10 Outdoor Steampunk Sculpture Parks

Imagine wandering through a wonderland where the whimsical and the industrial collide to form art that feels plucked from another era.

Have you ever experienced the allure of steampunk aesthetics in the open air?

Outdoor steampunk sculpture parks offer you a unique fusion of Victorian elegance and futuristic innovation.

These parks invite you to step into a world where vintage steam-powered machinery merges with artistic creativity to bring fantastical visions to life.

You're in good hands as we embark on this journey together.

We're tapping into a global phenomenon – from hidden gems nestled in rural landscapes to urban havens that boast jaw-dropping metallic structures.

Let's explore the parks where the retro-futuristic fantasy of steampunk becomes a tangible reality, ready to be experienced with all your senses.

Dr. Evermor's Forevertron (Sumpter, Wisconsin)

Have you ever dreamt of a fantasy world where Victorian design meets futuristic innovation?

Enter Dr.

Evermor's Forevertron, the immense heart of a whimsical park in Sumpter, Wisconsin, where your steampunk dreams become towering reality.

Quick Facts:

• Location: S7703 US HWY 12, Town of Sumpter, WI 53591
• Creator: Tom Every, aka "Dr. Evermor"
• Construction Began: 1983

Imagine wandering through a sculpture garden where each piece tells a unique story.

Here lies the Forevertron, the centerpiece of Dr.

Evermor's Sculpture Park.

At 50 feet tall and 120 feet wide, this scrap metal masterpiece isn't just a conversation starter—it's a record holder.

Yes, you're looking at the world's largest scrap metal sculpture, weighing in at a hefty 300 tons.

What You'll Encounter:

• An array of mechanical creatures, from towering insects to metallic birds
• Intricate contraptions that seem poised to whirl into motion at any moment

The artist behind this creation, Tom Every, passed away in 2020, but his vision continues to inspire visitors.

Whether you're a die-hard steampunk fan or just love the ingenuity of repurposing materials, Dr.

Evermor's Forevertron will enchant you with its detailed craftsmanship and sheer scale.

Visiting Details:

• Open: Thursday - Monday
• Closed: Tuesday & Wednesday
• Seasonal Closure: December 24 through March due to weather conditions

Remember, cameras are a must to capture the fantastical steel menagerie that awaits you.

Don't just hear about it—go see it for yourself!

The Steampunk Tree House (Milton, Delaware)

Have you ever imagined a Victorian fantasy perched in a tree?

Well, your imagination can take a back seat because The Steampunk Tree House in Milton, Delaware, turns this daydream into a reality.

Quick Facts:

• Location: Dogfish Head Brewery, Milton, Delaware
• Creation: 2007
• Artist: Sean Orlando and the Five Ton Crane Collective
• Height: 40 feet
• Materials: Recycled steel, wood, textiles
• Special Feature: Functioning steam calliope

It's impressive, isn't it?

Crafted by artist Sean Orlando and the creative minds at the Five Ton Crane Collective, this sculpture exceeds the ordinary.

Envision a 40-foot tree, not of leaves and life, but of steel and steam, a true masterpiece of steampunk aesthetics.

The House itself, a toast to the Victorian era, is built from recycled wood and materials.

But it's not just a visual treat.

This structure is a symbol of coexistence, demonstrating a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature.

Let's not forget its journey!

Originally showcased at the Burning Man Festival, this extraordinary piece now takes up residence at the Dogfish Head Craft Brewery.

So grab your adventure hat and witness this engineered spectacle.

You'd have a hard time finding another treehouse with a functioning steam calliope, now wouldn't you?

Did You Know?

• The Steampunk Tree House was transported to Dogfish Head Brewery after its debut at the Burning Man Festival in 2007.
• Visitors often marvel at the intricate design, from the roots twisting into the ground to the canopy that shelters like an industrial crown.

So while you sip on a craft brew, take a moment to appreciate this blend of art and ingenuity.

Who knows, it might just inspire your next backyard project—or at least a steampunk daydream.

Griffith Park (Los Angeles, California)

Have you ever wanted to step into a world where vintage charm meets natural beauty?

Griffith Park in Los Angeles, California, is a place where your steampunk dreams can feel a little more real, especially when you wander into the Travel Town Museum.

At Travel Town, you're greeted by vintage locomotives and railway carriages that harken back to the days of steam-powered travel.

It's like being transported directly into a steampunk novel!

• Address: 4730 Crystal Springs Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90027
• Size: Over 4,210 acres
• Elevation: 384 to 1,625 feet above sea level

With its sprawling acres, Griffith Park isn't just for train enthusiasts.

Do you fancy a picnic?

Griffith Park offers ample landscaped parkland for you and friends to lounge and munch.

• Contact: (213) 202-2700
• Email: [email protected]

Planning a fancy dress gathering?

Why not in a park that's seen steampunk fans come together, top hats, goggles and all, amidst this urban wilderness?

Remember, while Griffith Park boasts its share of steampunk charm at the Travel Town Museum, the park itself is a broader attraction.

Whether it's for hiking, picnicking, or time-traveling to the steam era, you're sure to find your adventure here.

So, why not put on your best steampunk attire, grab your adventurer's spirit, and make your way to Griffith Park?

Who knows what stories and inspirations you'll chug away with!

The Kinetic Sculpture Race

Ever dreamed of racing through the streets in a sculpture that could conquer land, water, and even a mud-pit, all while showing off some serious steampunk vibes?

Let's gear up and talk about The Kinetic Sculpture Race!

Imagine bustling city streets—perhaps in delightful Baltimore, artsy Philadelphia, or the charming Arcata.

Here, the world of creativity and pedal power merge in an event like no other.

The Kinetic Sculpture Race is where teams channel their inner mad scientists and engineers to craft extraordinary, human-powered works of art.

Each kinetic sculpture is a feast for the eyes: think functional steampunk marvels meets Whacky Races!

Here's what you need to know:

• Human-Powered: Pedal like you're escaping from a Jules Verne novel.
• Amphibious: Yes, your ride has to float!
• Artistic: Embrace the quirky—giraffes, sharks, gingerbread houses on wheels?

Curious about the rules?

Your rig must be no more than 8 feet wide and 13 feet high to ensure it doesn't ensnare on city byways or tangle with the bay!

Did you know the Baltimore event, hosted by the American Visionary Art Museum, crowns the East Coast Kinetic Sculpture Race Champion after a daring 15-mile skirmish across tarmac and tide?

With an eclectic parade of participants, it's a rollicking sight to behold.

And you?

Maybe it's time to sketch your steampunk contraption and join the jamboree!

Abney Park Cemetery (Seattle, Washington)

Have you ever waltzed through a cemetery where the whispers of a Victorian past intertwine with a dash of steampunk flair?

Let's take a stroll through Abney Park Cemetery in Seattle, Washington.

It's an unusual twist on outdoor sculpture parks, where the vibe is historical yet playfully anachronistic.

Nestled at 1416 NW 46th Street, this outdoor space exudes a Victorian aesthetic akin to its London counterpart.

But don't get your gears in a twist—this is no ordinary resting place.

It's a hot spot for creatives and steampunk aficionados, known to host ephemeral steampunk sculptures and installations that spark the imagination.

What can you find here?

• Steampunk sculptures: Occasionally, the park becomes an open-air gallery featuring quirky steampunk art.
• Historical charm: The space retains its 19th-century charm, making you feel like you've stepped into another era.

Now, why does this place resonate with the steampunk crowd?

Perhaps it's the melding of past and future, of gears and greenery, that feels like walking through a time-traveler’s dream.

You won't find permanent sculptures here, but the transient art that does pop up could be an Instagram goldmine!

Seattle's Abney Park Cemetery isn't your everyday park.

It's a destination where you can immerse yourself in a novel experience.

So, why not pack a pocket-watch, don your top hat, and prepare for an adventure that's part historical tour, part steampunk spectacle?

Remember, it’s the temporary nature of the art here that makes each visit unique—catch it while you can!

The Washburn University Sculpture Garden (Topeka, Kansas)

Have you ever wandered through a garden where art and the outdoors meld together, creating an experience that's both whimsical and thought-provoking?

Well, let's take a stroll through the lush Washburn University Sculpture Garden in Topeka, Kansas, where structural innovation meets Botanical beauty.

Art Amongst Nature:

• Location: Situated on the Washburn University campus
• Featured: Over 20 sculptures with rotating exhibitions

Imagine yourself walking down the paths, with each turn revealing a new masterpiece.

Among these, some sculptures may strike you with their distinct steampunk characteristics—gears, industrial materials, and an imaginative retro-futuristic twist.

Noteworthy Sculptures:

• Dynamic Designs: Stainless steel creations, like 'The Game' by Arlie Regier
• Cultural Connection: 'Interdependence' by YuYu Yang, a reflection of unity and harmony

Yearly Attraction:

• Since 1996, the sculpture garden has embraced creativity through its yearly outdoor sculpture competition. It's not just about what's permanent; the ever-changing art keeps the garden fresh and inspiring.

The Rita Blitt Connection:

• An added treasure is the Rita Blitt Gallery and Sculpture Garden. Here, you’ll find a harmonious connection between Blitt's visionary artwork and the academic spirit of the university.

Wander, ponder, and let your imagination take flight!

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply in the mood for an outdoor adventure, the Washburn University Sculpture Garden is a haven of tactile and visual delights waiting for your discovery.

Artisan's Asylum (Somerville, Massachusetts)

Have you ever seen sculptures that look like they've marched straight out of a Jules Verne novel?

If not, the Artisan's Asylum in Somerville is where your imagination can meet reality.

Picture this: quirky, inventive sculptures with a steampunk twist, right here in Massachusetts!

This fascinating place isn't just any studio; it's a 52,000 square-foot community space where creativity joins hands with fabrication.

Here's what you might find:

• Community Craft Studio: Artisan's Asylum provides a place for makers of all kinds.
• Steampunk Splendor: Outdoor sculptures with gears, cogs, and a Victorian flair occasionally adorn the premises, showcasing the unique talents of Asylum dwellers.
• Diverse Workshops: Whether it's welding or woodworking, this space is all about learning new skills.

It's a place where you can roll up your sleeves and tinker to your heart's content.

Woodworking?

Check.

Electronics?

You got it.

Metalworking?

Absolutely.

And the best part?

You’re surrounded by a community that’s as passionate about making things as you are.

Not only is this place an incubator for ideas and projects, but it also offers classes to get you started on whatever crafting journey you're into.

Why not add a visit to your 'must-see' list and soak in some hands-on inspiration?

No matter your craft level, there's something for everyone, and who knows, you might just leave with a few ideas for your next DIY adventure!

The Franconia Sculpture Park (Shafer, Minnesota)

Nestled in the scenic St.

Croix River Valley, have you ever envisioned a place where art mingles with the great outdoors?

Well, your imagination is the reality at Franconia Sculpture Park.

Since its inception in 1996, this open-air gallery has been wowing visitors with its eclectic mix of over 100 contemporary sculptures—and guess what?

Some of these creative feats even tip their hats to the whimsical world of steampunk—blending gears and gizmos with Victorian flair.

Housed on a sprawling 50-acre space in Shafer, Minnesota, Franconia is not just a feast for the eyes; it's a hotbed for creativity.

Check this out:

• Artist Residency: An active program that supports artists in creating bold, new work.
• Community Arts Programming: Engaging events that bring art to life for all ages.

What's more, you can roam this museum under open skies 365 days a year, from 8am to 8pm, without spending a dime.

Yes, you read that right—it’s absolutely free!

Curious about the kind of sculptures you might bump into?

Imagine towering structures with a futuristic twist, all made from metal, stone, and sometimes, the unexpected.

Some sculptures might even puff out steam, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a different era.

So, pack a picnic, grab your camera and make a day of it.

Whether you're an art aficionado or just love a good walk in nature, Franconia Sculpture Park is waiting to blow your steam-powered mind.

American Visionary Art Museum (Baltimore, Maryland)

Have you ever seen art that makes you whistle "Wow"?

Well, buckle up, buddy, because the American Visionary Art Museum (AVAM) in Baltimore, Maryland, is a trove of the unconventional and the astounding.

Imagine stepping into a world where the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary.

That's AVAM for you!

Where Is It?

• Location: 800 Key Highway, Baltimore, MD
• Neighborhood: Federal Hill

What makes AVAM special?

It's the national museum for self-taught, intuitive artistry.

Think about it: artists who never sat in a formal class, pouring their wildest dreams into their works.

It's pure, raw creativity!

Did You Know?

• AVAM has a penchant for steampunk! Yes, those quirky, mechanical sculptures that look like they leaped out of a retro-futuristic universe.
• The museum is not just indoors; it spills outside too. Their outdoor sculpture tour showcases fantastical pieces that'll have you Instagramming every angle.

And parking?

Don't fret.

There's ample metered parking on Covington Street and Key Highway, ready for your visit.

Hours to Remember

• Closed: Mondays
• Open: Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Fancy a sneak peek?

Imagine sculptures that fuse salvaged mechanical parts into birds or towering whirligigs that look like they could power a steampunk city.

Every visit here is a new adventure.

No wonder, it's a gem in Baltimore's crown, perfect for your inner artist, history buff, or curious soul.

Don't miss out on this exploration of imagination—mark your calendars for that sculpture tour; it's a date with wonderment!

East Jesus (Niland, California)

Have you ever wondered what it might look like if a scrapyard got a steampunk makeover?

East Jesus in Niland, California, turns that curiosity into reality.

Just a short walk northwest from the off-grid community of Slab City, East Jesus boasts a collection of eclectic and sustainable art that seems to blossom from the stark desert landscape.

Initiated in 2006 by Charles Russell, this outdoor exhibit gives a whole new life to what most would consider junk.

Imagine towering sculptures with a steampunk flair, constructed using everything from old car parts to discarded kitchen appliances.

Now, that's recycling with style!

Here's what you can expect at East Jesus:

• Sculpture Garden: Marvel at the sculptures, each with its own story and sustainable message.
• Eco-Artistry: See how artists turn waste into wonder in an environmentally conscious way.

Visit & Discover:

• Open Sky: Blue and vast, it makes the perfect backdrop for photos.
• Art with a Message: Every piece whispers (or shouts) a commentary on consumption and waste.

You're not just walking through a park; you're stepping into an ever-growing, living exhibition.

And the best part?

It's completely free, though donations to keep the place running are appreciated.

Fun fact: Did you know East Jesus is just four miles northeast of Niland and 156 miles from San Diego?

A little detour on your road trip could lead to a big adventure.

Remember, it's not just about snapping pics for your socials; it’s also about inspiration and appreciating the inventive ways we can reuse materials.

Who knew a trip to the desert could be a lesson in sustainability and art?