Texas Sculpture Garden – Park Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Let’s start big picture. Spread across four acres of Hall Park, the Texas Sculpture Garden features 40 contemporary works by some of the state’s most prominent artists. When you first turn in, you might be confused by what appears to be an ordinary office complex. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place. Park near Prosperity Bank and walk back toward Gaylord Parkway to find a plaque that details the garden’s beginnings. From there, download the OtoCast app and search “Hall Park Collection in Frisco” for a free, self-guided audio tour. Many of the narrations are done by the artists themselves in their own Texas drawls. Any must-sees? There are three designated routes, all under 2 miles. If you can only do one, make it the yellow route, which takes you past ponds and fountains, through a wooded area, and to Joe Barrington’s sculpture “The Headlines Screamed, Bait House Disappears.” Rising up out of the water, a giant metallic fish clutches a brown shack in its jaws. It’s more comical than menacing and Barrington encourages the viewer to dream up their own version of events that led to the scene and “walk away with a smile.” Nearby, you’ll also find a coin-operated dispenser for duck and goose food and a bike share station, should you wish to continue on two wheels. Was it easy to get around? Keep an eye out for the colored markers (red, yellow, and blue) on the sidewalk and you won’t have any trouble finding your way. Trees along the path provide ample shade, even in the middle of the afternoon, but there are also picnic tables with umbrellas, plenty of benches sprinkled throughout, and a covered landing next to one of the ponds. If you prefer to drive, most sculptures are also viewable from the road. Word to the wise: Restrooms and water fountains are available inside 6801 Gaylord Parkway on weekdays only. What if we're in a bit of a hurry? If you’re short on time, resist the urge to see it all and instead pay attention to how the sculptures intermingle with Texas’ native flora and fauna. You might spot a turtle sunbathing on a rock next to Jerry Daniel’s steel “Moon Dancers” or see a great white egret fly over David Hickman’s “Butterflies.” There are cacti and magnolia trees, along with larger-than-life depictions of a roadrunner and horned toad. It’s the ability to stop and take it all in amidst the hustle and bustle of the big city that makes this place so special."