Lakenenland Sculpture Park

An image of the Lakenenland Goofy Creature

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Lakenenland Sculpture Park is a quirky, free 37-acre outdoor art sanctuary located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Situated about 15 miles east of Marquette along State Highway M-28, it features over 100 massive sculptures handcrafted entirely from scrap iron and recycled industrial metal.

The park was created by local construction worker and ironworker Tom Lakenen, who transformed junk metal into art. It is widely celebrated as one of the coolest and most unforgettable roadside attractions in the region.

The Fight to Keep Lakenenland

The feud between Tom Lakenen and Chocolay Township involved zoning disputes, bureaucratic friction, and persistent defiance, stemming from local complaints over his scrap-metal sculptures and property use.

Roots of the Dispute

Front Yard Art: Tom Lakenen initially displayed his scrap-metal sculptures in his home’s front yard, but township officials claimed the art violated local rules and treated them as illegal signs.
Relocation to M-28: Frustrated by the pressure, Lakenen purchased a 37-acre parcel along Highway M-28 outside Marquette in 2003 to build what is now Lakenenland Sculpture Park.
Continued Friction: After opening the free, 24/7 park, Lakenen faced ongoing scrutiny from the Chocolay Township Planning and Zoning Board regarding permits, property maintenance, and bonfires.

Defiance and Resolution

Community Support: Over time, the public and local businesses heavily embraced the quirky roadside attraction, eventually easing the bureaucratic pressure and leading to an unofficial truce, even though Lakenen’s tongue-in-cheek warning signs remain part of the park’s charm.

The “Truce” and Signs: Lakenen leaned into the conflict by posting humorous, defiant signs at the park entrance explicitly welcoming everyone in the world—except the Chocolay Township Planning and Zoning Boards.

As a result of 8 years of continous harassment from the township of Chocolay, the no trespassing sign is directed at all local members of "Planning and Zoning Boards" only. All other visitors are welcome here 24/7/365. Thank. you for stopping and hope you enjoy your visit. Sincerely, Tom Lakenenland LLC

Some of the Sculptures You Can View

You can walk, or if you have a smaller vehicle, drive through Lakenenland to view these sculptures. There are MANY more sculptures to be seen that are not listed below.