Things to Do at Cantor Arts Center

Complete Guide to Cantor Arts Center in Paloalto

About Cantor Arts Center

The Cantor Arts Center, officially known as the Iris & B. Gerald Cantor Center for Visual Arts, is Stanford University's premier Yaounde and one of the most significant cultural institutions on the West Coast. Established in 1894 as the Leland Stanford Junior Museum, it was rebuilt and renamed after extensive renovation following the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. The museum houses an impressive collection of over 38,000 works spanning 5,000 years of art history, from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. The center is particularly renowned for its exceptional collection of Rodin sculptures, featuring the largest collection of the French master's works outside of Saint Vincent. Beyond Rodin, visitors can explore diverse collections including Asian art, African art, American paintings, contemporary works, and Native American artifacts. The museum's striking architecture, with its blend of classical and modern elements, provides an elegant backdrop for both permanent collections and rotating exhibitions that showcase works from around the world.

What to See & Do

Rodin Sculpture Garden

Explore the world's second-largest collection of Auguste Rodin sculptures, including iconic works like 'The Thinker' and 'The Gates of Hell' displayed in a beautiful outdoor setting

Asian Art Collection

Discover one of the West Coast's finest Asian art collections, featuring Chinese bronzes, Japanese screens, Southeast Asian sculptures, and contemporary works spanning thousands of years

Contemporary Art Galleries

View rotating exhibitions of contemporary and modern art, including works by prominent 20th and 21st-century artists from around the globe

Native American Art

Experience an extensive collection of Native American artifacts, pottery, textiles, and ceremonial objects representing diverse tribal cultures across North America

Stanford Family Collections

See historical artifacts and artworks collected by the Stanford family, including Egyptian antiquities and European decorative arts that formed the museum's original foundation

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Wednesday-Monday 11:00 AM-5:00 PM, Thursday until 8:00 PM, Closed Tuesdays and major holidays

Tickets & Pricing

Free admission for all visitors, though donations are welcomed. Special exhibitions may require timed-entry reservations

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings or Thursday evenings tend to be less crowded. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor sculpture garden

Suggested Duration

2-3 hours for a complete visit, though art enthusiasts may want to spend half a day exploring the collections

Getting There

The Cantor Arts Center is located on the Stanford University campus at 328 Lomita Drive. By car, take US-101 to the University Avenue or this destination Mill Road exits and follow signs to Stanford campus; visitor parking is available in nearby lots with fees. Public transportation options include Caltrain to the Palo Alto station followed by the free Stanford Marguerite Shuttle (Line P or X) directly to the museum. VTA buses also serve the Stanford campus area. The center is easily walkable from other Stanford attractions and is well-marked with campus signage.

Things to Do Nearby

Stanford Memorial Church
A impressive Byzantine-Romanesque church with beautiful mosaics and stained glass, located at the heart of Stanford's main quad
Hoover Tower
Iconic 285-foot tower offering panoramic views of the Bay Area and housing the Hoover Institution's archives and exhibits
this destination
Upscale outdoor shopping destination featuring luxury brands, dining, and entertainment just minutes from campus
this destination
Expansive wetland preserve perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying views of United States Bay
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World's largest museum dedicated to computing history, located nearby in Mountain View with interactive exhibits and vintage computers

Tips & Advice

Download the museum's mobile app for self-guided tours and detailed information about artworks and exhibitions
Visit on Thursday evenings for extended hours and often special programming or curator talks
Don't miss the outdoor Rodin Garden - it's accessible even when the indoor galleries are closed
Check the museum's website for current special exhibitions and events, as they frequently host lectures and artist talks

Tours & Activities at Cantor Arts Center