- Attraction: Franconia Sculpture Park
- Location: 29836 St. Croix Trail, Shafer, MN 55074
- Industry: Art Gallery
- Website: https://www.franconia.org
Picture this:
Over 120 monumental sculptures scattered across a sprawling 50-acre meadow, where contemporary artists from around the world create mind-bending installations that challenge everything you think you know about art.
Welcome to Franconia Sculpture Park, where creativity runs wild in the scenic St. Croix River Valley of Minnesota.
This extraordinary outdoor museum has been turning heads since 1996, when visionary artists decided to transform a humble cornfield into one of the country’s most innovative sculpture parks.
You’ll discover an ever-changing exhibition of large-scale contemporary art, with new pieces appearing throughout the year as over 40 artists-in-residence create their masterpieces on-site.
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Keep Exploring →Key Highlights
The Suspended Barn: By far the most iconic piece at Franconia is a collapsed barn suspended in mid-air, held aloft by cables attached to a rusty metal frame.
This jaw-dropping installation has become the park’s signature sculpture, frequently photographed for magazines and tourism articles showcasing Minnesota’s artistic treasures.
Johnny Appleseed by Mark di Suvero: This massive steel sculpture features backhoe bucket loaders raised to the sky like playful fiddler crab claws. The internationally renowned artist’s work incorporates whimsical elements with industrial machinery forms, creating a piece that’s both imposing and surprisingly charming.
Michael Richards Memorial: The park’s only permanent sculpture honors the Tuskegee Airmen from World War II, depicting three airmen in a powerful tribute to dreams of freedom.
Originally created by Michael Richards, who tragically died on 9/11 in his World Trade Center studio, Franconia had the original fiberglass piece recast in bronze to preserve his legacy.
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Discover MoreInteractive Art Experiences: Unlike traditional museums, you’re encouraged to walk through, around, and even under many of the sculptures. Each piece transforms completely depending on your viewing angle, creating new stories and perspectives with every step.
Living Art Laboratory: You’ll witness art in the making as resident artists work on their creations throughout the warmer months. This unique aspect allows you to engage directly with creators and understand their artistic process firsthand.
Clearing by Jennifer Newsom and Tom Carruthers: This collection of large mirrors creates the illusion of infinite space in the surrounding prairie, making for both stunning photo opportunities and mind-bending optical experiences.
Atmosphere & Setting
Meadow Wandering: The sculptures are thoughtfully placed throughout vast open meadows and rolling hills, creating a sense of discovery as you follow winding trails from one installation to the next. The expansive landscape allows each piece to breathe and command its own space.
St. Croix River Valley Beauty: Located in one of Minnesota’s most scenic regions, the park offers stunning views of the river valley while you explore. The natural prairie setting, complete with wildflowers and native grasses, provides a breathtaking backdrop for the contemporary art.
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Keep Exploring →Seasonal Transformations: The park takes on completely different personalities throughout the year. Summer brings lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers, while fall creates dramatic contrasts with colorful foliage framing the sculptures. Winter transforms the installations into snow-covered monuments in a crystalline landscape.
Artist Residency Energy: During the warmer months, the park buzzes with creative energy as artists live and work on-site. This adds a dynamic, living quality to your visit, where art isn’t just displayed but actively being born.
Other Considerations
Unbeatable Value: Admission is completely free, making this one of the most incredible cultural experiences you can have without spending a dime. Donations are appreciated and help support the artists-in-residence program.
Perfect for All Ages: Families love the park’s interactive nature and open spaces where kids can run around safely. The sculptures spark curiosity and imagination in visitors of all ages, making it an ideal educational outing.
Dog-Friendly Adventure: Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the park (though not in the indoor Franconia Commons building), making it perfect for a day out with your four-legged companions.
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Discover MoreAccessibility Options: Golf carts are available for rent ($20 for one hour) on a first-come, first-served basis from April through October for visitors needing mobility assistance. The park also features accessible parking and restrooms.
Plan Your Time: Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours exploring, though art enthusiasts often linger for half a day or more. The park’s 50-acre size means there’s always something new to discover around the next bend.
Bug Awareness: During summer evenings, mosquitoes and horse flies can be present, so bring bug spray for maximum comfort during your visit.
Indoor Gallery: The Franconia Commons building houses a visitor center, gift shop, and rotating gallery exhibitions, offering a climate-controlled complement to the outdoor experience.
Franconia Sculpture Park
📍 29836 St. Croix Trail, Shafer, MN 55074
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