Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
The Goldwell Open Air Museum in the Nevada desert was established in 1984. This open-air museum has a remarkable collection of large-scale sculptures, installations, and artwork contrasting the rugged desert landscape. Created by a group of artists, the museum is a place to view art and an immersive experience where the desert’s natural beauty and human creativity come together unexpectedly. Visitors can explore several outdoor art installations, including the famous Last Supper sculpture by Charles F. Manson. The Goldwell Museum offers a truly distinctive art experience, showcasing the spirit of artistic expression in a harsh environment.
Location
Photo: Mmloveless / Wikimedia Commons
The Goldwell Open Air Museum is located in the vast and arid landscape of the Nevada desert, near the ghost town of Rhyolite, approximately 120 miles northwest of Las Vegas. The museum’s remote location is part of its charm, starkly contrasting the art and the harsh desert environment. Rhyolite is an abandoned mining town with a fascinating history, and the museum serves as one of the few attractions in the area.
How To Reach
Photo: Finetooth / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The closest major airport to the Goldwell Open Air Museum is McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, about two hours away by car. From there, visitors can rent a car or take a road trip through the desert to the museum.
By Train: While there is no direct train service to the museum, Amtrak offers service to Las Vegas, where you can take a bus or rent a car to complete your journey to the Goldwell Museum.
By Road: Visitors travelling by car can reach the museum from Las Vegas by taking US-95 north, followed by NV-374, which leads to the museum’s entrance near the town of Rhyolite.
Places To Visit In And Around The Goldwell Open Air Museum
Here are some nearby attractions that visitors to the Goldwell Open Air Museum can explore:
1. Rhyolite Ghost Town
Photo: Dziban303 / Wikimedia Commons
Rhyolite is a fascinating ghost town just a short distance from the Goldwell Museum. Founded in the early 1900s during a gold rush, Rhyolite quickly became a bustling town before the 1920s abandoned it. Today, visitors can explore its remains, including the foundations of old buildings, a train station, and the ruins of a once-thriving mining town. The town is also home to several outdoor art installations, including a sculpture of a man and woman created by artist Albert Szukalski.
Location: Rhyolite, Nevada
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
2. Death Valley National Park
Photo: Luca Galuzzi / Wikimedia Commons
Death Valley National Park is a popular destination near the Goldwell Open Air Museum. Known for its extreme temperatures and barren landscape, the park offers stunning desert vistas, salt flats, and canyons. The park is home to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and the colourful Artist’s Palette, a striking area where the hills are painted red, green, and purple.
Location: California/Nevada border
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: ₹1,500
3. Beatty, Nevada
Photo: Adam Kliczek / Wikimedia Commons
Beatty, Nevada, is a charming stop for visitors. Known as the “Gateway to Death Valley,” Beatty serves as a base for tourists heading into the national park. The town is home to quirky shops, restaurants, and historical sites. Beatty is a famous place near Goldwell Open Air Museum, where you can learn about the area’s mining history. It offers an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding desert region. The Beatty Museum and Historical Society provides insight into the town’s history, with exhibits on its role in the mining industry and the history of nearby Death Valley.
Location: Beatty, Nevada
Entry Fee: Free
4. Titus Canyon
Photo: National Park Service / Wikimedia Commons
Titus Canyon is one of the best places near the Goldwell Open Air Museum. The canyon features colourful rock formations, petroglyphs, and old mining structures. The Titus Canyon Road is a popular route for those looking to experience the desert landscape differently. It is a scenic drive that requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle but offers stunning views and a glimpse into the region’s history. The canyon is also home to wildlife, including bighorn sheep, making it a fascinating place to explore.
Location: Death Valley National Park
Entry Fee: Free
5. The Goldwell Museum’s Last Supper Sculpture
Photo: Kate Nevens / Wikimedia Commons
Goldwell Open Air Museum is its Last Supper sculpture, a large-scale installation by artist Charles F. Manson. This surreal interpretation of the biblical scene is set against the stark backdrop of the Nevada desert, offering visitors a striking contrast between art and nature. The Last Supper is one of several installations at the museum that reflects the influence of the desert landscape on the artist’s work. Visitors can marvel at the size and detail of the sculpture, which is one of the museum’s most iconic pieces.
Location: Goldwell Open Air Museum
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: Pexels / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Visitors to the Goldwell Open Air Museum typically stay in the nearby town of Beatty, which offers a range of accommodation options, from budget motels to more comfortable lodgings. The Motel 6 Beatty provides affordable, no-frills accommodations and is convenient for those close to the museum and Death Valley National Park. For a more luxurious option, The Oasis at Death Valley offers a resort-style experience with pools, fine dining, and a spa, making it perfect for travellers looking to unwind after a day of exploring.
Where To Eat
Photo: neshom / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
While options are limited in the remote desert, Beatty offers a few dining choices for visitors. The Beatty Kitchen serves up hearty American fare, including burgers, fries, and comfort food, making it an excellent spot for refuelling after sightseeing. El Portal offers a tasty selection of tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favourites for those in the mood for Mexican cuisine. Both establishments are casual and welcoming and offer the comfort of a home-cooked meal after a long day of exploring the desert.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Adam Jones / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit the Goldwell Open Air Museum is during the cooler months, from fall to early spring (October to April). The temperatures in the desert can soar during the summer, making outdoor exploration uncomfortable and even dangerous. Fall and spring offer mild weather, making visiting the museum and the surrounding attractions more enjoyable.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Hank Miller / Wikimedia Commons
Average Trip Cost
A typical trip, including transportation, food, and entry fees, can cost around ₹6,000 to ₹8,000 per person. Accommodation and meals in Beatty can add to the cost, but the overall expenses are relatively low considering the museum’s unique experience.
Tips For Travelers
- Bring Water: The desert environment can be harsh, so always carry plenty of water.
- Check the Weather: Desert temperatures can be extreme, so pack accordingly.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The museum is outdoors, and you will walk on uneven terrain.
- Plan for Limited Amenities: The area has limited services, so plan your trip.
- Respect the Art: As an outdoor museum, many sculptures are delicate, so be careful not to disturb the installations.
The Goldwell Open Air Museum is a unique destination for those seeking an artistic adventure in the Nevada desert. The outdoor art installations offer an unforgettable blend of creativity and nature, making it a must-see for visitors. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a traveller seeking something off the beaten path, the Goldwell Museum provides an exceptional experience. For a hassle-free travel experience, plan your visit through TripXL for great deals and organized trips to explore the museum and beyond.
Cover Photo: Mmloveless / Wikimedia Commons
