If you’re looking for an unforgettable day-trip destination, we’ve got just the place – Wisconsin Concrete Park. The name may not sound too enticing, but it in no way alludes to the magnificence that awaits – and that magnificence comes in the form of dozens of concrete sculptures, which depict everything from historical figures to local legends. Take a look:
Wisconsin Concrete Park is located along Highway 13 in the small town of Phillips.
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Spanning 16 acres, the park is home to more than 230 folk art sculptures.
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Utterly unique, the sculptures are made out of concrete and embellished with glass as well as other odds and ends.
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The one-of-a-kind site is the work of Fred Smith, a lumberjack turned sculptor.
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Smith began work on his concrete sculptures in 1948 and continued creating them until 1964.
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Throughout the years, he created life-size and larger-than-life sculptures, depicting both real and fictional characters.
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Smith’s sculptures include quite the variety - everything from mythical and historical figures to those from his imagination.
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Making the massive sculptures was no easy task. It required digging molds into the ground and then filling them with concrete.
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But Smith’s work wasn’t done once the sculptures were created. He spent a great deal of time planning the placement of the statues, aiming to create a sequential panorama of history and legend.
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Truly one of a kind, Wisconsin Concrete Park is a must-see. Luckily, it’s open daily for self-guided tours. Touring the park is free, though donations are accepted.
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And while the park is open day and night, it’s best to visit during the day, so you can really admire its greatness.
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The Wisconsin Concrete Park is open 24 hours a day, year-round. For more information, call (715) 339-7282. You can also visit the Wisconsin Concrete Park website or Facebook page.
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So, did you know about this unique park? Ever visited? If so, what’d you think? Tell us in the comments section.
This isn’t the only roadside oddity in the state. Read about another here.
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Address: n8236 State Hwy 13, Phillips, WI 54555, USA