Planning on visiting Grounds for Sculpture with kids?
A sculpture garden might not be the first thing you think about bringing young children to. However, Grounds for Sculpture is actually a very kid-friendly place!
Grounds for Sculpture is a 42-acre, meticulously planned out sculpture garden. Located outside of Trenton, New Jersey, the garden features so many unique paths, structures, and places to explore, kids will feel like they are on treasure hunt.
One of the reasons Grounds for Sculpture is a perfect activity in New Jersey for kids is that all of the art is interactive. Kids can put themselves in the art! Unlike art museums, kids can actually touch and feel (most of) the art, even putting themselves in some of the scenes.
You can visit Grounds for Sculpture with kids any time of year. It is a fun summer activity, but we also love visiting in the fall and winter on a day off from school.
The guide below shares everything you need to know before you bring your kids to Grounds for Sculpture including some of our favorite pieces.
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Grounds for Sculpture Location and Parking
This top-rated New Jersey attraction is located at 80 Sculptors Way in Hamilton Township, NJ, right outside of Trenton. It is about a 45-minute drive from Philadelphia and about 1.5 hours from New York City. There is plenty of on-site parking available for FREE.
Grounds for Sculpture Admission and Hours
Ticket prices vary depending on the time of year. Tickets must be purchased ahead of time. Please note that the tickets are timed, meaning you will choose a time to visit the sculpture park and cannot enter earlier than that time.
During the high season (April-November) ticket prices range from $12-$25, depending on age. Children 5 and under are FREE. Discounts are available for healthcare workers and military members (active and veteran). Grounds for Sculpture also participates in ACCESS, providing complimentary admission for up to four people with your ACCESS card.
Hours also vary depending on the time of year. Click here for the current schedule.
Visiting Grounds for Sculpture With Kids
Realistic Artwork
Grounds for Sculpture has over 300 pieces of art over 42 acres. Some of the sculptures are modern, made of material like stone and metal.
Other sculptures are very realistic life-sized people in various activities and states of dress. Although none of the sculptures are inappropriate, your child might be curious as to why some of the people are naked.
“Secret” Paths
If you see a path or a doorway at Grounds for Sculpture, take it! You never know where it will lead. Some of the best art is hidden in the trees, and you wouldn’t even know it was there. Plus kids will love feeling like an explorer, finding treasure.
One Section at a Time
Grounds for Sculpture is 42 acres, so it’s impossible to see it all when you’re visiting with kids. It’s a lot of walking for adults too! Pick a few sections that you don’t want to miss. And remember to take breaks. There are plenty of benches and chairs to sit on throughout the property. Or you can lie down in the grass.
Bring a Stroller
Again, Grounds for Sculpture is huge! Little legs may not be able to handle the amount of walking you’ll do. Most of the park has flat gravel paths, though there are some stairs and uneven paths scattered throughout.
Interactive Art
One of the best reasons to visit Grounds for Sculpture with kids is the ability to interact with the art. There are many sculptures kids can touch or sit down with. It’s a fun way for kids to learn about art while keeping them entertained.
Enjoy the Animals
As walk around Grounds for Sculpture, you’ll see peacocks roaming the grounds. This is always a fun sight for kids, especially when the birds splay their feathers.
Can’t Miss Spots in Grounds For Sculpture
Although there is no bad spot at Grounds for Sculpture, these are some of the fun pieces of art kids love!
Monet’s Bridge
The patio at Rats Restaurant gives you the best view of the bridge. But it’s also fun to stand on and look at all of the lily pads on the water.
If It Were Time
This is Seward Johnson’s take on Claude Monet’s painting ‘Garden at Sainte-Adresse’ (1867). The painting is on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
Depression Breadline
If you’ve been to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial in Washington, DC, you should recognize this sculpture.
Things to Know Before You Visit Grounds For Sculpture
- The majority of the artwork is outside and requires walking on dirt and grass paths. It may be challenging to push a stroller or wheelchair through the garden.
- At 42 acres, Grounds for Sculpture is extensive. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Take the time to explore a path or doorway. You never know what magic you will discover!
- Grounds for Sculpture does not allow outside food or picnics. However, there are several places to eat throughout the property. Some of the locations are closed during the winter months. Click here to learn more about the food options and the operating hours.
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