Discover Lakenenland Sculpture Park: The Quirky Roadside Wonder of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
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Located just off M-28, tucked between the towering trees and the wild edges of Lake Superior, sits a place that defies every expectation of what an art park should be.
It’s not sleek. It’s not polished. And it’s definitely not quiet.
But that’s exactly the point.
Welcome to Lakenenland Sculpture Park, where scrap metal meets imagination and art feels more like an invitation than an exhibit.
If you’re road-tripping through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and you’re anywhere near Marquette, this is one of those “must veer off the route for a few minutes” kind of stops. And honestly? You’ll probably stay longer than you planned.
What Is Lakenenland?
Lakenenland (pronounced LACK-en-en-land) is the creation of Tom Lakenen, a former ironworker with a knack for welding and a big opinion on modern art.
What started as a personal protest against the “snobby” art world turned into a whimsical, weird, and completely free roadside attraction that now draws in thousands of visitors each year.
The park sprawls over 37 wooded acres and showcases more than 100 metal sculptures—everything from towering dinosaurs and lumberjacks to political satire and larger-than-life wildlife scenes.
Some are silly, some are poignant, and some will have you asking, “What exactly am I looking at?” But that’s all part of the fun.
Drive Through or Walk — It’s Your Choice
One of the best parts about Lakenenland is its accessibility. You can drive the main loop right through the sculpture trail, making it ideal for those rainy days or road-weary kids who just need a break from hiking boots.
But if you’re up for stretching your legs, walking gives you the chance to really soak in the artistry, read the signs, and maybe even spot a hidden sculpture or two tucked into the trees.
And here’s a pro tip: if you visit in winter, the entire trail becomes a groomed snowmobile path — and it’s still open to visitors! You can snowshoe, cross-country ski, or arrive by snowmobile. It’s about as Upper Peninsula as it gets.
The Vibe: Quirky Meets Heartfelt
Tom’s personality shines through in every piece. Some sculptures are laugh-out-loud funny. Others carry messages about environmental stewardship, workers’ rights, or local history.
There are tributes to veterans, critiques of corporate greed, and even a whole section dedicated to kids and their imaginations.
There’s a play area for children made entirely from welded scraps, plus a covered pavilion with picnic tables and a firepit that’s open to visitors year-round. And yes, you’re welcome to bring marshmallows.
It feels less like a museum and more like visiting a friend’s backyard—if your friend was wildly creative and had an unlimited supply of discarded metal and a welding torch.
Totally Free, Because That’s How Tom Rolls
Lakenenland isn’t just unique because of the art—it’s unique because of the way it’s offered to the world. There’s no admission fee, no ticket booth, no pushy gift shop.
Donations are welcome (there’s a box near the entrance), but Tom has made it clear from day one: this place is for the people.
And he means all people. Travelers, locals, kids, dogs (on leash, please), snowmobilers, bikers, bus tours, families with strollers — everyone is welcome here.
How Long Should You Spend Here?
Plan for at least 45 minutes to an hour, but don’t be surprised if you linger. There are benches scattered throughout the park, perfect for relaxing under the trees, and in the warmer months, it’s not unusual to see folks unpacking a picnic or letting kids run around the play structures.
If you’re an art lover, photographer, or someone who just appreciates the offbeat beauty of the world, you might find yourself staying a while.
Getting There
Lakenenland is located about 15 miles east of downtown Marquette, Michigan, right along M-28.
The entrance is clearly marked and easy to spot — even if you weren’t looking for it, the towering metal sculptures by the roadside will grab your attention.
If you’re using GPS, punch in:
2800 M-28 E, Marquette, MI 49855
There’s plenty of parking — even for RVs — and the park is open 24/7, 365 days a year.
Local Tip: Pair It With Other Marquette Adventures
Lakenenland is just one of the many weird-and-wonderful stops in the Marquette area. While you’re nearby, consider checking out:
- Presque Isle Park – A local favorite for sunset views and rock diving (not for the faint of heart).
- Blackrocks Brewery – Grab a pint of local craft beer in Marquette’s downtown scene.
- Sugarloaf Mountain – If you’re up for a short but steep climb, the panoramic views of Lake Superior are worth it.
- Dead River Falls – For those who like a rugged adventure, this waterfall hike is a wild ride (literally — you’ll need good shoes).
Don’t Forget to Tell Your Friends!
Lakenenland is the kind of place that sticks with you, not just for the art, but for the spirit behind it. It’s honest, it’s creative, it’s accessible, and it’s absolutely one-of-a-kind.
Whether you’re passing through the U.P. on your way to Pictured Rocks, planning a weekend in Marquette, or just chasing a new kind of roadside adventure, this is a stop that’ll surprise and delight.
It may not be what you expected from an art park, but that’s kind of the whole point. You’ll want to tell your friends to add it to their next U.P. adventures!
