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West Street Sculpture Park: A Whimsical Oasis

Explore whimsical metal sculptures in a natural setting at Galena's unique West Street Sculpture Park. A creative and quirky outdoor art experience!

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Discover the quirky and imaginative West Street Sculpture Park in Galena, Illinois, a two-acre outdoor gallery featuring large-scale, upcycled metal sculptures by local artist John Martinson. Wander through the park's wooded paths and experience the unique interplay of art and nature.

A brief summary to West Street Sculpture Park

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the park's hilly and wooded paths.
  • Bring a camera to capture the unique and quirky sculptures against the backdrop of nature.
  • Check out the Galena Blacksmith Shop and Gallery, also operated by John Martinson, to see more of his work.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Galena, head southwest on S Main St. Continue onto W Street for approximately 1 mile. The West Street Sculpture Park will be on your left at 620 S W St. There are no sidewalks for a portion of the walk.

  • Public Transport

    Galena offers limited public transportation. Jo Daviess County Transit provides on-demand service, but reservations are required. From most locations in Galena, the most practical approach is to take a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Galena's General Express. A short taxi/rideshare trip from downtown Galena to the park typically costs $10-$15. Confirm availability and pricing when booking.

  • Driving

    From the center of Galena, head south on S Main St, which becomes S W St. Continue on S W St for approximately 1 mile. The West Street Sculpture Park is located at 620 S W St. Parking is available on the street adjacent to the park. Parking is free.

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Discover more about West Street Sculpture Park

West Street Sculpture Park, located in Galena, Illinois, offers a unique and engaging art experience. This outdoor gallery spans two acres and showcases the whimsical creations of local artist John Martinson. Martinson, originally a blacksmith, began creating sculptures from scrap metal in 1986, transforming his studio into the park. The park features over a dozen large, welded steel sculptures, including towering structures, contemplative pieces, and humorous assemblages. Many sculptures are interactive, inviting visitors to touch and even climb on them. The sculptures are set amidst a natural environment, creating a striking contrast between the industrial materials and the surrounding trees and greenery. Visitors can explore the park via self-guided tours, with maps available to help navigate the wooded paths. Each piece is identified with a title and year plaque. Admission to the park is free, though donations are appreciated. The artist, John Martinson, is often on-site and enjoys interacting with visitors. The park provides a welcoming atmosphere where visitors can explore the interplay of art and nature at their own pace.

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