A Hidden Sculpture Garden on Main Street in Ridgefield WA
Next time you are heading down Main Street, walk just a bit further than you normally would.
Pass the library and the park, keep going beyond Viva Aesthetics, that big beautiful Sequoia and just when you see the hill dip down a bit, check out the white and yellow house on the right.
At 918 Main Street in downtown Ridgefield, there’s a front yard that feels like a tiny open-air museum — filled with metal ants, dinosaurs, colorful bottle flowers, penguins, and whimsical recycled sculptures.
It’s not a business.
It’s not a public park.
It’s someone’s home.
And it’s wonderful.
Meet Judy Reel: The Collector Behind the Creatures
This morning while walking by, I met Judy Reel, who lives at the home with her partner Kevin.
When I asked if she was the artist behind the sculptures, she laughed and said, “I wish.”
Instead, Judy curates the collection. She sources pieces from:
-
Junkyards
-
Garage sales
-
Online finds
-
Secondhand treasure hunts
After 30 years in California — and originally from Tarrytown, NY — Judy landed in Ridgefield and quietly turned her front yard into a playful sculpture garden for the neighborhood to enjoy.
Yes, Kids Are Invited
There’s even a sign welcoming children to come onto the lawn to look around.
And that’s what makes this special.
It’s not fenced off.
It’s not precious.
It’s not “look but don’t touch.”
It’s intentionally welcoming.
For moms looking for something different to do with kids in Ridgefield, this is a perfect little detour. It’s far enough down Main Street that some people may miss it, but absolutely worth the extra few minutes.
Dinosaurs, Metal Ants & Recycled Whimsy
The yard features:
-
A large rusted dinosaur sculpture
-
A massive metal ant stretching across the lawn
-
Bottle “flower” installations
-
Small metal flower stakes
-
Penguins and other creatures tucked between plants
-
Recycled art pieces that feel playful, not cluttered
Judy mentioned she doesn’t want it to start looking like a junkyard — and it doesn’t.
If anything, you might leave hoping she finds that large brontosaurus or brachiosaurus she said she’s keeping an eye out for.
Because honestly? That would be amazing.
(hit us up if you have a metal dinosaur supplier, and we will pass on the details)
Small community stories like this are what make downtown Ridgefield feel alive.
It’s not polished.
It’s not commercial.
It’s just a neighbor choosing to make their space joyful — and inviting others to enjoy it too.
So next time you’re walking Main Street, tell the kids, head over to Judy’s Critter Garden and say hi!
