National Museum of Wildlife Art

Just inside the doors of this museum’s main gallery, a bronze mountain lion crouches, as if ready to pounce. This is just the first of many artworks. For the kids, the museum hosts a hands-on children’s gallery. Adult visitors will enjoy the artwork displayed throughout twelve galleries, as well as a theater, 200 seat auditorium, gift shop, and Rising Sun Cafe.

The collection features the works of Carl Rungious, George Catlin, Albert Bierstadt, Karl Bodmer, Alfred Jacob Miller, N.C. Wyeth, Conrad Schwiering, John Clymer, Charles Russell, Robert Bateman, and numerous others. Especially interesting are the reconstructed studio of John Clymer and the Carl Rungius Gallery, where the most complete collection of his paintings in the nation resides.

Another notable exhibit is a feature on the American bison, documenting the once-abundant animals and the slaughter that took place. Six of the galleries host changing displays of photography, painting, and artwork. For those who want to see live animals, spotting scopes are located in the lobby and the members’ lounge (open to public) to watch the inhabitants of the nearby National Elk Refuge.

A 45-minute museum tour is given daily at 11 a.m., or by request for groups. The museum is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the summer. During the winter, hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays.