Dr. Evermor's Sculpture Park
4.8(1.1K)google
4.8(45)yelp
Contemporary ArtSculptureArt InstallationFamilyOutdoorPhoto SpotFreeWorld RecordQuirky
Overview
Located near Baraboo, this whimsical park is home to the Forevertron, the world's largest scrap-metal sculpture standing 50 feet high and weighing 320 tons. Created by Tom Every, the park is an incredible collection of retro-futuristic steampunk art built from salvaged industrial machinery, old dynamos, and lightning rods. It offers visitors a surreal visual experience that feels like stepping into a science fiction fantasy world.
Practical Info
Mon11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
TueClosed
WedClosed
Thu12:00 – 5:00 PM
Fri11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
SatClosed
Sun12:00 – 5:00 PM
Suggested Duration1-1.5 hours
Best TimeA clear afternoon from May to September offers the best visiting experience. Bright sunlight hitting the massive scrap-metal sculptures, including the 'Forevertron' (the world's largest scrap-metal sculpture), accentuates their intricate, steampunk textures. Rainy days should be avoided as the open-air grounds can get muddy, and overcast skies dull the metallic lusters.
Getting ThereDriving is required to reach this site. Located near Prairie du Sac between Baraboo and Sauk City, the park sits right off US Highway 12. From Madison, drive north on US-12 W for approximately 40 minutes; look out for the massive metal bird sculptures on the right side just past Sumpter Road, where a free gravel parking lot is available.
Travel Tips
- This is an entirely outdoor park built from salvaged industrial debris and sharp metal components with zero paved pathways. The ground consists of uneven grass and dirt that turns highly muddy after rain. Climbing on any sculpture is strictly banned; parents must keep children closely supervised due to exposed rusted edges and pinning hazards.
- Operated primarily by volunteers and family members, opening hours are highly subject to change and weather disruptions, with unannounced closures common in winter. Always check their official channels before driving out. The on-site and online shops sell limited 'Time Traveler Tokens' and collectibles; purchasing these serves as a critical donation to keep this free park running.
Photo Tips
Photo Rules
- All large-scale scrap metal artworks, including the world-famous Forevertron®, are heavily protected by copyright and trademarks. Personal, non-commercial cell phone snapshots are permitted, but professional gear, tripods, and commercial/portrait shoots are strictly prohibited without prior written consent from the management (608-219-7830).
Reviews
Positive
- A surreal and otherworldly place featuring 'Forevertron', the largest scrap metal sculpture in the world, providing massive visual impact.
- Completely free to enter (donations welcome) and features QR codes on tags that explain the material sources and whimsical stories.
- The artist's creativity is inspiring, turning industrial scrap, old machinery, and odd parts into lively, humorous works of art.
- Excellent for unique photo opportunities with moderate crowds and no commercial commercialized traps, letting you appreciate every detail quietly.
Heads up
- There are almost no public amenities inside—no proper restrooms, trash cans, or benches—making long family stays uncomfortable.
- Safety management is rustic; with all welded metal pieces, some grounds are uneven and edges are sharp, requiring strict supervision of kids.
- Highly weather-dependent; the park temporarily closes during high winds for safety, and the grassy fields get very muddy after rain.
- Tucked behind a salvage yard off the highway; it is easy to overshoot the obscure entrance sign, and there are no dining options nearby.