Dallas, Texas, February 1, 2026
The Dallas Zoo’s giraffe statue, towering at 67.5 feet, was installed on January 22, 1997, and has been a cherished symbol of the community ever since. Designed by Bob Cassilly, the statue has recently undergone refurbishment to extend its lifespan. It serves as a welcoming landmark and favorite photo spot for visitors. The giraffe statue reflects Dallas’s pride in unique attractions and its commitment to maintaining them for future generations.
Dallas Zoo’s Iconic Giraffe Statue: A Landmark of the Community
Dallas, Texas – The Dallas Zoo’s towering giraffe statue, standing at 67.5 feet tall, has been a beloved landmark for nearly three decades. Installed on January 22, 1997, it was designed to be a prominent visual marker, capturing the attention of drivers passing by. Its impressive height surpasses that of Big Tex, which stands at about 55 feet tall.
Design and Construction
The statue was crafted by artist Bob Cassilly in his St. Louis studio. Made of bonded bronze and plexiglass, it was transported to Dallas in pieces on three flatbed trucks and assembled on-site. The giraffe’s design includes a 40-inch tongue, adding to its lifelike appearance.
Community Significance
Over the years, the giraffe statue has become a symbol of pride for Dallas residents. It serves as a welcoming beacon to visitors and a cherished part of the city’s landscape. The statue’s enduring presence reflects the community’s appreciation for unique and meaningful landmarks.
Recent Refurbishment
In December 2025, the Dallas Zoo undertook a refurbishment of the giraffe statue to maintain its shine and structural integrity. The restoration work, completed in about three weeks, is expected to extend the statue’s lifespan by another decade. This investment underscores the zoo’s commitment to preserving its iconic features for future generations.
Visitor Experience
For those looking to capture the full grandeur of the giraffe statue, the best vantage points are from the nearby McDonald’s, the elephant sculptures, or the Halperin Park overlook. While visitors can approach the statue closely, these locations offer the most comprehensive views for photography.
Background Context
The Dallas Zoo, established in 1888, is the oldest and largest zoological park in Texas. It is home to over 2,000 animals representing 406 species. The giraffe statue stands as a testament to the zoo’s dedication to creating memorable experiences for its visitors.
Key Features of the Dallas Zoo’s Giraffe Statue
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 67.5 feet tall, including a 40-inch tongue |
| Material | Bonded bronze and plexiglass |
| Artist | Bob Cassilly |
| Installation Date | January 22, 1997 |
| Recent Refurbishment | Completed in December 2025, extending lifespan by another decade |
| Best Photo Spots | McDonald’s, elephant sculptures, Halperin Park overlook |
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
