maryhill museum of art

This is truly a fine museum -- but small. I went there soon after a trip to Russia and the Romanian collection was stunning. There is also an amazing "chess set" collection in the basement. The view is spectacular.

This is a World Class Museum. Routinely exchanges displays (exhibit items) with place like the MET, Louve, Smithsonian. Has several Rodans that reside permantly at the Museum. Even if you never set foot in the Museum the grounds are worth the trip. Open from 15 March through 15 November. Hours 10 AM to 5 PM

The museum has some great works by Rodan, an amazing basket exhibit by Native Americans and some other exhibits you will not see elsewhere

The beautiful location of this museum alone is worth the trip. Maryhill is an excellent museum with quality exhibits, but without the crowds you find in larger cities. We'll definitely be visiting again.

Interestingly, Maryhill is as much a curiosity as it is a museum of fine arts. Nothing prepares you for the imposing structure, literally in the middle of nowhere, filled with priceless art and artefacts. We loved its majestic solitude on a remote bluff overlooking the river gorge. This palatial stone mansion, set high on a remote spot overlooking the Colombia River could not be more impressive, were it not surrounded by 26 acres of park-like gardens, quite reminiscent of Old England..... well, sort of. Inside, the wealth of Rodins - bronzes, plasters, and sketches that originally were kept in the master's studio for reference, are remarkable for the sheer volume outside of France. There is even a smaller scale version of the "Thinker" on hand, the only one in existence. What we liked and gravitated to, was the display of 19th-Century American and European paintings, icons, weaponry, Indian baskets, antique chess-sets and in the Queen Marie Room, is her throne, coronation gown and many of her personal belongings. Outdoors, there is a sculpture garden to amble through. Tea, anyone?

This place was a step aside, into a weirdness I'd not expected. Fascinating insights into European aristocracy and connections with 20th century American wealth. Great eclectic collection of art, and a surprisingly good cafeteria. Outstanding views of the river and gorge.

This museum is everything expected - well planned, interesting exhibits, and the food at their cafe was good, too. One word of caution - the steps leading upstairs/downstairs are not for the faint-hearted. Old folks (like us) and those who need assistance should ALWAYS use the elevator.

The mansion that Sam Hill built for his wife is beautiful and is the home of a fine collection of art and artifacts. The history in this part of the country is fabulous.

The Maryhill Museum of Art is a great place to combine with other attractions when visiting the Gorge. It houses some world class art including an impressive collections of Rodin sculptures, in a unique setting overlooking the Columbia Gorge. It has great 19th and early 20th century art, and some even older, along with a Native American collection and African art collection. The location and building are beautiful, it was intended to be a family home but converted to a gallery; reminiscent of the Hearst Castle but on a smaller scale. My friends and I visited it while taking a wine-tasting tour. The views are spectacular, well worth the drive and the little cafe in the museum was a very pleasant surprise. I don't think I've ever had a meal in a museum quite as good - the food was fresh and excellently prepared, and you have a view of the entire Gorge as you enjoy your lunch. All in all a great focal point for a day in the Gorge.

On the bluffs over looking the Columbia river and it is full of interesting pieces and has a great sculpture garden.

You wouldn't expect to find a museum like this somewhat in middle of nowhere. Interesting history of the building and how it came to be a museum. A mix of art and personal items from the Hill family and friends, Rodin sculptures and drawings, Northwestern art plus changing exhibitions. Also, an art activity room for children. Cafe has wonderful views across the Columbia River to Oregon. Wineries near by with discounts with purchase of museum ticket. We visited as a day trip from Parkdale ( between Mt. Hood & Hood River). Scenic drive. Added another dimension to our trip which consisted of hikes and nature walks.

No matter how many times I go here (which has been many) I always spend literally hours. There is so much to see and so well laid out. The building alone is worth stopping to see and the view across the Columbia River. I have visited a lot of museums and this one is really different in its variety of presentations.The kids love the peacocks and hens strolling around the picnic area. It is a good place to stop for a rest and a picnic though the plateau can be windy and a bit chilly on a spring day.I would not recommend this for very young children as it is just too big.

The paintings and sculptures are very good - some stunning. The building itself and its history is fascinating and well worth a "read". The setting is picture book perfect - especially on a sunny day. There are even some picnic benches in the grounds where you can sit and soak up the views.

This place can seem like the middle of nowhere since it's on the much less traveled Washington side of the Columbia Gorge, but it's really only a few miles from I-84. Take the Sam Hill Bridge and follow the signs. You can't miss the huge stone mansion overlooking the river.Hill was quite a character. Among his many occupations was as a bond trader in Europe, where he met Queen Marie of Romania -- thus the over-the-top collection of Romanian artifacts. But he was also a friend of Auguste Rodin's and a member of his inner circle, so there is a whole room full of Rodin drawings and studies. The Thinker, of course, but also studies for his statues of Balzac and the Gates of Hell.It's an eclectic collection. Hill was a fan of the theater, of costume, and of dance, so there's a lot of that here. Plus -- for unknown reasons -- a fun collection of New Yorker cartoons.Allow about 2 hours here, including a break for lunch in the OK cafe and some time spent with the outdoor sculptures overlooking the river. If you're so inclined, visit the nearby replica of Stonehenge, although it's "cement" look and perfect circles didn't do much for me.Best of all, detour to Goldendale (12 miles) for dinner at The Glass Onion!

Original Rodan's. Story of Sam Hill and connection to Romanian royalty, and why, interesting. Sam Hill's accomplishments and contributions worth learning about.