Looking for something different to do in Los Angeles that doesn’t cost a thing? I recently went on a date to the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Exposition Park, and I think the Park and Gardens alone are worth a visit! I love the Lucas Museum, but there’s so much more to see beyond the galleries. Surrounding this incredible building is a beautiful 13-acre park and garden filled with winding pathways, green lawns, gardens and 10 beautiful outdoor sculptures.
And here’s the best part: You don’t need a museum ticket to explore the grounds!
The Park & Gardens are free and open to the public. You can come just to walk around, admire the architecture, check out the sculptures, or find a spot on the grass to relax. My husband and I had a lovely visit at the museum and we started our date at the gardens.
The 10 outdoor sculpture installations scattered throughout the landscape, and they tell stories from history, popular culture, and film.
1. The Introduction – Lawrence Noble (2025)
A familiar duo from the Star Wars universe! This sculpture features Yoda and Grogu, bringing two generations of the beloved characters together.
2. Maternity – Fernando Botero (2015)
A beautiful bronze sculpture of a mother and child by Colombian artist Fernando Botero.
3. Eadweard Muybridge with Camera – Lawrence Noble (2025)
This sculpture honors photographer Eadweard Muybridge, a pioneer in motion photography whose work helped change the way we understand movement.
4. Willis O’Brien – Lawrence Noble (2025)
A tribute to Willis O’Brien, the legendary stop-motion animation pioneer best known for bringing King Kong to life. A fun piece celebrating an important figure in film history.
5. David After the Combat – Antonin Mercié
This late 19th-century bronze sculpture depicts David after his victory, capturing a dramatic moment of triumph.
6. Padmé Fights Off Nexu – Mark Newman (2026)
Star Wars fans will recognize this scene from Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones. Padmé takes on the Nexu in this bronze sculpture.
7. Princess Leia Frees Herself from Jabba the Hutt – Mark Newman and Giovanni Nakpil (2025)
One of the standout pieces for Star Wars fans! This bronze sculpture captures the iconic moment from Return of the Jedi when Princess Leia frees herself from Jabba the Hutt. Definitely one you’ll want to stop and photograph.
8. Emiliano Zapata en Cuernavaca – Lucy Topete (2025)
A sculpture commemorating Emiliano Zapata, one of the most recognizable leaders of the Mexican Revolution.
9. Terracotta Daughters – Prune Nourry (2022)
This installation features eight bronze sculptures, representing the artist’s exploration of gender, heritage, and identity.
10. Rosie the Riveter – Benjamin Victor (2025)
A tribute to the iconic American working woman who represents the millions of women who stepped into the workforce during World War II.
A Few Things to Know Before You Go
- Location: One Lucas Plaza, Exposition Park, Los Angeles, CA 90037.
- Admission: Free for the Park & Gardens.
- Park hours: 8 AM until sunset.
- Museum admission: Separate ticket required (currently $25 for adults).
- Picnic blankets: Allowed on the grounds.
- Good to know: You don’t need a museum reservation to visit the grounds, but entry can be temporarily limited when the campus is busy.
Whether you’re a Star Wars fan, an art lover, or just looking for a new place to explore in LA, I think this is one worth adding to your list.
Remember sometimes the best dates don’t have to cost anything!
