History and art collide at Crocker Art Museum. Located in Sacramento, the museum is celebrated for its globally important array of Californian art - which dates from the famed gold rush to the present day - as well as masterworks from Europe and ceramic works from across the world. This sizeable museum is housed within two striking inter-connected buildings - the first of which is a beautiful 19th-century building which is a stunning piece of Italianate architecture that has rightfully earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places and as a California Historical Landmark. The second is the modern Teel Family Pavilion, which was erected beside the existing site in 2010 and vastly increased the size of the museum - more than tripling its previous floor space. Those who venture inside will find an array of permanent collections and travelling exhibitions, as well as studio classes, children’s activities, lectures, films and even concerts for them to enjoy, and more besides. To find out more about these and other attractions inside this landmark facility, read on for a guide to Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento.
Things to do / Highlights
So you’ve made the decision to visit this significant Sacramento landmark. But where to start when looking to explore this large and diverse museum? These highlights or things to do may provide a little inspiration.
Permanent collections
As well as the aforementioned Californian art, the museum’s permanent collections feature a wide array of works from across the world - including pieces from Africa, Asia, Europe, and Oceania. It is also home to one of the biggest collections of international ceramics in the entire USA. There are also collections dedicated to American art from before and after 1945.
Special exhibitions
Alongside its permanent collection, the museum features a number of temporary exhibitions every year - typically more than half a dozen but sometimes as many as 14 in any given year. Past exhibitions have covered a range of diverse subjects - from the mesmerising landscapes of celebrated 19th-century Californian painter Raymond Dabb Yelland to explorations of past women’s lives through 18th-century French art.
Films and music
As well as physical art, the museum also serves as a film and music venue - showcasing the likes of special silent film screenings of masterpieces like F.W. Murnau’s iconic Nosferatu and Charlie Chaplin’s The Kid. Musical highlights meanwhile have included the likes of its Global Rhythms season - featuring acclaimed musicians from all over the planet - and classical music concerts.
Kids' events, talks, and classes
The museum also hosts a busy programme of talks and classes - for those eager to explore their own artistic muses - as well as special activities aimed at introducing children to the joys of art. Check its calendar out for the latest activities.
Things to buy
You’ll no doubt be fired up with artistic inspiration following your exploration of the museum’s various galleries and exhibitions. Well, whether you wish to channel that into your own artistic creations or simply wish to pick up a souvenir memento then you’re in luck, as the Crocker is home to an on-site shop. It sells everything from ceramics and regional art, to creative toys for children and jigsaws based around some of the exhibits. There’s even an array of books for you to enjoy - whether works centred around some of the artists or more creative tomes aimed at teaching you a few skills of your own. Ever fancied trying your hand at creating a beautiful origami bouquet - now’s your chance. The shop is open daily from 10am to 5pm (except Mondays when it is closed) and is even open until the later time of 9pm on Thursdays so you’ll have ample chance to pick up a gift or two. And, if your trip makes you a little peckish, there’s a cafe on site too.
Travelers tips
Accessibility
Those with mobility requirements will be pleased to note that the museum is barrier-free and each of the three levels of the museum boast elevator access. There are also wheelchair-accessible restrooms and drink fountains on each of the three levels, and the museum is service animal-friendly.
Guided tours
The museum hosts a range of tours for group visits - be it one of the regular drop-in tours or bespoke tours organised in advance by arrangement. These tours can be self-led or volunteer-led but should be organised two or four weeks in advance, respectively. Times can vary so check the website.
Multi-lingual tours
Volunteer-led guided tours are available in a small number of different languages, but make sure to give the museum at least four week’s notice via (916) 808-1182 if you want to make use of this service.
Children-friendly
Travellers with young families will be pleased to know that the museum is child-friendly and actively caters for little ones through a mix of specialised programmes, activities, and tours. These include a story trail, stay-and-play activities, and a family adventure guide (which is available in England and Spanish). The museum is also home to Tot Land, a special section where children can indulge their creativity through art-making and interactive exhibits. The museum’s calendar features more details about special events for youngsters.
How to get there
By car
The museum is located at 216 O Street, on the corner of 3rd Street and is next to the West Side Highway. There’s parking on site at the museum as well as the nearby City of Sacramento car park and SP Plus (both off nearby N Street).
By bus
There are a number of bus stops in nearby streets, including at the corners of P Street and 4th, 3rd Street and Q Street, and Capitol and 3rd.
By taxi or Uber
Naturally, the city is also home to a number of taxi operators. Uber also covers Sacramento too so you’ll be able to arrange car transport to pick you up or drop you off if you wish.
By light rail
Sacramento’s light rail system has stops nearby at 8th and O Streets as well as 8th and K Streets.
By bike
Those looking to make their way there under their own steam will find bike rack parking in Crocker Park, which is located just across the road from the main entrance to the museum.
How to book tickets
You can buy tickets at the door on the day or in advance via the museum’s official website. General admission is free for members but will set non-members back a range of prices. Entry is 12 USD for adults, 8 USD for seniors, students and the military, and 6 USD for children aged 6 to 17. Youngsters aged 5 and under go free. Time your visit right though and you may enjoy lower prices. The third Sunday of each month is a special ‘pay what you wish’ day - admission is free (or whatever you’re prepared to pay). There are also occasional Five Dollar Days when admission is - unsurprisingly - just 5 USD for anyone over 18 and free for youths. Special concerts, performances, classes and lectures may have their own individual prices so best check the website before visiting.
Crocker Art Museum information
Crocker Art Museum
Address: 216 O Street, Sacramento, California, CA 95814
Official website: Crocker Art Museum
Tourism board: Visit Sacramento
Opening hours: Tue - Wed, Fri - Sun: 10am - 5pm; Thu: 10am - 9pm (closed Mon as well as New Year, Thanksgiving, and Christmas)
History
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