Initial reaction from yours truly, a volunteer docent:
I love openings of exhibits at museums. It's a wholly separate experience from a typical museum visit. In place of the soft whispers is a welcoming din of voices (I'm sure serving alcohol at these events helps in that regard). I've found my experience of the art itself is changed by the difference in surroundings. Instead of an austere museum space, there are people everywhere; other bodies are close by, sometimes obstructing the view of the art, and it feels like much more of a communal activity than a singular viewing on a typical visit. I was hoping for some good "overheard" conversations, but the design of the building causes the conversations around you to turn into muffled white noise. I was really disappointed about this when trying to listen to an elderly man explain to his companions the way gelatin plates can be manipulated.
Also, openings bring such a diverse crowd! I'm always thrilled to see young children at museums (and this is coming from someone with a generally strong dislike for kids). It gives me hope for the future to see parents taking the time to expose children to art, to instill in them an appreciation for a museum visit.
The view from the top of Arthouse at night is stunning! They have a prime location downtown right near the capital off of Congress & 7th street. Go there. Climb the stairs. Be amazed. Oh, and bring your camera when you do.