All contemporary art museums to visit in Wisconsin

Experience the cutting-edge world of contemporary art at 15 museums in Wisconsin. 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 Wisconsin:

  1. Madison Museum of Contemporary Art1

    Madison Museum of Contemporary Art

     Madison, WI
    The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art (MMoCA), previously known as the Madison Art Center, is an independent, non-profit institution situated in Madison, Wisconsin, USA. This museum is dedicated to the collection, preservation, and exhibition of contemporary art pieces.
  2. Milwaukee Art Museum2

    Milwaukee Art Museum

     Milwaukee, WI
    The Milwaukee Art Museum, also known as MAM, is a prominent landmark situated on the shores of Lake Michigan in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This location offers visitors not only a rich cultural experience but also stunning views of the lake and the city's skyline.
  3. Villa Terrace Museum & Gardens3

    Villa Terrace Museum & Gardens

     Milwaukee, WI
    Since 1966, the house and its surrounding grounds have been home to the Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum. The museum showcases fine and decorative arts dating from the 15th through the 19th centuries, including wrought iron masterpieces by Cyril Colnik. It also hosts changing exhibitions highlighting the decorative arts.
  4. Charles Allis Art Museum4

    Charles Allis Art Museum

     Milwaukee, WI
    The Charles Allis Art Museum, located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a recognized historic site. It is officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places under the name Charles Allis House. This museum was once the home of Charles Allis and his wife, Sarah, who were prominent figures in the Milwaukee community. The museum's history and its status as a registered historic place make it a significant location for visitors interested in both art and history.
  5. Chazen Museum5

    Chazen Museum

     Madison, WI
    The Chazen Museum of Art is a renowned art museum situated at the University of Wisconsin–Madison in Madison, Wisconsin. It is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering a diverse range of art exhibits and collections. The museum is easily accessible and provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and appreciate art in a vibrant academic setting.
  6. Grohmann Museum6

    Grohmann Museum

     Milwaukee, WI
    The Grohmann Museum, situated at the Milwaukee School of Engineering, is a unique institution dedicated to showcasing the evolution of human work. The museum's collection spans over 400 years of history, documenting the transition from manpower and horsepower to water, steam, and electric power. It provides a fascinating insight into the changing nature of work and the impact of industrialization on society.
  7. Haggerty Museum of Art7

    Haggerty Museum of Art

     Milwaukee, WI
    The Patrick and Beatrice Haggerty Museum of Art, colloquially known as "the Haggerty", is situated at the intersection of 13th and Clybourn Streets. It is conveniently located on the campus of Marquette University in the heart of downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors who are exploring the city.
  8. Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum8

    Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum

     Wausau, WI
    The Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum is situated in the city of Wausau, Wisconsin. This location is easily accessible and offers a variety of other attractions for tourists to explore during their visit.
  9. Racine Art Museum9

    Racine Art Museum

     Racine, WI
    The Racine Art Museum (RAM) and RAM's Charles A. Wustum Museum of Fine Arts are situated in Racine, Wisconsin, U.S. These museums are renowned for their extensive and significant collection of contemporary craft in North America. They offer a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and appreciate the works of nationally and internationally recognized artists.
  10. Overture Center for the Arts10

    Overture Center for the Arts

     Madison, WI
    The Overture Center for the Arts, located in Madison, Wisconsin, is a hub for performing arts and visual arts. The center, which opened its doors on September 19, 2004, replaced the former Civic Center. It serves as a venue for various art forms, including theater performances and art exhibitions, making it a significant cultural destination in the city.
  11. Rahr West Art Museum11

    Rahr West Art Museum

     Manitowoc, WI
    The Rahr–West Art Museum is a unique art museum situated in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. It is housed in the historic Joseph Vilas Jr. House, a remarkable example of Queen Anne style architecture. This architectural style is significant in the United States, making the museum not only a place of art but also a piece of history.
  12. John Michael Kohler Arts Center12

    John Michael Kohler Arts Center

     Sheboygan, WI
    The John Michael Kohler Arts Center, located in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, is an independent, not-for-profit contemporary art museum and performing arts complex. It is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting artist-built environments and contemporary art.
  13. 13

    Lynden Sculpture Garden

     River Hills, WI
    The Lynden Sculpture Garden, previously known as the Bradley Sculpture Garden, is a vast outdoor sculpture park that spans 40 acres. It is situated at 2145 West Brown Deer Road in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This expansive garden is home to a collection of over 50 monumental sculptures, making it a unique destination for art and nature lovers alike.
  14. 14

    Museum of Wisconsin Art

     West Bend, WI
    The Museum of Wisconsin Art is a unique institution that focuses on collecting and showcasing both contemporary and historical art from the state of Wisconsin. This includes a wide range of works, from modern pieces by current artists to historical works that provide a glimpse into the state's artistic past. The museum's collection is constantly evolving, with new pieces being added regularly.
  15. 15

    Wright Museum of Art

     Beloit, WI
    The Wright Museum of Art, located in Beloit, Wisconsin, is a small art museum that is maintained and operated by Beloit College. This museum offers a unique blend of academic and artistic experiences, making it a unique destination for art enthusiasts and scholars alike.