Cafesjian Art Trust Museum in Shoreview

Did you know there is a hidden gem art museum in Shoreview? It’s called Cafesjian Art Trust and it’s worth a visit!

Here’s what I love about my writing gig with Thrifty Minnesota, I get to research and try new things as my job! When I found out about the Cafesjian Art Trust Museum in Shoreview, I knew I had to check it out and share my experience with you all.

If the name Cafesjian sounds familiar it’s because the carousel at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory was saved from demolition by Gerard Cafesjian, the very same man who collected and donated all the artwork at the Cafesjian Art Trust Museum!

While you might not immediately think of an art museum and the city Shoreview in the same thought, you should because there’s over 3,000 art works in this collection that you can view for free! Since 2022, the museum has been open to the public and recently started an amazing educational program that I’ll share more about below.

If you want to just stop by and check out the artwork, you can! On Saturdays from 10am – 4:30pm the museum is free and open to the public with no reservations required. Guided tours are also available on Thursdays and Fridays at 10am, 1pm and 3pm, but you must reserve your spot in advance on their website.

The current collection of artwork on view through February 7th, 2026 is Collidoscope: de la Torre Brothers Retro-Perspective. The first major touring exhibition for artists and brothers Einar and Jamex de la Torre (b. 1963 and 1960, Guadalajara, Mexico), Collidoscope: De la Torre Brothers Retro-Perspective presents 37 works of sculpture and installation described by The New York Times as art of “dazzling complexity.” As residents of both Mexico and the United States, the artists draw upon their witty observations of life from both sides of the border. Pulling from ancient Mesoamerican iconography, Mexican folk art, and Baroque art, their work blends art history and pop culture with daring social and political commentary, presenting art with celebration, irreverence, and play.

What made me the most excited about the Cafesjian Art Trust Museum was their educational outreach. There are many options for different age groups and families!

My daughter and I have attended two of the Preschool Pals Programs, for 3-4 year olds, and we had a great time. Miss Laura is a wonderful teacher who takes you in the gallery for an up close look at the artwork, then the kids are invited to create some artwork of their own based on that month’s theme. Preschool Pals is free but reservation is required and open up about a month in advance.

•  Wednesday, January 14 at 9:30am or 1:30 pm—Creative Creatures 

Storytime at the CAT is designed for elementary-age kids, this program includes an educator-guided tour of the exhibition, a story time led by a local children’s librarian, and a take-home art project. Storytime at the CAT is free but reservations are required and open up about a month in advance.

• January date TBD

Baby Time at the CAT. Are you looking for a fun, free opportunity to get out of the house and spend quality time with your baby? Come to Baby Time! You and your baby will join museum educators and other families for a judgment-free, enriching, and supportive first introduction to an art museum. No reservation needed; just drop by if you can. 

• Saturday, January 17, 9:00—10:00am 

All in all I’d highly recommend the Cafesjian Art Trust Museum for art lovers, kiddos and families alike. It’s such a fun hidden gem in Shoreview!