Meijer Gardens nominated as one of nation’s top sculpture parks in reader poll

GRAND RAPIDS, MI — Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park has once again been nominated as one of the top sculpture parks in the country as part of USA Today’s 2024 Readers’ Choice 10Best awards.

The national reader’s choice award is an annual ranking that highlights outstanding parks across the United States. Meijer Gardens is one of 20 sculpture parks from around the U.S. that are in the running for this year’s award, park officials announced on Monday, Jan. 22.

“This recognition serves as a testament to the park’s commitment to showcasing exceptional art and horticulture and providing a captivating experience for guests,” Meijer Gardens officials said in a press release.

Last year, Meijer Gardens earned the No. 1 spot in the Readers’ Choice 10Best awards.

A panel of judges nominated the attraction again this year as one of the top 20 sculpture parks across the country. Now, readers will help whittle the list down to the top 10 by voting for their favorite spots on the list. People will be allowed to vote once per day until the voting ends at noon Monday, Feb. 19.

Here’s where you can vote.

“By voting daily, community members can help raise awareness about this incredible destination and showcase the vibrant arts and culture scene within West Michigan,” Meijer Gardens officials said.

Spanning 158 acres in Grand Rapids, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, at 1000 E Beltline Ave. NE, boasts the state’s largest tropical conservatory and one of the country’s largest interactive children’s gardens.

Meijer Gardens officials say the park was chosen as a finalist based on its “remarkable collection of world-class sculptures, picturesque landscapes and immersive visitor experiences.” The park has been an integral part of West Michigan’s art and culture scene since it opened in 1995, park officials said.

One of the most beloved exhibits at the park is the annual “Butterflies are Blooming,” which features thousands of butterflies and moths from dozens of species.

The permanent collection highlights hundreds of sculptures from internationally acclaimed artists. Indoor galleries with changing sculpture exhibitions have featured artists such as Pablo Picasso, Jonathan Borofsky and more.