Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento

Let me start this post by saying I am by no means an art aficionado. I know as much about art as the average person, and I went to this museum because I had heard it was a fantastic spot to visit in the city. This post may cover some of the main things to see in this museum, or it may not, but I will talk about the things I enjoyed, through the eyes of someone who doesn’t know much about art. Here is all the information and let me know your favorite spot in the comments.

Details

• Hours: Closed Monday, Tues – Sun: 10 AM – 5 PM
• Cost: $10
• Location: 216 O St, Sacramento, CA 95814
• Information from my visit in 2015 and 2018
• Read more Sacramento recommendations here

First, the building itself is cool to see; one side is entirely modern and sleek while the other side is an old mansion that was donated to the city decades ago by the Crocker family. It is fantastic to see this juxtaposition of the old and the modern, and just that alone was a win for me.

After paying my fee and receiving a map I set out to explore, here are some of the spots I enjoyed.

The Pacific Ocean Painting

When I walked in, I saw this picture and was like, “I could take that photo!” Only then did I get closer and realize it was not a photo but a painting. I was blown away because it was massive and incredibly realistic. 

From here, I headed up to the third floor as I was told this is the floor I would like the most. I admit, there was a ton of crazy stuff to see up here, and I enjoyed it very much.

I saw a blue rubber tube-like Christmas Tree in one area.

I saw a fantastic painting of an old mans face in the water, which is called Portrait of My Father by Stephen J. Kaltenbach.

I saw a recreation of the hot dog stand that used to be in LA.

I saw a beautiful painting of Yosemite Valley, which was unique because there is no road in the painting. I can’t even imagine seeing that area before there was a road, it must have been mind-blowing. This painting is called the Great Canyon of the Sierra by Thomas Hill.

From here, I headed into the old house part of the museum, and it immediately became my favorite. This former mansion was so lavish and beautiful that every room was better than the last. The great hall with its hole in the floor is both fascinating from the third floor and the second as you can see below.

The old front room with its double spiral staircase was incredible as well, and I loved how the museum kept the rooms intact but still used them to display their art collection. 

From here, I headed to the second floor and went to see the samurai armor that I had seen on the map. It was pretty impressive, especially the helmet. 

After seeing this, I headed back down the mazes of hallways and left the museum. 

I can say it was easily worth the $10 for me as I saw a lot of unique art. I am sure for art fans it is even better, as they have the history for each of the pieces right next to the art. It was a beautiful museum and a worthwhile stop in the city that is a natural recommendation when visiting. Let me know what your favorite part of the museum is in the comments.