Millesgården Museum: sculpture park and art galllery

Millesgården Museum: sculpture park and art gallery

Location: Stockholm County, Sweden
Country: Sweden
Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (based on 9 reviews)
Price: $18 per person
Supplier: Millesgården Museum

Introduction

If you’re seeking a mix of outdoor art, inspiring architecture, and panoramic Stockholm views, Millesgården offers just that. This renowned sculpture park and museum is the former home of the famous sculptor Carl Milles, and it’s packed with more than a hundred sculptures, fountains, and beautiful gardens. While the entry fee is quite reasonable—just $18—you’re getting a well-curated experience that balances art, history, and scenery.

What really makes Millesgården stand out is the way it combines a lively outdoor sculpture park with a richly decorated artist’s home and a surprising collection of antiques. We love the thoughtfulness behind this experience, especially how it offers glimpses into the artist’s world, set against the stunning backdrop of Stockholm’s waterways. One possible consideration? If you’re not a fan of walking outdoors or are limited on time, it’s worth noting that exploring the entire site involves some strolling through gardens and around the grounds. It suits visitors who appreciate cultural sights woven into scenic environments, making it perfect for art lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle.

Key Points

• Stunning Sculpture Park: Home to over 100 sculptures, including some grand fountain groups by Carl Milles.
• Picturesque Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Stockholm from the gardens and terraces.
• Historic Artist’s Home: Step inside Carl and Olga Milles’ former residence, with studios, galleries, and an antiques collection.
• Unique Features: Visit Anne’s House, decorated by notable Swedish designers Estrid Ericson and Josef Frank.
• Value for Money: At only $18, this offers a rich cultural and scenic experience, with an audio guide in English and Swedish.
• Accessible: Wheelchair friendly and easy to reach by public transport, making it suitable for most travelers.

Exploring Millesgården: A Detailed Review

Location and How to Get There

Just twenty minutes from central Stockholm, Millesgården is situated in Lidingö. It’s easily reachable via public transportation—taking the subway (Ropsten) plus a bus or tram to Torsviks Torg or Torsvik stations, both about a 7-minute walk away. Alternatively, the local tram (Lidingöbanan) offers a direct route from Ropsten to Torsvik or Baggeby stations, which is handy for those who prefer tram travel.

Parking is straightforward with free parking available outside the main entrance, making it a convenient option if you’re driving. For cycling enthusiasts, a dedicated bike path crosses the Lidingö bridge, adding an active route to your visit.

The Sculpture Park and Gardens

As you step onto the grounds, the garden’s beauty immediately hits you. It’s a delightful mix of flowering terraces, fountains, and sculptures, with around 100 works by Carl Milles. Among these, some of the large fountain groups are particularly striking—each one telling a story or capturing a mythological scene with Milles’ signature whimsical and expressive style.

Visitors often comment on the stunning vistas from the park, with many claiming it’s a top spot for photos and relaxing strolls. Getwe’s review called it an “underbar trädgård och jättevacker utställning” (“wonderful garden and very beautiful exhibition”), which captures the overall sentiment.

The Artist’s Home and Studios

A highlight of the experience is touring Carl and Olga Milles’ historic home. The residence feels intimate, yet it’s packed with impressive features: the large studio where Carl crafted his monumental sculptures, a breakfast room decorated in traditional Dutch tiles, and a Pompeii-inspired gallery filled with classical sculptures. It’s fascinating to see how the artist’s personal space reflects his creative process and interests.

The home’s antiques collection adds a further layer of authenticity, giving visitors insight into Milles’ appreciation for history and art from different eras. Many reviews mention how much they enjoy the personal touch—not just a sterile museum, but a glimpse into the artist’s daily life.

Anne’s House and Svenskt Tenn Touch

One of the more charming stops is Anne’s House, decorated tastefully by Estrid Ericson and Josef Frank from Svenskt Tenn. This small, beautifully decorated house adds a cozy, domestic dimension to the outdoor sculpture experience, with reviewers noting how well the design complements the overall aesthetic.

The Art Gallery and Exhibitions

The Millesgården Art Gallery hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year. While specific current shows aren’t detailed here, visitors can expect engaging displays that complement the outdoor sculptures and the historic home. The gallery’s modern setting provides a contrast to the classical sculptures, adding depth to the visit.

Dining and Shopping

Before or after exploring, you can enjoy a meal or coffee at the Millesgården Lanthandel, which offers tasty options with a view. It’s the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day’s highlights. The museum shop offers a curated selection of art-inspired gifts and souvenirs—perfect for those wanting a memorable keepsake.

Practical Information and Tips

• Opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00-17:00, all year round.
• The entrance fee of $18 is great value considering the scope of what’s included.
• The experience includes an audio guide in both Swedish and English, enhancing your understanding of the sculptures and history.
• It’s wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.
• Remember, the museum operates on a cashless basis; you’ll need a credit/debit card for purchases.

Authentic Visitor Insights

The reviews reveal that visitors find the gardens and sculptures particularly beautiful, with one describing the outdoor spaces as “jättevacker utställning.” Another mentioned how the unique garden with fountains and flowers creates a peaceful atmosphere. Some reviewers, like the GetYourGuide traveler, appreciated the sculptures and outdoor setup, emphasizing how well the space blends art and nature.

Who is Millesgården Best For?

This experience is ideal if you love sculpture, outdoor art, and scenic views, especially in a peaceful setting away from busy city streets. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the large collection of Carl Milles’ works and the historic atmosphere of Olga’s home. It’s also a fantastic choice for those seeking a relaxing outdoor experience with the bonus of cultural enrichment.

Families with older children will enjoy wandering through the gardens and discovering sculptures, while couples and solo travelers can find quiet spots for reflection. The accessibility and straightforward transportation options make it suitable for most visitors, including those with mobility considerations.

If you’re visiting Stockholm and looking for a cultural outing that combines art, history, and stunning scenery, Millesgården is hard to beat.

The Sum Up

Millesgården offers a rare blend of outdoor sculpture, historic charm, and breathtaking views. At just $18, it provides excellent value, especially considering the quality and variety of art on display. The combination of Carl Milles’ large fountain sculptures, the beautifully decorated home, and the scenic gardens make it a well-rounded cultural outing.

Whether you’re an art lover wanting to see some truly iconic sculptures, or a traveler craving a peaceful spot with panoramic views, Millesgården delivers. Its manageable size and accessible layout make it suitable for most visitors, and the outdoor setting means you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through gardens filled with flowers and fountains.

This is a must-visit if you’re in Stockholm—offering meaningful, picturesque, and authentic experiences that showcase Swedish craftsmanship and creativity at its best. It’s a peaceful retreat that enriches your appreciation for art and nature alike.

FAQs

Is there an entry fee for Millesgården?
Yes, tickets cost around $18 per person, which includes access to the sculpture park, artist’s home, and gallery.

How can I get to Millesgården from Stockholm?
You can take the subway to Ropsten and then a bus to Torsviks Torg or Torsvik, both about a 7-minute walk. Alternatively, the tram (Lidingöbanan) from Ropsten directly to Torsvik or Baggeby stations works well.

Is Millesgården wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the site is wheelchair friendly, making it accessible for most guests.

What are the opening hours?
It’s open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 to 17:00, all year round.

Can I buy food and souvenirs there?
Yes, there’s a café with tasty options and a museum shop selling art-inspired gifts. The museum shop is cash-free—credit or debit cards only.

Is there parking available?
Yes, free parking is available just outside the main entrance on Herserudsvägen 32.

How long should I plan for my visit?
Most visitors spend about 2 to 3 hours exploring the gardens, home, and gallery, depending on your pace and interest level.