Exposition Park Rose Garden, Los Angeles, California - Image 1
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Exposition Park Rose Garden Los Angeles

4.7
·3k reviews·Los Angeles, United States

A vibrant, free urban oasis showcasing thousands of roses in a historic Los Angeles park.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Peak bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Exposition Park Rose Garden, Los Angeles, California - Image 1

Exposition Park Rose Garden Los Angeles

Best Time

Spring mornings

Peak bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant, free urban oasis showcasing thousands of roses in a historic Los Angeles park.

4.7
(3k reviews)

"A beautiful, tranquil escape with stunning roses, perfect for a peaceful stroll or photos."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌸 Smell the Roses!

Visit during bloom season (spring-fall) for the most vibrant colors and intoxicating fragrances.

🚇 Transit is Easy

Take the Metro E Line to Expo Park/USC for direct access.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Rose Collection

The Grand Rose Collection

Throughout the garden

Thousands of roses in a stunning array of colors and varieties, creating a fragrant and visually spectacular experience.

Central Gazebo & Fountain

Central Gazebo & Fountain

Center of the garden

A picturesque gazebo offers shade and a perfect spot for photos, often complemented by a charming central fountain.

Manicured Lawns & Benches

Manicured Lawns & Benches

Surrounding the rose beds

Spacious, well-kept lawns provide ample space for strolling, picnicking, or simply relaxing amidst the blooms.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Peak Blooms

While beautiful year-round, the Exposition Park Rose Garden truly shines from spring through fall. For the most vibrant displays and pleasant weather, aim for late spring or early summer. Be aware that some visitors note the garden is closed for maintenance from January to mid-March, so check ahead if planning a winter visit.

Getting There & Parking Smart

This garden is easily accessible via the Metro E Line (Expo Park/USC station),Reddit making it a transit-friendly option. If driving, parking is available nearby, though it can fill up, especially on event days at the adjacent Coliseum or museums. Consider arriving early or using public transport to avoid parking hassles.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Peak bloom, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

[🔗 IN BIO] Warm days are coming, time to escape and smell the roses. ⛲️🌹⁠ ⁠ Head to the link in our bio for a list of gardens you should visit this spring. #losangeles #gardens #thingstodoinla #escapes #wellness #nature #wellnessandnature #Outdoors #flowers #mysecretla
@secret.losangeles
37K likes • 477K views

🌸 Smell the Roses!

Visit during bloom season (spring-fall) for the most vibrant colors and intoxicating fragrances. TikTokInstagram

🚇 Transit is Easy

Take the Metro E Line to Expo Park/USC for direct access. Reddit

Have you been here? 📍Exposition Park Rose Garden #reels #travel #travelgram #california #socal #dtla #losangeles #hiddengems #secretspots #discovercalifornia
outnabouttravels77
204 likes • 4.9K views
If you love roses like I do, you will love this place. One of LA’s best kept secret is the Rose Garden located in Exposition Park in the heart of bustling LA. At its completion in 1928, this was the largest public rose garden in the US. The garden has a water fountain in the center, gazebos, and benches scattered throughout. It’s a great place to relax, have picnic and appreciate the beauty of n...
angelilax
516 likes • 33.1K views

📸 Perfect Photo Ops

The gazebo and colorful rose beds offer stunning backdrops for photos. Instagram+1

🧺 Picnic Potential

Bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawns, but note restrooms might be outside the garden. Reddit

Bloom explosion The Exposition Park Rose Garden located in Los Angeles, California. A true gem hidden in the city • • • • • #reels #reelsinstagram #explore #rose #roses #roses🌹 #plants #plantsofinstagram #plantsplantsplants #plantsmakepeoplehappy #plantlover #plantsmakemehappy #expositionparkrosegarden
botanstuff
136 likes • 2.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌸 Smell the Roses!

Visit during bloom season (spring-fall) for the most vibrant colors and intoxicating fragrances. TikTokInstagram

🚇 Transit is Easy

Take the Metro E Line to Expo Park/USC for direct access. Reddit

📸 Perfect Photo Ops

The gazebo and colorful rose beds offer stunning backdrops for photos. Instagram+1

🧺 Picnic Potential

Bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawns, but note restrooms might be outside the garden. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and strolling, so wear comfy shoes! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Exposition Park Rose Garden for its stunning beauty and tranquil atmosphere, calling it a peaceful oasis in the city. While many highlight the well-maintained roses and picturesque setting, some note occasional issues with upkeep or disruptive visitors, and the fountain not always being operational.

"The roses were very pretty! And watching different birds land butterflies fly around was fun. The plots could be better kept, and there was group of kids on bikes vaping and bringing a worse vibe to a usually tranquil area. Plus the fountain wasn’t working 😞 but it was very pretty, and definitely a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Totally recommend!"

Isaac Bunkers

"Beautiful rose garden. Very well maintained, clean, and filled with stunning varieties of roses. The central fountain is spotless and gorgeous.

Perfect spot for a family day. The lawn is perfectly manicured, and there are plenty of shaded areas with seating. We visited for Mother’s Day, right after a trip to the Natural History Museum. Highly recommended. We parked nearby and, just a 3-minute walk after the museum visit, enjoyed a lovely stroll through the rose garden before heading back to the car."

Chef Tommaso

"I hadn’t been to the Rose Garden in many years and was pleasantly surprised to see that it’s as beautiful as I remember it. The roses are well-maintained and the grassy areas are perfect for strolling or running. There’s a gazebo which is great for resting and to take pictures. There’s also a beautiful fountain that sometimes is drained and blah, but when we were there last Sunday at around 6 pm, it was working and it looked beautiful! Although we went there in passing on our way to BMO stadium after getting off the metro, you might want to visit after spending the day at the Natural History Museum or Science Center located adjacent to the Rose Garden. A couple of the pictures I’ve included here aren’t the best because the sun was on my face, but I included them so you could see the background."

Karina Romay

What People Like

Beautiful rose varieties
Peaceful atmosphere
Free admission

What People Dislike

Fountain not working
Occasional upkeep issues
Disruptive groups

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The garden is conveniently located in Exposition Park, Los Angeles. The easiest way to get there is by taking the Metro E Line (Expo Park/USC station), which stops right outside the park.Reddit If driving, there are parking lots available nearby, but they can fill up quickly, especially on event days.

Yes, there are parking lots within Exposition Park. However, parking can be limited and may incur a fee, particularly when there are events at the nearby BMO Stadium or Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Arriving early or using public transport is often recommended.

Absolutely! The Exposition Park Rose Garden is very transit-accessible. The Metro E Line (Expo Park/USC station) is located directly across from the park, making it a breeze to reach without a car.Reddit

From Downtown LA, you can take the Metro E Line directly to the Expo Park/USC station. This is a quick and efficient way to reach the garden without dealing with traffic or parking.

Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off at designated areas within Exposition Park, typically near the museums or the Coliseum, which are a short walk from the Rose Garden.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Exposition Park Rose Garden is free to enter and explore. It's a public park, making it an accessible and enjoyable destination for everyone.Reddit

The garden is generally open daily from sunrise to sunset. However, it is closed for maintenance from January 1st to March 15th each year. It's always a good idea to check the official Exposition Park website for the most current hours and any temporary closures.

The garden is typically closed for annual maintenance from January 1st to March 15th. Outside of this period, it's open daily. Visitors planning a trip during these months should verify its status.

Since admission is free, no advance booking is required to visit the Exposition Park Rose Garden. You can simply show up during its operating hours.

Generally, the main restrictions involve respecting the plants and maintaining a peaceful environment. Bicycles are usually not allowed on the garden paths, and visitors are asked to stay on designated walkways. Some reviews mention issues with groups disrupting the tranquility.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The central gazebo, the vibrant rose beds themselves, and the fountain are prime photography locations.Instagram+1 The pathways winding through the roses also offer beautiful framing opportunities. Early morning or late afternoon light provides a softer, more flattering glow for your shots.Instagram

Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged in the Exposition Park Rose Garden. It's a popular spot for photographers, especially during bloom season.Instagram+1

While personal cameras and tripods are usually permitted for casual photography, it's advisable to check Exposition Park's specific policies regarding professional equipment or commercial shoots, as these might require permits or have different regulations.

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful, soft light for photography. Midday sun can be harsh and create strong shadows, though it still works for capturing the vibrant colors of the roses.Instagram

Don't miss capturing the full sweep of the rose beds, the intricate details of individual blooms, and the charming architecture of the gazebo. The fountain, when operational, adds a lovely element to photos.Reddit

🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience

The primary activity is enjoying the beauty of the roses, strolling through the paths, and relaxing. It's a peaceful escape where you can admire the diverse collection of roses, enjoy the central fountain, and take photos.Instagram+1 It's also adjacent to several museums, making it a great addition to a day of cultural exploration.

Yes, it's a wonderful spot for families. The well-maintained lawns are great for kids to run around, and the beautiful scenery provides a pleasant environment for a family outing.Reddit It's a peaceful contrast to the more active museum visits nearby.

Restroom facilities are not directly within the Rose Garden itself. However, public restrooms are available in the nearby museums (Natural History Museum, California Science Center) and other areas of Exposition Park. Some visitors have noted this as a minor inconvenience.Reddit

Picnicking is generally allowed on the lawns surrounding the rose beds. While some reviews mention eating picnics just outside the garden due to a lack of immediate facilities,Reddit the open spaces are conducive to enjoying a meal outdoors.

The garden is known for its tranquility and beauty, offering a peaceful respite from the city's hustle.Instagram While generally serene, some visitors have noted occasional disruptions from groups, so the vibe can vary.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dedicated food vendors or cafes directly within the Exposition Park Rose Garden. However, you can bring your own picnic to enjoy on the surrounding lawns.Reddit

The surrounding Exposition Park area has several dining options, particularly within the museums like the Natural History Museum and the California Science Center. Additionally, the nearby USC campus offers various eateries, from casual cafes to more substantial restaurants.

Yes, visitors are generally welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy in the park's open spaces. It's a popular spot for picnics.Reddit

Yes, the area around Exposition Park and the adjacent USC campus has numerous restaurants catering to various tastes and budgets. You can find everything from quick bites to sit-down meals.

You'll find a diverse range of cuisines, including American diner fare, Mexican, Italian, and Asian options, especially around the USC campus. Many offer student-friendly prices.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Exposition Park Rose Garden is a fantastic, free outing for families. The expansive, well-maintained lawns provide plenty of space for children to run and play safely.Reddit It's a peaceful environment that offers a gentle introduction to nature and a beautiful backdrop for family photos. The nearby museums in Exposition Park, like the California Science Center and Natural History Museum, offer engaging activities for kids, making it easy to combine a visit to the gardens with educational fun.Instagram

While there aren't restrooms directly within the garden, facilities are available in the adjacent museums. Packing a picnic is a great idea, as the open lawns are perfect for a family meal. The vibrant colors of the roses are sure to captivate young imaginations, making it a memorable experience for all ages.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers

For solo travelers looking for a tranquil escape, the Exposition Park Rose Garden is an ideal destination. It offers a serene atmosphere where you can wander at your own pace, enjoy the fragrant blooms, and find a quiet bench to read or reflect.Instagram The garden's beauty provides a calming contrast to the city's energy, allowing for a moment of peaceful contemplation.

Its accessibility via public transport makes it easy to visit independently. You can spend as much or as little time as you like, soaking in the natural beauty. The garden is also a great spot for solo photography, allowing you to capture the intricate details of the roses without feeling rushed.

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

The Exposition Park Rose Garden is a highly sought-after location for photographers and content creators, thanks to its stunning floral displays and picturesque features like the gazebo and fountain.Instagram+1 The sheer volume and variety of roses offer endless creative possibilities, from macro shots of individual petals to wide-angle views of the entire garden. Visiting during the golden hours can elevate your photography with beautiful, soft lighting.Instagram

While personal photography is generally welcomed, it's wise to be aware of any specific park regulations regarding commercial shoots or the use of extensive equipment. The garden's accessibility via Metro also makes it a convenient spot for creators to visit for a quick photo session or to incorporate into a larger LA exploration video or reel.TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Blooming History

The Exposition Park Rose Garden, established in 1914 and redesigned in 1928, was once the largest public rose garden in the United States.Instagram It was created to beautify the area surrounding the California Rose Society's annual rose trials. Over the decades, it has undergone various renovations and expansions, always maintaining its status as a beloved horticultural landmark in Los Angeles.

Today, the garden boasts over 15,000 rose bushes, representing more than 200 varieties. This impressive collection makes it a significant site for rose enthusiasts and a beautiful backdrop for visitors seeking a moment of natural beauty. The garden's enduring appeal lies in its ability to offer a serene escape within the bustling urban landscape of Los Angeles.Instagram

Its proximity to other major cultural institutions like the Natural History Museum, California Science Center, and the California African American Museum makes it an integral part of the Exposition Park experience. Many visitors combine a visit to the gardens with a trip to these museums, creating a full day of exploration and enjoyment.InstagramReddit

Capturing the Colors: Photography Tips

The Exposition Park Rose Garden is a photographer's dream, especially when the roses are in full bloom. The sheer variety of colors and textures provides endless opportunities for stunning shots. For the best results, consider visiting during the 'golden hours' – early morning or late afternoon – when the sunlight is soft and warm, casting a beautiful glow on the flowers.Instagram

Key photographic subjects include the vast sweeps of rose beds, individual blooms with intricate details, and the charming central gazebo and fountain.Instagram+1 Experiment with different angles and focal lengths to capture both the grand scale of the garden and the delicate beauty of each rose. The winding pathways also offer great opportunities for leading lines in your compositions.

While casual photography is welcomed, be mindful of other visitors and the garden's delicate ecosystem. Avoid stepping on the flower beds or disturbing the plants. If you plan on using professional equipment or conducting a photoshoot, it's always wise to check Exposition Park's specific guidelines regarding permits or restrictions to ensure a smooth experience.Instagram

A Transit-Friendly Oasis

One of the most praised aspects of the Exposition Park Rose Garden is its excellent accessibility via public transportation. The Metro E Line (Expo Park/USC station) stops directly across from the park, making it incredibly convenient for visitors coming from various parts of Los Angeles.Reddit This eliminates the stress of finding parking and navigating traffic, allowing you to focus on enjoying the garden.

This transit-friendly nature makes the Rose Garden an ideal destination for a spontaneous outing or a planned day trip. You can easily combine a visit to the garden with other attractions in Exposition Park, such as the Natural History Museum or the California Science Center, all accessible from the same Metro station.Instagram

For those who prefer to drive, parking is available within Exposition Park, but it can be competitive, especially on days with events at the nearby BMO Stadium or Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Arriving early or opting for the Metro are often the most hassle-free ways to reach this beautiful floral escape.Reddit