I'm torn between liking it more as a museum, or as a hobo infested former train station/lumber yard that I remember from yesteryear.It is a beautiful building with good parking and wonderful grounds. I am just never impressed when I go in there. Lots and LOTS of random mediocre art from all around. Kids area is kinda neat though.If you are into art (full disclosure here, I am not that into odd art) go ahead and give it a stop. If a piece of paper with the outline of every face from a years worth of NYtimes front pages (Yes, that was a piece of "art" at the NIC one month) gets your motor running, then stop in and have a look.If art isn't your thing, best keep going.
Lots of local artists at the Nic. And it is located in downtown Casper, WY so one parking spot and you can see it all.
For Wyoming, the art is okay. They have activities for kids to do in the summer too. I'm not sure about any other season though. The activities are more geared to little kids though. The staff is very friendly toward everyone. The prices can be a bit steep, but if you visit the gift shop prepare for your wallet to feel light.
Go visit this place. It is full of local talent and others' works. You might be fortunate enough to catch it in the summertime when it is full of locals on a week night. A friendly town with abundant art to take your soul and please your eye. J. Reed
This museum is a "gem" in a small package. Being "city folk" and museum freaks, we were pleasantly surprised by the quality of both the regular and special exhibits. The Russen sculptures were so appealing, you wanted to buy one --not for sale -- :-(
The Nic has come a long way in the past year. They are mounting serious major shows of Wyoming and western artists. The Harry Jackson show was extensive and handsomely presented. The Nic seems to have many programs going all the time in addition to its exhibits. Well worth a visit if you are in Casper.
We were passing through Casper and stopped to see the NIC festival. We were disappointed in the food selection and prices. Crazy overpriced, festival food. Nothing was very good, portions small and all the food was way, way overpriced. Enjoyed stretching legs and walking around, but would not go back to the festival.
Came here during a last ditch effort to entertain 3 kids under 5 on a rainy day and wow! There is so many crafts and kids activities in the discovery center here. The kids had a blast & were wore out when we were done.
What a find for little ol' Casper, WY! This is a major art museum, with a real flare of Western art. But it doesn't stop there. Great place to take the kids, with fun things for them to do. It's very spacious and modern in design. I was impressed. Their displays and artist change often, so you always have a new experience each time you go.
I have driven by a zillon times but never stopped in to check it out until recently. If you are expecting quality of a large museum you wil be disappointed. Not trying to slam this place but it's just not all that, there are times where they have weekend long events, and night time concerts. And a kids creative area. Some okay art, and sculpture.