Hidden in plain sight, just a short distance from a major highway, is the remarkable Storm King Art Center in Mountainville, NY. This outdoor sculpture park is situated on 500  pristine acres of gently rolling hills, grassy knolls and flat meadows. Within this incredible setting is an extraordinarily distinguished collection of more that 100 carefully sited sculptures. The emphasis is on large scale works that change the visible landscape from any  direction and distance.

This distinguished collection began just after WW II  by Ralph Ogden as a museum for Hudson Valley painters. Its’ direction changed with the acquisition of works from the estate of David Smith and now includes works by Richard Serra, Louise Nevelson, Alexander Calder, Henry Moore and Isamu Nagouchi to name just a few. I was particularly drawn to a small work by Barbara Hepworth although the undulating long wall by Andy Goldsworthy is quite spectacular as well. The venue has been described as grand outdoor rooms with beautiful vistas and great art.

There is a lovely Norman style chateau on the grounds that has been converted to a museum building with several galleries and museum offices. I highly recommend that you pack a picnic and take advantage of the lovely grounds and the extraordinary views to indulge in a long and lazy lunch.