We are so lucky to have the Joslyn museum right here in Omaha. I've been to art museums all around the world, and this one stacks right up against them in terms of quality. I've been visiting the Joslyn since I was a child, and visiting as an adult brings back all those wonderful memories. The cool blue and green Storz Fountain art deco tile atrium, the amazing sculpture garden outside, and the temporary and permanent exhibits that are so thoughtfully curated. The Joslyn houses works from classic and modern artists like Monet, Basquiat, Jackson Pollock, Titian, Dale Chihuly, Bouguereau, Picasso, Renoir, Mary Cassatt, and Roy Liechtenstein, among so many more. They also feature several local artists and workshops that I think is so cool that they contribute to the local community in that way too. The Joslyn was closed for two years recently for expansion and restoration, as well as adding many more pieces of art to the collection. There are little signs on each new piece of art that says "New to the Collection" so you'll know you haven't seen that one before if you visited a lot before they closed and reopened. And what's really awesome aside from all that? It's free! I've only ever seen a museum of this caliber having free entrance in large European cities like London and Paris. You obviously are able to make a donation with your entrance, which I'm sure is encouraged to keep the museum running, but I love that it's offered freely for those who can't pay an entry fee but will benefit just like anyone else from the art housed there. I've seen comments here on Yelp saying that you can do this whole museum in 30 minutes. If you're doing that, you are absolutely doing it wrong and rushing through everything. My last visit was 3.5 hours long and I only saw two or three exhibit rooms. What's so great about this being a free museum is that you DON'T have to rush, because you can always come back later and see anything you didn't get to, in the first or second visit. With all the free things there are to do in Omaha, this has got to be at the top of the list, especially if you're an art lover! read more

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This museum is free with 3 parts. When I visited, there was an ongoing exhibition that was not free. It is very spacious and has a decent collection of artwork. There are sculptures in the garden outside the museum. My favorite here is the beautiful fountain at the middle. Durham Cafe is located inside the museum (I reviewed this separately). They have a gift shop as well. Worth checking out if you're in Omaha. read more

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Regarding the cafe, the food and ambiance are fantastic! I will say the prices are a bit high given the quantities. But it's still a nice experience once in a while. As for the museum, it's top notch and a bargain given the free admission for the permanent collection. Even the ticketed exhibits are very reasonable at ~$10. The Joslyn is an Omaha treasure, and EVERYONE should visit it routinely - they have something worthwhile for each of us! read more

Joslyn Art Museum - Curry Soup - Art Museums Near Me - Omaha, Nebraska

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This was such a nice museum! Before exploring we stopped by the cafe and grabbed a coffee and some tea which both were good. I really enjoyed the contemporary art exhibition and the outdoor sculpture area. Definitely a great place to visit especially since it's free! read more

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I really enjoyed going to this museum. It's free parking, the staff is very friendly and helpful. The museum is always clean and kept together. I love how they have staff throughout the museum to answer questions. This museum being free makes it even better. The cafe food I wouldn't recommend unless you just need a small snack but you can bring your own lunch as well to enjoy in the cafe area for a rest. The bathrooms are always clean. When I need to just clear my mind walking through the museum and its peaceful aura seems to help. I highly recommend whether you on a solo outing or with family members this museum is a good one to visit. read more

Joslyn Art Museum - Art Museums Near Me - Omaha, Nebraska

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I am in shock that I've been 12 yrs yelp Elite and I am now getting around to leaving a review for the local art museum in town! For someone who loves frequenting all art museums, it's about damn time I put in my 2 cents! I think perhaps I was just waiting for the remodel to happen and boy was it worth the wait! Ya'll, it finally feels like a legit art museum w/ the glow up! Also, clean slate food co became the food offerings in the cafe and every single person in our family often times crave certain items on their menu. This happens to happen at least monthly if not more, so we usually go on their monthly night at the museum event where they have extra presentations/activities going on to usually collaborate on what traveling exhibit they are featuring. Even w/o the extra bonuses, we all (especially our kids) love the new art works feature in the basement where you can create your own art. We have been here so many times and it never gets old! All of this and it's completely free! I get conflicted on whether places should charge a fee for admission b/c art is a product, but I love that no one should be shun away from enjoying art too! With that said you do need to pay for the featured gallery, but it is free on the museum nights and one Saturday a month also. However, the permanent collection is pretty amazing in its own right! If coming to Omaha this is one place not to miss for sure! read more

Before moving to Omaha, I had saved a number of Omaha things to do to excite me for my upcoming move, and I was ecstatic to see the Joslyn housed one of the Degas ballerinas, as I love the the series and the hometown museum I was at was smaller (although I loved it) and I am a museum fanatic. It was saddening to have had such a negative experience due to the staff at the Joslyn, and it has made me reluctant to return. My best friend and I had planned to make a dinner and date of going to the Joslyn and dinner at Memoir, with a few photos at the two since we have seen most people we know post at the Joslyn, some with professional cameras and Canon G7X style photos, so when we arrived and received the museum guide we were to sure to read and reference the rules around photos, which were pretty standard. We did dress up since we were going to dinner after, which seemed to warrant unkind attention from the staff, and we were followed around by one staff member who at one point said no photos, even on our iPhone without flash, and embarrassed us to the point that I began to cry. I had been so excited to see the exhibits, not just for a couple of cute pictures, and despite stopping any photos, we were followed and made to feel extremely uncomfortable and unwanted despite being quiet, and following the rules which we approached the front desk for clarification on. I have never experienced such an off-putting experience with a staff member in a museum, as a frequent patron of them as well, and I wish the experience had been more welcoming. Outside of this, the art and presentation is beautiful and well-curated. There are a number of fine art pieces that are well preserved and enjoyable to browse. The museum itself is impressive and clean and I would have liked to come again. read more

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On a visit to Omaha, we made sure to find time to go to Jocelyn our museum. It's been a number of years since I had visited the museum and so much has changed. They have a beautiful new entrance that is open and leads up to multiple galleries. We explored all the different areas of art and my kids definitely preferred the modern galleries. We made sure to make visits to the older areas of the museum as well. They even spent a little time in the kids area in the basement, even though they were routines. It gave him a chance to express their creative side and make some of their own art. We ended our visit with a quick walk in the sculpture garden and some pictures on the steps. The visit here brought back so many memories and it's definitely a place worth visiting a few hours on your trip to Omaha. read more

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It's been a while since I've been to the Joslyn, but it was the perfect spot for us to stroll around while our baby slept. Museum entry is FREE! The new wing is really beautiful and feels both modern but also like it has always been a part of the museum. As a new mom, I also appreciated the really nice changing rooms for babies. We didn't eat here today, but the cafe has delicious food, too! read more

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The Joslyn Art Museum is a free admission art museum in the heart of Omaha NE. Lots of parking along with friendly and educational staff. Having someone open the main door for guests into the building when it was 100 degrees F outside was above and beyond...! The young lady who greeted us at the front briefed us on the free galleries...and the visiting display that required a purchased ticket to view. Staff is avaiaable throughout the museum, stationed outside or nearby every major gallery, if you have any questions and need direction. The museum is easy to navigate. The galleries are easy to find and there is an efficient flow through each to the next. This isn't the biggest art museum I've been to, but I enjoyed the visit. I was impressed with the quality and presentation of the galleries and displays in the Joslyn Art Museum... read more

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I am not a art person, per se, but there is actually some really intriguing exhibits. I'm a huge history buff so seeing all of the old war and older history artifacts was really neat. We didn't get to walk the whole museum, so I definitely want go back to finish everything. To me the gift shop was a little pricey, but they had some nice gifts to offer. read more

I just visited the renovated Joslyn Museum and was very impressed! They did such a good job at blending the historic parts of the building with the new additions. It feels modern but still keeps some of its original charm. We also enjoyed checking out their café. They have really good food options and, surprisingly, really great coffee. The exhibits were so well curated, and there was a nice mix of classic pieces and newer contemporary art. It's a great space to spend a morning or afternoon. Perfect spot for families, date or even a solo visit. I definitely plan on coming back since a couple of hours didn't seem like enough for us! read more

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Took my girlfriend here and really enjoyed the visit. The building itself is beautiful, sleek, modern, peaceful, and the layout makes it easy to take your time and soak it all in. The cafe was a great spot to relax. It was quiet, and the Mediterranean salad was well made. As for the art, my favorite piece was Night on the Oregon Trail by Frank Tenney Johnson. There's something about the way he used dark tones that still somehow felt warm and vibrant. He captured the stillness and comfort of a quiet night on the trail in a way that really stuck with me. Highly recommend checking it out whether you're into art, architecture, or just looking for a peaceful place to spend a few hours. read more

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It has been at least 20 years since the last time I visited the Joslyn museum. With the recent expansion, we decided it was time to visit and see the new section. Besides the additional space, the Joselyn has made some great art acquisitions. My thing is European art and their selection has expanded from what I remember. I especially like the El Greco they had on display. They have areas for just about any kind of art, including some interesting modern art (usually not my thing). Access was easy off the highway, parking was available even though the lot was almost full (rainy day so people looking for things to do indoor), reasonably priced cafeteria, plenty of bathrooms, and friendly staff. Well worth a visit. read more

Joslyn Art Museum - Projected art - Art Museums Near Me - Omaha, Nebraska

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The weather was cold and I had time to waste so why not go check out the museum . . . Did I mention it's FREE?! This museum has a mix of various types of art (contemporary, modern, historic, Indian, etc) that everyone can find something that catches their eye and makes them take a second glance. They also have an instillation of trains that cost $10 to see however there is a day of the month that the museum is open late and you can see that for free as well. With that said I wandered around the museum and they have seats available so you can sit through out the museum, looking at some pieces in amazement and others wondering if I had missed my calling. They say art is in the eye of the beholder as everyone may see something different when looking at it. I was blown away by the art work of Renoir, Monet, Warhol, Pollock, Degas, but I was also intrigued by things like the history of the Indians in Omaha and "The beauty of change". I highly recommend that you take a trip to the museum and see these beautiful pieces for yourself. I would definitely come back and see it again. read more

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Neat experience and FREE!!! Very clean and open and the workers are always walking around making sure you are not causing trouble but more importantly to answer any questions you have about the art works. They also have a small gift shop near the entrance and a cafe as well. read more

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The Edgar Degas' sculpture "Little Dancer Aged Fourteen" is one of my favorite art pieces anywhere, so amazing to have such a classic right here in Omaha. Really enjoyed exploring the newly renovated and expanded museum. Disappointed to see the beautiful Chihuly glass two-story piece was removed, but I hear it is going to be displayed somewhere else in town. read more

Joslyn Art Museum - Degas - Art Museums Near Me - Omaha, Nebraska

Visiting the Joslyn is something I did since I was a kid. I loved (and still do) looking at the art on display and letting my imagination run wild. Before the museum closed for renovation, I took my kids and spent most of the time in art works (the kid section of the museum) and in the sculpture garden. Now, we spent most of our time in the newly expanded contemporary area. I love that the gift shop is in the open and not in a cramped, dark room. When the weather is nice, there is a patio one can sit outside. I heard good things about the cafe. The sculpture garden (and water feature) is still there. The only downside is parking on the property has been reduced. read more

Joslyn Art Museum - Art Museums Near Me - Omaha, Nebraska

Not a huge museum person, but I stopped by since it was free and I am so glad I went!! The museum is massive and so beautiful! There is such a wide variety of art, so there is something for everyone. Right when you step inside, you can appreciate the gorgeous modern architecture of the building. There are tons of rooms and galleries to explore. The shop also sells a variety of merchandise such as prints, books, postcards, cups, cards, puzzles, stationary, socks, etc. the cafe is situated in a nice area with floor to ceiling windows and ceiling glass windows as well. Love it!! And there's a big chihuly art sculpture by the windows as well near the cafe seating. Workers were super friendly. There's an area with coat hangers for your large jackets and coats. Parking was free. And admission was free as well - so crazy!! My expectations were low since it's free, but it might have been my favorite museum so far, even better than the ones in Seattle and LA! Highly recommend! read more

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Definitely the highlight of our family visit to Omaha! This museum has a beautiful open space, filled with diverse art, and creativity. One of my favorite art museums that I've ever visited, and I've visited quite a few. Highly recommended and will be revisiting as often as I can. read more

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This is a surprisingly impressive museum near downtown, with a stunning new wing that we didn't visit. The museum is free and there's a private lot and street parking, also free. (Some special exhibits have a fee, but it's only about $10.) Since they grafted the new wing onto the old museum, reading the maps and figuring out which elevator goes where can be a challenge. The new wing features a sweeping lobby with a beautiful spiral staircase to the old building. The Egyptian, Asian, and Ancient Mediterranean collections are small but mighty - there are several nice Greek redware pots; a small collection of gold mummy amulets; and some crude boat models. I had seen a reference to their bust of God's Wife of Amun Amenirdis in an article, so I was excited to see her. There is a small medieval art collection, a fairly impressive collection of Impressionists; a Rembrandt; a Reynolds; an Angelica Kauffman; and a painting of Napoleon with his son the King of Rome. In addition they have a Degas ballerina statue; a small Rodin; and a small statue of Marie Antoinette on her way to the guillotine. There is a very small collection of Tiffany glass, mostly vases, and a large collection of American art, featuring a wide selection of American Indian beadwork and buffalo robes to present the Native perspective alongside the romanticized Western landscapes. If you've gone through the American wing, stop in the Founders Room - it's where the well-connected used to rest and reflect before the museum was redone, and now you too can relax on a comfy couch in a beautiful Art Deco room under the watchful eyes of founder Sarah Joslyn and her husband George. Impressive gift shop and what looks like a nice cafe, but we'd spent probably two hours in the original building, so we'll have to check that and the new wing out next time. read more

I've always enjoyed going here with my dad. One time, when waiting on a flight, he and I went through the museum and took photos with the artwork. It was a great memory and something that I'm always thankful that we did together! Even when it's a place you might not find as being exciting, it's still a place that can bring lasting memories! read more

Coming here to say I HIGHLY recommend the studio classes at the Joslyn! A great way to spend a few hours a week and work those creative juices. Affordable and fun way to learn more painting skills. Just finished the acrylic painting class and was very happy with the results. Can't wait for the next one read more

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We went to see the new addition of modern art. The outside looks more like a beautiful casino than an art museum-architecture is beautiful and modern. The exhibit halls are roomy with life-size pictures and statues. There's a wide variety of art here. Access to the original museum is easy going through the inside and there is also a dining area if you want to get a light bite to eat. We were proud to show it to out-of-town visitors . read more

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The art ranging from ancient times to modern art was interesting to view especially the abstract art and the portrait that resembled kind of like Ronald Reagan. The fountain in the center of the building was also eye-pleasing to admire along with the sculpture garden right outside of the building. read more

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My husband looooves going to the Joslyn and we were both itching to get back after their renovations. We've been back twice since it's opened so far and it is lovely! There is so much open space and natural light and the outdoor area is lovely as well. You definitely won't be disappointed with an afternoon spent here, made sweeter by the fact that it's always free! This review, however, is primarily about the new dining area/cafe. The menu here is so mouthwatering, I feel like I need to try it all and maybe one day I will be successful in that. We went recently for a lunch and truly had a very tasty, satisfying meal overall. I got the kimchi grilled cheese and my husband wanted to try the special of the day which was a vegetarian succotash. We shared a side of the Bombay potatoes. The kimchi in my sandwich wasn't super strong, but added a very nice tang to a very rich and creamy sandwich! I would 100% eat this sandwich again and maybe even try to make it at home - it's so good! My husband also really enjoyed his succotash and the bites I had were delicious, but he did comment that it wasn't quite as filling as he had hoped. The Bombay potatoes were a bit disappointing to both of us - it was the only dish that was lacking in flavor and was overpowered by the yogurt compared to how many potato pieces were there. This dish I probably wouldn't order again unless the recipe changed significantly. I washed it all down with an iced tea sweetened with simple syrup. It was a very lovely afternoon with a great meal. I look forward to trying more from their menu! read more

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Decided to stop in for my birthday since I had never been and not to mention that it's free. Awesome. Lots of cool and beautiful stuff friendly staff and the building so pretty too. read more

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Finally get the chance to revisit this place after 6 years. The architecture and the design looks more sleek and modern yet minimalist. I especially like the temporary art installation / gallery like the Japanese art, it provides a different type of brushing and details as compared to the European arts, not to mention there's a variety of classic and contemporary art as well - and they're free admission! (Except for the special exhibit). Definitely will revisit and highly recommended if you would like a museum date! read more

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It's been a few weeks, but I happened to be browsing yelp and noticed all the negative reviews are very similar to my experience. It was my first time at the Joslyn, and although I have been to the likes of MoMA and the Louvre, I was very happily surprised with how elegant, intriguing, and memorable it was. I felt like I hadn't appreciated art before like I had that day. There are multiple gorgeous Renoir, some Monet, and Degas in their collection that I thoroughly enjoyed - and I couldn't bring myself to step away from The King of Rome. However, a very dark smear on the day, which I still enjoyed despite, was feeling like I was being harassed by a particular member of staff. It felt like she was following us around specifically to loudly embarrass us in front of everyone in the room. We were told at the front desk to stay at least one foot away from the art (and at 23 and 24 years old I believe we can handle these directions, but I digress, the general public is always questionable and I acknowledge and respect this). After the attendant came up to us the first time, we were very wary; we actually measured up the pamphlet/map the front desk gave us to around 10 inches, and used that, held in the air several inches away from the paintings, to ensure we were at LEAST 12 inches (and definitely at around 18" realistically) away from the art. She came up to us AGAIN despite making a conscious effort to keep at least a foot away, interrupting us whilst we were genuinely excited about admiring and discussing the art. It put a seriously sour taste in my mouth, to the point that if she had approached us again I probably would have been as rude as she was. This is yet another reason I waited to make a review, I was so genuinely upset by this employee's behavior towards us that I didn't feel I could make an objective review without being upset, and even now I can feel my blood pressure rising. The detail on The King of Rome is so immaculate and captivating and I felt I was unable to truly appreciate it because of this looming snobbish attitude like a sticky cloud in the air. We stood close enough to the carpet-sample-wall exhibit to discuss the difference in fiber colors, and yet no other attendant we passed during our time seemed to have an issue with the way we were handling ourselves around the art. I will say that our visit was refreshed by a young man at the register in the gift shop who aspires to be a stand-up comedian. He gave us a horrible run at his stand-up routine, but he was so kind and happy. If anyone would ever be the embodiment of bright yellows and springtime, it would be him. He was confident in himself, great conversation, and overall just resumed my happiness and satisfaction with my experience at The Joslyn. I truly would be giving this review 3 stars or less if not for the gift shoppe attendant. read more

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I was so happy to come back to the Joslyn Art Museum for the first time since the renovations! I love how admission to the museum is now free for all which makes art more accessible for anyone! I love to come here with friends to browse the various galleries and I am always in awe of how they have Monet as well as other incredible artists. (I don't think I'll ever get over how old some of the art is yet how it is in such great condition, honestly think that's magical). I love the added area with it feels more inviting and open with the many windows. I think the Joslyn is a beautiful art museum and I'm so glad it's here in Omaha! read more

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Wonderful art museum in downtown Omaha filled with a wide variety of art treasures ...paintings, sculptures, installations, mosaics and more...nice little restaurant on premises...and, it's FREE admission..definitely recommended if you have free time in downtown Omaha read more

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The Joslyn Art Museum is the most recent place that we have visited here in Omaha. It is a large complex which was recently renovated and expanded, housing a wide variety of artwork--some are beautiful pieces while we wondered why others were even qualified as art... My wife several times commented, "I could do that". The American Art section displayed several Native American items, including painted buffalo robes. That section connected most closely with me, since this area was frontier land when various explorers and pioneers temporarily settled here during their treks westward. The European Art galleries included a couple of Monet paintings. I much preferred the American and European artwork to the contemporary art which is exhibited in the newer building. The museum's buildings themselves are good artwork. The exteriors present an interesting mix of old and new architecture. The spacious interiors provide plenty of room which allows for a peaceful, relaxed experience. read more

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I'm usually not one for art museums but this blew my breath away. There were so many interesting pieces and wonderful works that my family really enjoyed. I brought my family and we couldn't stop mentioning the stalagmites made entirely of buttons. I loved the fountain and some of the earlier pieces within the southern building. If you happen to get a little hungry, there's a cafe within. They don't allow the goodies through the museum, but the option of having a cafe is always nice! I highly recommend if you're looking for something new! read more

Joslyn Art Museum - Art Museums Near Me - Omaha, Nebraska

This is such an amazing thing to have in downtown Omaha. I was pleasantly surprised by how big it is on the inside and since it had renovations done, it had been a long time since I have visited. I spent a few hours here and definitely want to go back again! I'm excited that they update and change exhibits. Overall a good experience. I have major, major respect for all the artists and appreciative of the staff. They even had audio and visual exhibits! read more

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When your family, friends, s/o's family and friends come, whomever really, come have them join you on your quest to enjoy the art that Joslyn has to offer! I'm only an amateur art connoisseur, and I really enjoy walking around to witness great art structures, pieces, and even alternating exhibits. The Clean Slate café also has great food and coffee/drink selections - check them out! read more

Joslyn Art Museum - Art Museums Near Me - Omaha, Nebraska

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I am so glad that Joslyn has finally re-opened! I moved to Omaha about 6 years ago and had not gotten the chance to explore the Joslyn, and I am so glad that we did. The Joslyn is a beautiful building that houses even more thoughtful and beautiful art. I loved looking at all of the piecies, and thought that the gallaries were curated perfectly to capture emotion and display the art. My favorite piece was bright flowers that was on a pure black background. The striking difference between the colors was very eye-catching. Not to mention this painting was created in the 1600's- adding to the appeal and constantly making me wonder what life was like back then. It was interesting to see all of this old artwork that offered a glimpse into the foods and scenes that our ancestors encountered. Not to mention, admission is FREE! The joslyn is the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon! read more

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Love the new wing they built to the Joslyn, they've really made this become more of a "big city" museum than an Omaha-size museum. I liked the museum before, it was well thought out with the design and curated collections, but now it feels like so much more. I really enjoyed all the new modern pieces and multimedia pieces in the new wing, and the changes to the cafe and gift shop complete the package. My friend and I came for the refugee fair (which itself was incredible, highly recommend you attend next year!), and we stayed for lunch. Clean Slate Cafe has really done something special with the food options, including wine and beer choices, and lovely desserts. I got a salmon Niçoise salad with a glass of Prosecco, and my friend got a noodle bowl, strawberry lemonade, and chocolate dessert. We both rated them 10/10 meals, and lingered over them for a long chat in the sunshine flowing in through the glass walls. read more

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Wanted to update since I was finally able to tour the new 2024 addition that kept the Joslyn closed for 2 years. The new space is absolutely beautiful!! The ample light, big windows and curved architecture give it a real peaceful vibe. The gift shop is large and spacious, not a bit cramped like the previous one. I bought a jigsaw puzzle. A bit pricey but a nice souvenir of my afternoon spent here. The Durham Cafe in the 1994 section has a lot of seating, even some outdoors. The grounds are green and beautiful. The galleries in the new section were big. It felt huge with lots to see. One could almost get lost up there. I noticed they had stations where one could grab a portable seat to carry around (something that may come in handy for me someday). I was there today for a musical tribute to Jacque Brel sponsored by the Alliance Francaise Omaha. It was in Abbott Hall which seats about 100 people. Not a bad seat in the house! I've been wondering where I wanted to go for my birthday - I think I might drag along my spouse and we can eat at the Durham Cafe and wander around the grounds more this time. read more

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Very impressive collection of a wide variety of art from many centuries and cultures. Appreciate that it's free admission (except for viewing the special exhibits). Friendly staff and nice gift shop. read more

As a front-of-house (FOH) staff member, I feel it's important for visitors and potential employees to understand how this museum actually functions behind the scenes. The director and upper-level leadership regularly hand down strict rules about gallery procedures, yet they rarely step foot in the galleries themselves. The people making decisions about "standards" and "expectations" are the same people who never personally interact with FOH staff or the public we manage every day. FOH employees are the ones protecting the artwork, managing visitors, monitoring galleries for hours, and keeping the institution running. Despite that, appreciation is minimal. Raises have been limited to about 3 percent, while expectations continue to increase -- coming in early, staying late for events, and taking on more responsibilities without meaningful compensation or recognition. The disconnect between leadership and the staff doing the actual on-the-ground work is impossible to ignore. It's even more frustrating when the director collects awards and public praise for a museum he is rarely present in, while the people who maintain visitor safety and protect the art are treated as an afterthought. Visitors deserve a great experience, and employees deserve leadership that understands the job they're evaluating. Unfortunately, that is not the culture here. read more