Rodin Sculpture Garden

Stanford is known worldwide as an excellent institution of higher education, but there is more. The campus is also a lovely place to spend an afternoon gazing upon larger than life bronze sculptures at the Rodin Sculpture Garden. The art exhibit is free and open to the public, so many are able to see Rodin’s iconic work.

Since this was my first visit, I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect. I thought that I might spend 15 minutes or so looking at the statues. However, once I arrived, that 15 minutes turned into several enjoyable hours.

I’ve seen photographs of The Thinker, The Gates of Hell and his other major works, and I liked them. But it is very different to see them in person and I was in awe.

There are 20 sculptures in the outdoor garden, which is open 24/7. There is also an indoor exhibit featuring Rodin’s work at the Cantor Arts Center and admission is free to this, as well. The Thinker is the first thing you’ll see, when you walk into the museum.

Adam and Eve and The Gates of Hell

Meditation

Martyr

Fallen Caryatid with Stone

Claude Lorain

Jules Bastien Lepage

John Daire

Pierre de Wissant

Walking man

Seated Woman

Prayer

The Thinker

“Nothing is a waste of time if you use the experience wisely.” Rodin

The garden is a beautiful place to visit, whether you have a few minutes or a few hours. The sculptures are arranged in a thoughtful way, so they are stunning as a group and individually.

I was there on a gorgeous weekend and quickly found a free parking space in the adjacent lot. Metered parking is available for visitors on weekdays.

The drive through the Stanford campus was beautiful and it was a real treat to see the works of Auguste Rodin.

Rodin Sculpture Garden

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