Brunnier Art Museum Ames – Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction
Situated within the Iowa State University campus in Ames, Iowa, the Brunnier Art Museum is a renowned institution dedicated to the decorative arts. Since its founding in the mid-20th century, the museum has grown into Iowa’s only accredited museum focused on decorative arts, with an impressive collection of over 30,000 objects. Visitors experience a harmonious blend of regional and international art, history, and craftsmanship, making it a cornerstone of Ames’ cultural landscape.
Strategically located on the second floor of the Scheman Building, part of the Iowa State Center, the Brunnier Art Museum is fully accessible and offers free admission. With rotating exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and community events, the museum fosters inclusive engagement for visitors of all backgrounds. Its close integration with the Iowa State University community and collaboration with local institutions further enhances the city’s vibrant arts scene.
To stay updated on exhibitions, visiting hours, and events, consult the official Brunnier Art Museum website and consider the Audiala app for interactive maps and audio tours.
Contents
- Welcome to the Brunnier Art Museum
- History and Founding Vision
- The Collections: Decorative Arts, Fine Art, and More
- Visitor Information
- Hours and Admission
- Accessibility
- Tours and Events
- Photography Guidelines
- Highlights and Notable Exhibitions
- Educational and Community Programs
- Integration with Iowa State University
- Nearby Attractions and Visitor Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Plan Your Visit
- Sources
Welcome to the Brunnier Art Museum
Located in the heart of Iowa State University’s Scheman Building, the Brunnier Art Museum offers an immersive journey through the world of decorative arts and historical craftsmanship. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply exploring Ames, the museum’s engaging environment provides a distinctive blend of art, education, and community connection.
History and Founding Vision
The museum’s origins trace back to 1959, inspired by Iowa State University President James Hilton’s vision for a comprehensive cultural center. This vision materialized in the Iowa State Center, and in 1962, alumnus Henry J. Brunnier and his wife Ann contributed both financial support and their extensive collection of decorative arts and dolls. Ann Brunnier’s remarkable collection, gathered over 55 years, formed the cornerstone of the museum’s holdings.
In 1974, the Brunnier collection was delivered—over 4,000 objects filling two semi-truck trailers. After careful documentation, the museum opened its doors in September 1975 on the top floor of the Scheman Building, a unique space combining galleries, performance venues, and conference facilities.
The Collections: Decorative Arts, Fine Art, and More
Decorative Arts
The Brunnier Art Museum boasts one of the Midwest’s largest decorative arts collections, including:
- Ceramics, glass, and enameled metals
- Dolls and toys
- Textiles, lace, and historical costumes
- Furniture and metalwork from the 17th century to the present
Highlights feature works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, Steuben, Lalique, and American art pottery from Rookwood and Roseville.
Fine Arts
The museum’s fine arts holdings include paintings, prints, drawings, and sculpture from the 19th and 20th centuries, with notable works by Grant Wood and Mauricio Lasansky reflecting both American and European influences.
Special Collections
- Doll and Toy Collection: Antique dolls, mechanical toys, and miniatures from around the world.
- University and Regional Art: Works by Iowa State faculty, alumni, and regional artists.
- Notable Past Exhibitions: Art Nouveau Glass, American Studio Ceramics, and Regionalism and the Midwest.
Visitor Information
Hours and Admission
- Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
- Admission: Free for all visitors. Suggested $8 donation for educational programming; no tickets required.
Always check the official website for holiday hours and special closures.
Accessibility
The museum is fully accessible, with elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms. Parking for those with disabilities is available near the main entrance.
Tours and Events
- Guided Tours: Free and available by appointment for groups, schools, and university classes. To arrange, contact the museum at (515) 294-3342.
- Events: The museum hosts artist talks, workshops, lectures, and family days. Upcoming events are listed on the museum’s online calendar.
- Educational Programs: Curriculum-based tours and hands-on workshops available by arrangement.
Photography
Non-flash photography is permitted for personal use, except where otherwise noted. No tripods allowed. Always check signage for exhibition-specific restrictions.
Highlights and Notable Exhibitions
The museum’s core is the Brunnier Collection, showcasing decorative arts such as ceramics, glass, textiles, dolls, and furniture. Thematic and cross-disciplinary exhibitions rotate regularly, with recent and upcoming highlights including:
- Glass in Motion: Contemporary Innovations (through September 2025)
- Threads of Identity: Textiles from Around the World (opens July 2025)
- Midwest Modern: Art and Design in Iowa (fall 2025)
- Journeys: Landscape as Self Expression (January–July 2025)
- JOSH SIMPSON: Imaginative Journeys in Space and Sea (January–July 2025)
- Jennifer Steinkamp’s “Judy Crook 13” (May–July 2025)
- Flowers, Creatures, and Figures in the Ann Brunnier Decorative Arts Gallery
Other important displays include festival dolls from Japan, historic silver, and regionalist paintings by Grant Wood and his contemporaries.
Educational and Community Programs
The Brunnier Art Museum is a hub for learning and engagement, offering:
- Guided tours for all age groups
- Lectures and panel discussions with artists, curators, and scholars
- Hands-on workshops for children and adults
- Family days and interactive activities
- Collaborations with local festivals, such as the Octagon Art Festival
The museum also plays a significant role in supporting Iowa State University’s curriculum, with faculty-led tours and assignments enriching classroom learning.
Integration with Iowa State University
As a core component of the University Museums system, the Brunnier Art Museum collaborates with the Christian Petersen Art Museum, the Farm House Museum, and the Anderson Sculpture Garden. This partnership fosters one of the nation’s largest campus-based public art collections, integrating academic, cultural, and artistic initiatives.
Nearby Attractions and Visitor Tips
Enhance your visit by exploring these nearby Ames attractions:
- Stephens Auditorium: Premier performing arts venue next door, hosting concerts, dance, and theater (Travel2Next).
- Reiman Gardens: Expansive botanical gardens and butterfly house within walking distance (Audiala).
- Christian Petersen Art Museum: On-campus museum with rotating exhibitions (Family Destinations Guide).
- Ames History Museum: Downtown exhibits on city history (Audiala).
- Octagon Center for the Arts: Community arts hub with exhibits and classes (Audiala).
- Ledges State Park and McFarland Park: Outdoor options for hiking and nature (Audiala).
Travel and Parking Tips
- The museum is easily accessible by car, CyRide bus, on foot, or by bike. Parking is available in Iowa State Center lots (fees may apply during events).
- The campus and city are bike- and pedestrian-friendly.
- Dining options abound nearby in Campustown and downtown Ames.
When to Visit
- Best times: Weekday mornings for quieter galleries; weekends during events are busier.
- Duration: 1–2 hours recommended for a full visit.
- Climate: Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Friday: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM; Saturday & Sunday: 1:00–4:00 PM; closed Mondays.
Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, admission is free. Donations are appreciated but not required.
Q: Are tours available?
A: Yes, free guided tours are available by appointment for groups.
Q: Is the museum accessible?
A: Yes, the building and galleries are fully accessible.
Q: Can I take photos?
A: Non-flash photography is generally permitted for personal use.
Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: Stephens Auditorium, Reiman Gardens, Christian Petersen Art Museum, Ames History Museum, and more.
Plan Your Visit
For the most current information on visiting hours, exhibitions, and events, visit the official Brunnier Art Museum website.
Enhance your experience with the Audiala app for interactive maps, audio guides, and real-time updates. Stay connected by following the museum’s and Ames tourism’s social media channels.
Sources
- Brunnier Art Museum Official Website
- Audiala
- Chamber of Commerce
- Travel2Next
- The Tourist Checklist
- Discover Ames
- U.S. History
- Which Museum
- Tourist Secrets
- Holly Melody Blog
- Family Destinations Guide