Sheldon Museum of Art 🇺🇸

Located on the campus of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, the Sheldon Museum of Art offers you a compelling journey through American art history. Established in 1963 when the university's art collection moved into its dedicated building at 12th and R Streets, this institution houses more than 12,000 artworks spanning the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.

The landmark structure itself—crafted from Italian travertine—was designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson to prevent museum fatigue while elevating visitors' spirits. Inside, you can wander through the ornate great hall featuring a suspended grand staircase and Isamu Noguchi's commissioned work, "Song of the Bird." The impressive collection encompasses diverse movements, including nineteenth-century landscapes and still lifes, American Impressionism, early modernism, abstract expressionism, pop art, minimalism, and contemporary art.

Beyond the interior galleries, you should step outside to explore the expansive sculpture garden, established in 1970, which displays over thirty monumental outdoor works by celebrated artists like Richard Serra, Claes Oldenburg, and Mark di Suvero. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2013, the Sheldon combines architectural brilliance with rich cultural holdings, offering approximately twenty rotating exhibitions and educational programs each year.

What to see at Sheldon Museum of Art

• Italian travertine building designed by architect Philip Johnson
• Over 12,000 artworks spanning major American art movements
• Outdoor sculpture garden featuring over 30 monumental works
• Isamu Noguchi's "Song of the Bird" installation in the grand hall
• Listed on the National Register of Historic Places

Visiting tips

Be sure to take a stroll through the outdoor sculpture garden south of the gallery to experience large-scale works by artists like Richard Serra and Mark di Suvero.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Sheldon Museum of Art is easy to reach on Lincoln’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Lincoln travel guide.