Rodin Sculpture Garden — Attraction in Palo Alto

An Incredible Museum, Especially the Rodin Statues! If you are a fan of sculpture, of Rodin, or just need a great small but incredible museum in the south Bay Area - this is your place. Located on the Stanford campus, the Cantor Art Center does not disappoint. It's not huge - it's not the Met, but it's an intimate museum with some incredible gems of art. First and foremost, go there for Rodin. They have an unbelievable collection - including one, of only two, "Gates of Hell" located in North America. So now I know - as a Cal person GO BEARS - that truly the Gates of Hell are nearby - on the Stanford Campus.

Seriously, take some time and ponder all the symbolism and incredible art in the Gates of Hell plus the other Rodin's scattered in the museum. Beyond Rodin, it has many wonderful works of art, especially in the European collection. It's handicap-friendly, open most days, and - wait for it - FREE. So a cheap, intellectual date on the Stanford Campus - you...

I work on campus. When I was considering which university to continue my training I had many options and it was honestly this sculpture garden that sealed the deal in favor of Stanford.

Rodin was a true master at the human form and these many sculptures here demonstrate how he got that reputation. I have spent hours in the garden, mostly studying for boards examinations, as the location is typically quiet and during the day there is a coffee shop nearby that sells Stumptown Coffee and, if needed, Ike's sandwiches.

The pièce de résistance is a permanent display of Rodin's "Gates of Hell" with a small copy of his "The Thinker" and top center. Truly an astounding and remarkable piece that just envelops the observer. If you're interested in sculpture at all this is a must visit place. If you're just touring Stanford's campus for the many things it offers do not...

Most things are closed at Stanford University, but you can still visit the Rodin sculpture garden and see the (dry) fountains and other outside art around the campus. Palm Drive and the Oval are impressive. Memorial Chapel's golden mosaics still glisten in the sun. There are noon concerts online to hear the amazing pipe organ to make up for not being able to go inside the church. When it reopens, do experience a concert and fantastic artwork inside.

You don't have to worry about a lot of students or tourists in your pictures now. .Nearby Stanford shopping center has good ice cream and coffee shops, and other outside dining. You can walk around the campus without many people (and no bicycles to worry about!), and grab a bite to eat nearby. Have an enjoyable day in beautiful...