Raclin Murphy Museum of Art
A free, beautiful art museum on the Notre Dame campus, showcasing diverse global art collections and a modern chapel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Extended hours for a relaxed visit
Raclin Murphy Museum of Art
Best Time
Extended hours for a relaxed visit
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, beautiful art museum on the Notre Dame campus, showcasing diverse global art collections and a modern chapel.
"Impressed with the beautiful, well-executed museum with so much to see, and it's FREE!"
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy world-class art without spending a dime. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers!
🎒 Bag & Coat Check
Utilize the safe lockers at the entrance to protect your belongings and the artworks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Diverse Art Collections
Galleries
Explore contemporary, Asian, Americas, African, and sacred art. Discover unique perspectives and artistic expressions from around the globe.
Modern Chapel
Chapel
A contemporary take on a sacred space, offering a moment of reflection and artistic contemplation.
Sculpture Garden
Outdoor Sculpture Garden
A compact yet enjoyable outdoor space featuring intriguing sculptures, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
African Art Aisle
African Art Gallery
Experience the rich beauty and cultural heritage of African art, a sponsored and celebrated section of the museum.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Plan Your Visit
+1Campus Location & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy world-class art without spending a dime. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers! +1
🎒 Bag & Coat Check
Utilize the safe lockers at the entrance to protect your belongings and the artworks.
☕ Cafe Break
Grab a coffee and a snack, or browse art books and souvenirs at the charming on-site cafe. +1
🚶♀️ Explore the Campus
Combine your museum visit with a stroll around the beautiful University of Notre Dame campus.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy world-class art without spending a dime. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers! +1
🎒 Bag & Coat Check
Utilize the safe lockers at the entrance to protect your belongings and the artworks.
☕ Cafe Break
Grab a coffee and a snack, or browse art books and souvenirs at the charming on-site cafe. +1
🚶♀️ Explore the Campus
Combine your museum visit with a stroll around the beautiful University of Notre Dame campus.
🖼️ Check Exhibitions
See what's new! Special exhibitions and events are frequently held.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Raclin Murphy Museum of Art for its free admission, diverse and interesting art collections, and the welcoming nature of its staff. The beautiful building and convenient campus location are also frequently mentioned positives. Some find the museum to be on the smaller side, but appreciate the quality and variety offered. +2
"This is a small art collection with interesting artworks and art perspectives. They have different galleries with contemporary art, and Asian and Americas art. They also have a small chapel that I personally enjoyed being at, as well as a sacred art gallery. The sculpture garden is small but pretty enjoyable.
They have safe lockers in the main entrance to leave bags, coats, and other accessories that can damage the artworks.
There is a small coffee shop with a few items for sale, like book markers, postcards, and curated art books at a fair price.
Entrance is free.
Staff are so friendly and welcoming that they absolutely make one to come back to this museum!!"
Yessie Herrera
"I am so impressed with the Raclin Murphy Museum on the Notre Dame campus. This is a beautiful, well executed museum with so much to see it took three separate visits to see it all! And it's FREE! Enjoyed the offerings at the cafe as well. Had a delicious grilled cheese with the delightful additions of apple butter and caramelized onions."
Karen Cheek
"We had such a lovely visit to the museum. The building and galleries are beautiful, and there’s a cute little cafe inside. If you’re near or on campus, you definitely need to stop in!"
Kristin LaFollette
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located on the University of Notre Dame campus in South Bend, Indiana. It's easily accessible by car and is within walking distance of many campus attractions. Parking information for visitors can be found on the university's website.
Visitor parking is available on the Notre Dame campus. It's recommended to check the university's parking regulations and available lots prior to your visit, especially during peak times or events.
Yes, the Raclin Murphy Museum of Art is conveniently located on campus, making it easy to combine with visits to other university landmarks.
The museum is designed to be accessible. For specific accessibility needs, it's best to contact the museum directly or check their official website for detailed information.
The Raclin Murphy Museum of Art is open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours on Thursdays until 7:30 PM. On Saturdays and Sundays, it's open from noon to 5:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Raclin Murphy Museum of Art is completely free for all visitors. +1
Since admission is free, advance booking is not typically required. However, for special events or group visits, it's advisable to check the museum's website or contact them directly.
There are no age restrictions for entering the Raclin Murphy Museum of Art. It's a family-friendly destination.
For the safety of the artworks, visitors are encouraged to use the secure lockers available at the main entrance to store bags, coats, and other accessories.
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted for personal use, but it's always best to check for any specific signage or ask museum staff.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
The museum features a diverse collection including contemporary art, Asian art, Americas art, African art, and sacred art. You can also find interesting pieces in their modern chapel and sculpture garden.
Yes, there is a small coffee shop within the museum that offers refreshments and light snacks. They also sell art-related merchandise like postcards and books. +1
While official guided tours might not be a daily offering, the gallery attendants are often knowledgeable and can provide insights into the collections. Check the museum's schedule for any special guided experiences.
The Raclin Murphy Museum of Art is described as a beautiful, well-executed museum that can take multiple visits to see everything, suggesting a substantial collection and gallery space.
Yes, the museum has a sculpture garden, and there are also plans for a completed sculpture walk that is described as regenerative and peaceful.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, non-flash photography is allowed for personal use. However, some special exhibitions might have restrictions, so it's always best to look for signage or ask a museum staff member.
The modern chapel, the diverse art galleries, and the outdoor sculpture garden offer unique photographic opportunities. The architecture of the museum itself is also quite photogenic.
While specific pieces can change with exhibitions, the African Art Aisle and any featured contemporary installations are often visually striking and popular for photos.
Yes, the exterior of the Raclin Murphy Museum of Art, situated on the Notre Dame campus, is also a beautiful subject for photography, especially with its modern architecture.
As the museum is on a university campus, drone usage is likely restricted. It's essential to check university policies and FAA regulations regarding drone operation in such areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The availability of safe lockers is a huge plus for parents managing strollers and bags. Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid larger crowds, allowing children more space to explore. The on-site cafe is perfect for a quick snack break, and the sculpture garden provides an opportunity for kids to move around outdoors.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the free-to-enter Notre Dame campus to maximize your free activities in the area.
The museum's location makes it an ideal stop on a day trip without adding significant travel expenses if you're already in the vicinity. 🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Solo Visitors
Take advantage of the extended Thursday hours for a more relaxed, less crowded visit, allowing for in-depth engagement with the collections.
The museum's manageable size means you can thoroughly explore its offerings in a single visit, or revisit favorite sections. The cafe provides a quiet spot to reflect on what you've seen. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Art Collections
A significant highlight is the African Art Aisle, which showcases the rich cultural heritage and vibrant beauty of African artistic expressions.
Furthermore, the museum features a sacred art gallery and a unique modern chapel, providing spaces for reflection and spiritual appreciation through art. The staff's welcoming nature and the breadth of the collections are frequently praised, making it a rewarding experience for art enthusiasts. Beyond the indoor galleries, the Charles B. Hayes Family Sculpture Park and the planned sculpture walk offer an engaging outdoor art experience. These spaces allow visitors to connect with art in a natural setting, complementing the indoor exhibitions and providing a peaceful environment for contemplation.
The Museum Experience: Beyond the Art
For those seeking a moment of respite or a light refreshment, the museum features a small, charming cafe. Here, visitors can enjoy coffee, snacks, and browse a selection of art-related merchandise, including postcards and curated art books, all offered at fair prices.
The museum's location on the University of Notre Dame campus also adds to its appeal, allowing visitors to easily combine their art exploration with a broader campus tour. The modern architecture of the museum itself is also a point of admiration, contributing to the overall aesthetic and visitor experience.
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