Maximilianpark Hamm: Your Family Adventure with Elephants

The Maximilianpark Hamm is one of the most beautiful family destinations in North Rhine-Westphalia, offering visitors a unique combination of nature, animals and relaxation. This green oasis in the heart of Hamm delights over 400,000 guests every year with its diverse attractions. From the famous elephant children to the tropical butterfly house, families experience unforgettable moments amid a lovingly designed parkland here.

Maximilianpark Hamm: the history and origins of a unique attraction

The Maximilianpark Hamm was created on the site of the former Maximilian colliery and opened in 1984 as a state garden show. The striking landmark, the glass elephant, sits majestically above the 22-hectare site and symbolises the region's successful structural transformation. The conversion of the industrial site into a green recreational landscape is regarded as a prime example of sustainable urban regeneration.

From colliery to adventure park

The transformation of the disused Maximilian colliery began back in the 1970s. Town planners and landscape architects developed a visionary concept that skilfully incorporated industrial relics into the new park design. Today, various elements still recall its mining past.

• Original headframes as historic landmarks
• Redesigned spoil-heap landscape with viewpoints
• Integrated railway tracks converted into footpaths
• Preserved colliery buildings used as event spaces

💡 Tip: Visit the small mining museum in the park to learn more about its industrial history.

The famous elephant children at the Maximilianpark Hamm

The elephant children of Hamm are the absolute highlight for families at the Maximilianpark Hamm. These life-size fibreglass artworks have already won the hearts of millions of visitors worldwide. Each of the colourful elephant children tells its own story and was individually designed by a different artist.

An art project with international success

The elephant children project began in 2008 and grew into one of Germany's most successful art projects. Over 100 different elephant children have now been created and displayed in various cities.

At the Maximilianpark Hamm, visitors can admire a constantly changing exhibition of these colourful artworks:

1. Themed designs based on the seasons
2. Interactive elements for children
3. Photo opportunities at every station
4. Educational information about art and nature
5. Regular new additions and special exhibitions

Special attractions around the elephant children

The Maximilianpark Hamm has developed special areas that complete the elephant children experience. Here, children can not only admire the artworks but also get creative themselves.

• Painting and craft stations for creating your own elephant designs
• Playgrounds with elephant motifs
• Themed guided tours for school classes
• Souvenir shop with elephant children merchandise

💡 Tip: Allow at least 2 hours for the elephant children tour so you can take in all the artworks at your leisure.

Maximilianpark butterfly house: a tropical paradise in Hamm

The Maximilianpark butterfly house transports visitors into a fascinating world of tropical butterflies and exotic plants. Across 450 square metres, guests experience an authentic tropical climate with over 40 different butterfly species from around the world.

The diversity of tropical butterflies

The butterfly house is home to an impressive collection of tropical moths and butterflies. From tiny species to specimens with a wingspan of 20 centimetres, visitors can discover the full diversity of these fascinating insects here.

Special highlights in the butterfly house:

• Blue morpho butterflies from South America
• Atlas moths, the largest butterfly species
• Passion-vine butterflies with vivid colours
• Swallowtail species from various continents

Optimal conditions for people and animals alike

The Maximilianpark butterfly house offers ideal conditions for these sensitive tropical inhabitants. At a constant 26 degrees Celsius and 80 per cent humidity, the butterflies feel right at home, just as in their natural habitat.

💡 Tip: Visit the butterfly house in the morning, when the butterflies are especially active.

Maximilianpark Hamm attractions for the whole family

The Maximilianpark Hamm offers far more than just elephant children and the butterfly house. Its diverse attractions make the park a perfect day out for families with children of all ages.

Adventure and play areas

For active children and teenagers, the Maximilianpark Hamm has a range of adventure and play areas on offer. These were specially developed to combine movement, creativity and experiencing nature.

• Large adventure playground with climbing frames
• Water playground for hot summer days
• Mini-golf course with 18 creative holes
• Pedal boat hire on the park lake
• Skate park for teenagers

Relaxation for adults

While the children play and explore, adults will find plenty of ways to relax at the Maximilianpark Hamm. The extensive green spaces and quiet areas invite you to linger.

1. Themed gardens with rare plants
2. Quiet zones with benches and pavilions
3. Walking paths through varied landscape areas
4. Viewpoints with panoramic views
5. Dining options with terraces and a beer garden

💡 Tip: Take advantage of the free guided park tours to discover hidden corners and interesting details.

Events at the Maximilianpark Hamm

The Maximilianpark Hamm is not just a static day-out destination but a lively events venue with a varied yearly programme. From concerts to themed markets, there's always something going on here.

Regular highlights throughout the year

The events programme at the Maximilianpark Hamm follows the seasons and offers events to suit every taste. The traditional festivals and markets are particularly popular.

Annual event highlights:

• Spring festival with plant fair (April)
• Summer festival with live music (July/August)
• Autumn market with regional produce (October)
• Winter magic with arts and crafts (December)

Special events and workshops

Alongside the regular events, the Maximilianpark Hamm also offers special workshops and one-off events. These cater to different target groups and areas of interest.

• Nature study tours for school classes
• Photography workshops in the butterfly house
• Gardening courses for hobby gardeners
• Family rallies with prizes

💡 Tip: Subscribe to the park's newsletter to stay informed about upcoming events.

Practical information for your visit to the Maximilianpark Hamm

A visit to the Maximilianpark Hamm is best planned in advance so you can make the most of all the attractions. Here you'll find all the important information for a successful family outing.

Opening hours and admission prices

The Maximilianpark Hamm is open all year round, though opening hours vary depending on the season. Admission prices are family-friendly, with various concessions available.

Current opening hours:

• Summer season (March-October): 9am-7pm
• Winter season (November-February): 9am-5pm
• Butterfly house: 10am-6pm (all year round)
• Last admission: 1 hour before closing

Getting there and parking

The Maximilianpark Hamm is easily accessible by both car and public transport. Plenty of free parking is available.

Ways to get there:

1. Car: Hamm/Rhynern motorway exit (A2)
2. Train: Hamm main station + bus line 2
3. Bus: direct connection via lines 2 and 12
4. Bicycle: cycle path along the Lippe
5. On foot: approx. 20 minutes from the town centre

💡 Tip: Use the combined travel-and-admission ticket to save time and money.

Food and drink at the Maximilianpark Hamm

You're well looked after at the Maximilianpark Hamm when it comes to food and drink. Various catering facilities offer everything park visitors need, from small snacks to full meals.

Restaurant and café options

The main restaurant at the Maximilianpark Hamm is located inside the glass elephant and offers a spectacular all-round view of the park. There are also several smaller catering outlets throughout the park grounds.

Catering facilities:

• Restaurant "Elefant" with panoramic views
• Café by the butterfly house
• Kiosk by the playground
• Beer garden with regional specialities
• Food stalls at events

Special offers for families

The catering at the Maximilianpark Hamm is specially geared towards the needs of families. Child-friendly menus and flexible opening hours make visiting the park considerably easier.

• Special children's menus at affordable prices
• High chairs and baby-changing facilities
• Play corners in the restaurants
• Picnic areas for food brought from home

💡 Tip: Book a table at the elephant restaurant for a special experience with a view.

📍 Discover more: Explore further recommendations for Hamm on our city page.

Conclusion: the Maximilianpark Hamm as the perfect family destination

The Maximilianpark Hamm impresses as a versatile day out for families with its successful blend of nature, culture and entertainment. Unique attractions such as the elephant children and the butterfly house make every visit a special experience.

The key benefits of the Maximilianpark Hamm at a glance:

1. A wide range of attractions for all age groups
2. Open all year round, with weather-independent areas
3. Family-friendly prices and services
4. Excellent access by car and public transport
5. A varied programme of events throughout the year

Plan to spend at least a full day on your visit to the Maximilianpark Hamm so you can enjoy all the highlights at a relaxed pace. The combination of education, entertainment and relaxation makes this park one of the best family day-out destinations in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Maximilianpark Hamm

Is the Maximilianpark Hamm worth visiting in bad weather? Yes, definitely! The butterfly house, the glass elephant and various covered areas offer interesting activities even in the rain. Many attractions can be enjoyed regardless of the weather.

How long should you plan for a visit to the Maximilianpark Hamm? For a relaxed visit to all the main attractions, you should allow at least 4-5 hours. With children and plenty of breaks, a visit can easily fill a whole day.

Are there discounts for families at the Maximilianpark Hamm? Yes, there are special family tickets, group rates and season passes. Children under 6 get in free. Visitors with severe disabilities also receive concessions.

Can you celebrate a children's birthday party at the Maximilianpark Hamm? Absolutely! The park offers special birthday packages with guided tours, craft activities and reserved areas. Booking in advance is recommended.

Are dogs allowed in the Maximilianpark Hamm? Dogs on leads are welcome in most areas of the park. However, dogs are not permitted in the butterfly house or in the dining areas.