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; on-site parking and a free brochure are available. For guided walks, the current event listing describes rough, undulating ground that is not wheelchair accessible; wear closed-toe shoes and bring water. The visitor center/shop has separate approximate hours and often closes earlier in summer heat. Do not climb or sit on artworks.
- Admission
- No admission fee for the outdoor sculpture grounds; donations are encouraged. Standard scheduled guided walks currently start at $15; special events may have different or free admission, so check the museum calendar.
- Time needed
- There is no standard self-guided visit length. The museum describes monthly public guided walks as one hour, while current individual event listings give 45 minutes; check the listing for the date you book. These guided-tour estimates do not set a time for exploring the grounds independently.
- Best season
- The museum runs public walking tours in the cooler months, roughly October–May. Its May 2026 news says monthly tours run through May 2027 except December, but the current event calendar also lists a December 19, 2026 walk; confirm exact dates. No official best season for a self-guided visit is named, and the visitor center often closes early during summer heat.
- 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
- 2026-10-22
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