Minneapolis Sculpture Garden: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

Minneapolis is one of America’s greatest arts centers, and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is like stepping into a shrine that proves it. On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll venture into this artistic labyrinth and admire some of the city’s most iconic works. The tour starts at the Walker Art Museum, located at the site of Thomas Lowry’s former mansion on the “Devil’s Backbone,“ a steep, twin-ridged terrain with a striking silhouette. From there, you’ll stroll through the sculpture garden, pausing at key works including Katharina Fritsch’s electric blue Hahn/Cock, and other lesser-known but equally fascinating pieces. This tour combines art appreciation, historical context and dramatic stories. You’ll find out how Sam Durant’s Scaffold was met with global outrage in 2017, and enjoy moments of quiet reflection at Jim Hodges’ mirrored boulders. I’ll also tell you about the controversies and characters that shaped this cultural landscape.

From: $0.00

Location: Minneapolis-Saint Paul

What's Included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Community Discussion

Q&A

Q: Is there any age limit for this walking tour? Can kids join?

A: There's no specific age limit for the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden tour, and kids can definitely join! It’s a great way to introduce them to art in a fun, engaging environment. Just keep in mind that some sculptures might be more appealing to older kids, but the interactive nature of the garden can keep younger ones entertained too.

Q: What should I wear for this self-guided tour? Is it a lot of walking?

A: Definitely wear comfy shoes since you’ll be walking around the garden for a while! The paths can be a bit uneven in spots, so close-toed shoes are best. It’s also a good idea to check the weather ahead of time – if it’s sunny, bring some sunscreen and a hat!

Q: Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues? Are there benches or places to rest?

A: The Sculpture Garden is generally accessible, and there are several benches throughout where you can take breaks. The paths are paved, but some areas are a bit hilly. It’s best to take it slow and enjoy the art at your own pace, so you should be fine!

Discussions

Considering the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden Tour as a gift!

Hey everyone! I'm thinking of gifting my partner the self-guided walking tour of the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. We love art, and I heard it's a great way to explore the city. The Hahn/Cock sculpture looks amazing! Has anyone done it recently? Any tips for making the most of the experience?

What's the best time of year for the Sculpture Garden tour?

I'm planning to take my family to the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, but I'm unsure when the best time to go is. We want great weather and not too many crowds. Anyone have suggestions?