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Exposition Park Rose Garden: A Floral Oasis in Los Angeles

Discover a breathtaking oasis in the heart of Los Angeles at the Exposition Park Rose Garden, where over 15,000 roses create a vibrant tapestry of color and fragrance, offering a serene escape for all.

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Escape the urban bustle at the Exposition Park Rose Garden, a seven-acre haven boasting over 15,000 roses in a stunning array of colors and varieties. Established in 1927, this historic garden offers a tranquil retreat with its meticulously maintained pathways, elegant gazebos, and central fountain. Originally part of an agricultural park, the garden has evolved into a beloved landmark, hosting countless weddings, photo shoots, and peaceful strolls. Adjacent to the California Science Center, Natural History Museum, and the University of Southern California, the Rose Garden provides a serene and fragrant escape, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its beauty and tranquility. Open daily, it's a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon, a romantic date, or simply a moment of quiet reflection amidst the vibrant blooms and sweet scents.

A brief summary to Exposition Park Rose Garden

  • Monday 9 am-7:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-7:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-7:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-7:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-7:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-7:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-7:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the peak bloom season (April-May) for the most vibrant display of roses and the most fragrant experience.
  • Check the Exposition Park calendar for events, as road closures or limited access may occur during special occasions.
  • Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a relaxing lunch amidst the roses, but remember that alcoholic beverages and smoking are not permitted.
  • Consider taking the Metro Expo Line to the Expo Park/USC station for convenient and affordable access to the park.
  • The garden is a popular wedding location, so be prepared to share the space or witness a romantic ceremony during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The most convenient way to reach the Exposition Park Rose Garden is via the Metro E Line (Expo). Exit at the Expo Park/USC station, which is located just north of the Rose Garden. From the station, walk south towards Exposition Park, and the Rose Garden will be directly ahead. A single fare on the Metro is $1.75.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    If arriving by taxi or ride-sharing service, set your destination to 701 State Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037. Be aware that on non-event days, drop-offs are accommodated on Exposition Park Drive, near the California Science Center or Natural History Museum. Rideshare pick-ups should be hailed from outside the park. During events, traffic patterns may change, potentially impacting drop-off and pick-up locations. A short ride from downtown Los Angeles will typically cost between $10-$15, depending on traffic.

  • Driving

    If driving, enter Exposition Park at the intersection of 39th and Figueroa Streets or at the intersection of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Hoover Street. Follow the guest parking signs to the parking structure. Parking costs $20 until 5:00 p.m. and $24 after 5:00 p.m. Keep in mind that parking can be limited during events at the Coliseum or other venues within Exposition Park.

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Discover more about Exposition Park Rose Garden

The Exposition Park Rose Garden, a verdant jewel nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, offers a captivating escape from the city's relentless energy. This seven-acre sunken garden, a testament to horticultural artistry, showcases over 15,000 rose bushes representing more than 200 varieties, creating a symphony of colors and fragrances that enchants visitors year-round. Originally conceived as part of the city's Agricultural Park in the late 19th century, the land that now cradles the Rose Garden had a rather colorful past. Before the roses bloomed, the site was a hub of activity, hosting horse, camel, and dog races, and even a lively market where farmers peddled their goods. In 1914, the vision of a wildflower garden emerged, but it wasn't until 1927 that the Rose Garden, as we know it today, began to take shape. The garden's design, a collaborative effort between landscape architect George W. Kelham and the Olmsted Brothers, embodies the principles of the City Beautiful movement, an early 20th-century urban planning philosophy that sought to enhance civic pride and beauty through parks, gardens, and grand boulevards. The result is a harmonious blend of formal design and natural splendor, a space that invites contemplation and appreciation. As you wander through the garden's meticulously maintained pathways, you'll be greeted by a breathtaking panorama of roses. Hybrid tea roses, floribunda roses, and old garden roses unfurl their petals in a dazzling display of colors, from delicate pastels to vibrant reds and yellows. The air is thick with their sweet perfume, creating an immersive sensory experience that soothes the soul. The garden's layout is thoughtfully designed, with 166 beds arranged in four quadrants, each adorned with elegant gazebos. These gazebos provide shaded retreats where visitors can pause, relax, and soak in the beauty of their surroundings. A central fountain adds a touch of grandeur, its gentle cascade of water providing a soothing soundtrack to the floral spectacle. Adding to the garden's charm are four marble statues by Danish sculptor Thyra Boldsen, installed in 1936. These statues, titled "Nymph Finding Pipes of Pan," "The Blessing," "The Start," and "Terpsichore," celebrate womanhood, motherhood, love, life, and joy, adding a layer of artistic and symbolic depth to the garden's ambiance. The Exposition Park Rose Garden has long been a cherished destination for Angelenos and visitors alike. It's a popular spot for weddings, photo shoots, and family outings, a place where memories are made against a backdrop of floral splendor. The garden's serene atmosphere also makes it a haven for those seeking quiet reflection and respite from the urban frenzy. Over the years, the Rose Garden has faced its share of challenges. In the 1980s, plans to build an underground parking lot threatened its existence, but public outcry saved it from destruction. The garden's resilience is a testament to its enduring appeal and its importance to the community. Today, the Exposition Park Rose Garden stands as a testament to the power of beauty and tranquility in an urban environment. It's a place where visitors can reconnect with nature, celebrate life's milestones, or simply find a moment of peace amidst the city's hustle and bustle. Whether you're a seasoned rosarian or simply someone who appreciates natural beauty, the Exposition Park Rose Garden is sure to captivate your senses and leave you with a lasting impression. The Rose Garden is more than just a collection of flowers; it's a living work of art, a testament to the enduring power of nature to inspire and uplift the human spirit. It's a place where beauty blooms, memories are made, and the soul finds solace. Visiting the Exposition Park Rose Garden is a journey into a world of color, fragrance, and tranquility. It's an experience that will stay with you long after you've left its gates, a reminder of the simple joys that can be found in the heart of a bustling city. Whether you're seeking a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a moment of quiet contemplation, the Exposition Park Rose Garden offers something for everyone. Come and discover the magic of this floral oasis, and let its beauty inspire your soul.

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