Top Art Museums in Nebraska You Should Visit

Source: Bubudu57, Joslyn Art Museum, Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joslyn_Art_Museum

Nebraska may be known for its sweeping plains and vibrant history, but it also offers an impressive selection of art museums that deserve a spot on any traveler’s itinerary. Whether you are passionate about contemporary works, classic masterpieces, or regional creations, there is an art museum in Nebraska ready to inspire and captivate. Across the state, from bustling urban centers to charming small towns, museums showcase a diverse array of exhibitions that highlight both local talent and international artistry.

Each art museum in Nebraska brings its own unique perspective to the cultural landscape. Visitors can enjoy rotating exhibits, permanent collections, educational programs, and interactive displays that celebrate creativity across multiple mediums. These institutions not only preserve artistic heritage but also foster a growing appreciation for the arts within their communities. From the renowned Joslyn Art Museum in Omaha to hidden gems scattered throughout the state, Nebraska offers enriching experiences for art lovers of every background.

In this guide, we will highlight some of the top destinations that art enthusiasts should not miss. Whether you are planning a dedicated museum tour or simply looking to add a cultural stop to your travels, the following list promises to reveal the very best of Nebraska’s artistic offerings.

Joslyn Art Museum (Omaha)

The Joslyn Art Museum, located in Omaha, stands as Nebraska's premier art institution, offering an extensive collection that spans over 5,000 years of human creativity. Established in 1931 by Sarah H. Joslyn in memory of her husband, George A. Joslyn, the museum was envisioned as a gift to the people of Omaha and has since become a cornerstone of the state's cultural landscape.

Housed in a striking Art Deco building crafted from Georgia pink marble, the museum's architecture is as captivating as its collections. The original structure, designed by John and Alan McDonald, has been complemented by subsequent expansions, including the 1994 addition by renowned architect Norman Foster and the recent Hawks Pavilion, a 42,000-square-foot expansion designed by Snøhetta that opened in 2024.

The Joslyn's permanent collection boasts over 12,000 works, featuring masterpieces from European artists such as Titian, El Greco, and Monet, as well as significant American works from the 19th and 20th centuries. Notably, the museum houses an extensive collection of Western American art, including works by Karl Bodmer and Alfred Jacob Miller, offering insights into the region's history and culture.

Visitors can also explore the museum's sculpture gardens, which showcase contemporary works in a serene outdoor setting. With free general admission, the Joslyn Art Museum provides an accessible and enriching experience for all who wish to engage with art in Nebraska.

Sheldon Museum of Art (Lincoln)

Situated on the University of Nebraska–Lincoln campus, the Sheldon Museum of Art is a vital cultural institution that celebrates American art across various movements and periods. The museum's origins trace back to 1888 with the formation of the Haydon Art Club, later evolving into the Nebraska Art Association. In 1963, the museum found its home in a building designed by the esteemed architect Philip Johnson, characterized by its Roman travertine façade and distinctive modernist design.

The Sheldon's collection encompasses nearly 13,000 artworks, highlighting American Impressionism, Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art, and contemporary pieces. Notable artists represented include Georgia O'Keeffe, Edward Hopper, and Jackson Pollock. The museum also features a renowned sculpture garden with over 30 monumental works by artists such as Richard Serra and Claes Oldenburg.

As an integral part of Nebraska's art museum landscape, the Sheldon Museum of Art offers free admission and serves as a hub for exhibitions, educational programs, and community engagement. Its commitment to showcasing diverse artistic expressions makes it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts exploring Nebraska.

Museum of Nebraska Art (Kearney)

The Museum of Nebraska Art (MONA), located in Kearney, serves as the state's official art museum, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich artistic heritage of Nebraska. Established in 1976, MONA found its permanent home in 1986 within a historic 1911 Neoclassical Revival building, formerly a U.S. Post Office, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

MONA's collection encompasses over 5,000 works, featuring artists who were born in, lived in, or have a connection to Nebraska. Notable artists include Robert Henri, John Philip Falter, and Jun Kaneko. The museum also houses works by early artist-explorers like George Catlin and Karl Bodmer, who documented Native American life and the natural history of the region.

In recent years, MONA has undertaken a significant expansion and renovation project, adding a 23,000-square-foot extension to its existing structure. This enhancement aims to provide more space for exhibitions, educational programs, and community events, ensuring that MONA continues to serve as a vibrant cultural hub for Nebraska.

Beyond its physical location, MONA extends its reach through programs like ARTreach, which delivers curated exhibitions to communities across the state, and "Miles to MONA," bringing students to the museum for immersive art experiences.

As a cornerstone of Nebraska's art museum landscape, MONA offers visitors an opportunity to engage deeply with the state's artistic legacy, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts exploring Nebraska.

Great Plains Art Museum (Lincoln)

The Great Plains Art Museum, situated in Lincoln, is dedicated to the artistic expression and cultural heritage of the Great Plains region. Established in 1981 as part of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's Center for Great Plains Studies, the museum was founded with the Christlieb Collection, which includes works by renowned artists such as Albert Bierstadt and Frederic Remington.

The museum's collection has since expanded to feature contemporary artists and diverse themes that reflect the region's history, environment, and people. Exhibitions are rotated several times a year, showcasing both permanent collections and traveling exhibits that delve into topics like Indigenous cultures, immigration, and environmental change.

A notable feature of the museum is its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. For instance, the 2025 exhibition "The Journey: Documented Items/Undocumented Souls" offers a tactile experience for visually impaired visitors, highlighting the museum's dedication to making art accessible to all.

Admission to the Great Plains Art Museum is free, and it operates Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Located at 1155 Q Street in downtown Lincoln, the museum provides a unique lens through which visitors can explore the art and culture of the Great Plains, solidifying its place as a significant art museum in Nebraska.

Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts (Omaha)

The Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, located in Omaha's historic Old Market district, stands as a beacon for contemporary art in Nebraska. Established in 1981 by artists Jun Kaneko, Tony Hepburn, Lorne Falk, and Ree Schonlau (now Ree Kaneko), the center was conceived as a sanctuary for artists—a place where creativity flourishes, learning is continuous, and a diverse tapestry of art enthusiasts converge.

Housed in the former McCord-Brady Company building, the Bemis Center offers a dynamic environment that collapses traditional boundaries between the production and consumption of art. Its facilities include public galleries, artist workspaces, and public outdoor spaces, creating fluid connections between artists and the community.

At the heart of the Bemis Center is its international residency program, which provides artists with dedicated time, space, and resources to conduct research and create new work. Residents have access to generous-sized, private live/work studios, extensive installation and production spaces, and specialized facilities like the Okada Sculpture & Ceramics Facility and a Sound Studio for rehearsing and recording.

The center's exhibition program features solo and group exhibitions of artwork in all media by local, national, and international artists. Exhibitions are always free and open to the public, often introducing the community to the most experimental and provocative art forms today.

In addition to visual arts, the Bemis Center has expanded its programming to include sound art and experimental music. The LOW END venue, located in the basement level, hosts performances and provides a platform for artists working in and around experimental music.

The Bemis Center also acknowledges the land's history, operating on a site that has been a place of human activity for thousands of years. This land was the territory of the UmonHon (Omaha), Ponca, Pawnee, Otoe, Missouri, and the Ioway peoples.

For those interested in contemporary art, the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts offers an immersive experience that bridges the gap between artists and the public, making it a must-visit art museum in Nebraska.

Conclusion

Nebraska’s thriving art scene offers something truly special for every kind of art enthusiast. Whether you are drawn to classic masterpieces, regional artistry, or contemporary innovation, each art museum in Nebraska provides a unique and enriching experience. From the internationally renowned collections at the Joslyn Art Museum to the dynamic residencies at the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts, the state’s institutions celebrate creativity in all its forms. These museums not only preserve the cultural heritage of the region but also foster a vibrant, forward-looking artistic community. Visiting an art museum in Nebraska promises inspiration, education, and a deeper appreciation for the arts.

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