Olympic Sculpture Park, Seattle

Nestled against the backdrop of Elliott Bay in Seattle, the Olympic Sculpture Park presents a harmonious blend of art and nature. This outdoor museum, free to the public, spans nine acres of an urban green space where art and ecology converge to offer a unique cultural experience.

Opened in 2007, the park is an extension of the Seattle Art Museum and showcases an array of contemporary sculptures by renowned artists. The park's landscape, designed by Weiss/Manfredi Architects, integrates a variety of ecosystems, from beachfront to temperate rainforest, creating a dynamic environment for both the art and the local wildlife.

Visitors can stroll along a zigzagging path that offers spectacular views of the sculptures against the skyline of the city and the Olympic Mountains. Among the notable works is Alexander Calder's iconic "Eagle," a bold red steel sculpture that has become a symbol of the park. Other pieces include Jaume Plensa's "Echo," a serene, monumental head gazing over the water, and Richard Serra's "Wake," a series of curved steel structures inviting contemplation and interaction.

The park operates year-round, changing with the seasons and offering a different experience with each visit. In addition to self-guided tours, the park also provides educational programs and workshops, connecting visitors with art and the environment in a deep and meaningful way.