Guidelines
Photography
You are welcome to take photographs or video of works in the permanent collection for personal use provided that no tripod or flash is used. Temporary exhibitions may not allow photography. Please check for signage about restrictions as you enter a temporary exhibition, or ask a Gallery Guide.
Permits are required for professional portrait photography inside the Museum. We are delighted that you are considering Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art as the location for your photos and/or videos. To ensure a positive experience for you, while maintaining a pleasant experience for our many guests, please be aware of the rules and guidelines.
Download the full Photo/Video Guidelines
Download the and Photography Permit application
Mobile Phones
Due to the nature of the Museum's location and construction, mobile phone reception is generally poor inside the buildings, and can be uncertain on the main grounds. We recommend you make arrangements for a time and place to meet members of your party ahead of your visit.
Please limit mobile phone conversations to non-gallery spaces, lobbies, restaurant, or Museum grounds. If you are using your phone to participate in Museum audio tours, headphones or earbuds are encouraged in galleries. Earbuds are available for purchase at Guest Services.
Checkroom
Large items, including backpacks, backpack-style child carriers, tripods, umbrellas, or any package or other item larger than 11 x 15" are not allowed in the galleries and should be left in the checkroom. Self-service checkrooms are located in the lower lobby (one level down from the main lobby), and adjacent to the south lobby. Lockers are provided for your valuables at no charge.
Food and Drink
Food, drinks, chewing gum, and water bottles are not allowed in Museum galleries, common areas, or the Museum Store. Please enjoy a meal at Eleven, or a snack at the coffee bar located off the lobby. Box lunches may be ordered from Eleven to eat at tables provided outside on Walker Landing.
Picnicking is encouraged on Museum trails and grounds, including in the Rock Ledge and Tulip Tree shelters. We ask that guests not bring coolers, chairs, or other gear onto Walker Landing.
Sketching
Sketching with pencils or colored pencils is permitted. Easels are not permitted.
Smoking
Crystal Bridges campus is tobacco-free except for designated smoking areas: the area west of the South Entrance.
Weapons
No weapons are permitted on the Museum campus.
Pets
Leashed pets are welcome on the Museum trails and grounds, but are not permitted inside the building or on Walker Landing.
Promotional Photography Notice / Implied Consent
Participation in Crystal Bridges' programs constitutes an agreement by the participant and/or the parent or guardian to allow the Museum to photograph or film participants, without compensation, for possible use in publicity.
Conduct
Crystal Bridges is committed to the principles of welcoming, sharing, and respect for all. The Museum reserves the right to refuse admission to or eject any person whose conduct the Museum deems to be disorderly or abusive or who fails to comply with these or other Museum rules.