I'm not sure how to describe this place. It's unlike any other I've been. That said, if you sculpture, art, history, walking, nature, and how they all intersect, you're going to like Opus 40. Essentially, a man named Harvey Fite single-handledly took over 60 acres of Saugerties and built a giant bluestone sculpture in the center of it. The beauty of the walls, the paths, the pools...it's worth checking out. The scale is incredible when you realize one man did it all himself, including hoisting the 14 foot, 9 ton stone he called FLAME in the center. Opus 40 hosts concerts, nature talks and walks, events, and more at this beautiful, serene space, so check those out. And if you're more inclined, just do what my mom and her friends do often (what I've only done once so far), and walk the grounds and take it all in. read more

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This is an interesting outdoor place to come and visit. Words cannot describe the gentlemen spending 40 years to complete this. You have to come and see for yourself the hours of shaping stones with hand tools to be an outdoor art piece that is beautiful to see, walk around to enjoy. There are park benches around where you can sit and enjoy a snack and take in all the different levels of this outdoor artwork. The entry to the park includes a road that you have to share with in/out traffic. Drive slowly and turn out if needed to let the other traffic pass. Be patient and you will enjoy the beautiful outdoors. Cost: $11 online. In person is $1 extra Tip: 1) Purchase tickets online. As we were leaving there was a sign that said park at full capacity and only those with pre-purchased tickets were allowed into the park. 2) Main parking lot can get full fast. It wasn't until after we parked and went to the ticketing office there was a sign for overflow parking. 3) I did not see a bathroom anywhere, so plan accordingly. read more

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If you like art and architecture, you will likely enjoy visiting Opus 40. What is it? A large scale outdoor, hand-crafted architectural work of art that took a man near 40 years to carve and construct. At first glance, it seems random. But walk slowly, observe how sight lines of the work draw you to the mountains in the distance and how shadows change the perspective. It's truly a masterpiece of outdoor art. Budget at least an hour to visit and wear comfortable shoes. Roads and parking: unpaved entrance and rather rough parking area. So drive your Range Rover and not your Ferrari to Opus 40 (although some of the country roads nearby provide incredible driving opportunities). Price: $12 on site for adults, $11 online with $1 service charge. Misc tips: (1) Buy tickets online. For two people or more, buying online saves at least a dollar and guarantees entrance on busy weekends. (2) Try to visit in mid-October as the leaves change. read more

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Well worth visiting including the on-site museum. I would say think about the historical context as to when this was being built. read more

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We found out the moment we checked in at Opus with my 2, $12.50 each ($14.36 w/ tax) 'Holiday Fair' Eventbrite tickets, that these guys are indeed open and not 'Temporarily Closed'. But a few things weren't 100% clear: if you're 'Closed' where are the tables laid out? Are walking and gawking at the ingenious, perfectly and methodically placed stone sculptures off limits? Are the tables sectioned off from the sculptures? Etc. Turns out, these folks were indeed OPEN for business the day after Thanksgiving AND you could have your cake and eat it too. Not only could you shop, but you could drop off your purchases in your car like we did and still roam the outdoor stone garden easily. Excellent twofer! Opus is huge anyway- so several time slots were offered to avoid overcrowding for this event. Our 1:30-3pm slot was perfect as we browsed and purchased some unique gifts for my daughter, family and for ourselves. There was also a Christmas Wreath and sash making station complete with dried berries, pine cones and other holiday touches. Also on hand were at least 10 or so local artists selling their one-of-a-kind items. Coming to Opus 40 is a destination like no other I've ever seen. Plus the extra holiday flair they've added- despite what the world is going through now, is a welcome festive touch. read more

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We went to Woodstock and then went to visit Opus 40! It was beautiful day to see sculptures, do near by trails and enjoy a nice picnic with the mountains as the backdrop. The staff was friendly and accommodating. read more

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I had never heard of this place before Saturday, when my partner decided we were going to take a ride over here. The story is pretty amazing - you should take the 10 minutes or so to watch the video when you arrive to purchase your tickets. The walls, the paths, were all constructed by one man from blue stone. (in 1938, Harvey Fite purchased an abandoned blue stone quarry - that's how it started.). There is no cement, nothing holding the stone together other than the incredible cutting and placement of the stone. It was to take 40 years, but he died three years short of that - so it was done over a period of 37 years. It's pretty amazing when you think of how much work it took for only one man. You should go and see for yourself. It's a beautiful way to spend a couple of hours. (Just check the website - they sometimes close for private events.) read more

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it was neat but if you are mobility impaired or have small children you should definitely not go!!!! it's also way too over priced for what it is. hence 3 and not 5 stars read more

Beautiful sculpture garden with lots of great events! Lobe spending the day here, and loved it when drinks from Stockade were served as a safe outdoor social option during the pandemic! read more

Opus 40 - Museums Near Me - Saugerties, New York

A little hard to find, but we eventually located the parking lot. I believe they have more than one lot though. Be careful to heed the signs to avoid trespassing on private property. The sculpture itself is quite a sight to see. Give yourself at least a couple of hours if you want to properly see everything, but if you're just breezing through, you can cover quite a bit in under an hour. Be sure to grab a map. On the other hand, if you have time to kill, you can easily picnic here. Restrooms are mainly port-a-potties, and there isn't really food there from what I could see if you were hoping to eat - just limited snacks at the gift shop. There isn't much to protect you from the elements either, so go on a day with decent weather. Wear comfortable shoes with good traction if you plan on walking the sculpture itself instead of just around it - the rocks can be quite sharp. No need to fall and hurt yourself. read more

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Opus 40 is not to be missed if you are in the area. One man's passion/obsession available to everyone. Some of the work is a little 'rocky' ; do take your walking sticks and sturdy shoes or sneakers. Not advisable on a hot day without a good broad brimmed hat. This work of art must be experienced to be appreciated. We also were pleased to find that the site has workshops in stone wall construction. read more

I started falling in love with sculptures when I saw them regularly while travelling. I found out they have parks specifically with sculptures and started seeking them out. I saw the reviews on Yelp and knew we would be in for a treat. The parking lot was a little small but they have staff organizing cars coming in and out. We visited the museum area inside and watched a brief history on the park on TV. It was cool seeing all the authentic tools and equipment used by one man to create such beautiful land art. There are soo many places to walk and see different works of beauty, This place is definitely a picturesque spot to take some cool pictures. The grounds are big enough to take a stroll and enjoy nature. This is a must see spot and worth every cent of the admission price. read more

We spent my birthday week in a beautiful Airbnb in Saugerties. What a gem of a town. About 2 hr north from our new apartment in Throgs Neck area of the Bronx, and it felt like a different world. We found Opus40, a labor of love outdoor museum built by Harvey Fite. Using his hands and hand tools, he spent 37 years turning this old quarry into this lovely place that sadly cost him his life after a fall. His wife opened up their land to visitors as a homage to her husband, and am grateful to her for sharing his passion with the public. Place is serene, and awe-inspiring. read more

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I came here for the Covid-19 social distancing event "Live Music Picnic Fridays with Dutch Ale House." This is such a beautiful and unique property. My family of 5 adults, 1 toddler, and 1 baby enjoyed exploring the art, listening to the music (horn, drum, accordion), and having a delicious picnic (lobster roll, pickled carrot, truffled coleslaw, and chocolate mousse). Here are a couple of tips: - Arrive at the start of the event to get a table - The parking lot is close enough to the lawn that you can go to and from your car for items - There are 2 very well maintained port-a-potties - The property can be explored while carrying a baby or walking closely with a toddler read more

Opus 40 - Friday picnic - Museums Near Me - Saugerties, New York

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Really unique sculpture garden! I enjoyed being able to walk around and interact with the art. It was a particularly warm day, and the "subterranean passages" were a welcome respite to the oppressive heat. My favorite spot was the pool (#14 on the map). You can even build your own sculpture! They seem to be following good safety measures for COVID-19. Admission is by pre-purchased ticket only, and masks are required. Everybody I saw seemed to be following appropriate social distancing measures. read more

I'd read a lengthy (NY Times) article about Opus 40 way back on 6/2/06 and we finally went there yesterday. It's a fascinating site and it was the passion of a man who spent more than half of his life building it. However; even though we loved it, I wouldn't suggest driving a long distance just to visit this one place. The NY Times article is entitled "A Monumental Vision of Half a Lifetime" by David Wallis and it's really worth reading. (Note that the site's hours are now 11:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. on Thursday-Sunday [from late May thru early October]). Also, senior admission is $7. read more

Beautiful stonework slate sculptures crafted by one man over 37 years. Incredible photo ops here, and a very meditative place. Be prepared for the mosquitoes -- even at noon. Wear long sleeves or bug spray if you care. Unfortunately the staff during our visit were all very unfriendly and basically non-verbal. I get that this is a summer job for some of them, but sitting on your phone and not being capable of responding is pretty negligent. read more

What a wonderful place to visit and learn some history about the area and especially this great spot ! Be sure to watch the video explaining all the stone work and you will be truly amazed read more

This place is such a fun discovery -especially with older kids. Worth the trip to what feels like the middle of nowhere. Bring a picnic ... or plan to explore nearby Restaurants in Woodstock or Saugerties. read more

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An absolute must-see if you're in the area and totally worth the admission fee. It's a beautiful, awe-inspiring place to walk around and enjoy the sculptures paired with nature. The gift shop has a little movie you can watch which is a nice way to become acquainted with Opus 40. They are not open seven days and host events so check their website for information before you go. read more

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If you have even a tendency to like art, especially land art, you may just happen upon your nirvana by taking a trip to Opus 40. It is an absolutely spectacular creation, made entirely with bluestone and made entirely by one person over a span of 37 years. If you don't like art and aren't particularly impressed with nature, don't waste your time by coming here. You will only end up writing a review about how the $10 was not worth it and that there isn't much to do here* and then those of us who are dumbfounded by this amazing piece of man meets nature will just want to punch you in the throat.** You will be greeted upon entry and directed to park in a small lot near the admissions building, which also houses a small and very interesting museum focused on the tools of the trade for stone carvers and workers in the time period. Yes, the building housing these things is not in the best shape, but this is not the attraction here. You will be given a map with information that is quite interesting while tour this massive bluestone empire. I was floored by the beauty and craftsmanship of Opus 40 and while others feel it is something to visit once and only once, I completely disagree. If you allow yourself to understand what it took one man to do this, you will want to see this more and more because it will silently tell you that you can do more, be more passionate, accomplish more. If you don't know what to do, try sitting on one of the benches for a while, turn off your phone and just observe and think. If you choose to take pictures, you will look back on them in amazement when you realize the true scale. I, for one, plan on seeing this once a year at least. I saw Opus 40 on a rainy day in August and it was still amazing. The $10 is a pittance to pay for something so intricate and inspiring. If you have heard of Andy Goldsworthy or Robert Smithson and like them, run to Opus 40. Seriously, now...go. _____________________ * This isn't an amusement park. What there is to do is to observe. Harvey Fite did not want to make things for you to do here. You are supposed to shutter at all the work it took one man to do and be eternally impressed with his passion and dedication to create something not just for himself, but for others to see in nature with Overlook Mountain as a backdrop. ** Softly though, as not to disrupt the other people enjoying Opus 40. read more

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Excellent place. 1) Opus 40 is a massive stonework that was built single handedly by Harvey Fite over the course of 37 years. 2) If you are not very much into art, this might not be your place. Since you will be done within 20 mins max. 3) Plus, they have a small museum in the second floor. read more

Opus 40 - Museums Near Me - Saugerties, New York

Pictures do not do this place justice. It's beautiful and has so many interesting little pools. Take a look for the salamanders, snakes, and frogs. My 3 year old had a great time and so did we! read more

Very impressive stone/art work done by somebody over course of 37 years. nice scenery, background (mountains) etc. place is not huge and you will be done in under 1 hour. you can still sit there and walk around the place, enjoy your lunch etc. tranquil for sure. read more

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Absolutely worth the visit. I was surprised at first at how human the scale of the site is which I didn't expect from the images I had seen. It took me a while to adjust myself to the piece but when I did I found it by turns delightful, witty and achingly beautiful but also annoyingly macho in its "Song of Myself" grandiosity. The site itself must be vastly complicated in terms of preservation and it feels a bit spotty in its upkeep. I hope it continues to be preserved and to welcome visitors for decades to come. The piece feels like a necessary point of reference in multiple arts movements like American surrealism and the beginnings of the Earthworks movement. read more

If you are not artistic... this is NOT a place for you... you could just go to a free park for the same thing... don't waste your time/money

Sorry to say I have to give this place a lower review than the other people here. First I must say it was huge and lots of rocks. Lots of stuff to see. There was a school group here when I visited. I saw one kid go sliding off the rock steps. Several places the steps were wet and covered in moss. My friend paid her $10 to go into site, then she couldn't even enjoy it because it's not handicapped accessible. If your more mobile then us old people, then come and enjoy. If you have mobility issues you're just out of luck. read more

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This is one of the coolest things I've ever seen and surprisingly off the beaten trail. I don't know why people aren't beating a new road to get this. Instead, it's only lightly attended and down a random driveway. Opus 40 is a massive stonework made of slate from a quarry that was built single-handedly by one man over the course of 37 years. He had aimed to take 40 years, but died falling into the structure. Still, what he completed is incredible. It's one of the most unique permanent outdoor earthworks I've ever seen. We visited in the fall when the leaves were on fire and the grass was still green. I imagine summer and spring would be just as beautiful. Definitely walk the subterranean passages if you're not claustrophobic to really feel it. And even though it's corny, it's helpful to watch the video in the museum store first if you don't know much about it. read more

This place was stunning and is a must visit if you find yourself in the area. They are not open to the public every day but you can call and make an appointment on an off day. We were there practically alone which was extra special. The grounds feel like they go on forever, be sure to check them out and take a walk. read more

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I'm not sure what the hype here is. It was $12 to get into a park of rocks. Half of the park was closed off and there were mosquitos everywhere. So much stagnant water. Not good! read more

I came here because of the website and the National Park Passport stamp (ask for it at the desk!). Anyone who follows my reviews already knows that I will visit anything if it has a stamp. ;) That said, this is unique and very cool. Wear comfortable shoes, because the whole point of this is to walk around on the giant sculpture. There are a few levels, so you can explore it from all angles. A visit here is what you make of it. There is a short film and a museum of the tools Harvey Fite used to create Opus 40; I will admit to skipping that. There is a nice picnic area along with some walking trails, so you could make a peaceful afternoon of it if you pack a lunch. Four stars instead of five because I also think $10 is steep. However, the sculpture did suffer some damage last winter and will require restoration, so I'm sure they need that cash right now! It's a nice place to commune with nature. read more

Fortunately I hit Opus 40 on it's opening day and it was free.That's a good thing because $10 a head to see it is a bit steep. It's interesting and even kind of impressive but much as I hate to say it , it is not a $10 attraction .It is very unlikely that you will want to spend more than an hour here and truth is a half hour may suffice. What is it? Well I guess it's a rock sculpture.The effect is that of a recreated ruin that reminded me of Indian structures in the Southwest but for the darker stone.Hovenweep or parts of Mesa Verde come to mind.Go if you're in the area but you probably won't go back .It's interesting but not that interesting .Come to think of it , it reminded of Carhenge in Nebraska as well but that's free and funnier. read more

The Ryans described this place accurately. It gets 5 stars from me as I've never paid to go here. I agree $10 may be a bit pricey. And also, more importantly, this is where I proposed to my fiancee. She grew up next to Opus 40 and it has a place in her heart and now ours. There are cool sculptures around the area and some smaller ones set around some of the sheds that are sometimes tough to see. It is a beautiful place to take a walk around and listen to nature. read more

Came here yesterday on the recommendation of the sweet lady that works at Tanzy's in Hudson. My boyfriend and I drove out on a Monday evening after the museum was closed but the entrance gate was still open, the monolith grounds were still accessible to the public, and it was about an hour until sunset. The grounds were incredible, reflective of the foresight and dedication of former professor and sculptor Harvey Fite who must've known what a stunning and magical space this would be to the public. What's also noteworthy is what close proximity this space is from beautifully ordinary farm houses you'll see along the way when you drive there. This is a must if you're staying in the Hudson area. The drive is gorgeous, lots of wheat fields, abandoned barns, and wide open meadows for you to get out of the car and run through. read more

What an amazing work of art. All stone laid out shaped and organized to be a true masterpiece. Do yourself a favor and visit it walk around and enjoy. read more

Opus 40 - Museums Near Me - Saugerties, New York

Mind blown. This is the culmination of one very driven man's work over 37 years, which is amazing, if this was all he did, but he was also a full-time professor at Bard and on the ski Patrol at Hunter Mountain during the winter when he couldn't be out in the quarry. Oh, did I mention that he built all the buildings on site himself, by hand? It's an awesome place to visit when you're in the area, and very humbling, to say the least. read more

Really amazing stone work! Definitely check it out when you can. We went and saw so.e live music there over the summer, local restaurants had food and drinks on site. read more

Not a whole lot to see and explore. $10 fee each for admission. It was nice to see how 1 man could do such design and curve by himself. Thoroughly impressed by it. Would be a nice place to a nap if you have the time. read more

Opus 40 - Museums Near Me - Saugerties, New York

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Beautiful and peaceful. Scenic drive. Entrance few $10... $7 for senior or student. A must see location read more

Opus 40 - Museums Near Me - Saugerties, New York

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ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!! A must visit when you are visit Woodstock area. Opus 40 is gorgeous and it's hard to believe someone can make something so beautiful. I saw pictures of this before I went but it doesn't match the real deal. Make sure to check out this spot when you're in the neighborhood. read more