Michael C. Carlos Museum Atlanta
Explore ancient worlds at the Michael C. Carlos Museum, featuring Egyptian mummies, Greek & Roman art, and artifacts from across antiquity.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Michael C. Carlos Museum Atlanta
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient worlds at the Michael C. Carlos Museum, featuring Egyptian mummies, Greek & Roman art, and artifacts from across antiquity.
"A hidden gem for art and history enthusiasts, offering a fascinating journey through time."
📚 Library Pass for Free Entry
Many libraries offer free family passes for up to 6 people!
⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours
You'll need ample time to explore the extensive ancient collections.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Egyptian Mummies
Egyptian Exhibit
Come face-to-face with ancient mummies and artifacts, offering a profound connection to the past.
Greek & Roman Collections
Greek & Roman Exhibit
Be stunned by the richness of ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, pottery, and artifacts.
Canopic Chest
Egyptian Exhibit
Marvel at intricate ancient Egyptian artifacts like the painted wood Canopic Chest.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Enough Time
Free Admission Hacks
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📚 Library Pass for Free Entry
Many libraries offer free family passes for up to 6 people!
⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours
You'll need ample time to explore the extensive ancient collections.
🚶 Scenic Campus Walk
Enjoy a pleasant walk through Emory's campus to reach the museum.
📸 Postcards & Bookstore
Grab unique souvenirs from the museum's bookstore and postcard wall.
Tips
from all over the internet
📚 Library Pass for Free Entry
Many libraries offer free family passes for up to 6 people!
⏳ Allow 2-3 Hours
You'll need ample time to explore the extensive ancient collections.
🚶 Scenic Campus Walk
Enjoy a pleasant walk through Emory's campus to reach the museum.
📸 Postcards & Bookstore
Grab unique souvenirs from the museum's bookstore and postcard wall.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Michael C. Carlos Museum as an incredible, hidden gem offering a profound journey through ancient civilizations. The Egyptian and Greek/Roman exhibits, featuring real mummies and stunning artifacts, are frequently cited as breathtaking highlights. The museum is lauded for its affordability, especially with free admission options, and its manageable size for a 2-4 hour visit.
"This place is incredible. I wish I allocated more time for my visit. It would take 2-3 hours to see everything. More if you stopped to read descriptions. The Greek/Roman sections stun you and the Egyptian area takes your breath away. Getting to see artifacts nearly 7000 years in age from pre dynastic Egypt was amazing. The mummies make you stop and realize that all of what is around you was crafted by skilled humans thousands of years ago. Well worth the small admission. Parking is easy to find. Just follow the visitor parking signs from the main entrance."
Jared Hollins
"Decided to stop by this small museum, was delighted by the richness of the exhibits! We saw the first floor (the other one was being renovated when we visited) and enjoyed seeing all the mummies, sculptures, and paintings.
They also have a small bookstore and a wall of postcards available for purchase.
To get to the museum, we parked in the visitor parking deck and took a short, scenic walk to the building it was located in."
Maggie
"Located at Emory University in Atlanta, is a hidden gem for art and history enthusiasts. Its diverse collection spans ancient artifacts from Egypt, Greece, and Rome, making it a fascinating journey through time. The museum's layout is inviting, allowing visitors to easily navigate through its exhibits. Highlights include stunning mummies and intricate pottery that tell stories of past civilizations. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, often eager to share insights about the pieces on display. Overall, it’s a rewarding experience that combines education with a sense of wonder, perfect for families, students, and anyone curious about history!"
Margaret Ray
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located on the Emory University campus. Visitors can follow signs for visitor parking. A scenic walk through campus leads to the museum. +1
Yes, visitor parking is available. Follow the signs for visitor parking from the main entrance of Emory University.
Absolutely! Emory's campus is beautiful and worth exploring. Lullwater Park is also recommended for a walk.
While specific public transport routes can vary, checking MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) schedules for routes serving Emory University is recommended.
The museum is generally accessible, with elevators and ramps available. It's always a good idea to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is generally affordable, with prices around $8. However, many visitors highlight ways to get free tickets through library passes or special promotions. +1
Yes! Many local libraries offer free Family Passes for up to six people. Keep an eye out for other community freebie programs.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Michael C. Carlos Museum website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
While some museums offer online booking, it's advisable to check the museum's official website for their ticketing policy. Free passes often don't require advance booking.
Exhibits can sometimes be under renovation. Visitors have noted that parts of the museum might be closed, so checking the museum's website for current exhibit status is recommended.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Egyptian exhibit with its mummies and the Greek/Roman collections are consistently highlighted as breathtaking and stunning.
Most visitors recommend allocating 2-3 hours to fully explore the collections, especially if you plan to read the descriptions.
Yes, audio tours are available and can enhance your understanding of the artifacts.
The museum boasts a diverse collection spanning ancient Egypt, Nubia, the Near East, Greece, Rome, the Indigenous Americas, and South Asia.
Yes, the museum is very family-friendly. They offer 'Smarty Pants' bags with activities for kids, making the visit engaging for younger visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Currently, there are no on-site dining facilities within the museum itself. Visitors may need to explore dining options on the Emory University campus or in the surrounding Atlanta area.
Typically, museums have policies against bringing outside food and drinks into exhibit areas to protect the artifacts. It's best to consume these items in designated outdoor areas or before entering.
The Emory University campus and the surrounding neighborhoods of Atlanta offer a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants. Exploring areas like Clairmont Road or Ponce de Leon Avenue can provide many choices.
Based on visitor feedback, there isn't a dedicated cafe or snack bar within the museum. However, the museum does have a bookstore.
Emory University campus has several green spaces and areas that might be suitable for picnics. Lullwater Park is a scenic spot nearby that could be a good option.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most areas of the museum, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artifacts. Always check for specific signage in exhibit areas.
Yes, you can typically take photos of the mummies for personal use, but without flash. This is a popular spot for visitors to capture.
While personal photography is allowed, commercial photography or filming may require special permission. Sharing photos on social media is encouraged, but always be mindful of others and the museum's guidelines.
The Egyptian exhibit, with its mummies and intricate artifacts, and the grand halls of the Greek and Roman collections offer visually striking backdrops for photos.
Tripods and selfie sticks are generally not allowed in museums to prevent accidental damage to exhibits and to ensure a smooth flow of visitor traffic. It's best to leave these at home.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Utilizing a library Family Pass can make this outing incredibly affordable, allowing up to six family members free general admission. This makes it an accessible way to introduce children to art, history, and different cultures. The museum's layout is generally easy to navigate, and the visual appeal of the exhibits, especially the Egyptian section, tends to hold children's attention well.
💰 Budget Travelers
+2Beyond free entry, the museum itself provides hours of engaging content without additional charges. The opportunity to see genuine ancient artifacts, including mummies and classical sculptures, for such a low price (or free!) makes it a top recommendation for affordable cultural experiences in Atlanta. Remember to check your local library's offerings before your visit.
📚 Students & Academics
While specific student discounts aren't always advertised, the general admission price is low, and the opportunity to see primary source materials firsthand is immense. The museum's connection to Emory also means potential access to lectures, special exhibitions, and the expertise of university faculty and researchers. Exploring the Egyptian, Greek, and Roman exhibits can offer unique insights for coursework and personal academic enrichment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Ancient Egypt at the Carlos Museum
Many reviewers highlight the profound impact of seeing these ancient relics, emphasizing how they make you pause and reflect on the skill and artistry of ancient humans. The museum's conservation lab also plays a crucial role, with features like the Parsons Conservation Lab working on preserving these invaluable pieces for future generations.
For those fascinated by ancient history, the Egyptian collection is a definite highlight, providing an educational and awe-inspiring experience that is both accessible and deeply moving. It's a journey back in time that leaves a lasting impression.
The Allure of Greek and Roman Antiquities
Visitors frequently mention being captivated by the sheer age and craftsmanship of these pieces, some dating back thousands of years. The museum's layout allows for an immersive experience, guiding you through the evolution of these influential cultures. It's a chance to stand before objects that were created and used by people who shaped Western civilization.
Whether you're a history buff or simply appreciate fine art, the Greek and Roman exhibits provide a compelling narrative of human achievement and artistic expression. They are a testament to the enduring legacy of these ancient societies and a cornerstone of the museum's appeal.
Making the Most of Your Visit: Tips from Travelers
Secondly, take advantage of free admission opportunities. Many local libraries offer family passes that grant free entry for up to six people, making it an incredibly budget-friendly outing. Keep an eye out for other community programs that might offer similar benefits.
+2Finally, don't underestimate the scenic walk through Emory University's campus to reach the museum. It's a pleasant prelude to your visit and allows you to appreciate the beautiful surroundings.
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