Run with the Herd: The Great Elephant Migration Takes Over Hermann Park!

If you’re looking for something truly unforgettable to do in Houston this month, look no further than The Great Elephant Migration at Hermann Park! This one-of-a-kind outdoor art installation features 80 life-sized elephant sculptures spread throughout the park—and yes, you can actually walk through the herd without the risk of being trampled! These gentle giants may look real, but they’re made entirely from Lantana camara, an invasive plant species, giving this exhibit a powerful message of transformation and sustainability.

Each sculpture was handcrafted by Indigenous artisans from the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve in India, representing real elephants they’ve known and worked alongside. It’s a beautiful mix of art, culture, and conservation—and it’s all happening for free right in the middle of Houston at 1700 Hermann Drive. You’ll find the main group in The Commons area of the park, with more scattered near the Museum of Natural Science and the Texas Medical Center.

The best part? You don’t just look at the exhibit—you experience it. Kids and adults alike have been running joyfully through the towering elephants, snapping photos, and learning about wildlife conservation in the process. There’s even a 10-foot-tall tusker named Matt, modeled after a legendary elephant known for his long migrations across Kenya.

The exhibit is up through April 30, and the park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. There are also free events happening all month—like yoga, art workshops, and storytimes—all tied to the theme of peaceful coexistence between people and nature.

This is more than just an art display. It’s a chance to connect, reflect, and yes—even run wild with elephants (without the stampede). Don’t miss it!