Forever Marilyn

"Forever Marilyn" is a grand eight-meter sculpture that has become one of the most recognizable symbols of Palm Springs in the USA. The monumental statue captures the legendary actress Marilyn Monroe in her iconic pose from the film "The Seven Year Itch," at the exact moment a gust of air catches the hem of her famous white dress.

The creator of this impressive piece of art is the American sculptor John Seward Johnson. The sculpture is executed with striking expression, allowing tourists to examine not only the film diva's facial features but also the masterfully conveyed movement of the fabric. Located in the open air, "Marilyn" consistently catches the eyes of passersby with its scale and realism.

Installed near the local Art Museum, the statue was purchased by the city council to attract tourists and quickly turned into one of the state's main attractions. It is not just a monument to an actress, but a true tribute to the era of Old Hollywood, fitting perfectly into the sunny landscape of the Californian resort.

When planning a visit to the famous statue, it's helpful to have basic contact information for navigation. The site is managed by the city's resort association, so you should follow their official resource for news about special events. Below is the key information to help you find your way around.

The main activity at the foot of "Forever Marilyn" is, undoubtedly, taking photos. The sculpture is recognized as one of the most popular photo locations, and visitors enjoy competing in the originality of their angles, trying to capture themselves next to the giant figure of the actress. Thanks to its open location, the lighting here always allows for spectacular shots.

In addition to taking photos, it's worth spending some time exploring the plaza where the statue is installed. Spontaneous art performances, small city events, and tours dedicated to the history of cinema often take place here. Tourists can not only admire the craftsmanship of the sculpture but also enjoy the lively atmosphere of the downtown area.

Since the monument is in close proximity to the Art Museum, visiting "Marilyn" is convenient to combine with viewing its collections. After the cultural program, it's pleasant to stroll through the nearby streets, stop by cozy cafes, or browse designer shops located just steps away from the attraction to fully immerse yourself in the holiday atmosphere.

Getting to the famous statue is easy, as it is located in the heart of Palm Springs. If you are traveling by car from Los Angeles, the journey via the I-10 freeway will take about two hours, and the drive will treat you to picturesque views of the desert and mountains.

For those who prefer air travel, the nearest hub is Palm Springs International Airport. From the airport to the downtown area, you can quickly get there by taxi or rental car — the trip takes no more than 10–15 minutes. The city is also served by regular bus services and trains.

The site on Museum Wy is most convenient to reach on foot if you are staying in one of the central hotels. You can also use a taxi or local public transport; drivers know the location well, as it is situated right in front of the entrance to the city's art museum.

The history of this impressive monument is full of travels and discussions. The sculpture was created in 2011 and, a year later, first graced the city center of Palm Springs in the USA. In a short time, it became a local landmark, but it then went on a long tour of various American metropolises.

Marilyn's return to California in 2021 was accompanied by heated public debate. John Seward Johnson created a work that left no one indifferent: while some admired the pop art aesthetic, others criticized the statue's pose. Activists and some local residents even organized protests, trying to challenge the location of the eight-meter statue near the Art Museum.

Despite all the controversy, "Forever Marilyn" stood its ground and solidified its status as a cultural phenomenon. The city council purchased it for $1 million, believing in its ability to attract travelers from all over the world. Today, it is one of the most discussed monuments, becoming an integral part of the region's modern look.

To simply admire the impressive size of the statue and take classic souvenir photos, 20–30 minutes is usually sufficient. This time is quite enough to walk around the object and appreciate the striking detail of the sculptor's work.

If you plan to combine the visit with a trip to the neighboring Art Museum or a leisurely stroll through the central streets with their cafes and boutiques, you should set aside about 1–2 hours for this area. Such a walk will allow you to fully feel the bohemian atmosphere for which this corner of California is so famous.

Since "Forever Marilyn" is installed in an open-air public space, it is available for viewing 24/7. You can visit it at any time of the day or night, making it an ideal destination even for a late walk. In the evening, the statue is illuminated, taking on a special, almost theatrical look.

Despite the free access, visitors are encouraged to check information on the official city or resort association website. Occasionally, special city festivals or maintenance work may take place on the plaza, which could restrict access directly to the base of the sculpture.

Exploring the surroundings of "Forever Marilyn" can significantly enrich your trip. Its location in the historical center makes it easy to add other interesting locations to your itinerary, turning a short stop into a full cultural walk.

Nearby are iconic architectural sites, homes of Hollywood legends, and designer districts that hold stories of the golden age of cinema. Be sure to check the list of notable places within walking distance: