In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, it should come as no surprise that there are endless opportunities for recreation. Boating, swimming, and fishing are popular lakeside activities, but there are plenty more things to do without getting wet. Some of the best fun in the sun you can have during a Minnesota summer? Heading to the park. There’s one giant jungle gym hiding in Minnesota that you will love, no matter what your age.
Franconia Sculpture Park is a free sculpture garden in east-central Minnesota. You’ll find it at 29836 St Croix Trail N., Shafer, MN 55074.
Bill M/TripAdvisor
The park consists of a 43-acre field full of interesting, quirky sculptures. These were created by artists-in-residence, of which Franconia hosts up to 40 each year.
ExitNo90/TripAdvisor
These artists create and exhibit art in the community, with a studio space located in Northeast Minneapolis.
Casket Arts/Facebook
But it is the sculpture park itself that will inspire young and old alike to creativity.
pmlarson22/TripAdvisor
Many interactive sculptures are on display for 100,000 visitors annually. You’re free to touch, sit, and climb on them as you see fit.
Coni G/TripAdvisor
One of the most famous sculptures — especially for kids — is an enormous jungle gym.
AimIN4oneMil/TripAdvisor
This slapdash of vibrantly colored materials actually forms one of the most fun playgrounds you’ll ever play on.
7ContinentsExplored/TripAdvisor
Race across bridges, climb ladders, and swing the monkey bars.
Doug Kerr/Flickr
Look out across the field over tall platforms. The possibilities are endless at this enormous jungle gym!
jpellgen/Flickr
Whatever you choose to do, the jungle gym is sure to inspire adventure and creativity.
Greg Gjerdingen/Flickr
Not only is visiting Franconia fun, but it shows appreciation for the hard work of artists. Visitors are welcome to make a donation before enjoying their day at this quirky park. Have you been there? What did you think of the sculptures and the jungle gym? Let us know in the comments below!
Bill M/TripAdvisor
ExitNo90/TripAdvisor
Casket Arts/Facebook
pmlarson22/TripAdvisor
Coni G/TripAdvisor
AimIN4oneMil/TripAdvisor
7ContinentsExplored/TripAdvisor
Doug Kerr/Flickr
jpellgen/Flickr
Greg Gjerdingen/Flickr
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Address: 29836 St Croix Trail N., Shafer, MN 55074