Floating Sculpture No. 3 Milwaukee: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction
Floating Sculpture No. 3 is a celebrated symbol of Milwaukee’s vibrant public art scene. Created in 1972 by French-Hungarian artist Marta Pan, this striking red fiberglass kinetic sculpture floats serenely on a pond at the Lynden Sculpture Garden and is also prominently featured along Milwaukee’s Riverwalk. Its dynamic form and harmonious integration with water make it an essential destination for art lovers, cultural tourists, and those seeking to experience the city’s creative spirit.
Milwaukee’s commitment to public art is evident through its dedicated spaces and initiatives, including the Lynden Sculpture Garden’s 40-acre park and the bustling Milwaukee Riverwalk. Both locations offer accessible, inclusive environments, allowing visitors of all backgrounds to encounter world-class art in natural and urban settings. This guide provides comprehensive information on visiting Floating Sculpture No. 3—including hours, ticketing, accessibility, historical context, and nearby attractions—helping you plan an enriching cultural journey through Milwaukee. For up-to-date details and interactive tours, consult official resources or mobile apps like Audiala.
Discover how Floating Sculpture No. 3 embodies the fusion of art, nature, and urban life, and learn why Milwaukee is a premier destination for public art enthusiasts. (Lynden Sculpture Garden, Visit Milwaukee, Sculpture Milwaukee)
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- About Floating Sculpture No. 3: History, Artist, and Significance
- Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
- Locations and Settings: Lynden Sculpture Garden & Milwaukee Riverwalk
- Visitor Experience
- Amenities and Nearby Attractions
- Safety, Accessibility, and Visitor Guidelines
- Events and Programming
- Lynden Sculpture Garden: Historical Background and Sculpture Collection
- FAQs
- Plan Your Visit
- References
About Floating Sculpture No. 3: History, Artist, and Significance
Marta Pan and Kinetic Art
Marta Pan (1923–2008) was an influential French-Hungarian sculptor renowned for exploring balance, movement, and environmental harmony in her kinetic works. Commissioned in 1972, Floating Sculpture No. 3 exemplifies Pan’s philosophy: instead of remaining static, the sculpture gently revolves and drifts with the water’s movement, engaging with its surroundings in a continuous dialogue.
Artistic Features
- Material: Red fiberglass, chosen for its durability and vivid contrast against natural settings.
- Form: Abstract, organic shapes designed to evoke a sense of floating and balance.
- Integration: The sculpture’s placement—either on a garden pond or river—invites viewers to experience it from multiple perspectives, reflecting changing light, weather, and seasons.
Cultural Significance
Floating Sculpture No. 3 is a cornerstone of both the Lynden Sculpture Garden’s aquatic installations and Milwaukee’s broader public art initiatives. Its kinetic qualities and visual impact underscore the city’s dedication to contemporary, accessible art in public spaces.
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Lynden Sculpture Garden
- Address: 2145 W. Brown Deer Rd., Milwaukee, WI 53217
- Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM; Closed Mondays and major holidays
- Admission: Adults $10, Seniors (65+) $8, Students (with ID) $7, Children under 12 free. Admission includes all exhibitions and grounds.
- Parking: Free on-site parking, with accessible spaces available.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible pathways extend around the pond; wheelchair rentals available on request.
- Guided Tours: Offered on weekends and by appointment; check official schedules.
- Visitor Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, visit in spring–fall for optimal conditions, and take advantage of golden-hour photography.
Milwaukee Riverwalk
- Location: Along the Milwaukee River, notably near Water Street and Kilbourn Avenue in downtown Milwaukee (View on map).
- Hours: Open 24/7; best experienced during daylight.
- Admission: Free; no tickets required.
- Accessibility: Smooth, ramped, and well-marked; fully accessible public transit, adaptive bikes, and nearby parking.
- Transit: Accessible via Milwaukee County Transit buses, The Hop streetcar, and Bublr Bikeshare.
- Safety: Patrolled and well-lit; dogs allowed on leashes.
Locations and Settings
Lynden Sculpture Garden
Set on 40 acres of English country-inspired landscape, the Lynden Sculpture Garden blends manicured lawns, woodlands, gardens, and a reflective pond. Over 50 monumental sculptures by international artists are thoughtfully situated throughout the grounds (Lynden Sculpture Garden). Floating Sculpture No. 3 serves as a kinetic centerpiece, drawing visitors into a tranquil, immersive environment.
Milwaukee Riverwalk
The Riverwalk is a 3.1-mile pedestrian promenade traversing downtown Milwaukee, connecting neighborhoods like the Historic Third Ward and Beerline B. Floating Sculpture No. 3’s urban location makes it accessible to city dwellers and tourists alike, complementing the Riverwalk’s collection of over 20 public art installations (Visit Milwaukee).
Visitor Experience
Viewing and Interaction
- Lynden Sculpture Garden: Walk around the pond for shifting views of the sculpture, observe its subtle movement, and enjoy the interplay of color, form, and nature.
- Riverwalk: Appreciate the sculpture from multiple vantage points along the riverbank or nearby bridges; benches allow for reflection and observation.
Tours and Photography
- Guided Tours: Available at Lynden (weekends and by group appointment); the Riverwalk features self-guided public art tours with plaques and QR codes (Sculpture Milwaukee).
- Photography: Both locations are popular for photography—visit during golden hour for dramatic light and reflections. Drone use is generally restricted downtown.
Family and Group Visits
- Lynden: Family guides, picnic areas, and educational programs make this a welcoming spot for children and groups.
- Riverwalk: Wide, stroller-friendly paths, nearby attractions, and regular events create a lively, inclusive atmosphere.
Amenities and Nearby Attractions
- Dining: Riverside cafes, Lakefront Brewery, and the Milwaukee Public Market offer local flavors (Milwaukee Public Market).
- Shopping: The Historic Third Ward features galleries, boutiques, and artisan markets.
- Restrooms: Available at Lynden’s farmhouse and at various points along the Riverwalk.
- Nearby Attractions: Milwaukee Art Museum (Milwaukee Art Museum), Discovery World, Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, Veterans Park, and the Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum.
Safety, Accessibility, and Visitor Guidelines
- Safety: Both Lynden and the Riverwalk are well-maintained and regularly patrolled. Remain aware of surroundings, especially after dark.
- Accessibility: Both sites prioritize wheelchair accessibility, with smooth paths, ramps, and accessible restrooms. Assistance animals are welcome.
- Photography: Personal photography is encouraged; commercial shoots require advance permission at Lynden (Lynden Sculpture Garden).
- Pets: Leashed dogs are permitted on the Riverwalk; service animals are welcome at Lynden.
Events and Programming
Floating Sculpture No. 3 is often featured in citywide art initiatives like Sculpture Milwaukee, which brings rotating installations, talks, and guided walks to downtown. The Lynden Sculpture Garden hosts year-round workshops, family days, and seasonal festivals (Sculpture Milwaukee).
Lynden Sculpture Garden: Historical Background and Sculpture Collection
- Origins: Former estate of Harry Lynde Bradley and Peg Bradley, transformed into a sculpture park beginning in 1962 (Lynden Sculpture Garden).
- Design: Landscape architects William Langford and Theodore Moreau created an English country garden with features inspired by Harry Bradley’s childhood.
- Collection: Over 50 monumental sculptures by noted artists such as Alexander Archipenko, Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth, Clement Meadmore, Tony Smith, and Mark di Suvero.
- Admission: Free since the COVID-19 pandemic; check for special event fees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the visiting hours for Floating Sculpture No. 3?
A: At Lynden, Tuesday–Sunday, 10 AM–4:30 PM. At the Riverwalk, accessible 24/7.
Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: Lynden charges $7–$10; children under 12 free. Riverwalk is free.
Q: Are the sites wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, both Lynden and the Riverwalk provide accessible paths and facilities.
Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, personal photography is welcome at both locations.
Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Service animals at Lynden; leashed dogs on the Riverwalk.
Plan Your Visit
For detailed updates on hours, exhibitions, and special events, consult the Lynden Sculpture Garden’s official website or Visit Milwaukee. Download the Audiala app for self-guided tours and real-time information. Enhance your Milwaukee experience by combining a visit to Floating Sculpture No. 3 with nearby cultural and historical attractions.
References and Official Links
- Lynden Sculpture Garden Official Website
- Lynden Sculpture Garden Visitor Information
- Visit Milwaukee: Bucket List
- Visit Milwaukee: Artistic Adventure
- Sculpture Milwaukee
- Milwaukee Public Market
- MKE With Kids: Things to Do
- Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum
