We’re taking another quick break from our Disney posts this week to talk about a weekend we had full of sunshine and art.
One weekend in June, we first ventured to NJ to visit Grounds for Sculpture with Tom’s family and then back to Astoria to our sculpture park, called Socrates Sculpture Park.
Our first stop was to Hamilton, NJ to check out the 42 acres of land and sculptures. Grounds for Sculpture was founded by, artist and philanthropist, Seward Johnson. It opened to the public in 1992 as a way to showcase contemporary sculptures.
We first entered the museum to purchase our tickets and then we set off on our adventure. Most of the area is outdoors so wear stylish, yet sensible, shoes, layer on the sunscreen, and bring plenty of water.
You might want to grab a map if it’s your first time because there is so much to see. Our plan was to just wander around for a couple of hours and appreciate being outside. The grounds are absolutely beautiful.
Here are some of my favorite pictures from the trip:

The next day at Socrates Sculpture Park was a little different. This park is free and a lot smaller than Grounds for Sculpture, but it’s the perfect way to get outside and experience something new. It’s located on Vernon Boulevard in Long Island City.
The exhibit currently on display is called, “Nari Ward: G.O.A.T., again.” G.O.A.T. stands for ‘Greatest of All Time,’ most commonly used in American sports and music, referencing Muhammad Ali and L.L. Cool J. The exhibit represents different social dynamics. A common theme in Ward’s work is the African American experience. You can read more about it on the Socrates Sculpture Park website.
Though small, the exhibit is captivating and the grounds are really nice. You’ll want to bring some chairs or a blanket and relish being outside.
While we were there they were preparing for a hip-hop festival. This is one of the many events they hold at the park. There were also some local vendors on property. We scooped up some ice cream to cool off while we enjoyed the grounds. You should definitely check out their schedule.
