The estate was originally designed as a landscape garden in the 1920s by the landscape architect Clarence Howard.
The garden holds a significant collection of abstract sculptures that were personally curated by Peg Bradley over several decades.
The property is located on a terminal moraine, resulting in the distinct kettle ponds visible throughout the grounds.
Several of the large-scale sculptures are designed to be interactive or kinetic, responding to the environmental conditions of the park.
The site hosts an annual 'Winter Carnival' that utilizes the grounds for snow-based art and community activities.
Lynden Sculpture Garden is a 40-acre former estate in River Hills, Wisconsin, featuring an expansive collection of over 50 monumental sculptures set within a landscape of woodlands, prairies, and kettle ponds. Originally the home of Harry and Peg Bradley, the property transitioned into a public sculpture garden in 2010. The permanent collection includes works by 20th-century artists such as Alexander Archipenko, Marta Pan, and Tony Smith. The site functions as a multi-disciplinary institution that integrates art, nature, and community programming. Visitors traverse a network of mowed trails that wind through the naturalistic landscape. The garden maintains a rotating schedule of contemporary art exhibitions and artist residencies. The site serves as a vital habitat for local wildlife, including various waterfowl and migratory birds. Educational initiatives and workshops are frequently hosted in the historic residence and on the grounds.
The bench overlooking the largest central pond, which provides a frame for both water reflections and the surrounding sculpture pieces.
Wear comfortable, water-resistant walking shoes, as paths can be muddy or uneven after rain.
Download the site's digital map or app before arriving, as cellular reception can be intermittent in wooded sections.
Bring a picnic, as there are designated areas to enjoy the landscape away from the sculpture installations.
Attempting to walk the entire 40-acre perimeter in formal footwear or assuming the gravel paths are fully paved for all-weather accessibility.
Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays; occasional closures for private events or inclement weather.
Do not climb on or touch the sculptures unless specifically marked, and stay on designated mowed paths to protect the native prairie plantings.
