All contemporary art museums to visit in Massachusetts

Experience the cutting-edge world of contemporary art at 39 museums in Massachusetts. These museums showcase works by modern artists, exploring current themes and innovative techniques.

Are you a fan of contemporary art? These are the best contemporary art museums in Massachusetts:

  1. Fruitlands Museum - The Trustees of Reservations1

    Fruitlands Museum - The Trustees of Reservations

     Harvard, MA
    Fruitlands Museum, located in Harvard, Massachusetts, is a unique institution that explores various perspectives of America. It is situated on the grounds of the former utopian community known as Fruitlands. This community, although short-lived, left a significant mark on the area and its history. The museum provides an opportunity to delve into this fascinating chapter of American history.
  2. The Institute of Contemporary Art2

    The Institute of Contemporary Art

     Boston, MA
    The Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston, USA, is a renowned exhibition venue. It is a cultural hub that showcases a variety of contemporary art pieces from various artists. The museum is located in the heart of Boston, making it easily accessible for tourists.
  3. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum3

    Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

     Boston, MA
    The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, located in Boston, Massachusetts, is a unique institution dedicated to the preservation and display of European and American art. The museum was founded in 1903 by Isabella Stewart Gardner, a prominent art collector and philanthropist. The museum's collection, which spans various periods and styles, is a testament to Gardner's passion for art and her commitment to sharing it with the public.
  4. Arthur M. Sackler Museum4

    Arthur M. Sackler Museum

     Cambridge, MA
    The museum consists of the Fogg Museum, Busch-Reisinger Museum, and Arthur M. Sackler Museum. It displays wide range of art including American and European paintings, postwar contemporary art from German-speaking Europe, Greek and Roman sculptures and many more.
  5. List Visual Arts Center5

    List Visual Arts Center

     Cambridge, MA
    The LVAC is internationally recognized for the 6 to 9 temporary exhibitions it presents each year in its 6,000-square-foot galleries. These exhibitions are open to the general public and admission is free. In addition to the exhibitions, the LVAC also sponsors most events, including family-friendly hands-on art workshops.
  6. Harvard Art Museums6

    Harvard Art Museums

     Cambridge, MA
    The Harvard Art Museums, located within the prestigious Harvard University, comprise three distinct museums. These include the Fogg Museum, which was established in 1895 and is known for its collection of Western art from the Middle Ages to the present; the Busch-Reisinger Museum, founded in 1903 and the only museum in North America dedicated to the study of art from the German-speaking countries of Central and Northern Europe; and the Arthur M. Sackler Museum, established in 1985, which houses collections of ancient, Islamic, Asian, and later Indian art.
  7. Museum of Bad Art7

    Museum of Bad Art

     Boston, MA
    The Museum of Bad Art (MOBA) is a unique private museum with two locations in Massachusetts, USA - one in Somerville and the other in Brookline. It is dedicated to showcasing the works of artists that would otherwise not be displayed or appreciated. The museum's collection includes 500 pieces that are 'too bad to be ignored', with 25 to 35 works on display at any given time.
  8. Decordova Museum and Sculpture Park8

    Decordova Museum and Sculpture Park

     Lincoln, MA
    The DeCordova Sculpture Park and Museum is a unique destination located in Lincoln, Massachusetts. It specializes in American art, offering a rich collection of works that reflect the diverse and dynamic nature of the country's artistic output. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a casual visitor, the museum provides an engaging and enlightening experience.
  9. Smith College Museum of Art9

    Smith College Museum of Art

     Northampton, MA
    The Smith College Museum of Art, abbreviated as SCMA, is a significant cultural institution located in Northampton, Massachusetts. It was first established in 1870 and is a member of the American Alliance of Museums, Five College Consortium, and Museums10 consortiums. These affiliations reflect the museum's commitment to maintaining high standards in its operations and exhibitions.
  10. Peabody Essex Museum10

    Peabody Essex Museum

     Salem, MA
    The Peabody Essex Museum is a renowned museum situated in the city of Salem, Massachusetts, in the United States. It is a significant cultural institution that offers a wide range of collections and exhibits for visitors to explore. The museum's location in Salem, a city known for its rich history and cultural heritage, adds to its appeal for tourists.
  11. Fogg Museum11

    Fogg Museum

     Cambridge, MA
    The Harvard Art Museums, which are part of Harvard University, comprise three museums: the Fogg Museum, the Busch-Reisinger Museum, and the Arthur M. Sackler Museum. The Fogg Museum, founded in 1895, is the oldest of the three and has a rich history. The Busch-Reisinger Museum, established in 1903, and the Arthur M. Sackler Museum, founded in 1985, also contribute to the diverse collection of the Harvard Art Museums.
  12. Carpenter Center For the Visual Arts12

    Carpenter Center For the Visual Arts

     Cambridge, MA
    The Carpenter Center for the Visual Arts is a significant architectural landmark in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It was designed by the renowned architect Le Corbusier and completed in 1963. The building is located within the campus of Harvard University and is the only building by Le Corbusier in the United States. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in architecture and visual arts.
  13. Williams College Museum of Art13

    Williams College Museum of Art

     Williamstown, MA
    The Williams College Museum of Art (WCMA) is a college-affiliated art museum situated in Williamstown, Massachusetts. It is conveniently located on the Williams College campus, making it easily accessible for visitors. The museum offers a unique blend of academic and artistic experiences, making it a worthwhile destination for art enthusiasts and scholars alike.
  14. Worcester Art Museum14

    Worcester Art Museum

     Worcester, MA
    The Worcester Art Museum, also known by the acronym WAM, is a fine arts museum located in the city of Worcester, USA. The museum was officially opened in 1898 and has since become a significant cultural landmark in the region.
  15. George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum15

    George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum

     Springfield, MA
    The Quadrangle, located in Metro Center, Springfield, Massachusetts, is a hub of cultural institutions and museums. Situated on Chestnut Street between State and Edwards Streets, it offers a rich blend of art, history, and culture to its visitors.
  16. Museum of the National Center of Afro-American Artists16

    Museum of the National Center of Afro-American Artists

     Boston, MA
    Abbotsford, which is now the Museum of the National Center of Afro-American Artists, is a historic house located at 300 Walnut Avenue in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. This museum is a significant landmark that showcases the rich history and culture of Afro-American artists. It is a place where tourists can explore and appreciate the contributions of these artists to the global art scene.
  17. Provincetown Art Association and Museum17

    Provincetown Art Association and Museum

     Provincetown, MA
    The Provincetown Art Association and Museum (PAAM), located in Provincetown, Massachusetts, is a respected institution accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. It was established on August 22, 1914, with a mission to collect, preserve, exhibit, and educate people about the work of Cape Cod artists. The museum represents a membership of around 700 contemporary artists and houses a growing permanent collection of over 4,000 works.
  18. Davis Museum18

    Davis Museum

     Wellesley, MA
    The Davis Museum is an art museum situated on the campus of Wellesley College in Wellesley, Massachusetts. This location offers a unique blend of academic and artistic environments, providing a rich cultural experience for visitors.
  19. Berkshire Museum19

    Berkshire Museum

     Pittsfield, MA
    The Berkshire Museum, located in Pittsfield, Berkshire County, Massachusetts, is a unique blend of art, natural history, and ancient civilization. Founded in 1903 by local paper magnate Zenas Crane, the museum was inspired by renowned institutions such as the American Museum of Natural History, the Smithsonian, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The museum's collections are broad and varied, featuring over 40,000 objects from virtually every continent.
  20. Fitchburg Art Museum20

    Fitchburg Art Museum

     Fitchburg, MA
    The Fitchburg Art Museum, also known as FAM, is a regional art museum located in Fitchburg, Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States. It serves as a cultural hub for the cities of Fitchburg and Leominster, as well as the surrounding communities in North Central Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire.
  21. Danforth Art Museum - Framingham State University21

    Danforth Art Museum - Framingham State University

     Framingham, MA
    The Danforth Art Museum at Framingham State University is not just a museum, but also a school. Located in Framingham, Massachusetts, it is an integral part of Framingham State University. This unique combination of an educational institution and a museum provides a rich cultural experience for visitors.
  22. Davis Museum - Wellesley College22

    Davis Museum - Wellesley College

     Wellesley, MA
    The Davis Museum is an art museum situated on the campus of Wellesley College in Wellesley, Massachusetts. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore the museum's extensive collection while also experiencing the vibrant academic atmosphere of one of the most prestigious colleges in the United States.
  23. Addison Gallery - Phillips Academy Andover23

    Addison Gallery - Phillips Academy Andover

     Andover, MA
    The Addison Gallery of American Art, located in Andover, Massachusetts, is an academic museum that is part of the Phillips Academy. The gallery is dedicated to the collection of American art, showcasing a wide range of works from various periods and styles. It provides an opportunity for visitors to explore the rich history and diversity of American art in a scholarly setting.
  24. Art Complex Museum24

    Art Complex Museum

     Duxbury, MA
    The Art Complex Museum is situated in Duxbury, Massachusetts, which is approximately 33 miles south of Boston. This location makes it a convenient destination for those visiting the Boston area. The museum is easily accessible and offers a unique cultural experience outside of the city's bustling environment.
  25. Cape Cod Museum of Art25

    Cape Cod Museum of Art

     Dennis, MA
    The Cape Cod Museum of Art is a prominent art museum situated in the heart of Cape Cod, in the town of Dennis, Massachusetts. This museum is a significant cultural landmark in Barnstable County and offers a rich collection of art for visitors to explore.
  26. Turn Park Art Space26

    Turn Park Art Space

     West Stockbridge, MA
    Turn Park Art Space is a unique combination of an open-air museum, sculpture park, and performance space. It is situated in the scenic town of West Stockbridge, Massachusetts. This location offers a unique blend of art, nature, and architecture, making it an interesting destination for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
  27. The Beebe Estate27

    The Beebe Estate

     Melrose, MA
    The Beebe Estate, located in Melrose, Massachusetts, is a historic property that was developed in 1828. It stands as a prominent example of Greek Revival architecture, showcasing the architectural style that was prevalent during that period. The estate's design and structure provide a glimpse into the past, making it a significant site for those interested in history and architecture.
  28. Busch-Reisinger Museum28

    Busch-Reisinger Museum

     Cambridge, MA
    The Harvard Art Museums, located within Harvard University, consist of three distinct museums. These include the Fogg Museum, which was established in 1895, the Busch Reisinger Museum, established in 1903, and the Arthur M Sackler Museum, which was founded in 1985. Each museum offers a unique collection and focus, providing a diverse and comprehensive exploration of art history.
  29. Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art29

    Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art

     North Adams, MA
    The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, also known as MASS MoCA, is a renowned fine arts museum situated in the city of North Adams, Massachusetts. It is a significant cultural institution that showcases a wide range of contemporary art pieces.
  30. Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum30

    Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum

     Provincetown, MA
  31. Mead Art Museum31

    Mead Art Museum

     Amherst, MA
    The Mead Art Museum, located in Amherst, Massachusetts, is home to the fine art collection of Amherst College. The museum, which opened its doors in 1949, is named in honor of architect William Rutherford Mead, an alumnus of the college. The museum is a testament to Mead's architectural prowess and his contribution to the field of art.
  32. Fuller Craft Museum32

    Fuller Craft Museum

     Brockton, MA
    The Fuller Craft Museum is located in the city of Brockton, Massachusetts, which is approximately 25 miles south of Boston. This arts and crafts museum is a unique destination for those interested in contemporary craft-based art of various genres and origins.
  33. Eustis Estate33

    Eustis Estate

     Milton, MA
    The Eustis Estate, located on Canton Avenue in Milton, Massachusetts, is a historic family estate. The main attraction of the estate is the mansion house of William Ellery Channing Eustis. This mansion was designed by the renowned architect William Ralph Emerson and was built in 1878. The mansion is a testament to the eclectic Late Victorian architecture and stands as a symbol of the rich history of the Eustis family.
  34. Cahoon Museum of American Art34

    Cahoon Museum of American Art

     Barnstable, MA
    The Cahoon Museum of American Art, situated in Cotuit, Massachusetts, is a renowned art museum that showcases a diverse range of art forms. The museum's collection spans from the 1800s to the present, featuring fine art, folk art, and American art. This broad spectrum of art forms provides a comprehensive overview of American art history, making it a fascinating destination for art enthusiasts.
  35. Mount Holyoke College Art Museum35

    Mount Holyoke College Art Museum

     South Hadley, MA
    The Mount Holyoke College Art Museum, founded in 1876, is situated on the campus of Mount Holyoke College in South Hadley, Massachusetts. It is a part of Museums10, a collaborative of ten museums in the Pioneer Valley. The museum is one of the oldest teaching museums in the country, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience significant works of art and culture firsthand.
  36. MassArt Art Museum36

    MassArt Art Museum

     Boston, MA
    The MassArt Art Museum (MAAM) is Boston’s only free contemporary art museum, a space to experience works by visionary artists at the forefront of contemporary art. As MassArt's teaching museum, we are committed to educating and empowering the next generation of artists—both on our campus and through
  37. 37

    Whistler House Museum of Art

     Lowell, MA
    The Whistler House Museum of Art, located at 243 Worthen Street, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA, is known as the birthplace of the renowned painter and etcher, James McNeill Whistler. This historical significance adds a unique charm to the museum, making it a point of interest for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
  38. Rose Art Museum38

    Rose Art Museum

     Waltham, MA
    The Rose Art Museum, established in 1961, is a renowned institution for modern and contemporary art. It is a part of Brandeis University, located in Waltham, Massachusetts. The museum is named after benefactors Edward and Bertha Rose and has been recognized for its avant-garde approach to modern and contemporary art since its inception.
  39. 39

    Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History

     Springfield, MA
    The Quadrangle, located in Metro Center, Springfield, Massachusetts, is a hub of cultural institutions and museums. Situated on Chestnut Street between State and Edwards Streets, it offers a variety of experiences for visitors. From art to history, there's something for everyone at this unique cultural destination.