Cantor Arts Center: A Stanford Treasure Trove
Explore 5,000 years of art at Stanford's Cantor Arts Center, home to a world-class Rodin collection and diverse exhibitions, offering free admission for all to discover artistic treasures.
The Cantor Arts Center, located on the campus of Stanford University, is a vibrant and dynamic art museum with a rich history dating back to the university's founding in 1891. Boasting an encyclopedic collection spanning 5,000 years of artistic expression from around the globe, the Cantor offers visitors a journey through time and cultures. From ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, the museum's diverse holdings include significant collections of Rodin sculptures (one of the largest outside Paris), African art, Asian art, and an impressive array of American and European paintings. With free admission, engaging exhibitions, and a commitment to education, the Cantor Arts Center is a must-visit destination for art lovers of all ages, providing a welcoming and enriching cultural experience in the heart of Silicon Valley. Don't miss the outdoor Rodin Sculpture Garden and the thought-provoking Richard Serra sculpture, Sequence.
A brief summary to Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University
- 328 Lomita Dr, Stanford, California, 94305, US
- +1650-723-4177
- Visit website
- Wednesday 11 am-6 pm
- Thursday 11 am-8 pm
- Friday 11 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Take advantage of the free docent-led tours to gain deeper insights into the museum's collections and special exhibitions.
- Visit the Rodin Sculpture Garden at different times of day to experience the changing light and shadows on the sculptures.
- Check the Cantor's website for upcoming events, lectures, and workshops that may coincide with your visit.
- Combine your visit to the Cantor with a trip to the nearby Anderson Collection at Stanford University, another free art museum featuring modern and contemporary works.
- Download the ParkMobile app before your visit to easily pay for parking on campus during weekdays.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From the Palo Alto Transit Center (Caltrain/SamTrans/VTA), take the free Stanford Marguerite Shuttle. The 'X' and 'SE' lines have stops closest to the Cantor Arts Center. Get off at the stop near Roth Way and Rodin Sculpture Garden, a 2-minute walk to the museum. The Marguerite Shuttle is free.
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Walking
From the Main Quad of Stanford University, walk northwest towards the Bing Concert Hall. The Cantor Arts Center is located directly across Palm Drive from the Bing Concert Hall, at the intersection of Museum Way and Lomita Drive. Look for the large 'YO' sculpture in front of the museum.
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Driving
From Highway 101, take the Embarcadero Road exit west towards Stanford. At El Camino Real, Embarcadero turns into Galvez Street as it enters the university. Turn right at Campus Drive, then left onto Lomita Drive. The Cantor Arts Center will be on your right. Limited visitor parking is available on Lomita Drive (ParkMobile Zone #7211) and in the Roth Way Parking Garage (ParkMobile Zone #7201). Parking is enforced Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and payment is managed through the ParkMobile app. Parking rates vary, check the Stanford Transportation website for current prices.
Discover more about Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
Anderson Collection
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Anderson Collection at Stanford University
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Main Quad
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