Bunnyhenge: A Whimsical Sculpture Garden

Nestled in the municipal center of Newport Beach, California, Bunnyhenge presents a peculiar and polarizing art display. The installation consists of 14 stark white rabbits, each uniquely adorned with differently colored expressive eyes and intricate white fur patterns, crafted from concrete and positioned in a circular formation. Two larger, eight-foot-tall rabbits stand guard nearby, completing the surreal scene. Designed by PWP Landscape Architecture and installed in 2013, Bunnyhenge was intended to transform an ordinary green space into a whimsical oasis. The artists drew inspiration from Alice in Wonderland, aiming to create a space for intrigue and discovery. However, the $221,000 price tag ignited controversy among residents, with some deeming it an irresponsible use of taxpayer money. One city council candidate even humorously suggested blowing up the bunnies. Despite the initial uproar, Bunnyhenge has endured and become a beloved, if eccentric, landmark. Children are often seen playing on the sculptures, and the surrounding park offers a pleasant space for relaxation and contemplation. The rabbits are modeled after desert cottontails, a species common to the area, connecting the art to the local environment. Located near Newport Beach City Hall, Bunnyhenge is easily accessible and offers a unique photo opportunity. Whether you find them cuddly, adorable, or absurd, the stoic bunnies of Bunnyhenge offer a memorable and thought-provoking experience.