Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
We love finding sculpture gardens and botanical gardens when we take road trips. On our recent visit to Michigan, we spent some time at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids. This a great outdoor art space that combines nature’s beauty with incredible pieces of art.
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Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
One of the best ways to enjoy the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is on the tram. These trams wind through the pathways and offer a great opportunity to learn about the sculptures by a special narrator.
What makes this garden so special is how it blends art with the natural surroundings. As you explore the winding paths, you’ll come across sculptures strategically placed to interact with the landscape. It’s like the artwork and nature are having their own little conversation, and you get to be a part of it!
The Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park boasts an impressive collection of contemporary sculptures created by renowned artists from all over the world. You’ll find everything from massive installations to intricate small pieces, each with its own unique style and material.
One sculpture that you absolutely cannot miss is Alexander Calder’s “La Grande Vitesse.” This massive red sculpture is an iconic landmark and is just one of the many focus pieces.
The garden is also home to works by famous artists like Auguste Rodin, Ai Weiwei, and Jaume Plensa. You may not know these names but you might recognize some of the other pieces of art that we have found at other gardens.
On the left is a piece by Jaume Plensa we found in Des Moines at the Pappajohn Sculpture Park. Then on the right, we see the same sculptor’s work in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Another highlight at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is the American Horse by Nina Akamu. The work is inspired in part by a work created by Renaissance master Leonardo da Vinci for the Duke of Milan, in the late 15th century. Fred Meijer championed the project in the late 1990s, resulting in two casts of the 24-foot monument: one for Meijer Gardens and one for the city of Milan, Italy.
With its well-maintained lawns, vibrant flowers, and serene water features, it’s a peaceful sanctuary. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll, having a picnic, or simply enjoying the natural beauty, the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park offers a tranquil retreat.
We are always on the lookout for glasswork by Chihuly and we found several installations here at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.
So, if you’re an art lover, a nature enthusiast, or just someone seeking a serene spot to unwind, this garden is a must-visit. It’s a place where art and nature come together to inspire, provoke thought, and bring people closer. Get ready for an immersive experience in the world of contemporary sculpture!
Find the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
1000 East Beltline Avenue NE,
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
