Gregory Allicar Museum of Art (CSU) - Image 1
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Gregory Allicar Museum of Art Colorado State University

4.6
·85 reviews·Fort Collins, United States

A free, accessible art museum on CSU campus, showcasing diverse global art from historical to contemporary.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more contemplation

CrowdLow
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Gregory Allicar Museum of Art (CSU) - Image 1

Gregory Allicar Museum of Art Colorado State University

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more contemplation

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A free, accessible art museum on CSU campus, showcasing diverse global art from historical to contemporary.

4.6
(85 reviews)

"Great art museum that’s free and open to everyone. World-class art ranging from old to new."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Admission for All

Enjoy world-class art without cost! The museum is always free and open to everyone.

🚗 Parking Availability

Ample free street parking is often available in front and on side streets.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

European Oil Paintings

European Oil Paintings

Permanent Collection

Exquisite European oil paintings from the 1700s to 1900s, showcasing masterful artistry and historical depth.

Innovative Contemporary Exhibits

Innovative Contemporary Exhibits

Rotating Galleries

Experience thought-provoking and innovative exhibitions that challenge perspectives and spark conversation.

CSU Experimental Garden

CSU Experimental Garden

Outside the Museum

In summer, explore new cultivar gardens, offering a vibrant display of botanical artistry alongside the museum's collections.

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Free Admission, Always

Enjoy a world-class art experience without breaking the bank! The Gregory Allicar Museum of Art is always free and open to everyone, making it an accessible cultural gem on the CSU campus. InstagramReddit+1

Diverse Collections & Exhibits

Explore a dynamic range of art, from 17th-century European oil paintings to innovative contemporary works. The museum consistently features thought-provoking rotating exhibits alongside its permanent collection. InstagramReddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more contemplation
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend Afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, diverse visitors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Butterfly House in Fort Collins — such a fun activity for the whole family! 🦋 #fortcollins #fortcollinscolorado #coloradoactivities
@brookewitcher
1.5K likes • 12.2K views

🎯 Free Admission for All

Enjoy world-class art without cost! The museum is always free and open to everyone. InstagramReddit+1

🚗 Parking Availability

Ample free street parking is often available in front and on side streets. Reddit

The Gregory Allicar Museum of Art welcomes you to engage with art and each other!🎨 Located in the University Center for the Arts, the museum is always free and open to all🤗 Come enjoy our vast collection of artworks that inspire fresh perspectives and wonder🖼️💭 ✨We hope to see you there!✨ #gama #gregoryallicarmuseumofart #art #csu #rams #coloradostateuniversity
csugregoryallicarmuseumofart
12 likes • 271 views
Catalogue for the ‘Art of the Rocky Mountain Homelands’ exhibit 2024 Gregory Allicar Museum of Art Colorado State University Fort Collins, Colorado A big thank you to Emily Moore and those that helped with the process of making this happen.
alhubbardart
19 likes • 237 views

🏛️ Historic Building

Located in the historic 1924 Fort Collins High School building, adding architectural charm. Reddit

🛍️ Small Gift Shop

A small gift shop is located behind the attendant's desk for souvenirs. Reddit

Gregory Allicar Museum of Art is pleased to present a selection of works by former faculty and alumni!🌟 The museum is honored to showcase the works of dedicated artists and educators in our permanent collection🎨 We are excited to share them with our campus and community!🐏💚 ✨See you there!✨ #GAMA #gregoryallicarmuseumofart #collectionconnections #art #faculty #alumni #csu #rams #coloradostateun...
csugregoryallicarmuseumofart
9 likes • 198 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission for All

Enjoy world-class art without cost! The museum is always free and open to everyone. InstagramReddit+1

🚗 Parking Availability

Ample free street parking is often available in front and on side streets. Reddit

🏛️ Historic Building

Located in the historic 1924 Fort Collins High School building, adding architectural charm. Reddit

🛍️ Small Gift Shop

A small gift shop is located behind the attendant's desk for souvenirs. Reddit

🌿 Summer Garden Tour

In summer, don't miss the CSU experimental garden out front for new cultivar displays. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(85 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Gregory Allicar Museum of Art for its surprisingly diverse and high-quality collection, especially considering its free admission. The rotating exhibits are frequently highlighted as innovative and thought-provoking, while the permanent collection, including exquisite European paintings, offers a rich historical perspective. Its location within a historic building and the pleasant summer garden add to its charm.

"It has such a wonderful and diverse collection. It is worth going to. In the summer, you can tour the CSU experimental garden out front to enjoy the new cultivars."

Rhianna

"This museum is great for it size! It is free to go into and I definitely recommend you check it out. There’s an attendant that’ll give you some of their requirements for being the museum, but it’s nothing crazy. There’s a small gift shop behind the attendant."

Xenia Guardado Rivera

"On the campus of CSU, and in the old original Fort Collins High School built in 1924, this museum has many unique exhibits and is definitely worth a visit! The permanent exhibit highlights some donated European oil paintings from 1700 to 1900 and they are exquisite! Rotating contemporary exhibits are also great to see. Always something different!"

Chuck Baumgart

What People Like

Diverse and high-quality art
Free admission
Innovative rotating exhibits

What People Dislike

Limited on-site dining options

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located on the Colorado State University (CSU) campus in Fort Collins, Colorado. It's housed within the University Center for the Arts. Ample free street parking is often available on surrounding streets, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

While specific routes can vary, Fort Collins has a public transit system that may serve the CSU campus. It's recommended to check the local transit authority's website for the most up-to-date route information and schedules to plan your journey. TikTok

Visitors often find free street parking available in front of the museum and on nearby side streets. This makes it a convenient option for those driving to the museum. Reddit

As a university facility, the Gregory Allicar Museum of Art is generally designed to be accessible. It's advisable to contact the museum directly or check their official website for specific accessibility details regarding ramps, elevators, and other accommodations. Instagram

While not always explicitly part of official campus tours, the museum is a prominent feature of the CSU campus. You can easily incorporate a visit into your exploration of the University Center for the Arts. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The best part? Admission to the Gregory Allicar Museum of Art is always free and open to everyone! You can enjoy its diverse collections and exhibitions without any cost. InstagramReddit+1

Museum hours can vary, especially around holidays or academic breaks. It's highly recommended to check the official Gregory Allicar Museum of Art website or their social media pages for the most current and accurate operating hours before your visit. Instagram

No, advance booking is not required as admission is free and open to all. You can typically walk in during operating hours. Instagram+1

While generally straightforward, there might be standard museum etiquette, such as maintaining a quiet environment and not touching the artwork. An attendant may briefly outline these requirements upon entry. Reddit

Yes, groups are welcome! Since admission is free, it's an excellent destination for school groups, clubs, or friends. It's a good idea to contact the museum in advance if you're planning a large group visit to ensure they can accommodate you. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum boasts a diverse collection, including exquisite European oil paintings from the 1700s-1900s, contemporary art, works by former faculty and alumni, and pieces from various cultures and centuries. InstagramReddit+1

Information on guided tours can vary. It's best to check the museum's official website or inquire at the front desk upon arrival for any available tour schedules or options. Instagram

Photography policies can differ for permanent collections versus special exhibitions. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is often permitted, but it's crucial to look for signage or ask museum staff for clarification. Instagram

While not a massive institution, reviewers note it's 'great for its size' with 'more galleries than one would think from the outside,' offering a substantial and engaging art experience. Reddit+1

While the museum focuses on fine art, its diverse collections and the engaging nature of contemporary exhibits can be captivating for younger visitors. The Butterfly House in Fort Collins is mentioned as a family-friendly activity nearby. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Gregory Allicar Museum of Art does not typically have an on-site cafe or restaurant. Visitors are encouraged to explore dining options in the surrounding CSU campus area or in downtown Fort Collins. Reddit

Generally, food and drinks are not permitted inside art museums to protect the collections. It's best to consume any food or beverages outside the galleries. Reddit

Yes, the CSU campus and the nearby downtown Fort Collins area offer a wide variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants, catering to diverse tastes and budgets. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. While non-flash photography for personal use is often allowed in permanent collection galleries, special exhibitions may have restrictions. Always look for signage or ask museum staff for the most current guidelines. Instagram

The diverse art collections themselves offer numerous photo opportunities. The historic architecture of the building and the outdoor experimental garden in summer also provide picturesque backdrops. Reddit+1

Tripods and selfie sticks are typically not allowed in art museums to prevent accidental damage to artworks or obstruction of other visitors. It's best to leave these items at home or check with the museum beforehand. Instagram

Weekday mornings often offer fewer crowds, allowing for more relaxed photography. However, the museum's lighting and the art itself are generally well-suited for photography during all open hours. Instagram

Yes, the exterior of the museum, especially its historic architecture and the surrounding campus, is generally fine to photograph. The experimental garden in summer is also a popular spot. Reddit+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Gregory Allicar Museum of Art primarily showcases fine art, its diverse collections and engaging contemporary exhibits can captivate younger visitors. The museum's free admission makes it an ideal, budget-friendly outing for families. InstagramReddit Consider pairing a visit with a stroll through the CSU experimental garden in the summer for a more interactive outdoor experience. Reddit For a dedicated family activity, the nearby Butterfly House in Fort Collins is also recommended. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

The Gregory Allicar Museum of Art is a dream for budget travelers, as admission is completely free. InstagramReddit+1 This allows you to immerse yourself in art and culture without any financial strain. Combine your visit with the free street parking often available nearby, and you've got a fantastic, cost-effective cultural experience in Fort Collins. Reddit

🎓 Art Students & Enthusiasts

For art students and enthusiasts, the museum offers a rich experience with its diverse collections, including historical European paintings and cutting-edge contemporary exhibitions. InstagramReddit The opportunity to see works by former CSU faculty and alumni provides valuable insight into the local art scene and its development. Instagram The museum's manageable size also allows for in-depth exploration and contemplation of individual pieces. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Gem in Historic Architecture

The Gregory Allicar Museum of Art is uniquely situated within the historic University Center for the Arts, which was originally the Fort Collins High School built in 1924. Reddit This architectural heritage adds a layer of charm and historical context to the visitor experience. The building itself is a testament to early 20th-century educational architecture, providing a grand and inspiring setting for the art it houses. Exploring the museum means stepping into both artistic and historical narratives.

Visitors often appreciate the blend of old and new, with the historic structure housing contemporary and classic art. This juxtaposition creates a dynamic atmosphere, making the museum more than just a gallery but a destination that engages with its surroundings. The building's character contributes significantly to the overall ambiance, making it a memorable part of any visit. Reddit

Exploring the Diverse Collections

The museum prides itself on a diverse and growing collection of over 5,000 works of art, ensuring there's always something new to discover. Instagram Highlights include a significant collection of European oil paintings dating from the 1700s to the 1900s, offering a glimpse into centuries of artistic tradition. Reddit These pieces are often described as exquisite and are a major draw for art enthusiasts.

Beyond its permanent collection, the Gregory Allicar Museum of Art is celebrated for its innovative and thought-provoking rotating exhibitions. Reddit These temporary shows feature works from visiting artists, current faculty, and alumni, providing a platform for both established and emerging talent. Instagram+1 This dynamic exhibition schedule means that repeat visits can offer entirely new artistic experiences, keeping the museum fresh and engaging for the local community and visitors alike. Reddit

Community and Accessibility

A cornerstone of the Gregory Allicar Museum of Art's mission is its commitment to accessibility and community engagement. Instagram+1 The museum is always free and open to all, a fact frequently highlighted by visitors and the museum itself. InstagramReddit+1 This open-door policy ensures that art is not a luxury but a shared experience for everyone, fostering a welcoming environment for students, locals, and tourists. InstagramReddit

This dedication to inclusivity extends to its programming and outreach. The museum actively showcases works by former faculty and alumni, strengthening its connection to the Colorado State University community. Instagram Furthermore, the presence of an attendant who can briefly outline museum requirements contributes to a guided yet relaxed visitor experience. Reddit The museum aims to be a vibrant cultural hub, encouraging dialogue and appreciation for art across all demographics. Instagram

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