The Exposition Park Rose Garden, a breathtaking oasis in Los Angeles, can sometimes stand in the shadow of the park’s other attractions. Yet since 1927, it has enchanted visitors with thousands of roses, vibrant in color and sweet in fragrance, offering a serene escape from urban life.
Originally part of the city’s Agricultural Park until 1911, this site hosted diverse activities — from horse, camel, and dog racing to markets where farmers sold their wares. Plans to establish the rose garden were announced in 1914, though actual construction began much later.
Designed in the late 1920s by landscape architect George W. Kelham in collaboration with the Olmsted Brothers, sons of renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, the garden embodies the principles of the City Beautiful movement. This influential urban planning philosophy aimed to enhance civic beauty through parks, boulevards, and gardens — which hoped to provide civic pride amidst the rapid urbanization of many American cities.
Throughout its life, the garden has been a place of peace and serenity for many, but even so it once faced threats of removal. In 1986, plans to build an underground parking lot sparked public outcry, preventing its destruction. Subsequently, attempts by the Raiders to use the site as an NFL practice field were also unsuccessful. In recognition of its significance, the garden was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1991.
Today, the Exposition Park Rose Garden remains a beloved attraction — and is home to over 15,000 roses, including hybrid tea roses, floribunda roses, and old garden roses. These flowers showcase a spectrum of colors from delicate pastels to vibrant reds and yellows — making it ideal for picnics and the perfect backdrop for romantic dates and memorable photo shoots. Visit any time during the week, and you’ll likely find folks taking quinceañera photos and family portraits.
The park also hosts a variety of public events throughout the year, ensuring its permanent place as a cherished destination for Angelenos and visitors alike. For more details visit Exposition Park’s calendar here.
📍Location: 701 State Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037
🌹Hours: Monday-Sunday, 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.