The Kelsey Museum of Archaeology offers an incredible journey through ancient civilizations—right in the heart of the University of Michigan campus. Admission is free, and curiosity is always welcome.

Recommended For

History buffs & museum lovers
Explore ancient Egypt, Rome, Greece, and the Near East through 100,000+ fascinating artifacts.

University students & researchers
Dive into the past with collections tied to ongoing fieldwork and academic discovery.

Families & school groups
Enjoy engaging exhibits, kid-friendly tours, and hands-on learning programs tailored by age group.

Educators & community groups
Book traveling kits, guided tours, or outreach sessions that bring archaeology to life.

Collection Highlights

  • Graeco-Roman Egypt: 45,000 objects—second only to Cairo’s collection
  • Latin Inscriptions: Home to the largest western collection of its kind
  • Ancient Coins: Over 40,000 coins from across ancient civilizations
  • Egyptian Mummy Masks: Extensive and rare funerary artifacts on display
  • Parthian Pottery: One of the most comprehensive global collections

Many artifacts were uncovered through university-sponsored digs and are housed in climate-controlled storage when not on display. A searchable database is available on the museum's website.

Exhibitions

Permanent and rotating exhibitions showcase the depth of the museum’s holdings. Past special exhibitions have included:

  • The Art and Science of Healing
  • Women of Etruria
  • Leisure and Luxury in the Age of Nero
  • Death Dogs: The Jackal Gods of Ancient Egypt
  • Karanis Revealed

Visit the Kelsey website for current and upcoming exhibits. After special exhibitions, artifacts are archived digitally and safely stored for future research.

Educational Programs

  • University Programs: Tours, experiential learning, and outreach for U-M and other institutions; student volunteer programs and essay competitions
  • K-12 School Programs: In-person or outreach tours, traveling education kits, curriculum-aligned sessions, and teacher open houses
  • Public Programs: Lectures, workshops, and Family Days offered seasonally with docent-led activities for all ages

Visitor Tips

  • Admission: Free and open Tuesday–Sunday
  • Accessibility: Located in a historic building with updated facilities in the Upjohn Wing
  • Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning or weekdays for a quieter experience
  • What to Bring: Curiosity and a little extra time—there’s a lot to see!

Location

Kelsey Museum of Archaeology
434 South State Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
Phone: 734-764-9304
Website: lsa.umich.edu/kelsey

Plan Your Trip