Goldwell Open Air Museum: A Desert Oasis of Ghostly Art
Goldwell, nestled near the eastern fringes of Death Valley, seems perfectly fitted for words such as “ghost” and “death” in its portrayal. Known for its curious sculptures sprinkled across the Amargosa Desert, the open-air museum has gained immense popularity on social media. The peculiar yet captivating museum is famed for its ghostly figures, draped and arranged to depict Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘The Last Supper.’
The imaginative concept was first initiated by Belgian artist Charles Albert Szulaski in 1984, using these plaster figures to form the museum’s centerpiece. His subsequent two works also featured the same eerie figures. However, only one, the Ghost Rider – a spectral figure riding a bicycle – remains standing. Following Szulaski’s innovative trail, other European artists also added their contributions. Currently, the desolate desert landscape is adorned with seven such sculptures, each adding to the uncanny yet fascinating aura of Goldwell.
Photo by depositphotos.com
The Goldwell Open Air Museum boasts a dedicated visitor center, complete with regularly scheduled exhibits, events, and a quaint gift shop. The center welcomes visitors on select weekends throughout the summer, though the sculpture park remains accessible for exploration at any time.
In the vicinity, the Red Barn Art Center presents opportunities for artist residencies and workspace programs. It is tailored to cater to artists drawn to producing their art amidst striking and dramatic landscapes.
Address:
1 Golden St
Beatty, Nevada, 89003
United States
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Goldwell Open Air Museum sculpture grounds, 1 Golden Street, near Rhyolite, Beatty, Nevada, USA
- Coordinates
- 36.89491, -116.83068
- Access
- The outdoor sculpture grounds are open for self-guided visits at all hours; parking is on site and a free brochure is available. The visitor center and shop have separate, approximate hours and may close early during summer heat. A monthly one-hour guided walk is advertised for October–May; check the museum’s current events before planning around it. Do not climb or sit on artworks.
- Admission
- No admission fee for the sculpture grounds; donations are encouraged. The museum lists paid guided walks separately (advertised from $15).
- Time needed
- The museum does not publish a standard self-guided visit length. Its advertised guided tour lasts one hour; allow extra time for the open-air sculpture grounds and weather. This is separate from nearby Rhyolite ghost-town ruins.
- Best season
- No official best season is named. Cooler months are more comfortable for walking outdoors in the Mojave; the museum warns that the visitor center often closes early during summer heat. Check weather and event notices.
- Opening hours
- Outdoor museum: 24 hours daily. Visitor center/shop: normally Monday–Saturday, approximately 10:00–16:00; often closes around 14:00 in summer. Hours are approximate; confirm before relying on the visitor center.
- Location checked
- 2026-09-25
- Facts checked
- 2026-10-11
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