City Cast Madison podcast producer Jade Iseri-Ramos here. I’m on a side quest to find the best day trips in our area, and I’m sharing my thoughts along the way.
Just 40 miles outside of Madison is the world's second largest scrap metal sculpture. Dr. Evermor’s Forevertron weighs in at 300 tons and is the centerpiece of a whimsical sculpture park in the Town of Sumpter just off Hwy 12. Other sculptures in the park include two huge “Komodo Dragons”, a “Juicer Bug”, and the “Bird Band and Orchestra.”
🚀 The Details
Dr. Evermor’s Sculpture Park is open seasonally from April 1 through Dec. 23. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. but may vary depending on weather conditions. It is free and open to the public, and appropriate for all ages and leashed dogs are welcome. The paths are flat, and level, though are gravel-paved which may be difficult for some visitors. I’d budget about one hour to enjoy the sculptures.
If you look closely, you might get some special animal sightings at the park. (Jade Iseri-Ramos / City Cast Madison)
🐿️ Metal Birds and Living Animals
I was lucky enough to be exploring the Bird Band and Orchestra when a squirrel was moving her kits to the chest cavity of one of the bird sculptures. While it’s highly unlikely that other guests will witness this exact event, the interaction between the art and the natural world is unavoidable in the park.
From the sounds of songbirds to the insects and bugs living in the sculptures, the relationship of the living world with the fantasy of the art adds to the magical experience of Dr. Evermor’s Sculpture Park.
If you can’t make it to Sauk County, you can always just go to Paterson Street. (Jade Iseri-Ramos / City Cast Madison)
⚙️ Madison’s Dr. Evermore Sculptures
If you want a taste of Dr. Evermore’s art without trekking out to Sauk County, you can find the “Dreamkeepers” bird sculptures on South Paterson Street, just off the bike path. Additionally, the Madison Children’s museum is home to the two headed “Lovebirds.”
🚗 More Day Tripping
Where will I go next? Send me ideas! I’m looking for places to check out that are two hours or less from Madison. Email us at madison@citycast.fm or leave a voicemail at (608) 318-3367.
