October 15, 2026

Big Feet. Big Ears. Big Secrets.

Earth's largest land animals are known for their size, but there's more to elephants than meets the eye. The Secret World of Elephants, now on view, reveals the biology, behavior and importance of elephants, from the 40,000 muscles in their trunks to their ability to sense low-frequency vibrations through their feet.

Take a glimpse into the long history of these icons by looking at both modern elephants and their ancient relatives. For thousands of years, elephants have held deep cultural significance for people around the world. They appear in art, literature, religion and traditions across many cultures, where they are celebrated as symbols of strength, wisdom, prosperity and community. Their enduring presence in human culture reflects the powerful connection we have with these remarkable animals.

This season, swap the ordinary for the extraordinary as you discover the cultural significance of elephants with festive celebrations of cultures and traditions in Winter Wonderland, inspiring stories from American Amazon, and unforgettable Fernbank After Dark events and programs that celebrate what makes our world wonderfully diverse.

From trunks to traditions, now's the chance to see life through a different lens.

Gather your herd and plan a Fall trip to Fernbank! We've got so many new things to explore. Check out our Calendar of Events for all of the details.