
Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture
A landmark museum dedicated to Chicano art, showcasing Cheech Marin's extensive collection and celebrating Latino culture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A landmark museum dedicated to Chicano art, showcasing Cheech Marin's extensive collection and celebrating Latino culture.
"This museum did not disappoint; it was fun, relevant, and interesting, with a great collection of art from our people!"

🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Purchase tickets in advance online to save time and ensure entry, especially for popular exhibits.
🚶 Explore Downtown
Your ticket includes the Riverside Art Museum; make a day of it by exploring nearby shops and eateries.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cheech's Curated Collection
Second Floor
Explore over 700 pieces from Cheech Marin's personal collection, showcasing vibrant Chicano art and culture.

Local Artist Gallery
Downstairs
Discover emerging talent in a dedicated space for local Riverside artists, offering a fresh perspective on the art scene.

Rotating Exhibitions
Experience diverse and thought-provoking temporary exhibits that highlight various facets of Chicano art and its impact.

The Cheech Statue
Outside the Museum
Snap a photo with the bronze statue of Cheech Marin, a fun landmark greeting visitors to the center.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets Online
Combine with Downtown Riverside
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Purchase tickets in advance online to save time and ensure entry, especially for popular exhibits.
🚶 Explore Downtown
Your ticket includes the Riverside Art Museum; make a day of it by exploring nearby shops and eateries.
♿ Accessible Experience
The museum has two floors with an elevator, making it accessible for visitors with mobility needs.
📸 Photo Op with Cheech
Don't miss a photo with the bronze statue of Cheech Marin outside the center for a fun souvenir.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Purchase tickets in advance online to save time and ensure entry, especially for popular exhibits.
🚶 Explore Downtown
Your ticket includes the Riverside Art Museum; make a day of it by exploring nearby shops and eateries.
♿ Accessible Experience
The museum has two floors with an elevator, making it accessible for visitors with mobility needs.
📸 Photo Op with Cheech
Don't miss a photo with the bronze statue of Cheech Marin outside the center for a fun souvenir.
🖼️ Discover Local Art
Check out the downstairs gallery dedicated to local Riverside artists for fresh discoveries.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Cheech Marin Center for its vibrant and culturally significant Chicano art collection, highlighting Cheech Marin's personal contributions and the museum's role in celebrating Latino artists. The accessible layout, friendly staff, and the inclusion of the Riverside Art Museum with admission are frequently mentioned positives. Some visitors note that while the museum itself is excellent, dining options require a short walk into downtown Riverside.
"I love art museums, and this one did not disappoint. It was fun, relevant, and interesting. It has 2 floors (and an elevator). There is free parking for patrons, and parking on the street as well. I highly recommend visiting the Cheech Marin Center! It is great for all ages."
Linda Joy
"Every time I visit the Cheech I feel honored to have such an amazing collection of so many historic artists so close to home. I’ve been bringing my Fullerton College students here since the museum first opened, and we’ve always been welcomed with such kindness by the staff at this museum. There’s a very solid permanent collection and really great temporary exhibitions. Especially love that there’s a gallery downstairs reserve specifically for local Riverside artists, and which is how I have discovered some of my new favorite artists working in Southern California now. I cannot say enough good things about this museum.
Oh, and there’s very easy parking. They’re also some good restaurants in the area. I usually bring my students to the food hall about a 10 minute walk away. And you can spend some time walking around in downtown Riverside. It’s makes for a really enjoyable day."
Megan Lorraine
"Amazing collection of art: SOY de TEJAS is an amazing exhibit that runs through Jan 11, 2026.... if the art there doesn't move you go see a doctor… You might be dead"
Jorge Lopez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cheech Marin Center is located in downtown Riverside, California. It's easily accessible by car, with street parking and a patron parking lot available. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving downtown Riverside.
Yes, there is free parking for patrons and also street parking available near the museum.
The museum has two floors and is equipped with an elevator, making it accessible for visitors with mobility challenges.
Absolutely! Your admission ticket to The Cheech Marin Center also grants you entry to the Riverside Art Museum, offering a broader cultural experience.
From Los Angeles, you can drive to Riverside via the I-10 E and CA-60 E. The drive typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to purchase your tickets online in advance through the official website to secure your spot and avoid queues.
The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture generally follows the hours of the Riverside Art Museum. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary.
Admission prices can vary, and it's advisable to check the official website for current ticket costs. Your ticket often includes access to the Riverside Art Museum as well.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or groups is typically available on the museum's official website. It's worth checking for any special offers.
While you can often purchase tickets at the door, buying them online in advance is recommended to guarantee entry and potentially save time, especially during busy periods.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
The museum exclusively showcases Chicano art, featuring both permanent collections from Cheech Marin's extensive art collection and rotating temporary exhibitions.
Most visitors spend 1-3 hours exploring the exhibits. You can easily spend more time if you also visit the Riverside Art Museum or explore downtown Riverside.
Information on guided tours is usually available on the museum's website. These can offer deeper insights into the art and its cultural significance.
Generally, non-flash photography is permitted for personal use, but it's always best to check the museum's specific policies upon arrival or on their website.
'Cheech Collects IV' is an annual exhibit showcasing new acquisitions and previously unseen works from the museum's collection, celebrating its growth and the artists it represents.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Cheech Marin Center itself may not have a full-service restaurant, but there are several good dining options in the surrounding downtown Riverside area.
You can find a variety of restaurants and a food hall about a 10-minute walk away from the museum, offering diverse culinary choices.
Typically, food and beverages are not allowed inside the galleries of art museums to protect the artwork. Check the museum's specific policy.
The downtown Riverside area offers a range of eateries, including casual spots and a food hall, which usually have options suitable for children.
Downtown Riverside offers a diverse culinary scene, from casual cafes and food halls to more established restaurants, catering to various tastes.
📸 📸 Photography
Besides the artwork inside, the bronze statue of Cheech Marin outside is a popular photo spot. The vibrant colors and unique pieces within the museum also make for great shots.
No, flash photography is generally not permitted inside art museums to protect the delicate artwork. Always check for signage or ask staff.
Yes, you are welcome to take photos with the Cheech Marin statue outside the center. Rubbing his head is a local tradition for good luck!
Many pieces are visually striking due to their bold colors and cultural themes, making them highly 'Instagrammable.' Look for vibrant paintings and unique installations.
Weekday mornings often offer softer lighting and fewer people, which can be ideal for photography. However, the vibrant art itself is the main subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid larger crowds. The nearby food hall offers a variety of casual dining options that are typically kid-friendly, making it easy to plan a full day of exploration in downtown Riverside.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize your budget, consider packing your own snacks or planning to eat at the more affordable food hall located a short walk away. Exploring the downtown Riverside area on foot after your museum visit is a free way to experience the city's atmosphere.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Don't miss the rotating temporary exhibitions, which offer fresh perspectives and highlight diverse aspects of Chicano art and culture. The dedicated gallery for local Riverside artists also presents an opportunity to discover emerging talent and contemporary expressions within the Chicano art scene.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Chicano Art
Cheech Marin, a renowned comedian and art collector, has been a passionate advocate for Chicano art for decades. His personal collection, comprising over 700 pieces, forms the core of the museum's permanent exhibition. The center aims to foster recognition for Latino art and serve as a catalyst for the arts scene, honoring the continued social, cultural, and political impact of Chicana/o/x art.
Visitors can expect to see a wide range of artistic styles and mediums, from vibrant paintings and intricate prints to sculptures and mixed-media installations. The art often reflects the rich history, struggles, and triumphs of the Chicano community, offering a unique and moving perspective.
Visiting with Mobility Considerations
This thoughtful design means that visitors who cannot walk for long periods or have difficulty with stairs can still fully experience the museum's impressive collections and exhibits. The layout is generally spacious, allowing for comfortable navigation.
Beyond the museum's internal accessibility, the surrounding downtown Riverside area also offers amenities that can enhance a visit. There are accessible parking options, and nearby restaurants and attractions can be reached with consideration for walking distances.
Cheech Marin: From Comedy Icon to Art Advocate
His extensive efforts in collecting and promoting Chicano art culminated in the establishment of The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture. This museum is a testament to his vision of creating a dedicated space to honor and exhibit this vital art form. Marin's journey from a comedy legend to a prominent art advocate highlights his commitment to cultural preservation and artistic recognition.
The museum itself is a reflection of his personal taste and dedication, featuring pieces that are bold, vibrant, and rich in cultural narrative. Visitors often remark on the emotional impact of the art, noting how it evokes a strong sense of culture, history, and personal connection.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit