Maximilianpark Hamm

Maximilianpark Hamm is a sprawling park with a variety of attractions. The former mining site was transformed into a park in 1984 as part of the State Garden Show. Its central and well-known feature is the Glass Elephant, a landmark of Hamm.

Designed by Dr. Horst Rellecke from the former coal washing plant, the Glass Elephant includes an art garden with kinetic objects and an observation deck. It offers panoramic views over the Ruhr area and is accessible by elevator. A children's playland at the elephant’s base offers themed obstacle courses: climbing areas, a vine jungle, a treasure hunt mine, and a water play area.

During the warmer seasons, you can explore themed gardens (fragrance, dye, and rose gardens) and perennial beds designed by Piet Oudolf. The Butterfly House, the largest free-flight hall in North Rhine-Westphalia, houses around 80 species of tropical butterflies across 450 square meters. The park’s program is enriched year-round with events such as Autumn Lights, children’s theater, concerts, markets, and exhibitions. Guided tours to the gardens, artworks, the MaxiLab, and the Green Classroom are also part of the offerings.