasize environmental responsibility through energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and sustainable building materials (sportstips.info).

Practical Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Stadium Tours: Typically available Tuesday–Friday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Check for variations on matchdays and holidays (Football Ground Guide).
Eintracht Museum: Open Tuesday–Sunday, 11:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed Mondays.

Tickets and Booking

Matches & Concerts: Secure tickets via the official Eintracht Frankfurt website, authorized vendors (e.g., Ticketmaster), or at the stadium box office. Prices vary by event, ranging from €11 for accessibility seats to premium packages over €200 (Stadiums Guide).
Tours: Guided tour tickets cost around €10–€21 per adult, with discounts for children/concessions. Advance booking is recommended (mysportstourist.com).

Getting There and Travel Tips

Public Transport: S-Bahn lines S7, S8, and S9 connect Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof and the airport to the “Stadion” stop. Tram 21 and buses 61, 80 also serve the venue (Football Ground Guide).
Car: Easily accessible from the A3/A5 via Frankfurt-Süd and B44. Multiple paid parking lots are available; public transport is recommended for event days due to congestion (Football Ground Guide).
Travel Tip: Many event tickets include free local public transit on the day.

Accessibility

The stadium is fully accessible, offering wheelchair seating, companion tickets, accessible restrooms, elevators, and special services for visually/hearing-impaired visitors. Contact the club in advance to arrange assistance (Football Ground Guide).

Food & Beverage Options

Enjoy traditional German fare, including sausages and fresh bread, alongside international choices. Upgraded concessions ensure speedy service, especially during peak times (Football Ground Guide).

Guided Tours

Tours provide unique access to the players’ tunnel, press room, VIP areas, and the club museum. Twilight and panoramic tours offer stunning views of the stadium and Frankfurt skyline (Football Ground Guide).

Best Photographic Spots

Capture the retractable roof, vibrant Nordwestkurve, the “Eintracht vom Main” sign, and panoramic shots from surrounding City Forest trails.

Nearby Attractions

Römerberg: Frankfurt’s historic old town square.
St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral: Gothic cathedral.
Palmengarten: Botanical gardens.
Money Museum: Learn about Germany’s financial history.
Main River Promenade: Scenic riverside walks.
Alt-Sachsenhausen: Traditional pubs and local culture (The Crazy Tourist).

Event Highlights and Visitor Experience

Matchday Experience

The stadium’s bowl design and safe-standing zones create an electric atmosphere, especially in the Nordwestkurve. Away fans are accommodated in the Ostkurve, ensuring a vibrant but secure environment. Modern security and medical facilities ensure visitor safety (Football Ground Guide).

Concerts and Festivals

Deutsche Bank Park regularly hosts international artists and festivals. Summer 2025 highlights include:

Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band: 18 June 2025 (Journal Frankfurt)
Kendrick Lamar & SZA: 4–5 July 2025
Linkin Park: 8–9 July 2025

Local events like Wäldchestag (6 June 2025) and TANZ 2025 (6–7 June 2025) celebrate Frankfurt’s community spirit (Allevents.in; Allevents.in).

FAQ

Q: What are the stadium’s visiting hours?
A: Stadium tours are typically Tuesday–Friday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Museum: Tuesday–Sunday, 11:00 AM–5:00 PM. Event days may vary—check official channels.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase via the official Eintracht Frankfurt website, Ticketmaster, or at the box office. Early booking is advised.

Q: Is Deutsche Bank Park accessible?
A: Yes—wheelchair seating, restrooms, elevators, and companion services are available.

Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: Use S-Bahn lines S7, S8, S9 to “Stadion” station. Tram 21 and buses 61, 80 also serve the stadium.

Q: Where can I park?
A: Paid lots are available near the stadium. Public transport is recommended for large events.

Q: Can I visit the Eintracht Museum separately?
A: Museum access is included with most stadium tours. Check tour availability and book in advance.

Conclusion and Visitor Tips

Deutsche Bank Park (Waldstadion) is a premier destination for sports, culture, and entertainment in Frankfurt. Its blend of historic legacy, cutting-edge facilities, inclusive design, and vibrant event calendar ensures a memorable visitor experience. Plan ahead by booking tickets early, using public transport, and exploring nearby attractions for a full day out. Stay connected with the latest updates via official channels or the Audiala app.