I've been to the RAM many times and it's a small art museum in Downtown Riverside. The Cheech Museum is one stop light up and a larger museum. If you purchase a ticket to the Cheech, the RAM is included in your ticket price, or if you start at the RAM, the Cheech will be included that day. I came to the RAM this time around, specifically, for the 60 Miles East exhibit. This exhibit ends on 4/12, so make sure to swing by before then if you want to catch it. The exhibit contained many flyers, pictures, art, and even ticket stubs that brought me back to my childhood. It was in a clean and open space that made the experience enjoyable. This exhibit takes up only one room and there are other spaces to check out for additional art exhibits. I did notice less art, this time around, than in previous visits and many open spaces/walls were not taken up. Overall, I'm glad I got to enjoy this exhibit, before it ends, and it really highlights the Inland Empire's music scene as an important piece of diverse culture. Enjoy! read more

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Located on the corner of Mission and Lime, I'd passed the Riverside Art Museum so many times but never actually went inside. I was usually heading next door to the RMA for a concert. But when they announced the 60 Miles East Punk Rock in Riverside exhibition, I knew I wasn't going to miss it. The Riverside Art Museum was originally built in 1929 as a YWCA before being bought and turned into what it is now. You walk in and admission is right there. I went on Veterans Day so I got in free. Otherwise combo tickets that get you into the Cheech the same day cost $15.95. A good deal! The 60 Miles East exhibition is in a giant room filled with flyers, posters and clothing from bands and places all over the Inland Empire. It was super cool but made me a bit sad inside because I'd been to the Showcase Theatre on many occasions and still miss it. They also have art in another part of the gallery including a Shepard Fairley original. I wasn't expecting that! Overall the Riverside Art Museum is a place I'd for sure recommend. It's not real big but since you can go to the Cheech on the same day with your ticket, it's worth the admission cost. 60 Miles East runs to mid April so don't miss it! Support the arts! read more

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Very cool. Nice building. Multiple, large spaces. Great exhibits, from photographs to interactive installations. The museum gift store is worth the visit. I purchased a rooster finger puppet just for fun. Complimentary admission on the first Sundays of the month. It's worth the drive to Riverside. read more

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I've been to RAM three or four times and it's always a pleasure. You get free admission when you purchase a ticket for Cheech Marin's museum. My favorite exhibits this time were The Human Interaction is a Beautiful Thing, Invisible Threads, The Pleasure of Being Wrong, and James Baldwin. All were interesting and thought-provoking. read more

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I went to the Cheech Museum and loved it. Clean , open. Close to center of town and Mission Inn Fantastic. Evocative. Beautiful. Thought provoking read more

I came here with my little family, taking advantage of the FREE FIRST SUNDAYS admission. This museum is housed in an older builder. They have ramp access for strollers toward the sides and you have to press a button to be buzzed in. The space is a bit more cramped if you're comparing it to The Cheech next door. But, it is enough space for a single stroller. The mood and vibe of this place is a bit more "serious", it has more sculptures than painting when we went, and if you have little ones, you'd need to watch them. There are security guards in the area which will remind you if the little ones are running around. There is also a gift shop and a cool Atrium space in the middle. When we visited, there was a demonstration on puppets for the little ones. Overall such a lovely venue! To the exhibits - the Sacred Space arts and sculptures on the second floor is really neat. I really enjoyed my time there! There are cool paintings, vases, and tables with their geometric shapes and colors. I love exposing my family and myself to new things. We definitely learn a thing or two visiting museum like this one. read more

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Met by sulking staffer at entrance No brochure, "use the code" she said which explained nothing about the exhibit. Paid over $40 dollars for 3 tickets incl a senior only to find several cavernous rooms plastered with mediocre photographs and drawings. One with a guy giving the finger. As a former high school fine arts high school teacher, the exhibit was hardly museum or art worthy, we left in 15 minutes. Save your money. read more

Small museum in a cute old building. Easy to visit with someone who doesn't have patience for a long visit to a large museum (my daughter). Worth a stop if you're in Riverside visiting the Mission Inn. read more

Beautiful building and atrium. The building itself is an art piece. This museum features local artists. We enjoy especially different pieces from Charles Bibbs. So exquisite and powerful. High recommended. The museum entrance fee also gives the admission to The Cheech, a collection of Chicano arts. We enjoyed our visit. read more

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This place is beautiful! Architecture is amazing! There is plenty of parking lots in the area that are contactless so that's a plus. It is in the heart of downtown so anywhere you park, you will still be able to explore. The museum itself is pretty small. It is two stories and the entrance is great. You walk into a succulent courtyard. Very Spanishesque!!!! There's some pretty cool paintings and artwork here. Definitely a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. You are able to do an audio tour when you walk around to get a little more information on the artist and their work. Pretty cool stuff. I will def be back to bring friends!!!! read more

This was a cool find. I had an appointment in downtown Riverside at a nearby venue. I just happened to park in front of the art museum. They were a special New Year's/ Yuletide event. I was informed that the first of every Sunday they have a special event open to the public. They had like performances, photo opportunities, and free food. Of course, this is an art museum , and services are guaranteed and every event, but it was a lovely experience it was just one time. As a huge fan of the inland Empire, I'm glad that this creative space has graced the City Of riverside. read more

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A different type of venue, on a different day of the week, Tuesday, for a wedding. So if you're looking for a different type of venue for your nuptials try the Riverside Art Museum, in downtown Riverside. Just a short distance from the world famous Riverside Mission Inn. This was the choice for my wife's first cousin and his bride. Decent space for the ceremony, surrounded by modern artwork. Maybe room for you and, say, about 100 guests. Beautiful rooftop reception area. It was a lovely evening, the culmination of their 7 years together. read more

Riverside Art Museum - Wedding Cake - Art Schools Near Me - Riverside, California

Like virtually all art museums are, this is a great location to see a vast selection of the various presentations of art. Located near the freeway, in the heart of downtown Riverside, this art museum is easy to find. There is plenty of street and parking lot parking in the area, so this should never be an issue. One of the great things about Riverside Art Museum is that it is located in this old, house-like structure. Inside, you really feel like you are in someone's home. Just inside the main entry area, there is an enclosed patio area, covered by a glass ceiling. They have a few seats and tables in this room. It's a nice place to sit back and take a breath before or after you explore the museum. This is multi floored structure. Each floor offers a unique and ever-changing array of art. So, you will always find nice and inspirational art to view. Overall, great place! read more

Riverside Art Museum - Art Schools Near Me - Riverside, California

If can can just go. Both are outstanding , thought provoking and fun. Along with The Cheech Museum (visit both with just one ticket). Just go. https://www.google.com/search?q=the+cheech+museum&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&hl=en-us&client=safari#ebo=0 https://www.google.com/search?q=the+cheech+museum&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&hl=en-us&client=safari#ebo=0 read more

Its merger/partnership with the Cheech space is definitely a plus. they had multiple installations that were interesting and the architecture there is incredible. Apparently it's an old YW or YMCA. read more

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The Riverside Museum of art is a smaller museum filled with great artist. They had 3 exhibits on display today including one on plants which was beautiful the architecture of the museum it's self is BEAUTIFUL. Upstairs they had a hands on exhibit where you can draw and interact with old school type writers. It's gray for the family something koo fun and fast to do perfect so a summer time outing. Entrance fees includes entrance to RAM and the CHEECH Marin Center for CHICANO ART &. CULTURE Will definitely go back !!! read more

Riverside Art Museum - First time here - Art Schools Near Me - Riverside, California

PARKING: Although parking is abundant and cheap in Riverside, there is free parking in the area, if you know where to look. Drive past the museum and turn right on Lemon St. There is free parking there (90 minute limit, I think). That should be enough to see this small museum. ENTRANCE FEE: Pretty cheap at $5. Even cheaper for students, at $3. Not sure about other discounts but don't hesitate to ask. As far as the collection/exhibitions go, there was a lot of work from one specific artist and I had hoped to see more variety. Nonetheless, I enjoyed and appreciated what I saw. A quick way to infuse some art into your life. read more

Riverside Art Museum - Art Schools Near Me - Riverside, California

This museum is in downtown and neighbors the other two museums. The two-story building is absolutely STUNNING. Designed by Julia Morgan. The venue is rented out for weddings (excellent background for photos). There is a gift shop to the left of the entrance. There is a area where one can doodle upstairs. The current exhibit, (in)visible threads was a treat to view. read more

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Julia Morgan designed architecture designed for YWCA now houses 3 galleries and youth art classes in the atrium. The admission also gives you tickets to The Cheech Museum a block away. read more

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We were able to come and view this museum since it came with the admission to The Cheech which is right down the street. It's a lot smaller but so much cool art to see. My favorite is all of the art upstairs that is crafted by kids in local schools near by. The courtyard in the middle is beautiful as well. read more

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The Riverside Art Museum is located in downtown a Riverside. I love to walk the downtown area because of their beautiful buildings! The ceramic display on the second floor was my favorite. So much attention to detail. See my pictures. My admission was free since I purchased a ticket to Cheech Marin Center. The gift shop had so many different items. read more

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Been wanting to check this place out for awhile. For the price, I couldn't pass it up. 16.95 for adults and 12 and under are free. Plus, for now you also gain entry to the new Cheech museum. Lots of art to see. Some of the rooms felt very big compares to the art inside. My kids loved the typewriter exhibit. It was hands on and something they could touch. If anything, they could use more of those kinds of things here read more

Riverside Art Museum - Typewriter exhibit - Art Schools Near Me - Riverside, California

One of the best places to come and enjoy Latin art the aesthetic of the museum the art pieces they have on display Are relatable, they showcase love for different cultures in touch on a lot of political issues which adults and children can discuss and enjoy. One of the greatest things about downtown Riverside is the amount of parking they have and all of the activities I recommend taking a day to enjoy the beauties downtown Riverside has to offer. read more

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I would give it 3 stars if it's just for the collection of painting, you can honestly finish the whole museum in 20 minutes, maybe 40 if you really stretch out and go through every painting on every single wall closely. For $5 I think it's a bit much, and I love museums! However I added one star because I like the fact that they presents art work from local school students, and also have activity that incorporate kids. This museum us surprisingly kid welcome. I saw a two year old that was curious about the artwork and I think it's really educational. This review is solely for just the museum aspect, I see people reviewing for weddings they had at this place, so I just want to clarify. read more

Riverside Art Museum - Beast collection - Art Schools Near Me - Riverside, California

The RAM is quite small but worth the visit. The cost is only $5/person (or $3/person for students and kids get in free). The staff is very friendly and helpful and there is a lot of interesting artwork to admire. read more

Wonderful example of Spanish architecture and haute culture under one roof. Downtown Riverside has more to offer than dodging toothless panhandlers who look twenty-years older than they actually are. The Riverside Art Museum (RAM) is next to the Riverside Municipal Auditorium (RMA) -aside- I understand if the similar acronyms are confusing. Also nearby are the History Museum and the greatest fraud ever built: The Historic Mission Inn, which by the way isn't remotely old enough to qualify, but draws gullible moths to its faux fires in droves. But I digress- RAM is a hub of the monthly Art Walk on the first Thursday of every month, and its large galleries allow for multiple exhibitions and special events. I've frequented RAM for weddings and receptions, they even had a short-lived restaurant in the enclosed court yard, but generally I come to photograph what's supposed to be the bride's happiest day. Yeah, documenting weddings with all the bizarre stuff and diverse but somewhat predictable outcomes. Check this out! Apparently the venue installed some railings in the courtyard after they signed an agreement and the wedding party only learned about the change mere days beforehand (so better follow-up with a coordinator), regardless, my partner in these crimes is an old pro and we adopt to any setting. The unpredictable aspects of weddings are the sometimes disconcerting moments, like when a bride's tweaker husband to be didn't pay me in advance so I refused to take my gear out until Pay Pal verified a transfer. I found the lack of preparedness at the location to be problematic. Already it was clear it wasn't destined to be the happiest or smoothest ceremony. On whose fault that lies I suspect it's a two-way tie between management and the bridal party. Nonetheless, the delays and snafus allowed us to scout out good camera angles and coordinate our strategy and positioning. The wedding ceremony went quickly enough but I almost died laughing when I saw the place settings! Apparently they only had metal forks and used plastic knives with opened cocktail napkins for the color coordination. Oh well, at least there was great art on the walls. Then, the dancing began. The acoustics inside weren't too bad actually but the evening got interesting when the by now super drunk maid of honor (bride's sister) started a fight with a teenage girl. Separated quickly, the evening ended abruptly with the maid of honor dumping a beer on the poor girl and socking her upside the head. Imagine spilled beer all over the wonderful stone floors and the girl's father pressing the bellicose bride's sister's head to the wet floor. Classy and a first time story to share. I felt bad for the house security detail but also sensed the on duty manager wasn't really A-team material either. All-in-all, four-stars for the building, 3.5 stars for the food they prepared and 1.5 stars for overall handling of the event. read more

Riverside Art Museum - Slacking on the job continues... - Art Schools Near Me - Riverside, California

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Pandemic review * I really like this museum. They offer events for the community such as art walks, talks, classes, food trucks, music on the regular and they are usually free although donations are welcomed . During these pandemic times they they are offering events that you can virtually participate in so you can still get your art fix.I attended The Winter Exhibitions Opening Reception here. It was a lot of fun.52 artists were showcased.Artists were available to chat up as well. read more

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You know I'm not really an art person, I mean sometimes a piece/drawing/photo will grab my attention but to say hey let spend the day at an art museum. Yeah that's not me. This place wasn't bad though, but it true you can go through it in like 30-45mins. It was really a nice touch how on the second floor they have a little section from students ranging from elementary to high school. So much detail, and for them just being kids!! They had a room solely for some work on Todd Gray not bad, the best was Batman of course lol. I wouldn't mind coming back knowing that they change the art every once in awhile but to be a regular here, yeah probably not. read more

Riverside Art Museum - Work by Todd Gray. - Art Schools Near Me - Riverside, California

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I would like to thank the security guard at the art museum, she helped us so much with my sister who was not feeling very good on July 21,2024 I really appreciate you helping us with everything that you did to assist us.Thank you so much for everything!!! read more

I actually really enjoy the Riverside Art museum. It's definitely a cool place to be. They have all sorts of events and classes you can sign up for whether it be for children/ youth or adults. I did give it a try and sign my daughter up in art classes. They have all kinds of classes you can choose from on their website. I do have to say that the staff that I encountered were kind of unfriendly and I truly hope that can change. It is discouraging to go somewhere and have people not interested in helping. For example they had the gift shop doors open, I was shopping around - then one of the workers came and said we're not selling anything from the shop right now. So I asked why? Thinking maybe their credit machine isn't working or something so I offered to pay cash instead and she said no neither cash or card. I asked if they'd be open at a later time- she just said "I don't know". Most of the time when people come to museums they're excited and wanting to go spend money/view items but they were really unwelcoming. The manager of the museum on the other hand is amazing. She is super sweet and very much professional at handling things. My daughters art teacher was teaching things in class that didn't have anything to do with art and are very controversial topics in today's world, when I told the manager she offered us a refund and an opportunity to choose a different class so that my daughter could have a better experience. I truly appreciate her kindness and understanding. I will come back and give it another opportunity in the future. read more

I would not recommend this place as a venue. We were given 1 hour for set up. When we arrived, no tables or chairs were set out. So they meant they will arrive and set up an hour before, leaving you less than one hour to set up by the time they are done. The event manager changes her mind on a whim and doesn't stick to what she says. Very discourteous and unprofessional. read more

This review is for the event venue only: This could be an amazing venue with the addition of a professional coordinator in the lead role. read more

Was overpriced too small. It seemed more like a gallery than a museum it was too limited

Cool place to drop in and take in some art. What I liked best was the actual building. It is old and beautiful to look at. The museum has three levels and lots of corners filled with beautiful pieces from local artists, exhibits and owned pieces. Each room is different allowing for a different effect for the art that is displayed. One room has a lot of windows letting in tons of natural light on white walls while others have fewer windows, darker walls and lighting to compliment. There is enough to keep you busy for an hour to two or even three depending on how long you like to take it all in. It is five bucks without any discounts which I find reasonable. There is also a small section with art by local students from high school and elementary school which I really liked. There is some real talent in the area! Perfect date spot before dinner or just to stop in. read more

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Very cool place to visit in Riverside. We were lucky enough to find out they do kids' birthday parties at such a great price! We absolutely loved having my son's birthday here! Raven was amazing and took care of everything for us. Everyone was enchanted with the venue and setup. Art activity is included, and the kids had a blast. It was so easy to arrange, no work to be done the day of and so much fun. Will definitely try to plan another birthday party here! read more

A very tiny place with second floor. $5 for adults, kids free, still worth it, there has a drawing room, and you can pin your pictures on the wall. read more

I hate to knock any art museum, since I support their purpose and spend a lot of time enjoying all kinds of museums and galleries (and architecture). This museum's building is beautiful (rating 4 stars), but the Henry L.A. Jekel exhibit (a 2; averaged to 3 stars) was a big disappointment. Instead of containing a single original artifact, letter, blueprint, or sketch, the exhibit consists of reproduced printed images, mainly photos of buildings Jekel designed. The exhibit guide said it was based on a book (and co-curated by the book's authors), but given its lack of anything original to look, it would've better suited a library vitrine (though even library exhibits at least include actual books, not just pictures of them). Sure, I get that primary sources cost to be insured, installed, etc. But is it too much to expect that maybe a video tour of a Jekel building or two be included, and not just photos, crowded next to paragraphs of type, instead of being nicely framed? Or that someone would've had the imagination to post a map with pins dropped at locations of Jekel's local buildings? Visitors are left to assume that this exhibit offers far less than the book on which it's based, and that's unfortunate. read more

This review is long overdue! My husband and I had our wedding in September 2018. Overall, we had a wonderful time at a beautiful location and all of our friends and family loved it. -Venue/museum- The location was perfect! We were engaged for two years, so we had plenty of time to look for our perfect venue. We've looked all over from Ventura county to Temecula. We've seen beautiful venues but something just didnt feel right until we stepped inside the RAM. Of course, it's not a wedding venue..obviously. It's a museum.  so the promptness and services weren't going to be the same as those that dedicate their time to just weddings. The building itself is absolutely beautiful. loved the architecture and interesting fact..Julia Morgan was one of the architects of this building and the hearst castle! The lobby is spacious, the atrium (which we used as a dance floor) was big enough for our guests to dance and the art alliance room was a bit cozy as we had 170 guests. But, we were able to manage round tables and two rectangular tables for our guests. And there was enough space in front of our table to have our first dance. We also had our cocktail hour up in the rooftop which we loved. We just loved that we were able to use a building for our guests and had the advantage to enjoy the outdoors, views, and the artwork. We didnt need a lot of decorations because the art and the building itself was beautiful. We definitely saved on that. Kitchen was an additional cost to use but was necessary and it was helpful in the long run as we were able to drop off our items the day before. Restroom were nice and clean. However, there aren't enough restrooms on the 1st floor. There are restrooms on the second floor but they open up based on how busy the restrooms are downstairs. -Services- Kathy the coordinator was very welcoming and personable the first day we met her. Which was literally a year and a half before we set our wedding date. My husband and I visited the museum and met with her multiple times before we finally decided to use the RAM as our venue. And let me tell you, she welcomed us and greeted us with so much joy and love every single time. She never pressured us into getting the venue, or got upset since we visited often. Communicating with her was easy and she was always available when we needed her & she responded very quickly via phone & email. She also seemed  accomadating with our vendors (however our vendors said they ran into a few problems with the venue and coordinator the day of the wedding) prior to the wedding she met with them. She also let us drop off our items for the wedding the day before and helped us. The day of the wedding I did notice that there were a few things that were moved around and a few things were changed like our table numbers...not sure what happened there. Honestly, it was the day of I wasnt going to worry about the little details, I wish things would of stayed how they were but it wasnt that big of a deal. One thing I do reccomend is to make sure you, your vendor and kathy agree on the details before the wedding and to make sure they stick with the plans. There was a bit of he said, she said comments between the vendor and coordinator the day of our wedding but luckily my mother in law handled it, while my husband and I enjoyed our day. Overall, that didn't really ruin anything but just watch out for it. Overall, our wedding turned out beautiful. -Location- We loved the Downtown Riverside vibe! One of things on top of our list is to pick a location that our guests would enjoy. That means nightlife! I wanted them to be able to enjoy themselves after the wedding and they did. There are clubs and restaurants nearby. In fact, my husband and I stayed at the Mission Inn hotel and after the wedding we decided to walk to the hotel. It was fun walking in my dress and random people were yelling out congratulations and clapping, it was cute and it made it much more enjoyable. lol. read more

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It's a wonderful local museum. They do a great job of highlighting artists from the Riverside and surrounding areas. As of Nov. 2019 they have a great show up of local printmakers. It's not the kind of place that'll you'll learn all of art history but it is has a great sense of community. I recommend everyone in town goes there and to the other local art museum downtown. read more

Came to the art museum in riverside on a Sunday afternoon. It was quiet and peaceful. Parking is free on weekends. Staff is super polite and helpful. My children were able to even make some of their own! There's plenty of space for your little ones to look around without feeling your going to break,something. I have 4 kids 13,10,4,and 3 they had a amazing time. Great new and older art. Overall great experience for us all! Thank you. read more

Riverside Art Museum - Every child is an artist! - Art Schools Near Me - Riverside, California

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