Four squares shape the historic centre of Ried im Innkreis: Kirchenplatz, Hauptplatz, Roßmarkt and Stelzhamerplatz. Visitors looking to combine culture, regional food and drink, and a short break in nature will find a range of options here. Particularly prominent are the Schwanthaler connections at the Innviertler Volkskundehaus and in the town parish church; Pfarrerhölzl offers a different, forested setting.
Culture and local history
Works by the Schwanthaler family of sculptors can be seen at the Innviertler Volkskundehaus. The museum also presents the local history exhibition “RIED – between Bavaria and Austria”. Its folklore collections include crafts, traditional costumes and textiles, as well as jewellery and vessels. The museum is also home to the famous “Silent Night Nativity Scene”: the world-famous Christmas carol was first performed in front of it in 1818. A visit therefore brings together works of art, local history and a variety of collections in one place.
The town parish church of St. Peter and Paul acquired its present appearance between 1720 and 1734. Its tower stands 73 metres tall, and most of the interior furnishings were created by the Schwanthaler family of sculptors. Those interested in their work can encounter it both at the Volkskundehaus and in the church.
A monument in Stelzhamerplatz commemorates the Upper Austrian poet Franz Stelzhamer (1802–1874); it was created by sculptor Anton Gerhart from Gmunden. A change dating back to 1665 is recorded at the Dietmarbrunnen: a Baroque fountain replaced an earlier draw well that year. The Braunauer Tor and Schärdinger Tor also belong to the history of the former fortifications—they are the only surviving structures from them. The Schärdinger Tor was formerly also known as the “Erltor” and “Münsterer Tor”.
Nature and guided tours
Pfarrerhölzl is a protected landscape area with natural deciduous woodland. Parts of the forest are up to 200 years old; oak, hornbeam and ash are the predominant trees. The Pfarrerhölzl nature trail is a family-friendly walking route that takes 20 to 30 minutes and features eight information boards. This makes it easy to plan a short walk as a separate activity.
“Ried from Above – Church Tower Tour” offers a different way to experience the town: visitors reach the tower keeper’s room and tower gallery after climbing ten storeys and 185 steps. The tour is weather-dependent, so check before travelling whether a date suits your plans. Town and museum tours are also available for groups. For your itinerary, you can choose between a walk with a stated duration and guided tours, each with its own conditions.
Food, drink and practical planning
At the Ried farmers’ market hall on the exhibition grounds, 20 farmers from the region offer high-quality products. The “Culinary Ried Beer Tour” combines a walk to breweries and inns with refreshments. The offer includes tastings of speciality beers at the Biergasthof Riedberg and Ried Brewery. Check available dates and venue details before travelling.
Ried leisure pool offers water sports, school and club sports, sauna experiences, and barrier-free access to all areas and attractions. As opening arrangements and services may change, check the latest information before visiting. By car, you can reach Ried via the A8 Innkreis Autobahn and the Ried im Innkreis exit; the access road runs through Tumeltsham along the B 141a.
Discover more destinations: Geinberg, Ried im Innkreis, Obernberg am Inn, Sankt Martin im Innkreis, Kirchheim im Innkreis, Waldzell, Neuhofen im Innkreis, Kirchdorf am Inn, Moosham, Mettmach, Mühlheim am Inn, Eberschwang, Lohnsburg am Kobernaußerwald, Pramet, Reichersberg, Andrichsfurt, Antiesenhofen, Aurolzmünster, Eitzing, Geiersberg, Gurten, Hohenzell, Lambrechten, Mehrnbach, Mörschwang, Ort im Innkreis, Pattigham, Peterskirchen, Schildorn, Senftenbach, Sankt Georgen bei Obernberg am Inn, Sankt Marienkirchen am Hausruck, Taiskirchen im Innkreis, Tumeltsham, Utzenaich, Weilbach, Wippenham.
For the main travel overview: Upper Austria.
