If your idea of looking at art is shuffling through a tiny, crowded gallery, think again! Sculpture parks give you a cultural experience that doubles as a leisurely, outdoor stroll. The best part is that many of the sculptures are gargantuan, so even if you don't "get it," you'll be blown away by the size of the pieces.
The only place you'll ever see a sculpture park like this is in Illinois. Start scrolling for more details.
Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park is in University Park just south of Chicago.
![alt](https://admin.onlyinyourstate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/04/googlemaps-5.jpg?w=500&quality=50)
It was established in 1978 by the Governors State University Board of Trustees.
![alt](https://admin.onlyinyourstate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/04/Facebook_NathanManilowSculpturePark.jpg?w=500&quality=50)
For more than 30 years, free spirits and wonder seekers have come to see the abstract art.
![alt](https://admin.onlyinyourstate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/04/Facebook_NathanManilowSculpturePark10.jpg?w=500&quality=50)
The contemporary sculptures are mostly by American artists along with a few by French and Mexican sculptors.
![alt](https://admin.onlyinyourstate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/04/Facebook_NathanManilowSculpturePark4.jpg?w=500&quality=50)
Some are even by Illinois natives.
![alt](https://admin.onlyinyourstate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/04/Flickr_DanielXONeil.jpg?w=500&quality=50)
Admission and tours are always free.
![alt](https://admin.onlyinyourstate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/04/Facebook_NathanManilowSculpturePark2.jpg?w=500&quality=50)
Twenty-nine works span more than 100 acres of Illinois prairie, so you can make a whole day of exploring.
![alt](https://admin.onlyinyourstate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/04/Facebook_NathanManilowSculpturePark3.jpg?w=500&quality=50)
These large-scale, public art pieces attract a crowd no matter the time of year. You can see why.
![alt](https://admin.onlyinyourstate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/04/Facebook_NathanManilowSculpturePark9.jpg?w=500&quality=50)
![alt](https://admin.onlyinyourstate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/04/Facebook_NathanManilowSculpturePark5.jpg?w=500&quality=50)
The park is open from dawn until dusk every single day of the year.
![alt](https://admin.onlyinyourstate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/04/Facebook_NathanManilowSculpturePark7.jpg?w=500&quality=50)
It is also primarily run by donors and volunteers who are passionate about the artwork and grounds.
![alt](https://admin.onlyinyourstate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/04/Facebook_NathanManilowSculpturePark6.jpg?w=500&quality=50)
Even if art isn't your game, you'll get to enjoy a lovely walk through Midwest prairie.
![alt](https://admin.onlyinyourstate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/04/Facebook_NathanManilowSculpturePark8.jpg?w=500&quality=50)
Combining art and nature, this amazing park is like a museum and nature preserve all in one.
![alt](https://admin.onlyinyourstate.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/04/Facebook_NathanManilowSculpturePark11.jpg?w=500&quality=50)
Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park is located at 1 University Pkwy University Park, Illinois. For more information visit the park's website or Facebook page.
If you love spending time outdoors, you need to visit this stunning Illinois park too!
Have you ever visited this unique park? Share your photos and experiences with us below!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!