By Natalie Derrickson

Nestled against the Ohio River is a place so special, one of Picasso’s rare works calls it home. The Evansville Museum of Art, History, and Science showcases permanent exhibitions celebrating the tri-state region and the historic moments that shaped communities, inspired innovations, and built industries. 

The museum’s galleries shift regularly, sharing the spotlight across over 30,000 items entrusted to the museum for preservation. One must-see piece can be found in the Koch Foundation Gallery: Pablo Picasso’s glass mosaic, “Seated Woman in Red Hat.” Originally gifted to the museum in 1963, the mosaic was in storage until its 2012 rediscovery. After preservation, it went on display in 2024. See the luminous glass gemmail and four additional Picasso works in the gallery.

At the Evansville Museum Transportation Center, view a model railroad depicting life in the mid-century and learn about early river, rail, and aviation history that helped build Evansville’s economy.

Experience the exhibit, “Rivertown USA,” just as you would from the 1840s into the early 20th century, and explore shops of the times — a general store, doctor’s office, log cabin, and toy shop make it easy to imagine the way it was. Visitors experience the city’s history first-hand, learning about life during World War I and the Great Flood of 1937. 

In the Welborn Baptist Hands-On Science Center, witness gravity in action, learn about clouds, and bring the magic of science to life. “Families appreciate the hands-on elements woven into the science and history areas, making the museum easy to explore at a comfortable pace,” Explore Evansville’s Kate Reibel said.

A visit to the museum isn’t complete without time spent in the Koch Immersive Theater and Planetarium, whose exterior is a piece of art itself. Every guest has the best seat in the house and gets a free theater ticket with museum admission to see traditional planetarium shows and full-dome, immersive cinema projected through 11 million pixels. 

The Evansville Museum of Art, History, and Science is open Thursday through Sunday and is located at 411 S.E. Riverside Drive, Evansville, IN 47713. 

For hours and events, visit emuseum.org.