James Garner statue, Norman, OK
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James Garner Statue James Garner Plaza

4.6
·135 reviews·Norman, United States

A bronze tribute to legendary actor James Garner in his hometown plaza, offering a peaceful spot to reflect on his iconic career.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoon

Shaded benches for relaxation

CrowdLow
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James Garner statue, Norman, OK

James Garner Statue James Garner Plaza

Best Time

Afternoon

Shaded benches for relaxation

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A bronze tribute to legendary actor James Garner in his hometown plaza, offering a peaceful spot to reflect on his iconic career.

4.6
(135 reviews)

"A great tribute to James Garner and his legacy as part of Norman and Oklahoma!"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Great for family photos, especially in the afternoon shade.

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Trails

The walking trail nearby is a nice addition to your visit.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

James Garner Statue

James Garner Statue

A striking bronze depiction of James Garner in cowboy attire, celebrating his legacy.

James Garner Plaza

James Garner Plaza

A well-maintained park area with benches, offering a serene spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

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Planning Your Visit

A Tribute to a Legend

This statue honors James Garner, a beloved actor with deep roots in Norman. It's a peaceful spot to reflect on his iconic roles and contributions.

Capturing the Moment

The plaza offers a scenic backdrop for photos, especially for families wanting to capture the essence of Norman. Consider the lighting and nearby walking trails for the best shots.

Best Times

When
Afternoon
Why
Shaded benches for relaxation
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Enjoy the vibrant downtown
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Photoshoot Recomendation

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Great for family photos, especially in the afternoon shade. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Trails

The walking trail nearby is a nice addition to your visit. Reddit

💺 Relax and Unwind

Plenty of benches to sit and enjoy the well-maintained plaza. Reddit

🚗 Easy Parking

Parking is generally easy, but be mindful of trains nearby. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Great for family photos, especially in the afternoon shade. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Trails

The walking trail nearby is a nice addition to your visit. Reddit

💺 Relax and Unwind

Plenty of benches to sit and enjoy the well-maintained plaza. Reddit

🚗 Easy Parking

Parking is generally easy, but be mindful of trains nearby. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(135 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the James Garner Statue and Plaza as a fitting and well-maintained tribute to the beloved actor. Many appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, comfortable seating, and the added bonus of a nearby walking trail. It's seen as a positive addition to downtown Norman, honoring a native son's significant legacy.

"We love watching James Garner TV shows and movies! Grew up watching "The Rockford Files". We rewarched it recently and it's still a great show!! It is so nice that his hometown honored him with a statue."

Gina Blaes

"Definitely will give this area Five Stars, although I was a bit disappointed the statue didn't move. Kidding...

A great tribute to James Garner and his legacy as part of Norman and Oklahoma! The area surrounding the statue is very well-maintained and provides an excellent place to sit and enjoy the Downtown Norman area. The walking trail that dovetails into this statue also makes for a great place to meet others."

Red Star Consulting

"Finding the James Garner statue was a surprise as I drive through Norman, Oklahoma. A former prairie town and native American homeland it is now home to the University of Oklahoma. It was good to see them honor a native son who is part Native American and a Korean War hero. He received two purple hearts and went on to make a career in Hollywood as an actor. He brought us some shows such as the Rockford Files and Maverick. He was in numerous movies including The Great Escape."

Long Gone

What People Like

Fitting tribute to James Garner
Well-maintained plaza
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Statue doesn't move (jokingly)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The James Garner Statue is located in James Garner Plaza in downtown Norman, Oklahoma. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Be aware of train crossings in the area. Reddit

Information on specific public transportation routes to James Garner Plaza is limited, but Norman does have a public transit system. It's best to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the James Garner Statue and Plaza are free to visit and open to the public. It's a public space for everyone to enjoy. Reddit

As an outdoor public space, James Garner Plaza is generally accessible at all hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight for the most enjoyable experience and for safety. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The afternoon is often recommended for photos as the plaza offers shaded benches, making it a comfortable and picturesque spot. Reddit

Yes, the well-maintained plaza and the statue itself provide a lovely backdrop for family photos, capturing the essence of Norman. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the city of Norman regarding any restrictions on drone operation in public parks and near monuments.

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

You can admire the James Garner statue, relax on the benches, and enjoy the well-maintained park area. There's also a walking trail that connects to the plaza. Reddit

While specific accessibility details are not widely published, public plazas are generally designed with accessibility in mind. It's recommended to contact the city of Norman for detailed accessibility information.

Information regarding restroom facilities at James Garner Plaza is not readily available. It's advisable to plan accordingly or check with local visitor information centers.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

James Garner Plaza is a wonderful, low-key spot for families visiting Norman. The statue itself can be a point of interest for children who might recognize Garner from his classic TV shows or movies. The well-maintained plaza with its benches offers a comfortable place for parents to rest while kids can explore the open space. Reddit

Consider bringing a small picnic to enjoy on the benches, or take advantage of the adjacent walking trail for a short, family-friendly stroll. The easy parking makes it convenient for families on the go, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. It's a great way to introduce younger generations to a piece of Hollywood history connected to Oklahoma. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Influencers

For photographers and social media enthusiasts, James Garner Plaza offers a unique and meaningful backdrop. The bronze statue, especially when captured with good lighting, can make for striking portraits or thematic shots. The 'cowboy attire' aspect of the statue lends itself well to Western-themed or nostalgic photoshoots. Reddit

As suggested by a Reddit user, the plaza is ideal for outdoor photoshoots that capture the 'essence of Norman.' The afternoon shade provides softer lighting conditions, and the surrounding park area offers additional visual elements. Remember to be mindful of other visitors and the public nature of the space when planning your shots. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of James Garner

The James Garner Statue and Plaza serve as a heartfelt tribute to the legendary actor, James Garner, who had strong ties to Norman, Oklahoma. Garner was not only a celebrated Hollywood star, known for iconic roles in 'The Rockford Files,' 'Maverick,' and 'The Great Escape,' but also a Korean War hero who received two Purple Hearts. His heritage, including his Native American ancestry, is also a significant part of his story, making this statue a commemoration of a multifaceted and respected figure. Reddit

The bronze statue itself captures Garner in his classic cowboy attire, a nod to many of his memorable Western roles. It's a piece of public art that invites reflection on his career and his connection to his hometown. The plaza surrounding the statue is designed to be a welcoming space, encouraging visitors to pause and appreciate the tribute. Reddit

Visiting James Garner Plaza

James Garner Plaza is a well-maintained public space that offers a pleasant experience for visitors. The plaza features comfortable benches, providing a perfect spot to sit, relax, and take in the surroundings. It's described as a well-shaded area, making it an inviting place to escape the sun, especially during warmer afternoons. Reddit

Beyond the statue and seating, the plaza is integrated with a walking trail, which adds another dimension to the visit. This trail is noted as a great place to meet others and enjoy a leisurely stroll. The ease of parking nearby is also a significant convenience for those driving to the location, though visitors are advised to be aware of train crossings in the vicinity. Reddit

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