Nevada Museum of Art - Goldwell Open Air Museum
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Nevada Museum of Art

4.6
·1k reviews·Reno, United States

An accredited art museum in Reno, Nevada, known for its thematic focus on human interaction with the land and nature.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Nevada Museum of Art - Goldwell Open Air Museum

Nevada Museum of Art

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An accredited art museum in Reno, Nevada, known for its thematic focus on human interaction with the land and nature.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"Absolutely jam packed with awesome exhibits! Definitely worth the time to take and explore."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Rooftop Views are a Must

Head to the rooftop for incredible city views and photo ops!

🦕 Ichthyosaurus Fossil Fun

The Ichthyosaurus exhibit is a hit with all ages, especially kids!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rooftop Deck Views

Rooftop Deck Views

Rooftop

Panoramic vistas of Reno and the surrounding valley. Perfect for photos!

TikTok+1
Ichthyosaurus Exhibit

Ichthyosaurus Exhibit

Gallery

Discover the most complete Ichthyosaurus skeleton found in North America.

TikTok+1
Dorothea Lange Photography

Dorothea Lange Photography

Gallery

Compelling black and white photographs documenting social history.

Reddit
Someday When We Are Dreaming

Someday When We Are Dreaming

Gallery

An immersive fiber art installation by Rachel Hayes.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Rooftop Views & Exhibit Highlights

Don't miss the stunning panoramic views of Reno from the museum's rooftop deck! TikTok+1 Inside, explore diverse exhibits like the phenomenal Ichthyosaurus fossil TikTok+1 and compelling photography collections. Reddit

Timing Your Visit for a Relaxed Experience

While not typically crowded, visiting on a weekday evening can offer an even more serene experience. Reddit Check for special events like 'First Thursday' for live music and a lively atmosphere. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
First Thursday
Why
Live music & lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
During special exhibits
Why
Unique art experiences
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Nevada Museum of Art has an epic view of #renonevada from their rooftop. #art #architecture Best places to see in Reno, Nevada #travel #creatorsearchinsights
@exploreandrepeat
49 likes • 1.5K views

🎯 Rooftop Views are a Must

Head to the rooftop for incredible city views and photo ops! TikTok+1

🦕 Ichthyosaurus Fossil Fun

The Ichthyosaurus exhibit is a hit with all ages, especially kids! TikTok+1

Riley Overstreet @rileynover goes on an exploration of the @nevadaart and their current exhibits in this #placesofreno video. #renoculture #museumsofreno #exhibitsofreno
@ourtownreno
2.2K likes • 26.8K views
We’re proud to celebrate the completion of the @nevadaart Expansion and the opening of the new Charles and Stacie Mathewson Education and Research Center. This addition doubles gallery space and introduces new education, research, and community areas to the heart of Reno’s arts district. Check out the drone video for a look at this exciting new chapter for the Museum and our community. . . #ThePa...
clark_sullivan_construction
33 likes • 929 views

☕ Grab a Bite at Perenn

Enjoy coffee and pastries at the museum's Perenn Bakery. TikTokInstagram

🚶 Walkable from Airport

If you have a layover, it's a worthwhile walk from the airport. Reddit

Exciting news! The Nevada Museum of Art (@nevadaart) has expanded with the breathtaking Charles and Stacie Mathewson Education + Research Center. Spanning 50,000 square feet and crafted by Will Bruder, this addition features vibrant new gallery space, state-of-the-art research library, peaceful rooftop garden, and dynamic classroom—all dedicated to enriching your art experience.
renoevents
104 likes • 3.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Rooftop Views are a Must

Head to the rooftop for incredible city views and photo ops! TikTok+1

🦕 Ichthyosaurus Fossil Fun

The Ichthyosaurus exhibit is a hit with all ages, especially kids! TikTok+1

☕ Grab a Bite at Perenn

Enjoy coffee and pastries at the museum's Perenn Bakery. TikTokInstagram

🚶 Walkable from Airport

If you have a layover, it's a worthwhile walk from the airport. Reddit

🎟️ Check for Free Days

Inquire about any potential free admission days or discounts. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Nevada Museum of Art for its engaging exhibits, particularly the Ichthyosaurus fossil and photography collections. The rooftop views are a highlight, offering great city panoramas. While some found it smaller than expected, most agree it's a worthwhile visit for its unique thematic approach and friendly atmosphere, with the cafe and gift shop adding to the pleasant experience.

"It’s not very large but absolutely jam packed with awesome exhibits! Definitely worth the time to take and explore. The Ichthyosaurus exhibit is phenomenal and I felt like a kid exploring it. They have a cute cafe (didn’t eat; can’t rate the food) but it was packed and a nice sitting area in the lobby. Gift shop was reasonably priced for a museum."

Jamie Tadrzynski

"I was fortunate enough to visit while the Dorothea Lange exhibit was there, and it was incredible. The Judith Lowry exhibit was just stunning.

The museum has been recently renovated, and the gathering spaces were open and inviting. We visited two rooftop areas that are used for events with a great view of the city and valley.

The ichthyosaur exhibit was very well presented with the video, fascinating stuff. My daughter was quite happy with the plush ichy she got from the well-stocked gift shop.

I was a little disappointed that there were so few people there. With such a diverse selection of exhibits (Langston Hughes, Aboriginal art!), where were all the visitors?

Anyway, I loved it and highly recommend a visit. Patronize the arts in every city you visit if you can!"

W. A. Whipple

"Nice museum. $15 entry fee. Free parking. Gift shop inside. No magnets or stickers :(
Not busy at all. The art inside was interesting. I expected more, we were a little bit bored and hope they expand it."

TheBayArea831

What People Like

Engaging exhibits
Rooftop city views
Ichthyosaurus fossil

What People Dislike

Smaller than expected
Occasional boredom

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Nevada Museum of Art is located at 160 West Liberty Street in Reno, Nevada. TikTok It's walkable from the Reno-Tahoe International Airport for those with layovers. Reddit Parking is available and often free. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the museum, and it is often free. Reddit

Yes, it's possible to walk to the Nevada Museum of Art from the Reno-Tahoe International Airport, making it a convenient option for travelers with layovers. Reddit

The address is 160 West Liberty Street, Reno, Nevada. TikTok

Information on public transport routes to the museum can be found on local transit websites. It's generally considered accessible within Reno. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entry fee is typically around $15. Reddit It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts or free admission days. Reddit

While not always advertised, it's worth inquiring about potential free admission days or special community access programs. Reddit

Museum hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Nevada Museum of Art website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times. TikTok

Purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended to save time, though tickets are typically available for purchase at the museum. TikTok

Yes, the museum offers membership options which can provide benefits like free admission and discounts. TikTok

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Visitors rave about the Ichthyosaurus exhibit,TikTok+1 the Dorothea Lange photography collection,Reddit and the 'Someday When We Are Dreaming' installation. TikTok The rooftop deck also offers stunning views. TikTok+1

Yes, the Ichthyosaurus exhibit is particularly engaging for children. TikTok+1 The museum aims to inspire artists of all ages. TikTok

It's known for its thematic approach focusing on human interaction with the land and nature, its accredited status, and its diverse collections including contemporary art and altered landscape photography. TikTok

Yes, the museum has a gift shop that is reasonably priced and well-stocked with items like plush toys. Reddit

The museum hosts various events, including 'First Thursday' with live music Instagram and lectures on topics like AI and politics. Reddit They also host special luncheons and artisan shopping experiences. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe called Perenn at the Nevada Museum of Art, offering coffee and pastries. TikTokInstagram It's a nice sitting area, though it can get busy. Reddit

Perenn Bakery at the museum offers coffee and pastries. TikTokInstagram

The Perenn Bakery provides a nice spot for a casual bite or coffee. TikTokInstagram

Reviews suggest the cafe is a nice sitting area, and the gift shop is reasonably priced. Reddit Specific cafe pricing isn't detailed, but it's generally considered a good amenity. Reddit

While it has a popular bakery and cafe, Perenn, it functions more as a cafe than a full-service restaurant. TikTokInstagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but check for specific exhibit restrictions. The rooftop offers great photo opportunities. TikTok+1

The rooftop deck provides excellent panoramic views of Reno. TikTok+1 Many of the art installations themselves are also highly photogenic. TikTok

Yes, the museum has featured significant photography exhibits, such as those by Dorothea Lange. Reddit

Flash photography is typically not allowed in art museums to protect the artwork. It's best to check the museum's specific policy. TikTok

The museum features contemporary art, fiber art installations like 'Someday When We Are Dreaming,' and photography exhibits, all offering unique visual opportunities. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Nevada Museum of Art is a great outing for families! The Ichthyosaurus exhibit is a major draw, bringing prehistoric Nevada to life with fossils and paleoart that captures children's imaginations. TikTok+1 It's an engaging way to learn about natural history. The museum's overall atmosphere is welcoming, and the staff are friendly, making it a comfortable experience for younger visitors. Reddit

Don't forget to check out the museum's gift shop, which often has fun souvenirs like plush Ichthyosaurus toys that kids will love. Reddit While the museum isn't massive, its diverse exhibits offer enough variety to keep children entertained and curious. Consider visiting during less busy times to allow kids to explore at their own pace. TikTok

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Culture Seekers

For those passionate about art, the Nevada Museum of Art offers a rich and diverse experience. Its accredited status and thematic focus on human interaction with the land provide a unique curatorial perspective. TikTok Explore compelling photography collections, including works by Dorothea Lange, Reddit and immerse yourself in contemporary installations like Rachel Hayes' 'Someday When We Are Dreaming.' TikTok

The museum's recent expansion has doubled its gallery space, allowing for even more extensive exhibitions. Instagram+1 Keep an eye on their schedule for temporary exhibits that often feature significant artists and thought-provoking themes. The 'First Thursday' events offer a lively way to experience art with live music and a social atmosphere. Instagram

📸 Photographers & View Seekers

The Nevada Museum of Art is a fantastic spot for photographers. The rooftop deck offers unparalleled panoramic views of Reno, perfect for capturing stunning cityscapes and golden hour shots. TikTok+1 The museum's architecture itself is also quite photogenic, with its modern design and expansive interior spaces. TikTok

Beyond the views, many of the art installations provide unique photographic opportunities. From the intricate details of fiber art TikTok to the dramatic presentation of the Ichthyosaurus fossil, TikTok+1 there are countless visually interesting subjects to capture. Remember to check the museum's policy on photography, especially regarding flash, to ensure you're respecting the artwork. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Thematic Approach & Collections

The Nevada Museum of Art stands out with its unique thematic approach, focusing on human interaction with the land and the protection of nature. TikTok This philosophy permeates its diverse collections, which include contemporary art, altered landscape photography, and Western American art. The museum is also known for its commitment to showcasing art that explores environmental themes and cultural narratives. TikTok

Recent expansions have further enhanced its capacity to display these collections, adding significant gallery space. Instagram+1 Visitors can expect to encounter art that is not only visually stimulating but also thought-provoking, encouraging reflection on our relationship with the natural world. The museum's accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) underscores its commitment to high standards in curation and visitor experience. TikTok

Notable exhibits have included the compelling photography of Dorothea Lange,Reddit the intricate fiber art of Rachel Hayes,TikTok and the fascinating prehistoric marine life of the Ichthyosaurus. TikTok+1 This dedication to diverse and meaningful art makes the Nevada Museum of Art a significant cultural institution in the region.

Architectural Marvel & Expansion

The Nevada Museum of Art boasts a striking architectural design, with its distinctive brick exterior and modern interior spaces. TikTok The recent expansion, the Charles and Stacie Mathewson Education and Research Center, has significantly increased the museum's footprint, doubling its gallery space. Instagram+1 This addition, designed by Will Bruder, features state-of-the-art research facilities, educational areas, and a peaceful rooftop garden. Instagram

The expansion not only enhances the visitor experience with more room for exhibitions but also provides new resources for learning and community engagement. Instagram+1 The design itself is often a point of admiration, blending seamlessly with the museum's artistic mission. Drone footage highlights the impressive scale and modern aesthetic of the new center. Instagram

This architectural growth reflects the museum's ambition to be a leading cultural hub, offering a dynamic and inspiring environment for art lovers and researchers alike. The integration of new spaces allows for a richer and more comprehensive exploration of art and its connection to the world. Instagram

Community Engagement & Events

The Nevada Museum of Art actively engages its community through a variety of events and programs. A long-standing tradition is 'First Thursday,' a monthly event featuring live music, drinks, and a vibrant social atmosphere, curated by local artists and musicians. Instagram This provides a fantastic opportunity for locals and visitors to connect and enjoy the arts in a relaxed setting. Instagram

Beyond regular events, the museum hosts special occasions like 'The Love of Art' luncheon, an annual event that combines artisan shopping, dining, and exclusive access to new exhibitions. Instagram These events not only support the museum's mission but also offer unique experiences for attendees. The museum also hosts lectures and educational programs, such as discussions on AI and politics, demonstrating its commitment to diverse intellectual engagement. Reddit

Furthermore, the museum serves as a venue for private events, including weddings, showcasing its versatility and beautiful spaces for memorable celebrations. Instagram This multifaceted approach to community involvement ensures the Nevada Museum of Art remains a dynamic and accessible cultural cornerstone in Reno.

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