Heads up, Buffalo! There is a park hiding south of the city that is quite possibly the most unique thing you’ve ever seen in the woods. This whimsical park is one of the largest of its kind in the country, and with so much to see (and climb on!), it’s the perfect destination for your next day trip adventure!
Griffis Sculpture Park is located in East Otto, NY.
Griffis Sculpture Park & The Essex Arts Center - Facebook Travel 50 minutes south of the City of Buffalo to this local gem at 6902 Rohr Road, East Otto.
This park has ‘whimsical’ written all over it.
Griffis Sculpture Park & The Essex Arts Center - Facebook
Whether you’re into hiking, art, enjoying the outdoors, or all of the above, Griffis Sculpture Park does not disappoint!
Griffis Sculpture Park & The Essex Arts Center - Facebook
It’s one of the largest sculpture parks in the USA.
Griffis Sculpture Park & The Essex Arts Center - Facebook This brainchild of Larry Griffis, Jr. spans more than 400 acres and is home to over 250 sculptures.
Griffis’ mission is simple: “To promote the Visual and Performing Art”
Griffis Sculpture Park & The Essex Arts Center - Facebook
Griffis Sculpture Park & The Essex Arts Center - Facebook Rather than set the sculptures in a traditional art gallery, however, Griffis chose to allow physical interaction instead!
Finally… art you can view AND touch!
Griffis Sculpture Park & The Essex Arts Center - Facebook If you think you have to be an adult with a keen eye for fine art to enjoy this park, think again! Adults and children alike will enjoy being able to climb on and explore these massive structures at the park. It’s like a favorite playground – only more visually appealing!
The park is open from dawn to dusk daily, May through October.
Griffis Sculpture Park & The Essex Arts Center - Facebook
Griffis Sculpture Park & The Essex Arts Center - Facebook Admission to Griffis Sculpture Park is based on the honor system, meaning you drop some cash in its designated spot as you arrive. While there is no set fee to explore this whimsical park, keep in mind that the facilities do run on donations. Their suggested donation is $5 for adults and $3 for seniors and student, but children under 12 are always welcome for free).
Here’s what to expect when you arrive…
J L. - Yelp If you’ve never been to this whimsical park before, there are a few things to know: First, while the terrain isn’t extremely challenging, sneakers or hiking shoes are probably a good idea if you want to truly explore the area.
Flickr / Zen Skillicorn Second, dogs ARE allowed at the park as long as they’re leashed! So feel free to bring your furry friends to come appreciate the art.
Griffis Sculpture Park & The Essex Arts Center - Facebook Finally, if you plan on hiking through the woods at Griffis Sculpture Park, you should be aware that the trails are marked… to an extent. There are areas that are a bit tricky to follow, so pay attention to your surroundings and don’t get lost! (Hint: If you’ve been walking for a long time and don’t spot any statues, it’s probably best to turn around and head back.)
The Griffis Sculpture Park and the attached Essex Arts Center host several awesome special events throughout the year.
Griffis Sculpture Park & The Essex Arts Center - Facebook The offer artist demonstrations, classes, outdoor concerts, and other fun events and activities.
To keep up with their upcoming events and learn more about the classes at the park and art center, check out their website here.
Griffis Sculpture Park & The Essex Arts Center - Facebook
Travel 50 minutes south of the City of Buffalo to this local gem at 6902 Rohr Road, East Otto.
This brainchild of Larry Griffis, Jr. spans more than 400 acres and is home to over 250 sculptures.
Rather than set the sculptures in a traditional art gallery, however, Griffis chose to allow physical interaction instead!
If you think you have to be an adult with a keen eye for fine art to enjoy this park, think again! Adults and children alike will enjoy being able to climb on and explore these massive structures at the park. It’s like a favorite playground – only more visually appealing!
Admission to Griffis Sculpture Park is based on the honor system, meaning you drop some cash in its designated spot as you arrive. While there is no set fee to explore this whimsical park, keep in mind that the facilities do run on donations. Their suggested donation is $5 for adults and $3 for seniors and student, but children under 12 are always welcome for free).
J L. - Yelp
If you’ve never been to this whimsical park before, there are a few things to know: First, while the terrain isn’t extremely challenging, sneakers or hiking shoes are probably a good idea if you want to truly explore the area.
Flickr / Zen Skillicorn
Second, dogs ARE allowed at the park as long as they’re leashed! So feel free to bring your furry friends to come appreciate the art.
Finally, if you plan on hiking through the woods at Griffis Sculpture Park, you should be aware that the trails are marked… to an extent. There are areas that are a bit tricky to follow, so pay attention to your surroundings and don’t get lost! (Hint: If you’ve been walking for a long time and don’t spot any statues, it’s probably best to turn around and head back.)
The offer artist demonstrations, classes, outdoor concerts, and other fun events and activities.
Have you been to Griffis Sculpture Park? We’d love to hear your experiences and see your photos of this whimsical place! Share them with us in the comments below!
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