Great Plains Art Museum Lincoln
Free museum showcasing art and culture of the Great Plains, featuring rotating exhibits and regional artists.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Great Plains Art Museum Lincoln
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Free museum showcasing art and culture of the Great Plains, featuring rotating exhibits and regional artists.
"A gem of a gallery, impressed by the artwork displayed!"
Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy all exhibits at no cost. Donations are welcome to support programming.
Check Exhibit Schedules
Exhibitions rotate, so check their website for current shows before you visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Contemporary Indigeneity Exhibition
Explore vibrant works by Indigenous artists, showcasing modern perspectives and cultural narratives. A must-see for art lovers!
Threads and Trails Exhibit
Discover powerful art by women artists, reflecting on historical narratives and personal journeys across the Great Plains.
Pottery and Paper Art
Marvel at intricate pottery and unique paper art pieces, often highlighted as visitor favorites for their detail and artistry.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Impact
Focus on the Plains
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy all exhibits at no cost. Donations are welcome to support programming.
Check Exhibit Schedules
Exhibitions rotate, so check their website for current shows before you visit.
Ask the Docents
Gallery docents are knowledgeable and can offer great insights into the art.
Family Fun Days
Look out for family activities, especially during summer months.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission! 🎉
Enjoy all exhibits at no cost. Donations are welcome to support programming.
Check Exhibit Schedules
Exhibitions rotate, so check their website for current shows before you visit.
Ask the Docents
Gallery docents are knowledgeable and can offer great insights into the art.
Family Fun Days
Look out for family activities, especially during summer months.
Art on the Exterior
Don't miss the art installations on the museum's exterior!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the Great Plains Art Museum for its free admission and well-curated exhibits, with many highlighting unique pottery and paper art pieces. While some find it smaller than expected or prefer more artifact-based displays, the museum is generally appreciated for its focus on regional art and knowledgeable docents.
"This was smaller than I imagined, but it was very interesting and well laid out. My favorite part was the pottery. It's free to walk thru. It was well worth my 45 mins going thru it. There are some pretty amazing looking pieces they have their."
Jerry Dunlap
"My family and I stopped by during a day trip to Lincoln this past summer and enjoyed ourselves visiting the galleries telling the stories of our part of the country. We enjoyed the exhibit showcasing women artists capturing the Great Plains from their viewpoint and experiences. They have a great collection and the gallery docents are very helpful and knowledgable. Make sure you plan a visit when in Lincoln!"
Aaron Shelby
"A website tour would be the exact same, it’s photos of actual stuff. Museums have stuff, this is a photo gallery. Go see Robbers Cave, that shows physical tactile things of interest and interaction with a person. Magazines are more entertaining than this ‘photographic art’ display"
Mark Mettler (MPRanger)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. It's easily accessible by car, and parking information can usually be found on the university's visitor parking website. Public transportation options may also be available; check local Lincoln transit schedules.
Parking availability can vary, especially on the university campus. It's advisable to check the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's parking services for the most up-to-date information on visitor parking lots and rates.
If you are staying in downtown Lincoln or on campus, walking to the museum is a pleasant option. Enjoy the urban landscape as you make your way there.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Great Plains Art Museum is always free! This makes it a fantastic and accessible option for everyone to enjoy art and culture. 
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Great Plains Art Museum website or their social media channels for the most current information on opening and closing times.
Since admission is free, you do not need to book tickets in advance. Simply arrive during operating hours to explore the exhibits.
The museum often hosts artist receptions and special events for new exhibitions. Keep an eye on their social media and website for announcements.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that 45 minutes to an hour is sufficient to explore the current exhibits. However, you can spend longer if you wish to deeply engage with the art.
The museum focuses on art that represents the Great Plains region, including paintings, sculptures, pottery, and photography, often with themes of landscape, history, and culture.
The museum occasionally participates in family-friendly events and activities, especially during summer months. Check their schedule for specific programming.
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. It's generally recommended to check for signage or ask a museum staff member before taking photos, especially if flash is involved.
Visitors often rave about the pottery collections and unique paper art pieces. Exhibitions focusing on women artists and Indigenous artists also receive high praise. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can differ depending on the specific exhibition. Always look for posted signs or inquire with museum staff to confirm if you can take photos, and if flash photography is permitted.
Beyond the indoor exhibits, don't forget to check out the art installations on the museum's exterior. These can make for unique and eye-catching shots.
Generally, personal photography for social media is allowed as long as it doesn't disrupt other visitors or violate specific exhibition rules. Avoid flash photography, as it can damage artwork.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on exhibits with strong visual elements, like sculpture or vibrant paintings, which can capture children's attention. The museum's focus on the Great Plains can also be a learning opportunity, introducing kids to the history and culture of the region in an engaging, visual way.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1It's an ideal stop for a quick, enriching experience that won't impact your travel budget. Pair it with a picnic lunch or explore other free attractions in Lincoln to maximize your savings while still enjoying the city's offerings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of the Great Plains
Expect to see a diverse range of mediums, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and textiles, all contributing to a comprehensive understanding of Plains art. Many exhibits delve into the experiences of those who have lived and worked on the plains, offering perspectives on agriculture, migration, Indigenous cultures, and the evolving identity of the region.
Recent exhibitions have highlighted contemporary Indigenous artists and women artists, providing fresh and vital viewpoints on the Great Plains. These shows often explore themes of heritage, resilience, and the ongoing connection to the land, demonstrating that the art of the plains is a dynamic and evolving field.
+1Visitor Experiences and Perspectives
Some visitors have noted that the museum is smaller than anticipated, which can be a positive for those seeking a concise visit or a quick cultural stop during a day trip. The layout is generally described as well-organized, allowing for an enjoyable experience within a shorter timeframe.
However, there are also critiques, with some expressing disappointment that the museum focuses more on photographic art rather than physical artifacts or interactive displays. These comments suggest a preference for a more traditional museum experience with tangible historical objects.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit