Holy concrete, glass and art! Glenstone is a canvas for adults' imagination. This retreat is if a minimalist billionaire and Mother Nature had a serene art child. Every turn of concrete and glass leads to a magical surprise. My favorite was the Alex Da Corte exhibits which were full of color and textures. read more

Glenstone - Gallery - Art Museums Near Me - Potomac, Maryland

Glenstone is one of the country's most well-respected and influential modern art galleries. The Rales' have amassed a private post-War art collection worth more than $2 billion, and they have built a private museum to showcase their collection, spending more than $200 million to build the structures over the years. The property encompasses 360 acres and includes not only the two buildings housing the art, there's also an arrival center, a cafe/cafeteria, a patio cafe/coffee shop, and a beautiful woodland walking path, along which one can experience many outdoor sculptures and pieces of art. And all of this is open to the public for free. You are advised to schedule your visit in advance via the website, but walk-ups are accommodated during the winter months. If you arrive via the Ride-On bus (the Rales' worked with Montgomery County to ensure that a bus would be routed right to the front door of the arrival center), you are guaranteed entry. Students 12 and older (including college and graduate students), educators, active-duty military members, veterans, and museum professionals enjoy guaranteed entry for themselves plus one guest, 12 or older. You might read articles about Glenstone that disparage what the Rales' have created, but the reality is that they are doing good in the world: they are making world-class art available to the public for free. I've visited Glenstone about a half dozen times over the years. There are some permanent exhibits but the majority of the galleries rotate art from their massive collection. The cafe has great food. The grounds are quiet and beautiful. The staff are all unbelievably knowledgeable and helpful. A visit to Glenstone is a gift to yourself. read more

I don't even know how to start this review because I still can't wrap my head around how horrible my experience was at the museum yesterday. Do not even think about going there unless you are a complete, total, unobjective fan of modern art. If you are not a modern art groupie, it is not a place for you. If you want a scenic place, there a ton of local and state parks that will better serve your needs. The "art" is hideous. I guess the only good thing about my visit yesterday was that most of the inside places were closed as new exhibits are coming, so I was limited to fewer displays of the "art." The entire inside building was like a giant sensory deprivation chamber -- massive halls and rooms with next to nothing in them. I thought I had stumbled into like a 1950s mental institute. The "art" that was there contained zero information about the alleged art or alleged artists. The very friendly and hard-working docents (I give them credit for their efforts) did the best they could to answer questions but me and two of the other three people I brought with me just laughed. It's all so, so pretentious. Each exhibit was worse than the previous, and one or two made people stand in line for no apparent reason until a docent let them in. One docent gave us a rude stop sign and comment while we peered around her to see the alleged art in that room. The room was as humongous as all the others. Why limit entry? She said we had to wait in line. We said no thanks. That glimpse was all we needed. I've honestly never seen a semi-public space that big wasted to that degree. It is an absolutely staggering waste of space, time and money. I realize it's privately funded but wow -- to give away that much money to something that horrible ... I'm speechless. The whole place was a joke on itself and a joke on art. The scenic beauty of the place was nice, but just get rid of the buildings and the art and turn the whole thing into a natural park. Or at least flush everything out of the buildings and put the buildings to better use -- a giant nature education facility, for example. The buildings serving as warehouses would be a better use. Also, try putting up more directional signs at every possible spot on the grounds (a few key spots lacked directional signs). People need to be able to get away from there faster. Maybe the new outdoor art installations that are on the way will add some value. I don't know. But I do know I never want to go back there -- and I would never take visiting family and friends to the place. I've never seen any museum that bad in my life. read more

Amazing museum! I can't believe it was in my own back yard and I never knew about it. I only learned about it because the owner was in the news recently. The art doesn't have any interpretive explanation so you need to use your imagination on why they may have created it. I highly recommend going through the whole thing, it's a lot of walking, but worth it. I'm the gallery there's a lot of people working there, but they don't ever say anything, I'm not sure if I was supposed to ask them questions or if they were just making sure no one touched the art read more

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I kept hearing about the place but never been in the 10+ years of living in DC. Absolutely loved the visit. Reservations are required to manage crowd control and no kids allowed which made it a very relaxing environment. It became a sweltering day so I'm glad I had a morning reservation. All the artwork is unique and the nature walks in between are pleasant. The cafe/patio is cute and has delicious food. read more

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Glenstone is the perfect place to spend the day. It's an elegant space with stunning grounds and buildings. Because there's so much to see and experience, it's truly an all day visit. There's a small café where you can take a break and refuel with drinks and snacks. You have to book in advance, as tickets sell out quickly. There is no cost for tickets. You'll fall in love with every exhibition. read more

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A unique modern art museum consisting of multiple buildings and outdoor sculptures on a sprawling estate - all free to the public! Reservations are required and available online, but if you're an educator you have guaranteed admission. It's a bit out-of-the-way, but definitely worth the trip, I've never been anywhere like it. DC was having a heat wave when I visited so some of the outdoor trails were closed, but we still got to see the indoor collections and some of the outdoor pieces. No photos are allowed in the indoor exhibits or spaces but it's a beautiful building and collection. They also have a restaurant and café on site which was a nice treat. read more

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The pavilions were closed due to renovations. Best to come during spring, summer, or fall, as the vegetation will add to the ambiance during your stroll. Regardless, we had a good time when we were here end of April. Water stations with cups along the path for the warmer months. Our leisurely loop took X hours, and we tracked about X miles. Docents were very friendly. For a few of the pieces (row of 3 domed structures), a docent was nearby and unlocked the doors for us, giving us an explanation of medium and background of the piece. read more

In general, Glenstone is a private contemporary museum that juxtapositions modern art and nature. While admission is free, it is highly recommended that you reserve tickets before arriving to the museum. Although we did not know that tidbit, we were fortunate enough to gain same-day admission. Also, please note that the museum take its age restrictions (12+) very seriously. I heard of some folks being turned away because they had a couple of young kids with them. Note that photography is forbidden inside of the museum. During our visit, we observed over seven or eight exhibitions. While some of the exhibits were a bit too avant-garde for my liking, which necessarily is not a bad thing. Although the exhibits were a bit out there for me, I was more fascinated by the architecture of the museum and the museum's integration with nature. In addition to viewing multiple exhibits, visitors can take a walk on the various nature trails, which are sprinkled with various sculptures. Since there is an outdoor component, I highly recommend visiting during the spring and fall months - especially if you are not a fan of extreme temperatures during winter and summer. read more

Glenstone - Art Museums Near Me - Potomac, Maryland

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Probably one of the best museums I been to in the area! I like how it's a park with a lot of art sculptures everywhere! The art pieces can be outdoor or indoor but you have to move to get to them. There is a good amount of walking involved but it is definitely worth it. There are food areas / restaurants there as well in case you get hungry. You should definitely check this place out. read more

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Had a wonderful morning at glen stone - it was freezing cold but the place is so beautiful and serene and was well shoveled and paved- the inside buildings were warm and wonderful to visit as well - the docents or guides were so helpful and explained the artwork to us - I loved it here! Had a nice little lunch at the cafe as well ! Come here to enjoy modern art ! read more

Lovely place to see some outside installations and also the indoor exhibit they had (can't take pics of those). It felt very peaceful walking through the grounds and it gave me a boost if that makes sense. The staff working were super nice, and the place itself wasn't very crowded. Immensely grateful for the people that set this up because it makes our community richer and allows people to experience art. I think my fav piece was the two ghosts. Glad to have checked them out after living in MoCo for a majority of my life. read more

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Glenstone Museum is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon both inside and out. Outside you get the feeling that you are on your way to Oz as you wander down the very well maintained paths through tall native grasses and plants buzzing with bees. In the distance, you can see this odd looking head, which, as you finally reach it, you realize is made our of flowering shrubs and other natural materials. There are other sculptures to see and explore along the mile long set of gravel paths and wooden boardwalks. We saw several people being pushed in wheelchairs so much of it is definitely accessible. There are two main exhibit buildings with a wide range of thought provoking art. I did find it a little frustrating that there is an extreme minimum of info about the artist and their works, such as the artist statement/explanation of the various pieces. The idea is that everything is supposed to generate a personal reaction and experience. This is one of the reasons there is no photography allowed "under any roof." However, each salon has a very knowledgeable and friendly docent who are happy to fill you in. Once I got over my initial shyness, this helped a lot. There was one room in which there seemed to be a drop cloth just left on the floor. I couldn't understand why they didn't clean it up until the docent explained what it actually was and how it was made (big duh on my part but super fun to learn.) When we went, there were exhibits that were fun and others that really made you think and remember, such as one dedicated to 9-11. Very powerful. There is a coffee shop and a café on site. It is very important to note that, although they are free, you must reserve your tickets in advance and they are dispersed quickly. What a fascinating place. Highly recommend a visit. read more

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Great museum in our backyard of Potomac, MD. One of the largest private museums/collections in the United States. The added dinners and music offerings have elevated this museums offerings during the spring and summer months. The staff is always knowledgeable and friendly. read more

Beautiful Museum with Art and Nature Combined On a lovely weekend day, my gorgeous friend and I decided to wear the dresses we bought for a Paris trip we never took. Instead, we arrived at Glenstone Museum for an art appreciation day and girlfriend's photo shot. It's a beautiful place that I've been planning to visit for a long time, this is the day that I finally planned to go. It's not a museum you should just arrive at, you have to plan a trip and obtain an online ticket. We were only able to view the outdoor space of the museum and those exhibits. I'll have to return again, to see the indoor galleries. We saw wonderful outdoor sculptures, and art spaces. Beautiful sculptures that combined art and nature in one harmonious figure, some even whimsical, fun and interesting pieces. We created happy, creative memories and videos of our trip, spinning and dancing joyfully. This is the perfect place for friends, families and children. Once Spring comes, be sure to visit and check it out for an art adventure. read more

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I've been to Glenstone several times. It is remarkable. The Rales created a magnificent institution. They provided it with an endowment that exceeds all but the wealthiest traditional museums. The collection is first rate. The architecture, including of the landscape, is itself worth looking at. In terms of places we take tourists, Glenstone is on the list, toward the top. The caveat, if you are not familiar with the area, is it is a good thirty minute drive from upper NW DC, and an hour from downtown if you are staying there. That raises the one issue. Tickets can be hard to come by. There is a workaround. You can ride the bus. They then will let you in "day of." That is deliberate, to encourage mass transit, and I am impressed, because such incentives should be more common. There is one another issue. I tell our guests most of the experience is outdoors, walking around. If you have mobility issues, they do have little EVs, and I'm not quite sure (since I don't have this concern) how the system works or how much they assist. I'd bet they are solicitous. For the majority of visitors, you want comfortable/sensible shoes and appropriate outwear for the weather -- it isn't strenuous; it's in the range of the step count people strive to put in. They have a couple of water dispensers out there, with paper cups and little in-ground recycling receptacles. All in all, Glenstone is one of the greatest collections of art, and I'd put it with the Menil Collection among those privately founded. Addendum. They allow photography outdoors. They are strict indoors. read more

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Such a cool museum! Ran out of time but looking forward to retuning one day when the kids are older. Reservation are required to visit* read more

The most magical place that exists in the world. I cannot believe how epic Glenstone is. Located in Potomac, MD, it's about an hour and a half give or take with traffic. I got lucky and got a reservation pretty early because the Pavilions and main cafe are closed. But I still had an epic time. It's very outdoorsy, you are completely immersed in nature! So you do have to make a reservation online, unless you take the 301 bus and that guarantees you entry. When you walk in, you feel like you're in a cult (but a good one that you want to join). Everyone is in grey, they love art and will engage with you. They like to keep the art and nature as whole as possible so you have to ask the docents for more information. The flowers are in bloom May - Oct, specifically for the Jeff Koons piece, and the Clay Houses (Boulder-Room-Holes), 2007 are only on display during these times as well. Expect to walk a lot, bring walking shoes and a bottle of water - I LOVED the hydration stations located all throughout, truly makes an experience superior. I got to see Iconoclast their private collection which had some big pieces by icons like a Kusama, and Matisse. The architecture is stunning and I was in shock, I cannot believe the amazing gift the Rales have imparted on the world. The parking and entry are free! This is my happiest place and will definitely be back. read more

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Could possibly be the best museum I have ever seen or experienced! Walking in and a stepping onto the paved trail outdoors is like paradise, but without the ocean. The expansive views are not a common sight in the urban concrete jungle of the surrounding city and neighborhoods. Although this hidden treasure is centrally located in the city of Potomac, a highly rated neighborhood with huge homes and land, this place makes those homes look dwarfed by its sheer size. The indoor facilities are just as impressive and immaculate. Visiting those indoor sculptures and spaces are equally a sight to behold. I loved the drastic differences and designs that made a statement, with different impressions. Be sure to grab a coffee or visit the indoor sit down restaurant too, if you have time. If you want to enjoy this place you need to spend the whole day because the outdoor trails are really beautiful and the indoor spaces need time to really take it all in. Booking for free online is the only way to reserve a ticket and you must do this at least a few days prior to ensure you have choices on the amount of tickets and entry times. Parking is abundant and many visitors come back more than once, to not feel rushed throughout the experience. Be sure to make it a point to visit this museum while you are in town, it is more than worth it! read more

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Take your walking shoes with you!! We were in Maryland for a wedding and looking for something to do. Most people make the trek to DC, but to Miss Glenstone would be a mistake. The property is vast. They have art exhibits outdoors and inside. Wow! Wow! Wow! It's a free museum, but Reservations are highly recommended. They were about to turn us away when a guide saw our disappointment and welcomed us in. We stayed here for over 4 hours and still didn't see everything. I will definitely be back. You can have lunch here. There is a beautiful patio area. read more

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Hidden in the suburbs, Glenstone isn't your typical museum... it's a quiet, immersive experience where art, nature, and architecture blend with its indoor and outdoor space. It's a private, contemporary museum with minimalist buildings. They also have a cafe. It's free, but tickets go fast, so it's best to reserve online, unless you're in the military or veteran. Also as other reviews mention, they are strict on age (12+) and no photos indoors. Wear comfy shoes and expect to walk a lot. I went on a freezing winter day and definitely did not explore most of the exhibits as the buildings are sprawled out and lots to see outdoors, so I'd recommend going on a nice day! read more

A beautiful, peaceful and amazing place! Definitely recommend checking this place out. Can't say too much to keep it a surprise for all the newcomers. Enjoy!! Can't wait to come back :) read more

I was blown away by this museum. It's tucked away in neighborhoods with massive houses. I really wasn't sure what to expect, but was surprised to see such a big parking lot. There is a lot of walking. I expected it to be mostly outside sculptures but was surprised to find an amazing collection of truly amazing art work from well known artists, I really wish we would have started there. Really enjoyed the art of the pavilion building. Wonderful light and greenery. Ponds are filled with tadpoles. But the art here was very modern with meaning. While I enjoyed it, I would have liked more feedback from the artist, I went home and watched videos about them setting up their work there, and I feel like I missed out on a lot of their vision. I did enjoy that it didn't feel too crowded, I hate feeling rushed and ushered around. I still get a little offended by ppl spending less than 2 seconds walking through the rooms and those ppl are still here, but a lot less of them are taking up space. By far my favorite was Jean Michel Basquiat, I just wish you could take pictures inside. There's a lot we would have liked to talk about later and it was hard to recall images. read more

We booked our tickets and spent a few hours walking around this amazing site! There are walking paths and several different routes you can take. It is such a relaxing place to visit and spend time with friends and family. I would highly recommend it! It's free and you just need to plan ahead to rsvp. read more

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As a lover of modern art, architecture, and museums, I'd been wanting to go to the Glenstone for such a long time. But you have to make a reservation, and I've always found it impossible to get one on a weekend! Luckily, I learned that if you take the 301 bus to the Glenstone, you do not need a reservation! So a few weeks ago on a Sunday, a friend and I had brunch at Pike & Rose and then drove over to and parked at the Rockville metro station and hopped on the bus. Yes, it's about 40 minutes from Rockville to Glenstone (you can also get on at a later stop, but I liked parking at the train station), but then you don't have to worry about getting a reservation at this incredible museum! Why should you visit? The property is incredible - when we visited in early fall?! So gorgeous. The Glenstone encompasses 300 acres of land, and there are great walking paths/trails with streams, forest, outdoor sculptures, and more. Definitely go on a beautiful day to enjoy their incredible sculpture garden paths! (Another reason to take the bus - you're not tied to a day with bad weather because of your reservation!) The indoor gallery spaces also include some really great pieces of modern/contemporary art. Wander through the gallery building slowly so you don't miss any pieces; there are some rooms that are a little hidden! The architecture of the entire museum is incredible. It really showcases the gorgeous nature/property and showcases the art beautifully. There are some spaces to grab a bite to eat while you explore. We enjoyed a cup of coffee at the Patio, which also has lovely views and peaceful vibes. If you take the bus, just be aware of the bus times returning to where you parked/started! We missed a bus and just hung out for another hour or so, which turned out to be a blessing so we were to further explore! I can't recommend the Glenstone enough - so gorgeous, interesting, free, and no reservation needed if you take the 301! It's a gem! read more

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What a wonderful peaceful place. The way nature, architecture and art comingle and compliment each other is spectacular. Various trails throughout the grounds allow you to wander and observe Various species of flora, fauna and sculptures. Head into the gallery to view other works of art in the rotating collection. Be forewarned, you need tickets for admission, FREE, but timed entry. We enjoyed a good 5 hours and accomplished seeing everything at a nice leisurely pace along with a delicious lunch at The Cafe. All staff you came in contact with were helpful, personable and knowledgeable about the art and the grounds. Daily tours are also given but we didn't time those very well. Maybe next time. read more

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What a wonderful experience. The art, grounds, vibe, and staff were lovely. We especially enjoyed the raised boardwalk through the woods. read more

Glenstone - Art Museums Near Me - Potomac, Maryland

A spectacular setting, beautiful grounds & buildings, fascinating & unique art, a hidden gem of the DMV art scene. Well worth the drive into suburban Maryland. read more

A lovely super modern experiential museum that you really have to see-because they don't let you take pictures inside the buildings. I enjoyed walking to the pavilion and Be aware that there are no children under 12 allowed, which I absolutely love. It's so calm and serene walking about and visiting the outdoor pieces. I especially enjoying getting a latte at the patio. The weather was so nice we sat outside and caught a little sunlight. read more

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Multiple visits to Glenstone. While there's not a lot outdoors, what's nice is how the area changed during the seasons. The "Shifted Rocker" (I think that was the name) we first saw during November when there was nothing growing. Coming back during the warmer weather when it's covered in flowers/plants is a different experience. The staff is friendly and helpful. While the visit today was hot and humid, at least they have water stations around the property. read more

This was a beautiful place to visit and we easily spent half a day here admiring all of the beautiful art pieces both indoors and outdoors. We opted to see the outdoor pieces first so we walked to the Koons first and made our way around the rest of the museum from there. Be prepared to walk around a mile outdoors to see everything, while the indoor part is pretty close together. My personal favorite was the Collapse and the spiral Serra piece, both of which were outside, but the indoor section was very interesting as well. I personally would have liked more context or background information for some of the art inside so I could really appreciate it, but it was still very impressive. There are plenty of water stations with paper cups outside which I thought was a great idea, and there is also a cafe and coffee shop as well. We had no issues parking or navigating the grounds. They did a great job maintaining this place! read more

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Absolutely amazing art exhibits!!! And the nature sound exhibit?! NUTS!!! Could feel it in my chest! Really amazing stuff and incredibly friendly staff. We plan to come back in March '25 when there's more on show :-) THAT BEING SAID! I wish there were more blurbs on the walls in regards to the pieces. But other than that everything is set up really nice :) I also wish the staff at each post had the option of seating. It is extremely tough on the body to stand in one space for extended periods of times... To offer a small kiosk with a little pamphlet about the artist and a stool to be sat on would look cool, or just the stool at least. The staff remained friendly all throughout and with adequate seating it would keep stamina better for longer. Speaking as someone with back issues :) No job is worth damaging your body over! read more

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This place is incredible. Huge expensive spaces between art pieces and buildings. Gave me similar vibes to Storm King in New York. Massive outdoor instillations including a dinosaur rocking horse by the same designer as the flowery dog at the Gugenheim in Spain. There are also indoor art exhibits with amazing art. Tan was an excellent tour guide for the Goldsworthy art installations. They are three buildings containing shapes and walls created with mud and clay. Hard to describe but very cool. Mandy was awesome to talk to about the Ruth Asawa pieces of work. Loved her cicada earrings too. Be sure to get tickets. If you're a teacher, check the website to gain free entry. read more

Tickets are booked out 2 months in advanced from Fri to Sunday. However I was lucky and had the day off and went on a weekday. Less crowded anyways. I had a fantastic time. My favorite museum ever. It was so peaceful and beautiful. There's also two cafes on sight with food and drinks. Very clean bathrooms and helpful workers. Multiple parking areas and carts to pick you up from and to if you're at a lot not close to the entrance. I highly recommend this museum. read more

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Associates are professional, educated and friendly. They appreciate the art and environment. Landscape is amazing and the art work is thought provoking. Spent 3+ hours. Enjoy! read more

Glenstone - Outdoor statues - Art Museums Near Me - Potomac, Maryland

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Beautiful indoor gallery spaces and outdoor trails with sculptures - if you can manage to navigate the nightmarish ticketing process and score a reservation (no small feat) then Glenstone is a wonderful, relaxing way to spend your afternoon. Be aware that while the museum's hours are until 5 PM, several of the installations & buildings (including the food pavilion) close at 4. read more

Glenstone - Koons - Art Museums Near Me - Potomac, Maryland

All good. We enjoyed outside as well, It was one of the last few days to enjoy being outside in the fresh air. Joyce

Had no idea what to expect at The Glenstone on a beautiful October day. The staff were all available for any question, but never engaged unless you asked. I loved the different levels of excitement they gave, sharing either the artist's actual description or their interpretation of the art. Most of the docents were excited to be asked and to give their ideas. The exhibits are mostly indoor, but art works dot the grounds of the beautiful 15 acre property and intriguing in their scope and subject matter. This museum is free and recommends reservations. It is worth your time to visit and enter the minds of these various artists! read more

Glenstone - Split-Rocker by Jeff Koons - Art Museums Near Me - Potomac, Maryland

Glenstone is a modern/contemporary museum that has amazing architectural designs and artwork outside. You can get tickets online for the indoor gallery exhibits ( no photography) w general admission or tickets only for the outdoor section. You will spend about two hours walking outside on a flat gravel trail around the grounds looking at beautiful artwork & bring running shoes for comfort. The scenery is beautiful w the flowers and tall trees on the trail. They have cafes and restrooms on the ground. It can be difficult to find employees on the grounds, but they have cameras everywhere instead. Overall, I was glad to check out this museum! read more

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They could make it more apparent that they discriminate against children and don't let them in. Their excuse is the kids will run around on the grass and ruin it. Their website shows pictures of people sitting on the grass and enjoying music. Was shown to a "manager" who wasn't even a manager. So discriminatory and untruthful. Drove 45 mins only to be told we couldn't enter because we had one very calm 10yo with us. Would not recommend this place at all. read more