When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden
Why Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden is a remarkable cultural and natural oasis situated on the campus of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Spanning over five acres, this garden is a thoughtfully designed space that blends art with nature, making it an exceptional place to meet up with friends, enjoy serene surroundings, and experience world-class sculptures outdoors. Envisioned by UCLA Chancellor Franklin D. Murphy in 1960 and opened in 1967, the garden was designed by landscape architect Ralph Cornell as a living work of art itself. It features gently undulating lawns, curving concrete pathways, specimen trees such as coral trees, pines, jacarandas, sycamores, eucalyptus, and redwoods, along with terraces where sculptures are masterfully integrated into the landscape. Visitors can explore more than seventy sculptures by celebrated international artists including Alexander Calder, Auguste Rodin, Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth, and Isamu Noguchi, among others. The garden’s diverse collection spans abstract and figurative styles, providing stimulating conversation starters and moments of reflection. Open 24 hours and maintained by the Hammer Museum, the sculpture garden offers a peaceful yet culturally rich environment perfect for a casual stroll, a picnic with friends, or an inspiring day out immersed in art and greenery.
Here's what people think of Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden
As of recent, Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden holds a 4.7-star rating based on 450 reviews.
Visitors consistently praise the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden for its tranquil atmosphere and exceptional variety of sculptures by internationally acclaimed artists. Many reviewers highlight the garden's carefully maintained landscape, peaceful lawns, and inviting pathways as ideal settings to unwind or gather with friends while appreciating outdoor art. Positive comments often focus on the garden’s accessibility, the thoughtful mix of modern and contemporary sculptures, and the educational value it offers to art lovers and students alike. Visitors appreciate that it is free to enter and open 24 hours, making it convenient for both spontaneous visits and planned cultural outings. On the other hand, some negative feedback mentions occasional difficulties parking nearby or a desire for more signage to identify sculptures and provide background information. A few visitors wish for enhanced lighting for evening visits. Despite these minor critiques, the overall sentiment from reviewers is overwhelmingly favorable. The Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden is celebrated as a serene urban retreat and a top destination in Los Angeles for public art, full of inspiring sculptures, lush greenery, and welcoming spaces for socializing or contemplation.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Claudia Alderete
Very nice and peaceful green area to enjoy many different styles of sculptures. Lots of nooks to sit in shaded areas, ideal to rest, read, meditate or just relax and maybe enjoy a conversation with a friend
Marisabel Neuman
This is a nice place to walk and relax inside UCLA. There are many sculptures and places to sit. Also funny squirrels that are absolutely interested IF you have food to give them.
Dr.Mohina S Kulkarni
Awesome display of unique sculptures over a sprawling garden in the heart of ucla campus...excellent details put up on all sculptures. It was mesmerizing to see mother and child....The green lawns add to the beauty. A small walk from hilgard blvd and close to the botanical gardens..simply amazing.
Yü Wu
Absolutely wonderful place to spend some time with arts in open air. There are a few dozens of sculptures of different sizes, styles and materials in this little park, and it was a pleasant and exciting experience to walk about and get to know each of them. What I appreciate the garden the most is that somehow the sculptures are nicely integrated in the space, some in the lawn, some in a fountain, some stand alone. It gives me a sense that everything can be art and art is everywhere.
Lorena Nesbitt
A truly captivating experience! The sights were stunning and the vibe was electric. I loved exploring every corner, and the staff were friendly and helpful. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area!
How to reach Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden
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Why Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden with your friends? This remarkable garden offers an exceptional setting that blends art, nature, and tranquility on more than five acres inside the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) campus. Gathering here with friends means immersing yourselves simultaneously in cultural enrichment and serene outdoor beauty. The garden’s vast collection of over 70 sculptures from world-renowned artists such as Henry Moore, Isamu Noguchi, Auguste Rodin, and Barbara Hepworth creates a stimulating environment where every corner presents a new discovery or conversation starter. Such diversity in art appeals to a wide range of interests, making it easy for all group members to find something that resonates with them. Additionally, the garden’s peaceful, open-air setting allows your group to enjoy leisurely walks, relaxed discussions, and photo opportunities amidst lush greenery and thoughtfully placed artworks. Since the garden is openly accessible 24/7 with free entry, organizing a casual meetup or planned event here is convenient and welcoming to all. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply catching up, the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden provides a uniquely memorable backdrop that elevates any social gathering into an inspiring group experience.
What activities can groups engage in at the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden? The garden encourages exploration and discovery through self-guided tours that let visitors move freely among sculptures ranging from abstract forms to figurative masterpieces. Walking together along its winding paths fosters conversation about art and creativity, ideal for friends or family members eager to share perspectives. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the dynamic interplay of light, shadow, and sculpture, making it a perfect venue for capturing memorable group photos or artistic shots. Families can also enjoy the garden’s accessible design, with wheelchair-friendly paths and plenty of open space for children to roam safely. The garden's proximity to UCLA's Broad Art Center means visitors can combine their visit with other cultural events or campus amenities. For those looking to deepen their understanding, the Hammer Museum organizes guided tours that shed light on the historical and artistic significance of many pieces, offering an engaging educational outing. With all these options, the garden is an ideal destination for groups seeking a blend of outdoor activity, cultural enrichment, and relaxed socializing.
Why is the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden perfect for a group meetup? Aside from its vast and visually captivating sculpture collection, the garden’s expansive layout ensures groups can spread out comfortably without feeling crowded. This physical space benefits conversations, games, and even small picnics in designated areas without disturbing other visitors. The garden’s serene natural environment, filled with trees, grass, and shaded benches, provides a refreshing contrast to busy urban life, making it a rejuvenating spot to reconnect with friends or family. Another advantage lies in its location on a university campus renowned for its vibrant cultural atmosphere, enabling groups to easily continue their day with visits to nearby cafes, libraries, or performance venues. Accessibility is a key strength as well; the garden features wheelchair-accessible entrances and rest areas, ensuring inclusivity for members with mobility needs. Furthermore, the garden is dog-friendly, which is perfect for groups who want to bring their furry companions along. Finally, being open 24 hours a day with no entrance fees allows group organizers maximum flexibility in scheduling their meetup around other commitments.
What makes the sculpture experience at the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden unique? The garden is home to one of the most distinguished sculpture collections in the United States, presenting works by internationally acclaimed 19th and 20th-century masters. Sculptures span a range of materials and styles—from monumental bronze and steel abstractions to delicate stone figures—offering varied sensory and aesthetic experiences. The integration of art with landscape enhances the immersive quality, where sculptures are thoughtfully placed to complement the contours, light, and vegetation of the garden. This deliberate design encourages visitors to explore different vantage points, fostering active engagement rather than passive viewing. The garden's status as an open-air museum provides a rare chance to appreciate world-class art in natural surroundings, an experience that is different from traditional indoor museums. Groups can also discuss the cultural and historical contexts of the artworks, enriching social interactions with intellectual engagement. This distinctive fusion of art and nature is both inspiring and soothing, making the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden a stand-out destination for group outings.
How does the garden support group convenience and accessibility? The garden’s accessibility features make it easy for groups to gather comfortably and inclusively. Wheelchair-accessible entrances and paths ensure members with disabilities can fully participate in the experience. Ample benches and rest areas scattered along the walking paths offer places to pause, chat, or simply enjoy the environment, accommodating various energy levels within a group. Although parking nearby can be limited, especially on weekends, the garden’s central location within UCLA allows visitors to use public transportation, ride-sharing, or bike to the site, reducing logistical stress. The presence of nearby dining options and restrooms adds further convenience for groups planning extended visits or social meals. Importantly, the garden’s free entry policy removes financial barriers, making it an accessible cultural resource for diverse communities and group sizes. Collectively, these practical amenities ensure that the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden is not only an inspiring place but also one that thoughtfully serves the needs of visitors planning social gatherings.
What kind of group events or meetups does the garden accommodate best? The garden’s open, multipurpose spaces lend themselves well to casual meetups like family reunions, friend catch-ups, or school and university club outings. Its combination of art and nature suits groups seeking a cultural twist on traditional social gatherings. Photography clubs and art students can hold workshops or photo walks, taking advantage of the garden’s rich visual subjects. The calm atmosphere also supports wellness-oriented group activities like mindful walks or informal meditation sessions amid sculptures. Small celebrations such as birthday parties or anniversaries can be enriched by the garden’s unforgettable ambiance, though larger organized events may require coordination with the university or museum staff. Additionally, educational groups including art classes or community organizations can use the space for interactive learning and discussion tours. Overall, the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden’s design and policies create a flexible setting accommodating many group sizes and purposes with minimal barriers and maximum inspiration.
Why choose the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden over other outdoor venues in Los Angeles? Compared to typical parks or plazas, this sculpture garden offers an extraordinary cultural asset — public access to a curated collection of international sculptures by some of the world’s most influential artists. It combines the immersive experience of a museum with the freshness of an outdoor setting, unlike traditional indoor museums which can feel more formal and less social. Its location on the UCLA campus integrates vibrant academic and artistic communities, providing opportunities to extend your outing beyond just the garden. The garden’s layout encourages exploration without crowds, helping groups maintain their own space, and the lush landscaping creates a tranquil retreat from urban hustle. Free, all-day access makes it unique in terms of affordability and convenience. For groups looking to connect over creative inspiration and peaceful surroundings, the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden stands out as a compelling destination unmatched by most other urban outdoor venues.
What should groups know before visiting the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden? Before planning your meetup, consider a few practical tips to enhance your experience. Although open 24/7, daytime visits are best to fully appreciate the sculptures and natural lighting. Check the UCLA campus map for parking options and public transit schedules to ease arrival logistics, especially on weekends when parking is limited. Bringing water, light snacks, and comfortable walking shoes will make your visit more enjoyable. Since the garden is an outdoor museum, respect the artwork by not touching sculptures and staying on designated paths. Dogs are allowed but must be leashed, making it welcoming for pet owners but mindful of other visitors. If interested, inquire about guided tours through the Hammer Museum to gain additional insights, particularly for groups keen on art education. Knowing these details will help your group optimize time and enjoyment while preserving the garden’s beauty for everyone.
In summary, the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden offers an exceptional setting for groups seeking a lively blend of art, nature, and social connection. Its world-class sculptures, peaceful ambiance, and practical access features combine to create a versatile venue perfect for friend gatherings, family outings, educational tours, or casual celebrations. With free entry, accessibility accommodations, and a location embedded in one of Los Angeles’s key cultural hubs, this sculpture garden is a top choice for memorable meetups that inspire creativity and deepen bonds.