Wilbur D. May Center

Completely renovated and reopened to the public in 2003, the Wilbur D. May Center comprises both a museum and an arboretum within Reno's Rancho San Rafael Park. May was the owner of the 2,600-acre Double Diamond Ranch and the center reflects his eclectic interests in travel, art, and horticulture. He made more than 40 trips around the world, collecting historic Italian amulets, pottery from the T'ang Dynasty, early African artwork, Egyptian scarabs, Greek icons, and Eskimo scrimshaws. There is a Big Game Room displaying his hunting trophies and even an authentic South American shrunken head.

Apart from the rare and exotic artifacts exhibited in the museum, the arboretum covers a dozen acres with groves of trees, a waterfall, secluded gardens, a wetland area, and creekside meadows awash with colorful flowers. There are outdoor courtyards, pathways, and secluded benches for resting. An additional indoor garden features two ponds with koi and goldfish. There is also a gift shop stocked with local crafts, unique art objects, jewelry, books, and educational items.

The Wilbur D. May Center is located within Rancho San Rafael Regional Park at 1595 North Sierra, Reno, Nevada 89503. The gallery rotates its displays regularly. Hours change seasonally; admission fees vary with the exhibits. Visitors are advised to check in advance for the latest dates, times, and rates.