New Amusement Park Set to Open in 2026: Karls Erlebnis-Dorf Unveils Unique Themed Area

Oberhausen, North Rhine-Westphalia - The success of Karls Erdbeerhof has transitioned from a simple farm to a popular amusement park chain under the leadership of Robert Dahl. Currently, there are seven Karls Erlebnis-Dörfer primarily located in northern and eastern Germany. Soon, North Rhine-Westphalia will join this list with a new park that promises a unique themed area not found in any existing Erlebnis-Dorf.

This development is part of Dahl's ambitious plan to ensure that by 2035, every resident in Germany will be within a 60-minute journey to the nearest Karls Erlebnis-Dorf.

The new location in Oberhausen is set to revitalize a long-neglected site adjacent to CentrO Oberhausen, focusing on a strawberry theme. Construction has commenced on the approximately 77,000 square meter area, with a grand opening scheduled for summer 2026. Dahl indicated that the demolition of existing structures is proceeding smoothly, paving the way for the new attractions.

As with other Karls Erlebnis-Dörfer, visitors can expect familiar highlights, including a market showcasing handmade goods such as jam and cookies, an indoor playground, and rides like the strawberry caterpillar coaster. Admission to the park will be free, with options available for individual attraction payments or a day pass.

The Oberhausen site has a history of providing joy to children, with a previous amusement park operating in the early 2000s until its closure in 2010. Since then, nature has gradually reclaimed the land, but the new development aims to bring life back to the area.

According to Dahl, there is potential for the construction of a Karls family hotel on the site where the former Pagoda restaurant, which was damaged by fire, once stood.

Over the next few years, Dahl plans to invest between 50 and 60 million euros into the new strawberry-themed park, with an initial investment of 25 million euros already allocated.

Adding a unique twist, Dahl revealed plans for a distinctive area called the 'Curryversum,' specifically designed for Oberhausen. This feature will include both a restaurant and a ride, promising a quirky experience for visitors.

Karls Erdbeerhof is also looking to expand beyond Germany, with a new Erlebnis-Dorf planned in Plech, Bavaria, by 2027, and aspirations to open an amusement park in California within the following year. This year, the company anticipates a revenue of 220 million euros and a record visitor count of around 9 million, driven by continuous innovation in attractions.