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Rodin Sculpture Garden: A Breath of Art at Stanford

Experience the genius of Rodin at Stanford's free, open-air sculpture garden, showcasing iconic bronze masterpieces in a serene and inspiring setting, available 24/7.

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The Rodin Sculpture Garden, nestled on the Stanford University campus, offers a serene escape into the world of Auguste Rodin. Showcasing a remarkable collection of bronze sculptures, including iconic works like 'The Thinker' and 'The Gates of Hell,' the garden provides a unique opportunity to experience Rodin's genius in an open-air setting. Open 24/7 and free to the public, it's a perfect spot for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The garden's thoughtful landscaping, with cypress trees and gravel paths reminiscent of Parisian gardens, enhances the contemplative atmosphere. Whether you're seeking artistic inspiration or a peaceful moment, the Rodin Sculpture Garden promises an unforgettable experience amidst the vibrant energy of Stanford.

A brief summary to Rodin Sculpture Garden

  • Monday 11 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 11 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-5 pm
  • Friday 11 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during off-peak hours (early mornings or late afternoons) for a more tranquil experience and better lighting for photography.
  • Take advantage of the free guided tours offered by the Cantor Arts Center to gain deeper insights into Rodin's life and works.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Cantor Arts Center and the Anderson Collection to explore a wider range of artistic styles and periods.
  • Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing lunch amidst the sculptures, taking in the beauty of the garden and the surrounding campus.
  • Check the Stanford University events calendar for special events or performances taking place in or near the Rodin Sculpture Garden.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Palo Alto Transit Center (Caltrain/bus hub), walk west along University Avenue towards Stanford University. Continue for approximately 20-25 minutes until you reach the campus entrance. Follow signs directing you towards the Cantor Arts Center, located at the intersection of Museum Way and Lomita Drive. The Rodin Sculpture Garden is situated adjacent to the Cantor Arts Center. The walk is straightforward and well-signed.

  • Public Transport

    From the Palo Alto Transit Center, take the free Stanford Marguerite Shuttle. Several lines serve the campus, including lines C, P, or X. Check the Marguerite Shuttle schedule for the most up-to-date routes and times. Disembark at a stop near the Cantor Arts Center, such as the 'On Roth Way @ Rodin Sculpture Garden' stop. From there, it's a short walk to the garden. The Marguerite Shuttle is free and operates on weekdays (limited service on weekends). Alternatively, from the transit center, VTA bus lines 281, DB, or P Line will take you to the Stanford Oval. From there, walk towards the Cantor Arts Center, following campus signs.

  • Driving

    From El Camino Real, turn onto University Avenue towards Stanford University. Continue onto Palm Drive and follow signs to visitor parking areas near the Cantor Arts Center. Parking is limited and managed through the ParkMobile app. Rates are typically $1.50 per hour. After parking, walk towards the Cantor Arts Center; the Rodin Sculpture Garden is located adjacent to the museum. Note that parking on campus can be challenging during peak hours, especially on weekdays.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Request a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to the Cantor Arts Center, located at 328 Lomita Drive, Stanford. The ride from the Palo Alto Transit Center typically costs between $10-15, depending on traffic and demand. Upon arrival, the driver can drop you off near the Cantor Arts Center entrance, providing easy access to the Rodin Sculpture Garden. Be aware of potential surge pricing during peak hours.

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Discover more about Rodin Sculpture Garden

The B. Gerald Cantor Rodin Sculpture Garden, a jewel within Stanford University's cultural landscape, offers an unparalleled encounter with the works of Auguste Rodin. This outdoor museum, adjacent to the Cantor Arts Center, houses the largest collection of Rodin sculptures outside of Paris, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the artist's profound exploration of the human form and emotion. Since its opening in 1985, the sculpture garden has been accessible to the public 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, creating a unique space where art and nature intertwine. The garden's design, inspired by the Bagatelle Gardens in Paris, features meticulously landscaped grounds with gravel paths and towering cypress trees, providing a tranquil setting for contemplation and appreciation. Within this single acre, twenty monumental bronze sculptures stand as testaments to Rodin's mastery. Among them are some of his most celebrated creations, including 'The Walking Man,' two heads from 'The Burghers of Calais,' 'Adam,' 'Eve,' and 'The Three Shades.' Each sculpture, carefully positioned within the garden, invites viewers to engage with Rodin's artistic vision from multiple perspectives. Visually anchoring the garden is 'The Gates of Hell,' a massive and complex work cast in 1981 using the lost-wax process. This imposing sculpture, teeming with figures writhing in torment and ecstasy, serves as a powerful representation of Rodin's exploration of human suffering and redemption. The sculpture's intricate details and emotional intensity offer a captivating experience for those who take the time to study its many layers. Rodin's figures, often appearing rough or unfinished, possess a remarkable dynamism that seems to capture the very essence of human existence. A visit to the Rodin Sculpture Garden is more than just an art viewing experience; it's an opportunity to connect with the artist's vision and contemplate the complexities of the human condition. The Rodin Sculpture Garden is located in the heart of Stanford's arts district, near other cultural attractions such as the Cantor Arts Center and the Anderson Collection. This concentration of artistic treasures makes the area a must-visit destination for art lovers and anyone seeking intellectual and aesthetic enrichment. The garden's accessibility and free admission make it an inviting space for all. Whether you're a seasoned art aficionado or a casual visitor, the Rodin Sculpture Garden offers a welcoming and enriching experience. Take a stroll through the grounds, breathe in the fresh air, and allow Rodin's masterpieces to stir your imagination. The Rodin Sculpture Garden stands as a testament to the enduring power of art to inspire, provoke, and transform. Its unique combination of artistic excellence, natural beauty, and accessibility makes it a truly special place within the Stanford community and beyond. It is a place where art comes alive, inviting visitors to engage with the human spirit and discover new perspectives on the world around them. Beyond the sculptures themselves, the garden offers a space for reflection and contemplation. Benches are strategically placed throughout the grounds, inviting visitors to pause and soak in the atmosphere. The interplay of light and shadow, the rustling of leaves, and the presence of Rodin's powerful figures create a sensory experience that is both calming and stimulating. The Rodin Sculpture Garden is not merely a collection of statues; it is a living, breathing work of art that evolves with the changing seasons and the passage of time. Each visit offers a new perspective, a fresh insight, and a renewed appreciation for the genius of Auguste Rodin. Whether you're a student seeking inspiration, a tourist exploring the Bay Area, or a local resident in search of a peaceful retreat, the Rodin Sculpture Garden welcomes you to experience the transformative power of art. Come and discover the beauty, the emotion, and the enduring legacy of Rodin's masterpieces in this unique and unforgettable setting.

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