The Allen presents changing exhibitions along with engaging guest speakers and public programs.
Learn MoreThe Allen's collection is particularly strong in 17th century Dutch and Flemish painting, Japanese prints, early modern art, African art, and more.
Learn MoreExplore the full range of museum programs through free events, guided and self-guided tours, and resources for professors and PreK-12 teachers.
Learn MoreResources
Find podcasts, activities, and information for all age groups.
Support for the museum continues our tradition of bringing art to the people.
Learn MoreEnjoy the intimate setting of an acclaimed college art museum. Whether you stop in for a few minutes, or plan to make a day of it, you’ll find remarkable works of art.
Enjoy the intimate setting of an acclaimed college art museum. Whether you stop in for a few minutes, or plan to make a day of it, you’ll find remarkable works of art.
Facade of the Allen Memorial Art Museum. Photo by Ricky Rhodes. The Allen has been free and open to the public since 1917. The museum’s motto, carved above the arched entryway, is “The Cause of Art is the Cause of the People.”
The 1884 quotation above, from William Morris, is incorporated into the museum façade designed by Cass Gilbert. The words express our belief that art enriches the lives of all people, underscoring the Allen's commitment to bring the visual arts to a broad public through high-quality teaching, exhibitions, and programs.
Hours, Admission & Directions
Offering free admission, the Allen Memorial Art Museum is located on the Oberlin College campus, about 40 minutes west of Cleveland.
Accessibility
We are committed to accessibility and willing to provide accommodations whenever possible. Please see our map showing the ADA entrance to the museum.
Tours & Group Visits
Schedule a tour for your community group, K-12 class, or college course. Find resources for self-guided groups. Let us help you plan your visit.
Visitor Guidelines
For the safety and conservation of our artworks, please review our guide to museum etiquette, as well as our photography policy.
A Day in Oberlin
Find plenty of things to see and do at the museum, on the Oberlin College campus, and in town, offering an eclectic variety of shops and restaurants.
The Allen Augmented Reality site enables you to take a 3D tour of the galleries without leaving home. Use this feature to navigate through the museum, read object labels, and view other related content. You can also see a recent exhibition of Japanese woodblock prints.
Visit - Tours
Enjoy the intimacy of one of the nation's best academic art museums. Free admission since 1917.
Events
Learn more about art through videos and livestream events.
Join & Support
Your support makes a difference. Become a museum member, donor, or volunteer.