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Photo courtesy of Alyssa Bajek
Downtown Magazine editors love every aspect of big city living. However, every now and then, we need a change of pace. Throughout the summer we will be releasing our ‘Editors Picks’ for great day trip or get-away destinations that are fun for the whole family.
Get up close at personal with beautiful works of art at the Grounds for Sculpture. Located right outside of Princeton in Hamilton, New Jersey, “The Grounds for Sculpture” is a large 42-acre, non-profit sculpture garden and art museum with a mission of promoting appreciation for contemporary sculpture for all people.
The Grounds for Sculpture feature a variety of whimsical sculptures varying from realistic depictions of people to abstract conceptual pieces, to 3D artistic recreations of famous 2D paintings (such as Grant Wood’s American Gothic and Van Gogh’s The Bedroom). Each sculpture has an amazing attention to detail and challenges spectators to think about art in different ways. Visitors can interact up close and personal with sculptures allowing for amazing photo opportunities. The beautifully landscaped grounds feature a variety of different paths through the park for a different experience each time. Fun little details can be found at every corner, such as mini-arrow sculptures. Kids will also love to see the visiting wild peacocks.
Rat’s Restaurant. Photo courtesy of Alyssa Bajek.
The Grounds for Sculpture also plays host to four eating establishments, which can be important for families with small children. Of the four, our Little Apple Editor recommends the Rat’s Restaurant. Rat’s is playfully and artfully decorated in artistic and romantic décor. Outside diners can experience stunning views from the patio facing a breathtaking water feature and bridge. The French country style cuisine is fresh and filling, featuring favorites such as Rabbit Ragoût, Croque Madame, and Scallops ala Plancha. Grownup drinks of note include their seasonal lemonade (which includes in-season fruit in addition to the traditional lemons), Strawberry Caipirinha (a handcrafted cocktail featuring strawberry-infused Leblon Cachaca, lime and sugar syrup), Mirage (and a handcrafted cocktail featuring Hendrick’s Gin, crème de cacao, and lemon).
The Grounds for Sculpture can be reached from NYC via the North Corridor via the Northeast Corridor. It can also be reached by Coach Buslines at Port Authority Bus Terminal or by car, ZipCar, Uber, or traditional rental car via I-95 South. It will take 1 hour 21 minutes by car, 2 hours nine minutes by train from grand central, or 2 hours 41 minutes by bus.
-by Alyssa Bajek