Calder La Grande V - Shadow work on the balcony at Quinta do Portal, designed by Siza Vieira.
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Calder La Grande V

4.6
·198 reviews·Grand Rapids, United States

Alexander Calder's monumental 1969 red sculpture anchors a vibrant city plaza, perfect for art lovers and photographers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Perfect for blue hour photos

CrowdMedium
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Calder La Grande V - Shadow work on the balcony at Quinta do Portal, designed by Siza Vieira.

Calder La Grande V

Best Time

Summer evenings

Perfect for blue hour photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Alexander Calder's monumental 1969 red sculpture anchors a vibrant city plaza, perfect for art lovers and photographers.

4.6
(198 reviews)

"This is an awesome place to catch a festival, live music, art work, or just capture some straight up 'cool' photos."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Blue Hour

Visit during summer evenings for stunning blue hour photos of the sculpture.

🎉 Check for Events

The plaza hosts festivals and live music, making for a vibrant visit.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Red Sculpture

The Iconic Red Sculpture

City Plaza

Alexander Calder's massive 1969 abstract red sculpture is a striking centerpiece.

Blue Hour Photography

Blue Hour Photography

City Plaza

Capture stunning photos of the sculpture during the magical blue hour on a summer evening.

Tire Swing Sculpture

Tire Swing Sculpture

Corner of the Plaza

Don't miss this whimsical companion sculpture tucked away in the plaza's corner.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Art & Atmosphere

Calder La Grande V is more than just a sculpture; it's a vibrant city plaza. Visit during a festival or evening stroll for a lively experience. Capture stunning photos, especially during blue hour.

Consider the Surroundings

While the sculpture is a highlight, the surrounding plaza can sometimes be undergoing maintenance or require cleanup. Be prepared for potential construction or pay parking nearby.

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Perfect for blue hour photos
Crowd
Medium
When
During festivals
Why
Lively atmosphere & events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📸 Capture the Blue Hour

Visit during summer evenings for stunning blue hour photos of the sculpture. Reddit

🎉 Check for Events

The plaza hosts festivals and live music, making for a vibrant visit. Reddit

🚗 Be Aware of Parking

Pay parking is available nearby; factor this into your visit. Reddit

👀 Explore the Plaza

Don't miss the 'Tire Swing' sculpture tucked away in a corner. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Blue Hour

Visit during summer evenings for stunning blue hour photos of the sculpture. Reddit

🎉 Check for Events

The plaza hosts festivals and live music, making for a vibrant visit. Reddit

🚗 Be Aware of Parking

Pay parking is available nearby; factor this into your visit. Reddit

👀 Explore the Plaza

Don't miss the 'Tire Swing' sculpture tucked away in a corner. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(198 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Calder La Grande V to be an impressive piece of public art and a great spot for photos, especially during evening hours. The plaza can host lively events, adding to its appeal. However, some reviewers note that the surrounding area could use more upkeep and that parking is a paid service.

"This is an awesome place to catch a festival, live music, art work, or just capture some straight up “cool” photos. Taking a stroll downtown at night is a pretty neat thing. I would recommend stopping by to see this landmark and capture a few other visually appealing sites within the vicinity. It will not disappoint. Enjoy!"

Peter J. Gil

"It’s a giant red sculpture… it is what it is. The surrounding area could use a clean up, but in the end it’s just a giant red sculpture."

Frank Biermann

"The sculpture was awesome, and we were disappointed to see workers all around this tourist spot. it was messy. There was a parking lot beside it and it was pay parking. ( Pictures have been edited to remove the structures and workers around it )"

Maria

What People Like

Iconic red sculpture
Great for photos
Lively plaza events

What People Dislike

Area needs cleanup
Pay parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Calder La Grande V is located in a central city plaza. Public transportation options are usually available, and driving directions can be found using GPS. Be aware that parking in the vicinity is often pay-to-park. Reddit

Yes, there is a parking lot adjacent to the sculpture, but it is a pay parking facility. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Calder La Grande V is a public art installation located in a city plaza, so there are no tickets required for viewing. Reddit

As it's an outdoor public space, the plaza is generally accessible at all hours. However, events held in the plaza may have specific timings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Many visitors recommend photographing Calder La Grande V during the 'blue hour' on a summer evening for dramatic lighting. Reddit

Absolutely! The surrounding plaza offers other visually appealing sites, including the 'Tire Swing' sculpture. Reddit

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

You can admire the iconic red sculpture, take photos, enjoy the plaza atmosphere, and potentially catch live music or art festivals. Reddit

The plaza is described as very accessible for all, with nice spacing. Reddit

Yes, taking a stroll downtown at night is recommended, and the sculpture can be a neat sight. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Calder La Grande V and its plaza offer a surprisingly engaging experience for families. The sheer size of the red sculpture is often a hit with children, sparking their imagination. The plaza itself is described as having 'nice spacing' and being 'very accessible for all,' making it easy for little ones to move around safely. Reddit

Beyond the main sculpture, keep an eye out for the whimsical 'Tire Swing' sculpture tucked away in a corner – a delightful discovery for younger visitors. Reddit While there aren't specific playgrounds, the open space allows for running around, and the chance to see public art can be an educational and fun outing. Just be mindful of potential pay parking and any ongoing plaza maintenance. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Calder La Grande V presents a fantastic opportunity, especially during the 'blue hour' on a summer evening. Reddit The bold, abstract form of the sculpture, combined with the changing light, creates dramatic and visually appealing shots. Don't forget to explore the plaza for other interesting angles and subjects, like the 'Tire Swing' sculpture. Reddit

Consider visiting when the plaza is hosting an event or festival, as this can add a dynamic element to your photos with crowds and activity. Reddit While the sculpture itself is the main draw, the surrounding urban environment can also provide interesting backdrops. Be prepared for potential pay parking and be aware that the plaza might occasionally be undergoing maintenance. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistry of Alexander Calder

Calder La Grande V is a significant work by the renowned American artist Alexander Calder, famous for his innovative mobiles and stabiles. Created in 1969, this large-scale red sculpture is a prime example of his distinctive style, characterized by bold forms and vibrant colors. The abstract nature of the piece invites personal interpretation, making it a focal point for contemplation and discussion within the urban landscape. Its placement in a prominent city plaza underscores its importance as a piece of public art designed to engage a wide audience. TikTokInstagram

The sculpture's imposing size and striking red hue ensure it commands attention. Visitors often remark on its ability to anchor the plaza and serve as a landmark. The surrounding space is designed to complement the artwork, offering areas for people to gather, relax, and appreciate the piece from various angles. The accessibility of the plaza further enhances the experience, making it a welcoming spot for everyone. Reddit

Experiencing the Plaza

Calder La Grande V is more than just the sculpture itself; it's the heart of a dynamic city plaza. This space frequently comes alive with various events, from art installations and festivals to live music performances. These occasions transform the plaza into a hub of activity, offering visitors a chance to experience the local culture and community spirit. Reddit

Beyond organized events, the plaza is a popular spot for a leisurely stroll, especially at night when the ambiance can be quite captivating. Reddit Photographers are drawn to the area, particularly during the 'blue hour,' to capture the sculpture and its surroundings in a unique light. Reddit While the plaza is generally well-maintained, some visitors have noted that the surrounding area could occasionally benefit from more cleanup, and that construction or maintenance work might be present. Reddit

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