North Carolina Museum of Art

Raleigh, NC Museum Unclaimed
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About North Carolina Museum of Art

It's time for an art-tastic day out because the North Carolina Museum of Art features an impressive state art collection that spans 5,000 years, from antiquity to present day, all set in a 164-acre park!

The galleries in the North Carolina Museum of Art are so impressive, so make sure you allow enough time to enjoy it!

Let's start with the African Gallery! This collection itself spans 16 centuries (how many years is that, kids?), and highlights the continent's incredible creativity through gold, ceramics, textiles, and modern art. There is also a great hands-on learning space where all visitors of all ages can explore the creative process behind some African textiles!

The Ancient Art Lounge is an interactive gallery perfect for all ages, where families can learn all about cultures and accomplishments of ancient people through the archaeological collections - from Aztec, to Greek, Inca, Egyptian, Maya and Roman. 

The European collection really is the crown jewel of the museum, which actually was the museum's intention from the day of its founding. Of the 139 paintings and sculptures purchased in its original days, 123 of these were European, and really make a fascinating experience!

Then, you have the Ancient Egyptian Galleries, and even though there are only 47 artifacts in here, they represent incredibly major and important periods in Egyptian history. In fact, the oldest artifact in the entire museum can be found in this gallery, which is a ceramic jar made 6,000 year ago - by hand!

The Judaic Art Gallery features important ceremonial objects from major Jewish traditions, and there are some incredible works from ancient Greece and Italy, with a collection that spans 3,000 years of history!

Of course, the North Carolina Museum of Art also has a wonderful American art collection, with paintings and sculptures from the late colonial period right through to th 20th century.

Love photography? The photographs within the North Carolina Museum of Art has grown to nearly 600 works, and the changing exhibitions from the collection as well as special exhibitions feature the work of international and national photographers, and will be sure to inspire!

Don't miss spending time in Museum Park too! The park is free and open daily, and features works of art in itself so it really is an art-tastic day out!

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How much does it cost?

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Adults Free entry!

Children Free entry!

Last Update 2023

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North Carolina Museum of Art FAQ’s

I’m Hungry! Can I get food at North Carolina Museum of Art?

There are two cafes in the museum that will fill those tummies! The East Cafe serves hot entrées, desserts, coffee, beer, and wine, whilst the Sip Coffee Bar and Café is great for coffee and pastries

Any top tips when visiting?

If you want to support the museum, why not make a donation or look into membership?

Does North Carolina Museum of Art have a gift shop?

From local honey, to books, to original works of art, the gift store is well worth a visit on your way out!

Teachers corner

Give them a call to chat about field trips! They also offer camps too!

Does North Carolina Museum of Art have healthy eating or Vegan options?

The East Cafe has some great fresh salads!

Is North Carolina Museum of Art fully accessible?

The Museum offers a variety of onsite accommodations for visitors with disabilities. Trained service animals such as guide dogs are also permitted in the Museum.