Sheldon Museum of Art
Free admission museum on UNL campus featuring American art, striking Philip Johnson architecture, and a sculpture garden.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Sheldon Museum of Art
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Free admission museum on UNL campus featuring American art, striking Philip Johnson architecture, and a sculpture garden.
"A beautiful little free museum with a really nice selection of art and friendly staff!"
Free Admission is a Win! :money_with_wings:
Enjoy the entire museum and sculpture garden without any cost. A fantastic value for art lovers!
Explore the Sculpture Garden :deciduous_tree:
Don't skip the outdoor art; it's a highlight for many visitors and offers great photo ops.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Philip Johnson Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the stunning mid-century modern design of the museum building itself, a work of art by Philip Johnson.
Diverse Art Collections
Galleries
Explore a rich array of American art, from 19th-century landscapes to vibrant pop art and surrealist works.
Monumental Sculpture Garden
Museum Grounds
Wander through a collection of large-scale sculptures by international artists set against the campus backdrop.
Featured Artist Works
Galleries
Discover pieces by renowned artists like Edward Hopper, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Clyfford Still.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Impact
Sculpture Garden Surprise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission is a Win! :money_with_wings:
Enjoy the entire museum and sculpture garden without any cost. A fantastic value for art lovers!
Explore the Sculpture Garden :deciduous_tree:
Don't skip the outdoor art; it's a highlight for many visitors and offers great photo ops.
Check for Events :calendar:
The museum hosts family days and storytimes, perfect for a fun, educational outing. 
Building is Art Too :building_construction:
Appreciate the mid-century modern architecture designed by Philip Johnson.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission is a Win! :money_with_wings:
Enjoy the entire museum and sculpture garden without any cost. A fantastic value for art lovers!
Explore the Sculpture Garden :deciduous_tree:
Don't skip the outdoor art; it's a highlight for many visitors and offers great photo ops.
Check for Events :calendar:
The museum hosts family days and storytimes, perfect for a fun, educational outing.
Building is Art Too :building_construction:
Appreciate the mid-century modern architecture designed by Philip Johnson.
Service Animal Policy :dog:
While generally accommodating, clarify service animal policies beforehand to avoid any confusion.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Sheldon Museum of Art for its free admission, diverse art collections, and the impressive architecture of the building itself. The outdoor sculpture garden is frequently highlighted as a unique and enjoyable feature. While most experiences are positive, some visitors have noted occasional confusion regarding service animal policies.
"Great visit. A great mix of types of art and artists. A very nice reception lady who is graduating with an Art Degree. She has some great pics of her art. It should be displayed at the Sheldon Museum. Best Bathroom I have ever been in. Pics below."
Patric Galvin
"Beautiful little free museum! They had a really nice selection of art on display and the staff were very friendly and attentive! Make sure to check out the sculpture garden out back as it is very interesting and full of a lot of unique art. Separate from the art, the building itself is beautiful and is a piece of art within itself!"
Spencer Owen
"The first time here, I brought my grandson with me. It was very nice, lots of different artists and different ways of doing things. There was a lot I liked and some I didn't understand. The same went for my grandson. They had 4 galleries open, and 2 of the galleries were pretty big with different rooms. It is free admission. There is also artwork outside of Sheldon Gallery and throughout UNL campus and east campus. I was here again today."
Jerry Dunlap
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sheldon Museum of Art is located on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors find it convenient to explore on foot once they arrive on campus.
Parking is available in garages and lots around the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus. Check the university's parking services for the most up-to-date information on rates and availability.
Yes, if you are already on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus, the Sheldon Museum of Art is easily walkable. It's a central part of the campus experience.
Lincoln has a public bus system, and routes may service the university campus. It's advisable to check the local transit authority's website for specific routes and schedules that stop near the museum.
The museum is situated on the beautiful UNL campus, with other campus attractions and the city of Lincoln nearby. Visitors often combine a museum visit with exploring the university grounds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Sheldon Museum of Art is completely FREE year-round. This makes it a highly accessible cultural attraction for everyone.
Museum hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official Sheldon Museum of Art website for the most current operating hours before your visit.
No, advance booking is not required as admission is free. You can typically walk in during operating hours.
Generally, all exhibitions within the Sheldon Museum of Art are included with the free admission. Always check their website for any rare exceptions or special ticketed events.
Yes, groups are welcome. It's a good idea to contact the museum in advance if you are planning a large group visit to ensure they can accommodate you and provide any necessary information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the galleries and the outdoor sculpture garden. You can easily spend longer if you wish to delve deeper into specific collections.
The museum features a diverse collection of American art, including 19th-century landscapes, pop art, surrealism, and works by prominent artists like Edward Hopper and Georgia O'Keeffe.
Yes, the museum often hosts family-friendly events like 'Family Day' and 'Around Town Storytime,' making it engaging for children. The outdoor sculptures can also be a hit.
The museum sometimes offers 'Drop-In Tours,' so it's worth checking their schedule for any available guided experiences.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most galleries, but it's always best to look for signage or ask staff if flash photography or tripods are allowed.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Sheldon Museum of Art does not typically have an on-site cafe or restaurant. Visitors are advised to explore dining options in the surrounding campus area or in downtown Lincoln.
Generally, food and drinks are not permitted inside art museums to protect the collections. It's best to consume them outside before or after your visit.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus and nearby downtown Lincoln offer a wide variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The museum's striking architecture, the outdoor sculpture garden, and the art pieces themselves offer numerous photo opportunities. The exterior shots, especially with the sculptures, are very popular.
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's recommended to check with museum staff or look for posted guidelines regarding tripods and professional photography equipment.
While personal photography is often allowed, flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artwork. Always check for specific signage in each gallery.
Morning light can be beautiful for the exterior and sculpture garden. For interior shots, the lighting conditions will depend on the museum's setup, but weekdays offer fewer crowds for unobstructed photos.
The combination of Philip Johnson's architecture, the monumental sculptures, and the diverse art collections provides many unique angles and compositions for photographers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1While the art collections offer a wide range of styles, the museum's open layout and the interactive nature of the sculptures can help keep children interested. It's a great opportunity to introduce kids to art in a relaxed, accessible environment. Remember to check the museum's event calendar for specific dates and activities.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a picnic lunch enjoyed on the university campus grounds, or explore the many affordable dining options in downtown Lincoln. The free admission makes it an easy addition to any itinerary without impacting your spending. It's a high-value cultural experience that costs nothing.
🏛️ Art Enthusiasts & Architecture Buffs
+1Architecture aficionados will be captivated by the museum's mid-century modern design by Philip Johnson. The building itself is a celebrated work of art, with its striking lines and thoughtful integration into the campus. Don't miss the monumental outdoor sculpture garden, which adds another layer of artistic exploration to your visit.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture of Art: Philip Johnson's Design
Visitors often remark on how the building itself feels like a work of art. The interior spaces are thoughtfully designed to enhance the viewing experience, with ample natural light in some areas and carefully controlled illumination in others to protect the delicate artworks. The grand entrance, featuring a dramatic escalator, was a notable design element that impressed early visitors and continues to be a talking point. The building's design is a key part of the overall visitor experience, offering a sophisticated backdrop for the diverse collections it houses.
The Sheldon's architecture is a testament to mid-century modernism, providing a unique aesthetic that complements the art within. It’s a space that invites contemplation and appreciation, not just for the pieces on display, but for the environment created by Johnson's vision. The building's enduring appeal is a significant draw for architecture enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
Beyond the Walls: The Sheldon's Sculpture Garden
Visitors frequently highlight the sculpture garden as a must-see aspect of their visit. The juxtaposition of these large-scale artworks against the natural landscape and university architecture creates a unique and memorable experience. It provides a different perspective on art appreciation, allowing for a more relaxed and interactive engagement with the pieces. The garden is accessible year-round, offering a different visual appeal with each season.
+1Key artists represented in the garden include figures whose works are celebrated globally. Wandering through this outdoor collection is an integral part of the Sheldon experience, offering ample opportunities for photography and quiet contemplation. It transforms the museum visit into a broader exploration of art integrated within the campus environment.
A Treasure Trove of American Art
Visitors often express delight at the quality and diversity of the art on display. The museum proudly features works by some of America's most iconic artists, including Edward Hopper, known for his evocative portrayals of modern life, and Georgia O'Keeffe, a pioneer of American modernism. The presence of such significant artists makes the Sheldon a vital cultural destination.
+1Beyond these celebrated names, the museum also showcases pieces by Clyfford Still, a prominent figure in abstract expressionism, and other influential artists. The rotating exhibitions ensure that there is always something new to discover, making repeat visits rewarding. The collection's depth and breadth provide a rich educational and aesthetic experience for all who visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit