An illuminated elephant stands there in the wood. Don’t believe it? Then come to Maximilianpark in Hamm. There, you will not only find the famous glass elephant which is now known all over the Ruhr region beyond the borders of the city of Hamm, but also a vibrant leisure park for the whole family. You can spend a wonderful day in Maximilianpark in Hamm between curved flower beds, play dunes, pirate ships and exotic butterflies.

From mine to nature park

The German Garden Show in 1984 made it possible: On the site of the former Maximilian Mine emerged Maximilianpark which today offers a mix of art, gardens and fun for children. From the mine’s former coal washing plant emerged the glass elephant by artist Dr. Horst Rellecke. Today it is not only a symbol of Hamm, but houses an art garden with movable objects and a viewing platform with a fantastic view over the Ruhr region. You can also go up in a lift in the trunk. Below there is a large children’s play area for young visitors. There’s not only play equipment, but entire themed trails, such as a climbing area, a jungle with lianas, an old mine for a treasure hunt or a water play area. Here there are no limits to imagination and the spirit of discovery.

Free flight in the butterfly house at Maximilianpark

In spring and summer, the different themed gardens shine and invite you to walk around.Discover the fragrant garden, colourful garden or the rose garden. Particularly eye-catching is the large shrub bed by Piet Oudolf. The butterfly house is also open in the warmer months – the biggest in NRW! You can marvel at around 80 different species from the world’s tropical regions up close in the 450-square-metre free flight hall.
Irrespective of the time of year, events, such as Herbstleuchten, children’s theatre, concerts, markets and exhibitions bring Maximilianpark to life. Adults and children are also invited to tours around the special gardens and works of art, the MaxiLab or the Green Classroom.