Arnot Art Museum in downtown Elmira, NY.
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Arnot Art Museum

4.8
·86 reviews·Elmira, United States

A small gem in Elmira, NY, featuring high-quality American and European art, including the Hudson River School, with rotating exhibitions.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Enjoy art without the crowds

CrowdLow
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Arnot Art Museum in downtown Elmira, NY.

Arnot Art Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Enjoy art without the crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A small gem in Elmira, NY, featuring high-quality American and European art, including the Hudson River School, with rotating exhibitions.

4.8
(86 reviews)

"A small gem! Wonderful staff and very nice paintings to see, and other art, including some Hudson River School!"

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TIP

🎯 Friendly & Informative Staff

The staff are a highlight, offering friendly service and valuable insights into the art.

🖼️ Rotating Displays

Check what's new! Exhibits change every 3 months, offering fresh art to discover.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

1890s Picture Gallery

1890s Picture Gallery

First Floor

Step back in time in this beautifully preserved gallery, showcasing historical art and ambiance.

Hudson River School Collection

Hudson River School Collection

Various Galleries

Admire stunning landscapes and masterful brushwork from this iconic American art movement.

Rotating Exhibitions

Rotating Exhibitions

Main Galleries

Discover fresh perspectives with regularly changing displays, ensuring a unique visit each time.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds, Maximize Your Visit

The Arnot Art Museum is a gem, but can get busy. Visiting during weekdays, especially mornings, offers a more intimate experience. Check their website for current exhibitions, as rotating displays mean there's always something new to see. Instagram

Art Lover's Paradise in Elmira

This museum packs a punch with high-quality pieces, including Hudson River School works. It's perfect for a thoughtful, uncrowded stroll. Plan for a pleasant hour or two to fully appreciate the collection. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Enjoy art without the crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (Mon-Fri)
Why
Quiet contemplation
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @deannawaltman the two locations I showed are Big Dills in the Arnot Mall in Big Flats, NY and Buster’s Discount Bins in Elkland, PA —> share yours below! @julietsfinds #amazonbinstore #amazonreturnstore #amazon #amazonfinds #reseller #resellercommunity #amazonbins #thrifting #thrifted #
@julietsfinds
4.2K likes • 93.4K views

🎯 Friendly & Informative Staff

The staff are a highlight, offering friendly service and valuable insights into the art. Reddit

🖼️ Rotating Displays

Check what's new! Exhibits change every 3 months, offering fresh art to discover. Reddit

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@rocthecitywithhope
2.2K likes • 19.5K views
Beat the heat at the Arnot Art Museum n Elmira NY! #arnotart #arnotartmuseum #elmira #elmirany #cityofelmira #exploreelmira #discoverchemung #art #artmuseum
cityofelmira
41 likes • 707 views

🚶‍♀️ Uncrowded Strolls

Perfect for a quiet, thoughtful visit. Enjoy high-quality art without the usual museum hustle. Reddit

🏛️ Beat the Heat

A great indoor escape on hot days, offering a cool and artistic respite. Instagram

Visit the 1890s Picture Gallery and take look back through time. #arnotartmuseum
arnotartmuseum
24 likes • 922 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Friendly & Informative Staff

The staff are a highlight, offering friendly service and valuable insights into the art. Reddit

🖼️ Rotating Displays

Check what's new! Exhibits change every 3 months, offering fresh art to discover. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Uncrowded Strolls

Perfect for a quiet, thoughtful visit. Enjoy high-quality art without the usual museum hustle. Reddit

🏛️ Beat the Heat

A great indoor escape on hot days, offering a cool and artistic respite. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(86 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Arnot Art Museum as a 'small gem' in Elmira, highlighting its surprisingly high-quality collection, including Hudson River School and European art. The friendly and informative staff are frequently mentioned as a significant positive, contributing to a pleasant and uncrowded experience perfect for thoughtful contemplation.

"What great museum! The artwork on the first floor was mesmerizing. Staff were friendly and informative"

Brenda Reeser

"Small place, but an art lover's gem in the heart of Elmira. Some extremely high quality pieces in a very quiet place. Excellent for a quick, thoughtful stroll with no crowds."

Lake Kubilius

"Very nice paintings to see, and other art, including some Hudson River School! A very pleasant hour or two!"

Joe Italiano

What People Like

High-quality art collection
Friendly and informative staff
Uncrowded atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited dining options on-site

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Arnot Art Museum is located in Elmira, NY. Visitors often arrive by car, with parking available nearby. It's also accessible via local public transport routes within Elmira. Instagram

Yes, there is typically parking available in the vicinity of the Arnot Art Museum. It's advisable to check local signage for specific parking regulations and availability. Instagram

Absolutely! The Arnot Art Museum is a great stop for those exploring the Finger Lakes region of New York. It's located in Elmira, making it accessible for day trips. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees can vary, but the Arnot Art Museum is generally considered an affordable gem. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing and any potential free admission days. Reddit

Opening hours can change, so it's recommended to visit the Arnot Art Museum's official website for the most up-to-date information on their operating hours. Instagram

For most visits, booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary, especially during off-peak hours. However, for special events or during peak times, it might be a good idea to check their policy. Reddit

The Arnot Art Museum strives to be accessible. It's advisable to contact the museum directly or check their website for specific details on accessibility features. Instagram

🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience

The Arnot Art Museum features a diverse collection, including American paintings, European art, and rotating exhibitions. You can find pieces from the Hudson River School and contemporary works. InstagramReddit

A visit to the Arnot Art Museum can take anywhere from an hour to a couple of hours, depending on your interest level and the current exhibitions. It's ideal for a thoughtful, unhurried experience. Reddit

Yes, the Arnot Art Museum has rotating exhibitions that change approximately every three months, offering new art and perspectives for visitors. InstagramReddit

Photography policies can vary by exhibition. While general photography might be allowed in some areas, it's always best to check the museum's guidelines upon arrival to respect the art and artists. TikTok

This exhibition explores themes of gender through portraiture, offering a thought-provoking look at identity and representation in art. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Arnot Art Museum typically does not have an on-site cafe or restaurant. However, Elmira offers various dining options nearby for visitors to explore before or after their visit. Instagram

Elmira has a range of eateries, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants, located within a short distance of the museum. Ask the museum staff for local recommendations. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography rules can differ for permanent collections versus special exhibitions. Always check the signage or ask museum staff about their current photography policy to ensure you're following guidelines. TikTok

While not a primary focus, the museum's architecture and certain artworks can be visually striking. The 1890s Picture Gallery offers a unique, historical backdrop. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Arnot Art Museum can be a wonderful, low-pressure outing for families. Its manageable size means kids won't get overwhelmed, and the rotating exhibitions can spark curiosity. Look for any family-specific programming or interactive elements that might be available during your visit. Instagram

Consider visiting during quieter weekday hours to ensure a more relaxed experience. The museum's staff are known for being friendly and helpful, which can be great for answering children's questions about the art. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors

For those with a deep appreciation for art, the Arnot Art Museum offers a curated selection of high-quality pieces. The Hudson River School collection and notable European works are particularly noteworthy. Reddit Keep an eye on the rotating exhibitions, as they often feature compelling contemporary artists and themes. Instagram

Engage with the knowledgeable staff to gain deeper insights into the collection and the artists. The museum's intimate setting allows for a focused study of the artworks, making it a rewarding destination for serious art lovers. Reddit

🏛️ Day-Trippers & Casual Visitors

If you're looking for a pleasant and enriching way to spend an hour or two in Elmira, the Arnot Art Museum is an excellent choice. It's a small gem that provides a high-quality art experience without the crowds or overwhelming scale of larger institutions. Reddit

Beat the heat or find a quiet escape by visiting on a weekday. The friendly staff and diverse, yet accessible, collection make it an easy and enjoyable stop for anyone looking to add a touch of culture to their day. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Arnot Art Museum's Collection

The Arnot Art Museum boasts a diverse collection that appeals to various art enthusiasts. A significant draw is its Hudson River School paintings, showcasing the grandeur of American landscapes from the 19th century. Visitors often praise the quality of these pieces, noting their ability to transport viewers to another era. Reddit

Beyond the landscapes, the museum features a notable collection of European art, including pieces like 'The Marabou' by Gerome and 'Evening' by Breton, both dating back to the late 1800s. These works offer a glimpse into different artistic traditions and historical contexts. Reddit

Furthermore, the Arnot Art Museum is known for its rotating exhibitions, which ensure that each visit can offer something new. These contemporary displays, such as 'Construct: Expressions of Gender In Portraiture,' bring fresh perspectives and engage with current artistic dialogues. Instagram The museum's commitment to showcasing both historical masters and emerging artists makes it a dynamic cultural hub. Instagram

Planning Your Visit: Tips from Travelers

Many visitors find the Arnot Art Museum to be a delightful surprise, often described as a 'small gem' that punches above its weight in terms of art quality. The friendly and informative staff are frequently mentioned as enhancing the visitor experience, providing helpful context and a welcoming atmosphere. Reddit+1

To make the most of your visit, consider timing. Weekday mornings are ideal for those seeking a quiet, contemplative experience with minimal crowds, allowing for a more personal connection with the art. Reddit The museum's manageable size means you can enjoy a thorough exploration in an hour or two, making it perfect for a thoughtful afternoon stroll. Reddit

Remember that the museum features rotating displays approximately every three months, so checking their current exhibition schedule before you go can enhance your visit. Reddit Whether you're a seasoned art aficionado or a casual visitor, the Arnot Art Museum offers a rewarding and accessible cultural outing in Elmira. Instagram

The Arnot Art Museum and Local Community

The Arnot Art Museum plays an active role in the Elmira community, often collaborating with local organizations and artists. For instance, youth entrepreneurs have visited the museum as part of inspiring art-focused days, connecting them with local artists and creative spaces. Instagram

The museum also serves as a venue for local artists to showcase their work. Artists have shared their excitement about exhibiting their paintings at the Arnot, highlighting its importance as a platform for regional talent. Instagram This integration with the local art scene underscores the museum's commitment to fostering creativity and appreciation within the community. Instagram