Chorzow

Chorzów is a city in southern Poland, located within the vast Silesian Metropolis urban area. Historically, it was a major center for heavy industry, particularly coal mining, steel production, and chemicals, which significantly shaped its development. Today, it’s known for being home to the expansive Silesian Park (Park Śląski), one of Europe’s largest city parks, which hosts attractions like the Silesian Planetarium, the Silesian Zoological Garden, and an ethnographic open-air museum.

Park Slaski (Silesian Park)

Often referred to as the “green lung of Silesia,” Park Śląski is one of the largest urban parks in Europe, covering an area of over 600 hectares. It’s not just a park but a massive recreational complex housing many of the city’s key attractions, including the ZOO, Planetarium, Legendia, and the Ethnographic Park. You can spend days exploring its vast green spaces, lakes, walking trails, and various entertainment options.

Silesian Amusement Park (Legendia Śląskie Wesołe Miasteczko)

Poland’s oldest and largest amusement park, rebranded as “Legendia,” offers a wide array of rides and attractions for all ages. From thrilling rollercoasters like “Lech Coaster” to family-friendly carousels and themed zones around legends and fairy tales, it’s a fantastic spot for a day of fun and adrenaline.

Silesian Planetarium & Astronomical Observatory (Planetarium Śląskie)

One of the largest and oldest planetariums in Poland, it offers fascinating shows about the cosmos, stars, and celestial phenomena in its impressive dome. It underwent a major modernization and expansion, now also featuring an impressive observation deck, a meteorological station, and a modern science center, making it an educational and awe-inspiring experience for visitors of all ages.

Silesian Zoological Garden / ZOO (Śląski Ogród Zoologiczny)

Located within Park Śląski, the Silesian ZOO is home to a diverse collection of animals from around the world, including many rare and endangered species. It’s a spacious and well-maintained zoo, offering a great day out for families and animal lovers, with naturalistic enclosures and educational programs.

Upper Silesian Ethnographic Park / Skansen (Górnośląski Park Etnograficzny)

An open-air museum (skansen) showcasing the traditional architecture, lifestyle, and culture of Upper Silesia from the 17th to the early 20th century. Visitors can walk among reconstructed wooden houses, farmsteads, churches, and windmills, experiencing what life was like in rural Silesia centuries ago. It’s a living history lesson and a peaceful escape.

Silesian Stadium (Stadion Śląski)

An iconic multi-purpose stadium, historically known as the “National Stadium” of Poland. It has hosted countless international football matches, athletic events, and massive concerts featuring global superstars. While primarily a sports venue, its impressive scale and history make it an interesting sight, and guided tours are sometimes available.

Elka Cable Car (Kolejka Linowa “Elka”)

A modern cable car system that runs across various parts of Park Śląski, offering panoramic views of the park and its attractions from above. It’s a relaxing and scenic way to travel between different points of interest within the vast park, especially on a sunny day.

Rose Garden (Rosarium)

Located within Park Śląski, the Rosarium is a beautiful and fragrant garden boasting thousands of rose bushes in various colors and varieties. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, photography, or simply to relax amidst the blooming flowers, especially during the summer months when they are in full bloom.