Grace Farms: A Sanctuary of Nature, Arts, and Community
Discover a unique cultural and humanitarian center in New Canaan, CT, where nature, art, and community converge at the award-winning Grace Farms.
Grace Farms, located in New Canaan, Connecticut, is more than just a place; it's an experience. This 80-acre sanctuary, established by the Grace Farms Foundation, blends nature, art, justice, community, and faith into a harmonious whole. The centerpiece is the River building, an architectural marvel designed by the Pritzker Prize-winning firm SANAA. Its porous design blurs the lines between indoors and out, inviting visitors to connect with the surrounding environment. The River building itself houses several key spaces : * The Sanctuary: A 700-seat amphitheater for performances and gatherings. * The Library: A resource center with materials related to the Foundation's initiatives. * The Commons: A community space with long tables for shared meals and conversations. * The Pavilion: A welcome area offering tea service. * The Court: A recreational and performance space. Beyond the River building, Grace Farms features restored barns that host art exhibits and open studios. Visitors can explore the grounds via a one-mile walking trail that winds through meadows, woods, and wetlands. Permanent art installations by renowned artists like Olafur Eliasson and Beatriz Milhazes dot the landscape. Grace Farms is committed to addressing pressing humanitarian issues, including forced labor and gender-based violence. It serves as a platform for collaboration across sectors, bringing together individuals, nonprofits, and government entities to work towards the common good. Whether you're seeking artistic inspiration, a connection with nature, or an opportunity to engage with important social issues, Grace Farms offers a unique and enriching experience. It is a welcoming place for all, inviting visitors to explore, reflect, and find peace.
Local tips
- Check the Grace Farms website for daily programs and events, including art exhibits, talks, and family activities.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore the grounds and walking trails.
- Visit the Commons café for a light meal or refreshments, featuring locally-sourced options.
- Register for a free visit in advance on the website to ensure access.
- Consider visiting during the summer for special programming, including gardening workshops, exercise classes, and concerts.
A brief summary to Grace Farms
- 365 Lukes Wood Rd, New Canaan, Connecticut, 06840, US
- +1203-920-1702
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Getting There
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Driving
Grace Farms is located at 365 Lukes Wood Road in New Canaan, CT. From the Merritt Parkway (Route 15), take Exit 37 for Route 124 North. Follow Route 124 North for approximately 4 miles. Turn left onto Lukes Wood Road. Grace Farms is on the right. Free on-site parking is available. Note that buses or vehicles that accommodate more than 8 people are not permitted without prior approval. During peak events, parking may be at a nearby off-site lot with a complimentary shuttle service.
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Public Transport
Take the Metro-North New Haven Line to either the New Canaan or Stamford stations. From New Canaan Station, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available for the approximately 10-minute ride to Grace Farms. A taxi ride from the New Canaan station will cost approximately $10-$15. From Stamford Station, you can also take a taxi or ride-sharing service, but the ride will be longer (approximately 20 minutes) and more expensive. Check the MTA website for train schedules and fares.
