Bäckeranlage

Bäckeranlage is a neighbourhood park in Zurich, set in the middle of the Aussersihl district (Kreis 4) on Feldstrasse. Locals treat it as a shared backyard, playground and meeting point, and for visitors it offers a look at everyday Zurich away from the lakefront and the Old Town.

What is Bäckeranlage, and where does the name come from?

The park opened in 1901. Its name comes from Bäckerstrasse, a street that originally ran alongside it. It sits at roughly 47.378° N, 8.524° E, west of the city centre, in an area known for its lively cafe and nightlife scene.

What is the history of the park?

Belgian garden architect Evariste Mertens designed it as a refined city park with winding paths, intended for the upper classes. The surrounding quarter was home mostly to working-class residents, though, and the wealthier crowd stayed away. Few people visited and the park soon fell into decline.

In 1938 Mertens' sons Walter and Oskar redesigned it. The narrow paths gave way to a large lawn for play, and a pond and a music pavilion were added. From then on residents took to the place. In more recent decades it gained a reputation as a gathering spot for drug users and dealers. After a design competition the park was renovated, and the Zurich firm EM2N created a modern building with a cafe and cultural centre. Families from the quarter have since reclaimed it.

What can you see and do here?

• The big lawn: room for picnics, relaxing and informal games.
• Playground: a good choice for parents of small children who want them to meet other kids.
• Cafe in the new building: serves simple meals, cake and coffee through the year.
• Local atmosphere: young people play music or table tennis, and nearby workers eat lunch on the benches.

It makes an easy stop between walks around Kreis 4 and the neighbourhood's restaurants and bars. Do not expect monuments or lake views; the appeal is everyday city life.

When is the best time to visit?

Warm days from late spring to early autumn are best, when the lawn and playground are full and the cafe is busiest. Mornings and early afternoons are calmer, while evenings bring conversation and music. Check the cafe's opening hours with official city sources before you go.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Bäckeranlage? In the Aussersihl district (Kreis 4) of Zurich, on Feldstrasse, postcode 8004.

Who designed the park? Evariste Mertens drew up the original 1901 plan, and his sons Walter and Oskar carried out the 1938 redesign.

Is it suitable for children? Yes. There is a playground, and the large lawn gives children plenty of space to run around.

Can I get food and drink there? Yes. The modern building designed by EM2N houses a cafe serving simple dishes, cake and coffee.