Lakenenland Sculpture Park: A Whimsical Roadside Stop Between Munising and Marquette

Lakenenland Sculpture ParkUpper Peninsula

Aug 29

Hidden Gem on Highway 28: Exploring Lakeland Sculpture Park in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

Driving along Highway 28 in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the stretch between Munising and Marquette feels wild and endless—forests, lakes, and long open road. But tucked quietly off to the side is something unexpected: a world of scrap-metal dragons, giant fish, and whimsical creatures all brought to life at Lakenenland Sculpture Park.

On our 10-day family road trip through Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula, we packed in plenty of adventure—camping, hiking, chasing waterfalls, and even a few thrill-seeking activities. As a family of six with kids who love the outdoors, we’re always on the lookout for places where they can run, climb, and explore without it feeling like a “boring stop.” That’s how we stumbled upon one of the most fun surprises between Munising and Marquette.

The Story Behind the Park

This quirky roadside attraction began with Tom Lakenen, a local welder with a knack for creativity. What started as a hobby in his spare time—bending and welding discarded metal into imaginative shapes—soon grew into an entire outdoor gallery. Instead of hiding his work away, Tom decided to share it with anyone willing to stop and take a look.

Today, the park is home to over 100 sculptures, ranging from political commentary pieces to playful animals and abstract art. It’s sometimes called a “junkyard wonderland,” but that doesn’t do justice to the artistry and care that went into each creation.

Why It’s Perfect for Families

On a road trip, kids don’t always want to stop for museums—but this one is different. Here’s why our family loved Lakenenland:

Free admission makes it an easy add-on to any Upper Peninsula adventure.
Walk or drive—you can wander the forested paths on foot, or drive through if little legs are tired.
Play ground and shaded picnic benches are perfect for stretching out after a long car ride.
Endless photo opportunities—kids love climbing on and posing with the massive creatures, and parents get fun vacation photos without forcing smiles.

Quick Visit Details

Walk through the park: About 30–45 minutes at a relaxed pace (longer if kids stop to explore every sculpture like our children did).

Drive-through option: 10–15 minutes.
Total stop time: Plan for 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on whether you picnic, play on the playground, or just take a stroll.
Parking: Free and plenty of space, even for RVs or trailers.
Bathrooms: Rustic facilities available on-site.
Gift shop: Small but fun—great for souvenirs and to help support the park.

A Year-Round Attraction

Most roadside stops close up shop in the winter, but not this one. In fact, snowmobilers often swing through on the trail system, and the park has been known to keep a bonfire going on cold days. Each season adds its own charm—lush green in summer, blazing color in fall, and sparkling snow in winter.

A Must-See Stop Between Munising and Marquette

If you’re exploring Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore or making your way to the college town vibe of Marquette, don’t just drive past this hidden gem. Pull over, let the kids roam, and soak in the creativity that turned scrap iron into one of the most unique roadside attractions in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Lakenenland Sculpture Park isn’t just a place to stretch your legs—it’s a reminder that art can pop up in the most unexpected places, even in the middle of the woods.

Closing Thoughts

For our family, Lakenenland Sculpture Park was the kind of stop that makes a road trip memorable—a little unexpected, a lot of fun, and the perfect way to let the kids’ imaginations run wild in the middle of a travel day. It reminded us that some of the best travel moments aren’t always the ones on the “official itinerary,” but the spontaneous finds along the way.

Lakenenland sculpture park unique art in the woods in UP Michigan — Interact and Pose with the Sculptures

If you’re planning your own Michigan camping trip or Upper Peninsula adventure, you’ll find no shortage of inspiration here including itineraries, and family-friendly camping tips.

Lakenenland Sculpture Park: A Whimsical Roadside Stop Between Munising and Marquette