Art lovers unite for an interactive and intellectual activity that is fun for everyone. These seven sculpture walks in Illinois will surprise and enchant you in more ways than one.
If you need motivation to get back outside, these creative parks will do the trick. Scroll on for more details.
1. Sculpture Walk Peoria
Featuring eight large-scale sculptures, this downtown Peoria attraction is a magical part of the city. It is located on Washington Street and spans about three blocks near the south side of Lake Peoria along the Illinois River. Free guided tours are available on Saturdays, and the sculptures are actually for sale.
2. Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park
Run, walk, or ride your bike along this two-mile sculpture walk that features 60 large and distinct pieces of art. Locals driving by can also see some of the sculptures, which come from national and international artists. It is located along McCormick Blvd., Skokie, IL 60076, and is an iconic path in Chicago's northshore.
3. Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park
Located just south of Chicago, this sculpture park opened in 1978. The art here comes from artists from around the world as well as from native Illinoisans. The park spans about 100 acres and is home to nearly 30 works of art that inspire curiosity. Find it at 1 University Dr., University Park, IL 60484. Learn more about this stunning place here.
4. West Street Sculpture Park
This is one of those sculpture walks you'll want to tell everyone about. It is home to dozens of artworks made from scrap metal and constructed by artist John Martinson. Some say it's junk, but true art lovers will see it as something more. It is located at 620 S W St., Galena, IL 61036, and you can learn more here.
5. Wandell Sculpture Garden at Meadowbrook Park
This 130-acre park is home to a plethora of sculptures that locals love to visit. In addition to promoting art, this area aims to preserve nature and wildlife while providing family fun in the form of walking and biking paths. Find it all at 101 W Windsor Rd., Urbana, IL 61802.
6. The Sculpture Park at The Chicago Athenaeum
Spanning 20 acres, this is one of the most unique sculpture walks in the state. It features works from both American and international artists, and it is a popular park for young and old alike. See all the sights at 620 Sherwood Ln., Schaumburg, IL 60193.
7. Lincolnwood Centennial Park Trail
Enjoy 18 different statues at this neat park in the Chicago area. All together, it spans 6.5 miles and runs along the North Shore Channel. Discover a multitude of unique artworks at 6801 McCormick Blvd., Lincolnwood, IL 60712.
For more fabulous reasons to get reacquainted with the Great Outdoors, check out these six deep woods trails in Illinois you'll want to get lost in all day long.
Which of these sculpture walks have you visited before? Share your photos and experiences with us in the comments below.
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