The Haan Sculpture Garden & Grounds

Garden & Trails

The Haan is on five acres near downtown Lafayette, which includes a Sculpture Garden with outdoor theater and a picnic area. The three acres of woods behind the property hosts a nature trail and trail bike path. The Sculpture Garden and trails are open daily to the public for free from dawn until dusk.

 

Sculpture Garden

Located just behind the mansion, this 0.2 mile wheelchair-accessible path features 27 sculptures by some of Indiana's best artists.

There is a broad and diverse range of works in the sculpture garden. Figural bronzes by Tuck Langland, metal sculptures by Greg Mendez, works in clay by several artists including Marvin Bartel and Bill Kremer, amazing carved Serpentine stone pieces by Peter Rujuwa, and even glass platters by Kathleen Kitch.

The Garden includes an outdoor theater, with a stage that is used for a variety of outdoor performances and events. This lawn area is also perfect for a picnic. The stage was made possible by the City of Lafayette and individual donors.

The Sculpture Garden is maintained by a team of talented and dedicated volunteer gardeners. Grants from the Indiana Office of Tourism Development and the Community Foundation of Greater Lafayette, along with individual donations, have supported this project.

 

Nature Trail

The woods behind the sculpture garden include a rustic trail that winds down to the bottom of the property at Valley Street and then loops back up to the top of the hill. Thirty different species of trees native to Indiana are identified with signs. Other signs are written about non-native and invasive species, fruits of different trees, and other subjects.

This is a challenging trail that requires physical agility as it passes over rocks, inclines, and narrow paths. Depending on weather there may be slippery or muddy areas. Please proceed with caution, and do not hike alone or enter after dark.

 

Mountain Bike Trail

The mountain bike trail is moderately challenging and is NOT for beginners. Riders must be intermediate or advanced level to ride the this trail.

Rules:

  • No BMX or motorized bikes are allowed on the trail.
  • Bicycles may not be ridden close to other guests while riding on the grounds or trail and must yield the right of way to pedestrians.
  • Riders must wear helmets while riding.
  • Bikers ride the trail at their own risk.

 

Grounds Rules

  • No smoking, vaping, use of tobacco products, of any kind, or illegal drugs is permitted on Museum grounds.
  • Visitors should be dressed appropriately; shirt and shoes are required.
  • No skateboards or motorized scooters are allowed on the property.
  • No firearms or other weapons may be brought on the grounds unless they are part of an exhibit or permitted under state law.
  • Anyone purposely damaging or attempting to damage Museum property will be asked to leave, and may be subject to arrest or other legal action.