The Tierpark Neumünster is a zoo spread across 24 hectares of wooded parkland south of the city centre, home to around 700 animals from about 100 species. It is one of the better small-to-medium zoos in northern Germany, with naturalistic enclosures and a particular emphasis on animals adapted to cold climates — the polar bear enclosure is the main draw.
The setting in a wooded park makes it pleasant to walk through even if you have limited interest in zoos. Children enjoy it; so do adults on a fine afternoon. It is a 15-minute walk from the city centre or a short bus ride. Open year-round, though the summer months are obviously more comfortable.