Bear Pit bear park

The Bear Pit, also known as the “Bärengraben,” first opened in 1857; however, after much debate, a 6,000 square-meter bear park was constructed in 2009 on the outskirts of the Old Town beside the Aare River. The bears can still use the tunnel to go to the Pit, which has gained national attention and significance. You can take a tour and see three Bernese bears up close.