Milwaukee Art Museum Tours

Milwaukee Art Museum
Milwaukee Art Museum featuring art and interior views
Milwaukee Art Museum featuring art and modern architecture
Milwaukee Art Museum
Milwaukee Art Museum featuring art and interior views as well as a small group of people


Peruse a vast collection of classic European and American art in this gallery that is housed in a striking modern building.

Milwaukee Museum of Art can trace its roots all the way back to 1888 as the city’s first art gallery, yet its striking modern façade is one of the museum’s most compelling exhibits. The 2001 Quadracci Pavilion extension is a dramatic addition to Milwaukee’s skyline and a winner of numerous design awards. The hand-built concrete structure looks like a cross between a gothic cathedral and a ship, with arches, “wings”, and soaring glass windows.

The museum’s permanent collection contains almost 25,000 works of art from a broad range of styles and mediums dating from the 15th century to the present day. In addition to four floors and nearly 350,000 square feet (32,500 square meters) of gallery space, there are frequent high-profile temporary exhibitions and events, an auditorium, a study center, a library and a war memorial center. Dedicate at least three hours to really explore the building and its variety of exhibits.

The museum is acclaimed nationally for its collections of American decorative arts, German impressionism, video art and Haitian artwork. The big European names on show include Degas, Rodin, Picasso, Manet and Toulouse-Lautrec. Modern highlights include some of Andy Warhol’s finest works, and pieces by Mark Rothko and Frank Lloyd Wright.

The museum’s frequent temporary exhibitions are designed to capture the imagination of art lovers with shows from all over the world. Past events have featured vibrant animation art, abstract photography, optical art and interior design.

Budding young artists can attend a series of summer camps and drop-in art classes featuring hands-on activities, music-making and movie screenings.

Milwaukee Museum of Art is located on the shores of Lake Michigan just off Lincoln Memorial Drive, and is open every day except Mondays. Avoid paying for on-site parking by taking the bus or Amtrak, which stops about a mile (1.6 kilometers) from the museum.

Reviews of Milwaukee Art Museum

4.6
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
289
5 - Excellent 72%
4 - Good
74
4 - Good 19%
3 - Okay
31
3 - Okay 8%
2 - Disappointing
3
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
3
1 - Terrible 1%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

We went but closed for a storm event. What we did see was excellent

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Need a least 3 hours to see all the art. There is so much to see there. We ate at the restaurant Café Calatrava that gave you a great view of the lake watched the sailboats, people walking the river walk etc.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

Architecture and Lakefront are the highlight.

2/5 - Disappointing

Verified traveler

It was priced at 18$ per person and frankly I didnt think that was worth it.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

wanted to go, but bad weather caused us to leave early in the AM to keep ahead of the bad weather.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Definitely take in Milwaukee Art Museum and try to be there at noon when, weather permitting, the “wings” of the museum building “flap” to music.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Milwaukee Art Museum

Drury Plaza Hotel Milwaukee Downtown

Drury Plaza Hotel Milwaukee Downtown

3 out of 5
700 N. Water Street, Milwaukee, WI
Drury Plaza Hotel Milwaukee Downtown
The Pfister Hotel

The Pfister Hotel

4.5 out of 5
424 E Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI
The Pfister Hotel
Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel

Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel

4 out of 5
139 E Kilbourn Ave, Milwaukee, WI
Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel
Hyatt Regency Milwaukee

Hyatt Regency Milwaukee

4 out of 5
333 W Kilbourn Ave, Milwaukee, WI
Hyatt Regency Milwaukee
The Knickerbocker on the Lake

The Knickerbocker on the Lake

3 out of 5
1028 East Juneau Avenue, Milwaukee, WI
The Knickerbocker on the Lake
The Iron Horse Hotel

The Iron Horse Hotel

4 out of 5
500 W Florida Street, Milwaukee, WI
The Iron Horse Hotel
Potawatomi Hotel & Casino

Potawatomi Hotel & Casino

4.5 out of 5
1611 West Canal Street, Milwaukee, WI
Potawatomi Hotel & Casino
The Westin Milwaukee

The Westin Milwaukee

4 out of 5
550 N Van Buren St, Milwaukee, WI
The Westin Milwaukee
The Brewhouse Inn & Suites

The Brewhouse Inn & Suites

3.5 out of 5
1215 N 10th Street, Milwaukee, WI
The Brewhouse Inn & Suites
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Milwaukee Art Museum

At the Milwaukee Art Museum, immerse yourself in a vibrant arts scene featuring stunning art exhibits and engaging photo tours. Explore other nearby museums and attractions, and enjoy local festivals and live music that enhance the cultural experience. Whether you're an art lover or just curious to explore, the museum and its surroundings offer a rich tapestry of activities to enjoy during your visit.

Shopping

The Milwaukee Public Market, located 966m from the museum, offers a vibrant selection of local foods and crafts. The Shops of Grand Avenue, 1.4km away, features a mix of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, the West Allis Farmers Market, 8.0km away, showcases local produce and goods.

Recreation

At Fiserv Forum, immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of live sports events. The Rave-Eagles Club offers a vibrant music scene for entertainment enthusiasts. For serenity, Lakefront Park provides a tranquil space to relax and rejuvenate amidst nature's beauty, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of the Milwaukee Mile, a motor racing venue located 9.7km from the Milwaukee Art Museum, perfect for adrenaline seekers. Enjoy outdoor adventures along the Milwaukee River Bike Trail, 11.3km away, or splash into family fun at the David F. Schulz Aquatic Center, 8.0km distant.

Nightlife

Experience Milwaukee's vibrant nightlife by catching a show at the Riverside Theater, just 1.1km from the Milwaukee Art Museum. Alternatively, enjoy a performance at the Pabst Theater, 966m away, or the Milwaukee Repertory Theater, also 1.1km distant, all offering a romantic and cultural atmosphere.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Milwaukee Art Museum

The Milwaukee Art Museum is surrounded by various attractions that cater to culture enthusiasts and families alike. Nearby, you can explore urban parks, history museums, and transport museums, enhancing your city experience. Don't miss the vibrant downtown Milwaukee, where you can discover more local attractions, including additional art museums that showcase the rich artistic heritage of the area.

  • Harley-Davidson Museum: Explore the rich history and culture of one of America’s most iconic motorcycle brands. The museum showcases classic bikes, engaging exhibits, and interactive displays, offering a unique glimpse into the world of Harley-Davidson.
  • Baird Center: This versatile event venue is perfect for conferences and meetings, featuring modern facilities and a professional atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for business travelers looking to combine work with a taste of Milwaukee’s vibrant culture.
  • Veteran's Park: A beautiful urban park that offers a peaceful escape with scenic views of Lake Michigan. Enjoy walking trails, picnic areas, and family-friendly activities, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation.

Best time to go to Milwaukee Art Museum

The best time to visit Milwaukee Art Museum is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January22.1°F (-5.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February23.5°F (-4.7°C)No RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March34.7°F (1.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
April43.7°F (6.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July71.4°F (21.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September64.2°F (17.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November39.2°F (4.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December29.7°F (-1.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Milwaukee Art Museum

To save money during your visit to the Milwaukee Art Museum, consider traveling between November and January, when hotel prices are lower. Aim to book your stay on a Monday for the best rates, avoiding the more expensive Saturdays. Use Expedia's search tool to filter and sort hotel options by price and type, including eco-friendly choices. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, accommodations, and activities for extra savings. Don't forget to explore free attractions in the area to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Milwaukee Art Museum are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Milwaukee Art Museum is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Milwaukee Art Museum is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool makes it easy for you to set your budget and choose your ideal location, among other preferences. You can arrange your search results from lowest to highest price, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type. For instance, if you check the “Eco-certified” filter, you'll find a selection of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Milwaukee Art Museum with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

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