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About Prater Park

  • Kaiserwiese (large-scale open-air concerts): Kaiserwiese is the main open-air stage in Prater Park, often hosting large classical concerts featuring full orchestras and soloists, accommodating up to 5,000 guests. Seating options include premium reserved seats near the stage, a general admission lawn area with space for blankets or foldable chairs, and a relaxed standing section at the rear. As an outdoor venue, weather plays a role—light rain ponchos may be available, but checking the forecast is always wise.
  • Lusthaus Pavilion (intimate indoor performances): Lusthaus Pavilion is a charming indoor venue suited for smaller concerts, with a capacity of around 200 guests. It specializes in chamber music and solo performances, offering reserved seating in circular or linear arrangements.
  • Temporary open-air stages (festival-style setups): During Vienna’s concert seasons, temporary stages are set up throughout Prater Park, hosting performances for 500 to 3,000 attendees. These venues offer a mix of standard seating on wooden platforms, relaxed picnic-style grass areas, and special VIP terraces with elevated views.

Prater Park has been entertaining Vienna since 1766, when Emperor Joseph II opened it to the public. Initially a hunting ground, it quickly became a space for leisure, entertainment, and performances. By the 19th century, it was a full-fledged amusement park with rides, theaters, and concert stages.

The legendary Giant Ferris Wheel, built in 1897, remains a symbol of the park. Over the decades, Prater Park has hosted legendary concerts, attracting music lovers from around the world. The park continues to host seasonal classical concerts, especially during the Vienna Festival (Wiener Festwochen) and other summer music events.

  • Concert stages: A mix of permanent and seasonal stages designed to accommodate different types of performances.
  • Green spaces: Jesuitenwiese, a vast meadow perfect for open-air concerts and festivals.
  • Lighting and acoustics: The latest technology enhances the concert experience, making every performance immersive.
  • The Ferris Wheel backdrop: The Giant Ferris Wheel lights up during night concerts, adding to the magic of live performances.
  • Open-air elegance: Candlelit settings, decorative lighting, and Vienna’s twilight sky create a magical ambiance.
  • Historic charm: The Lusthaus Pavilion and surrounding gardens provide a classical Viennese aesthetic, perfect for music events.
  • Vienna Summer Nights Concert (annual) – A breathtaking classical music event featuring the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
  • 'Rock & Pop' open-air festival (seasonal) – A celebration of contemporary music with international and local artists.
  • Prater jazz sessions (ongoing) – Smooth jazz performances in an intimate setting within the park.
  • Holiday Symphony at Prater (December) – A festive classical concert filled with Christmas melodies and orchestral magic.
  • Electronic music nights (summer special) – Open-air DJ nights with electric vibes and non-stop beats.

Know before you go

  • By metro (U-Bahn): U1 & U2 Lines – Get off at Praterstern Station, just a short walk from the concert areas.
  • By tram: Lines 1 & O – Stop at Praterstern for easy access to the park.
  • By bus: Lines 80A & 5B – Drop-off points near the main entrance.
  • By foot: A 15-minute scenic walk from Stephansplatz, passing through Vienna’s historic streets.
  • Restrooms: Restrooms are conveniently located throughout the park and concert venues, ensuring you’re never far from a quick stop.
  • Food and drinks: Treat your taste buds as you explore dedicated food stalls at the concerts, plus a variety of nearby restaurants ready to serve up delicious offerings.
  • Shops: Don’t forget to grab a souvenir! Check out the stands filled with unique music merchandise and charming Viennese memorabilia to remember your visit.
  • Wheelchair-friendly: Most concert areas at Prater Park are designed with inclusivity in mind, featuring accessible seating options that cater to wheelchair users. In addition, the pathways throughout the venue are paved and well-maintained to ensure smooth mobility, allowing everyone to navigate comfortably.
  • Guided assistance: For guests with special needs, guided assistance is available upon request. Attendees can contact the venue in advance or approach staff members on-site to receive personalized support—whether it’s help with seating, transportation within the venue, or any other accommodations needed to enhance the concert experience.
  • Hearing assistance: Some concerts offer assistive listening devices upon request. It is recommended to make inquiries about the availability of hearing devices before booking tickets.
  • Family-friendly environment: Certain classical performances offer family sections, where parents and guardians can enjoy the show alongside their little ones in a comfortable and safe atmosphere. These areas often include amenities like changing stations and nearby food options that cater to children, making it easier for families to have a pleasant outing.
  • Arrive early to grab the best spots: Open-air concerts at Prater Park attract large crowds, especially on weekends or for big-name performances. Arriving early ensures you get a prime spot—whether you're in the reserved section or spreading out on the lawn.
  • Dress smart for the weather and setting: Since concerts are outdoors, it’s wise to bring a light jacket for cool evenings and an umbrella or poncho in case of rain.
  • Pick your seating based on experience: Premium front-row seats offer superior sound and views, while lawn areas create a more laid-back, picnic-style vibe. Choose based on your mood and concert type.
  • Bring something to sit on if you're on the lawn: A blanket, cushion, or low chair can make all the difference during longer performances, especially in the general admission lawn areas.
  • Book in advance to avoid missing out: High-demand concerts, especially seasonal or festival events, often sell out quickly. Secure your tickets early to lock in your preferred section.
  • Explore the park before the show: Arrive a bit earlier to enjoy everything Prater Park offers—ride the iconic Ferris Wheel, take a walk, or enjoy dinner nearby to turn your concert into a full-day outing.

Schweizerhaus: A true Vienna classic, Schweizerhaus is best known for its legendary Stelze (crispy pork knuckle)—slow-roasted with crackling skin—and served with sharp mustard and freshly grated horseradish. Pair it with a cold Budweiser Budvar, the house beer on tap, in their lively beer garden atmosphere.

Rollercoaster Restaurant: Meals arrive via looping tracks at this novelty restaurant, but the food is no gimmick. Signature picks include juicy burgers, crispy chicken schnitzel, and gourmet salads with seasonal toppings. A fun choice if you’re after something interactive and family-friendly.

Gasthaus Reinthaler: For classic Austrian comfort food, Reinthaler delivers with its crispy Wiener Schnitzel, served with warm potato salad in a light mustard dressing. The menu also features roast pork, goulash, and a well-curated list of local beers and wines.

Luftburg Kolarik: Famous for being the world’s largest organic restaurant, Luftburg serves up marinated organic spare ribs, grilled to perfection and accompanied by fresh bread and house dips. Their menu also includes organic schnitzels, salads, and desserts—all in a cozy, wood-paneled setting ideal for families and groups.

Frequently asked questions about Prater Park in Vienna

Some concerts offer assigned seating with numbered rows, providing an unobstructed view of the stage. If you have a general admission ticket, seating is first-come, first-served. Arriving early helps secure a good spot.