Museum FAQs

If you need anything during your visit to the Chrysler, look for the people wearing pale blue. Our Gallery Hosts are nationally recognized for their level of service, and they can answer most any question. Here are some questions they hear most often.

Why is this called the Chrysler Museum?

Walter P. Chrysler Jr. was the oldest son of the founder of The Chrysler Corporation.  He was an avid art collector and gave his collection to the Museum in 1971. He chose Norfolk, in part because his wife grew up here.

What can I find here?

Internationally recognized for its collection of more than 30,000 objects, including one the largest glass collections in America, the Museum is free and features the state-of-the-art Perry Glass Studio, a full-service restaurant, shop, theater, works on paper space, library and oversees the historic Myers House. The Museum boasts an ambitious schedule of exhibitions, events, and programs, and has been nationally recognized for its commitment to inclusion through its innovative gallery host program. Follow on social media @‌ChryslerMuseum to receive the latest updates.

What kind of art is there?

The Chrysler Museum of Art is home to a collection of nearly 30,000 objects spanning 5,000 years of history. Highlights include an impressive and comprehensive survey of European and American painting and sculpture, a world-renowned glass collection, a rich photography program, and Federalist and Art Nouveau furniture, as well as African, Asian, Egyptian, Pre-Columbian, and Islamic art.

How old is the building? How big?

This building opened in the 1930s as the Norfolk Museum of Arts and Sciences. In 2014, an expansion created an additional 10,000 square feet, bringing the total to approximately 220,000 square feet.

Is there an admission fee?

No, admission to the Chrysler Museum and Perry Glass Studio is always free. Programs, classes events may require additional fees.

What are the hours of the Museum?

Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sunday, noon-5 p.m., Monday and Select Holidays, CLOSED

What are the hours of the Perry Glass Studio?

Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Monday and Select Holidays, CLOSED

What are the hours for the Jean Outland Chrysler Library?

The Reading Room is open to the public Wednesday-Friday 10am-5pm. The Stacks at Old Dominion University (Barry Arts Building, 4600 Monarch Way) is available Mondays and Tuesdays by appointment only. To schedule an appointment or for other inquiries, please e-mail library@chrysler.org or call 757-664-6205.

What are the hours of the Myers House?

Open Saturday and Sunday, for self-guided guests or free tours: Noon–5 p.m.

How do I arrange a tour?

The Museum offers tours for all ages. The Daily Public Tour is free and offered Tuesday–Saturday at 11 a.m. and on Sundays at 2 p.m. Adult groups or school groups are welcome and have a variety of options to choose from. Learn more at chrysler.org/learn/museum-tours/

The Myers House offers small group tours by appointment. To schedule, call 757-333-1087.

What is the Daily Demo?

The Perry Glass Studio offers a free glassblowing demonstration Tuesday–Sunday at noon. All ages are welcome, no registration required.

Is there public WIFI?

Thanks to the generosity of the Dreyfus Foundation, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the Chrysler Museum of Art, including the Perry Glass Studio, Zinnia Café, and our outdoor gardens. No password is required; look for “ChryslerMuseum_Guest” in the settings on your wireless device, wait for a page to pop up, agree to the terms of use, and connect.

Can I bring a bag?

Purses or small bags are permitted. Bags and parcels larger than 11” x 15” will be inspected upon entry. Backpacks are not permitted in the galleries, but feel free to check them at our complimentary lockers or coat check.

Do you have a place to store my stuff?

Visitors can check their coats, umbrellas, or larger bags at our complimentary lockers or coat check.

Where can I park?

Free parking is available in the marked lot connected to the Chrysler Museum of Art. Two other lots are also available at the corner of Fairfax and Mowbray Arch and along Botetourt Street.

Is there somewhere to eat?

Zinnia Café is the Museum’s restaurant. Beverages and grab-and-go food options are available during Museum Hours, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Full service lunch is served Tuesday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Sunday noon–2 p.m. Reservations are recommended, call 757-600-5538. View the menu and more at www.zinniava.com/menu. Food and drinks are not permitted in the galleries but can be enjoyed in Huber Court, Mary’s Garden, or Memorial Garden.

Can I take photos?

Take pictures of your favorite works, but help us keep the art safe by not using a flash, tripod, or selfie stick. When you get the perfect shot, share it with us on social media @chryslermuseum and use #ChryslerMuseum.

I have a work of art that I’d like appraised. Does the Museum provide this service?

The Museum does not provide appraisal or authentication information. Here is a list of resources you can contact: Appraisal and Conservation Resources at chrysler.org/appraisal-and-conservation-resources

I would like to make my own art in the galleries, is that allowed?

Feel free to sketch in our galleries with dry media (pencils, crayons, pastels). Wet media (watercolors, paint, etc.) are allowed with advanced permission. Please contact our Registration Department at 757-965-2030 or artists@chrysler.org, and review our procedures before visiting chrysler.org/artist-working-in-the-galleries/

Can I donate an object?

The Chrysler Museum Collection is continually growing. We gratefully accept donations of works of art that support our mission. If you are considering donating a work of art to the Museum, please send pictures and information about the object(s) to artdonations@chrysler.org. Learn more at chrysler.org/support/donations-of-art/

Can I use images of works in the collection?

Low-resolution images of works in the Museum collection may be downloaded for study, personal, and educational use directly from the Chrysler website: chrysler.emuseum.com. High-resolution digital images for publication or commercial use must be requested at chrysler.org/art/rights-reproductions/.

How can I get involved?

The Museum offers a variety of ways to get involved, outside of becoming a member. Consider our Docent, Event or General Volunteer opportunities at chrysler.org/volunteer/.

Can I bring a child to the Museum?

We are excited to welcome the next generation of museum enthusiasts. Children can explore the galleries on foot or in a stroller. Please do not carry children on your shoulders.

Where are the restrooms? Are they wheelchair accessible? Are there changing stations?

• Near the Main Entrance: Men, Women, Family, All Accessible, Changing Stations
• In the Theatre Lobby: Men, Women, Women Accessible
• Near the Staff Offices/Backstage: Single Unisex Restroom, Accessible
• Upstairs, near the top of the main staircase: Men, Women, Accessible

Does the Museum have wheelchairs/strollers?

Yes, both are available free of charge. They are located under the stairs near the main entrance restrooms.

What other accessibility options does the Museum offer?

Large print labels, video captions, and sensory bags are available at the Welcome Desk. Service and comfort animals are permitted, and there is an induction loop in Kaufman Theater.

Why become a member if it’s free?

• Supporting the Museum’s operations, programs, and exhibitions
• Free admission to Third Thursdays and other event
• Discounts on Glass Studio classes and workshops
• A 10% discount in the Museum Shop and Wisteria
• Invitations to members’ only events
• Inside scoop via email and the Chrysler magazine

What is a Gallery Host?

Our Gallery Hosts are nationally recognized for their level of service, and they can answer most any question. If you need anything during your visit to the Chrysler, look for the people wearing pale blue.

How do I apply for a job?

It takes an entire team to do something big. Careers of all types are available at the Museum; view the Career Portal here chrysler.org/careers/