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Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University

Explore 5,000 years of art at Stanford's Cantor Arts Center: Free admission, diverse collections, and stunning sculpture gardens await!

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The Cantor Arts Center, located on the Stanford University campus, offers a diverse collection spanning 5,000 years of art history and global cultures. With free admission, it's a popular destination for students, locals, and tourists alike, boasting 24 galleries, a sculpture garden with Rodin masterpieces, and rotating exhibitions.

A brief summary to Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University

  • 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

  • Check the Cantor's website for current exhibitions and events before your visit.
  • Take advantage of the free docent-led tours to learn more about the collection.
  • Visit the Rodin Sculpture Garden, home to an extensive collection of Rodin's works.
  • Parking on weekdays requires payment via the ParkMobile app; weekend parking is free.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Stanford Oval, walk west along the Serra Mall, a pedestrian-friendly path at the heart of campus. Continue until you reach the intersection of Museum Way and Lomita Drive. The Cantor Arts Center will be on your right, marked by its historic facade and the Rodin sculpture garden. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From the Palo Alto Transit Center (Caltrain/bus hub), take the Stanford Marguerite Shuttle Line P towards the campus Oval. Get off at the Oval and walk west along Serra Mall until you reach the intersection of Museum Way and Lomita Drive. The Cantor Arts Center will be on your right. The Marguerite Shuttle is free. Alternatively, several bus lines (281, DB, X, U, AE-F) stop near the Cantor Arts Center. Check the local transit schedule for specific times and stops. Bus fares typically range from $2-5.

  • Driving

    From Highway 101, take the Embarcadero Road exit west towards Stanford. Embarcadero turns into Galvez Street as it enters the university. Turn right onto Campus Drive, then left onto Lomita Drive. The Cantor Arts Center will be on your right. Visitor parking is available on Lomita Drive and in the Roth Way Garage. Parking is enforced Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and payment is managed through the ParkMobile app. Parking costs vary, so check the ParkMobile app for current rates. Weekend parking is free.

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Discover more about Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University

The Cantor Arts Center at Stanford University is a vibrant institution with a rich history, serving as a cultural hub for the campus and the wider Bay Area community. Founded in 1891, along with the university, the museum's collection has grown to encompass over 44,000 works of art from around the world. In 1999, it was expanded and renamed in honor of lead donors Iris and B. Gerald Cantor. The museum's encyclopedic collection spans 5,000 years, offering visitors a journey through art history and diverse cultures. Highlights include one of the largest collections of Auguste Rodin sculptures outside of Paris, a diverse range of American, European, Asian, and African art, as well as a notable collection of photography. The Cantor also features outdoor sculpture gardens, including the Rodin Sculpture Garden and the Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden. The Cantor Arts Center hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing both its permanent collection and special installations. These exhibitions cover a wide range of artistic styles and periods, ensuring there is always something new to discover. In addition to its exhibitions, the Cantor offers a range of public programs, including tours, lectures, and family activities. Visitor amenities include a cafe and bookstore. The Cantor is committed to accessibility, with wheelchair access throughout the building and gardens. Admission is free, making it an accessible cultural resource for all.

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