Rüschlikon lies on the western shore of Lake Zurich, about eight kilometres south of Zurich. Different points of interest may shape your choice of where to stay: local history in the well-preserved village centre and local museum, cultural history at the Brahmshaus, and Park im Grüene above the lake. Whether you are interested in crafts and local development, exhibitions or outdoor activities, the local highlights are easy to distinguish.
Local history in the village centre
The local museum is located right in the centre, in a former winegrower’s house. The house includes a large wine cellar and a well-equipped farmhouse kitchen. A shoemaker’s workshop and a general store have also been set up there; both showcase trades that were once practised in Rüschlikon. A dedicated room documents the development of the settlement from 1850 onwards. The well-preserved village centre and the local museum preserve Rüschlikon’s history. The exhibition areas shed light on different aspects of local life, from living and cooking to crafts, trade and the development of the settlement.
The local museum is open on Saturdays from 2 to 5 pm, except during school holidays. As opening hours may change, check the details before visiting. Groups and schools can also arrange visits outside regular opening hours. This means you can plan a museum visit either during regular opening hours or as a group visit.
In the Strohhaus, a permanent exhibition presents the life and ideas of Gottlieb Duttweiler. Porcelain hand-painted by Adele Duttweiler is also on display there. These topics complement local history with archaeological evidence and personal life stories and ideas.
Cultural venues and events
The present-day Brahmshaus was once a spa hotel. Johannes Brahms stayed there in 1874. Exhibitions are held regularly at the Brahmshaus; a foundation looks after Werner Weber’s estate there, as well as the municipality’s extensive collection of images. The venue thus combines a specific historical connection with an ongoing exhibition programme.
Another cultural highlight is the annual «Kulturtage Rüschlikon» event series, organised by Kulturüschlikon. Cultural events take place at Park im Grüene during the summer months. They are funded and organised by Migros Culture Percentage. As seasonal programmes may change, it is advisable to check the dates for your intended visit.
Park and lake
Park im Grüene is located above Rüschlikon, overlooking Lake Zurich. It is open to everyone and free of charge. There is a large playground for children. Other attractions include rides on a small railway, donkey rides and Kasperlitheater (puppet theatre). If one of these activities is especially important to your visit, check in advance what will be available on your chosen date. This helps you plan your park visit around the activities on offer.
The Tracht lakeside swimming area is also free of charge. Swimming conditions and access may change seasonally, so bear this in mind when planning for your travel dates. The park and its public facilities and the swimming area offer different attractions: the former focuses on play and cultural activities, while the latter is for swimming in the lake. Both complement the historical and cultural attractions with time outdoors.
Getting your bearings
The Rüschlikon boat station is about 500 metres from the railway station. This distance is a useful guide to finding your way around locally. Together with its position on the western shore of the lake and its approximate distance from Zurich, it helps you locate Rüschlikon on the map. Local attractions can help you choose accommodation: the local museum and cultural venues appeal to visitors interested in history and exhibitions, while the park and swimming area cater to other interests.
Discover more destinations: Hirzel, Adliswil, Wädenswil, Thalwil, Kilchberg, Richterswil, Schönenberg, Langnau Am Albis.
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