Best Museums & Art Galleries in Omaha, United States

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Best Museums & Art Galleries in Omaha, United States

1. Joslyn Art Museum

A world-class art museum showcasing European and American art from the medieval period to the present. Offers unique pieces like works by Monet, Renoir, and O'Keeffe.
  • Historic Architecture: Beautiful Beaux-Arts building is a sight to behold.
  • Free Admission: Many permanent collections are free to the public.
  • Rotating Exhibits: New temporary exhibitions feature contemporary and emerging artists.

2. Kaneko

A unique art complex featuring large-scale sculptures by Japanese artist, Jun Kaneko. Offers a tranquil garden and interactive workshops.
  • Unusual Sculptures: Giant, colorful, and organic-shaped sculptures dot the outdoor landscape.
  • Art Workshops: Participate in pottery and sculpture workshops led by professional artists.
  • Tranquil Garden: Relaxing garden space invites visitors to unwind and appreciate the art around them.

3. El Museo Latino

Omaha's only museum dedicated to Latinx culture and art. Offers exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events.
  • Cultural Education: Learn about the rich history and diversity of Latin American cultures.
  • Community Engagement: Engage with local artists, performers, and community members during events.
  • Rotating Exhibitions: New exhibits showcase the work of contemporary Latinx artists.

4. The Durham Museum

A regional history museum housed in a beautifully restored art deco train station. Offers extensive exhibits on Omaha and Nebraska's past.
  • Historic Building: Visit the iconic Union Station, an architectural gem in the heart of downtown.
  • Regional History: Gain insights into the history and culture of Omaha and Nebraska.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Hands-on exhibits make learning fun and engaging for all ages.

5. The Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts

A nonprofit art center supporting emerging artists and contemporary art. Offers exhibitions, residencies, and public programs.
  • Support for Emerging Artists: Helps launch the careers of up-and-coming artists.
  • Interactive Public Programs: Engaging events like artist talks, workshops, and performances.
  • Rotating Exhibitions: Showcases the work of cutting-edge contemporary artists.

6. Glenn Corps Museum of World War II

A museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of World War II. Offers extensive artifacts, oral histories, and interactive exhibits.
  • WWII Artifacts: Discover a vast collection of authentic WWII items.
  • Oral Histories: Listen to firsthand accounts from veterans and survivors.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Engaging, hands-on exhibits help visitors better understand the war's impact.

7. The Union for Contemporary Art

A community-based art organization that fosters dialogue around social justice issues through art exhibits and workshops.
  • Social Justice Focus: Artwork explores contemporary social, political, and cultural issues.
  • Community Engagement: Workshops and programs empower local artists and community members.
  • Changing Exhibits: Regularly rotating exhibitions address current social issues.

8. The Museum of the Nebraska Art

A contemporary art museum featuring works by regional and national artists. Offers a variety of exhibitions, educational programs, and events.
  • Contemporary Art: Showcases cutting-edge artwork from local, regional, and national artists.
  • Educational Programs: Workshops, lectures, and tours enrich visitors' understanding of contemporary art.
  • Changing Exhibits: New exhibitions feature emerging artists and explore a wide range of themes.

9. The Sheldon Memorial Art Gallery & Sculpture Garden

A university art museum offering free admission and showcasing a diverse collection of American and European art.
  • Free Admission: Visit the museum without worrying about ticket prices.
  • Diverse Collection: Discover a wide range of American and European art from different periods.
  • Sculpture Garden: Enjoy the outdoor sculpture garden, showcasing pieces by renowned artists.

10. The Florence Mill Art Center

A community art center offering classes, workshops, and exhibitions in a historic flour mill.
  • Historic Building: Experience art in a unique, historic setting.
  • Community Classes: Learn new skills through various classes and workshops.
  • Local Artists: Showcases the work of local artists in exhibitions throughout the year.

11. The Hot Shops Art Center

A collective of artist studios and galleries showcasing a variety of mediums, including glass, metal, and ceramics.
  • Artist Studios: Watch artists work live in their studios.
  • Unique Mediums: Discover various art mediums like glass, metal, and ceramics.
  • Community Events: Participate in events, workshops, and demonstrations throughout the year.

12. The Gallery at Creighton University

A university gallery featuring contemporary art exhibitions and rotating shows by regional and national artists.
  • Contemporary Art: Showcases cutting-edge contemporary artwork.
  • University Setting: Visit a gallery within a university setting, fostering intellectual exploration.
  • Rotating Exhibits: New exhibitions regularly showcase the work of regional and national artists.

13. The Richardson Fine Art Gallery at UNO

A university gallery featuring contemporary art exhibitions and showcasing the work of UNO faculty, students, and visiting artists.
  • Contemporary Art: Showcases cutting-edge contemporary artwork.
  • University Setting: Visit a gallery within a university setting, fostering intellectual exploration.
  • Student and Faculty Work: Discover the work of up-and-coming artists and established faculty members.

14. The KANEKO North Gallery

A satellite gallery of The Kaneko featuring large-scale sculptures and exhibitions by national and international artists.
  • Large-Scale Sculptures: Experience massive, thought-provoking sculptures.
  • National and International Artists: Discover artwork by artists from around the world.
  • Unique Setting: The gallery is located in a unique, industrial setting.

15. The Fred Simon Gallery at Hastings College

A university gallery featuring contemporary art exhibitions and rotating shows by regional artists.
  • Contemporary Art: Showcases cutting-edge contemporary artwork.
  • University Setting: Visit a gallery within a university setting, fostering intellectual exploration.
  • Regional Artists: Discover artwork by regional artists.