One of the things we love about Austin is its quirky, vibrant art scene. From splashes of colorful street art or impressive works all over the city, there are many wonderful places to take the kids to experience Austin’s artistic flair. While some of our favorite museums such as Laguna Gloria, the Blanton, and the UMLAUF Sculpture Garden are currently closed, it’s a great time to head outdoors to appreciate art in a setting that offers the chance to safely distance.
One lesser-known spot for soaking in some art culture is the Bee Cave Sculpture Park, tucked into a quaint little shady area off Highway 71 near the Hill Country Galleria. This 7-acre park features a collection of permanent and rotating sculptures in a peaceful natural setting. Here you’ll not only find art on view, but there’s also a spring-fed pond and plenty of shade from the towering oak trees. You’ll also find plenty of picnic tables and chairs, providing a fantastic spot for a picnic.
If you have plans to be in the area of Bee Cave, carve out some time in your day to make the trip to this Sculpture Park. Before you go, you can download the Park Brochure for a map and overview of the artwork. There are 24 sculpture installations at the park. And there’s a set of giant chess that’s very fun to play with the kids.
One thing we learned on our visit is why this area is called Bee Cave. The namesake of the town comes from the bees that populated the caves along Barton Creek. At the Sculpture Park, you’ll see The Beehive sculpture that pays homage to these buzzing creatures. If you’re interested in helping to support the Bee Cave Arts Foundation, you can donate to have your name associated with one of the 40 worker or drone bees that buzz around The Beehive and have your name listed on a permanent plaque at the base of the sculpture. Click here for more info about donating.
–> Getting There: If you’re putting this location into your GPS, it’s best to simply plot in the Bee Cave Police Station, which is next door. The Sculpture Park is located at the intersection of Highway 71 and Highway 620, and you’ll enter a shopping area simply called “The Shops” at this intersection and then take your first right. There’s plenty of free parking, and admission is free, of course.
For more info, visit sculpturesofbeecave.org.
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