Griffis Sculpture Park | Buffalo

Griffis Sculpture Park, located in East Otto, New York, is one of the largest and oldest outdoor sculpture parks in the United States. Spanning approximately 450 acres in the scenic Enchanted Mountains of Western New York, the park is an extraordinary blend of art and nature, featuring over 250 large-scale sculptures created by more than 100 artists. It was founded by artist Larry W. Griffis Jr., whose vision was to create a space where sculpture and the natural landscape coexist in harmony, offering visitors a unique cultural and outdoor experience.

Location and Park Layout

Primary Location: The park has two main sections:

Mill Valley Road Section: 6902 Mill Valley Road, East Otto, NY 14729

Rohr Hill Road Section: Rohr Hill Road, Ashford Hollow, NY 14171

The park is nestled in a rural, forested area that provides a peaceful and natural backdrop for the sculptures. The terrain includes forest trails, open fields, hills, and ponds, creating a dynamic environment for the art installations.

History and Vision

Griffis Sculpture Park was established in the 1960s by Larry W. Griffis Jr., a well-known sculptor, painter, and educator.

Griffis aimed to make large-scale sculpture accessible to the public in an outdoor setting where the artworks could interact with natural light, weather, and the landscape.

Over the decades, the park has grown to include works by numerous artists, representing a wide range of styles and themes.

Sculpture Collection and Artistic Highlights

The park hosts over 250 sculptures varying in size from monumental to human scale.

Sculptures are made from diverse materials including stone, metal, concrete, and wood.

Themes range widely — visitors will see oversized animals, human figures, abstract shapes, mythical creatures, and imaginative structures like castles, submarines, and giant heads.

Notable pieces include:

Massive animal sculptures like bears and birds integrated into forest settings.

Life-size and larger-than-life human forms, many depicting movement or emotion.

Abstract and surreal works that invite contemplation and curiosity.

Sculptures are thoughtfully placed to complement and enhance the natural surroundings, encouraging visitors to explore the landscape and discover art in unexpected places.

Visitor Experience

The park offers a variety of trails ranging from smooth walking paths to more rugged hiking routes, allowing visitors of different fitness levels to enjoy the artworks.

Some sculptures are located along accessible paths suitable for casual walkers and families, while others require hiking through woods and over hills.

The layout encourages exploration and discovery, with sculptures often partially hidden or positioned to create surprise encounters.

Special Features and Facilities

Gift Shop: Open on weekends, offering art-related merchandise, souvenirs, and information about the park and artists.

Picnic Areas: Several spots are available for resting and enjoying a meal surrounded by nature and art.

Limited Amenities: Visitors should plan accordingly, as restrooms and other facilities are minimal. Bringing water and wearing appropriate footwear is recommended.

Admission and Hours

The park operates on a donation-based admission system:

Suggested donations are $5 for adults, $3 for seniors, and free for children 12 and under.

Donations can be made via Venmo, PayPal, or in person at the gift shop.

Seasonal Schedule:

Open from May 1 to October 31, daily from sunrise to sunset.

The Mill Valley Road section may close earlier in the season due to weather, but the Rohr Hill Road section remains accessible year-round.

Events and Programs

Griffis Sculpture Park hosts various events that enhance the visitor experience and community engagement:

Summer Festival: Annual event with live music, food vendors, craft booths, and family activities.

NIGHT LIGHTS: A special fall event where selected sculptures are illuminated after dark, creating a magical atmosphere.

Guided Hikes and Performances: Offered periodically to provide deeper insight into the art and environment.

Memory Cafe: Social gatherings designed for individuals with memory challenges and their caregivers, fostering community through creativity.

Visitor Tips and Accessibility

Pets: Leashed dogs are welcome but must be cleaned up after, as trash bins are limited.

Terrain: The park’s natural setting means uneven ground, roots, and rocks; sturdy footwear is advised.

Accessibility: The terrain is challenging for visitors with limited mobility, and wheelchair access is very limited.

Safety: Visitors should stay on marked trails and respect the natural environment.

Nearby Attractions

Ellicottville: A nearby village offering shops, restaurants, and seasonal festivals, great for combining a cultural visit with dining and leisure.

Allegany State Park: New York’s largest state park with hiking, camping, and scenic views.

Zoar Valley: Known for its rugged gorges, waterfalls, and excellent hiking opportunities.

Griffis Sculpture Park is a distinctive destination where art lovers, nature enthusiasts, and families can experience the unique intersection of large-scale outdoor sculpture and a beautiful natural environment. Its wide variety of artworks, events, and stunning landscapes make it a memorable place to visit throughout the warmer months.