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Baltimore Museum of Art Reviews
4.7
7 of 421 Best Attractions in Baltimore
Reviews
The BMA is one of my favorite museums because I feel like I'm not only looking at artifacts, but the personal stories that surround them. BMA has wonderful permanent and traveling exhibits that are appealing and engaging. Gertrude's (the restaurant) has great food (at good prices for lunch) and has outdoor seating in the garden. The sculpture garden is beautiful and entertaining. Go!
If I had known how wonderful the Cone sisters collection was I would have visited years ago! The presentation of the collection was outstanding, the staff friendly and well-informed, the restaurant lively and welcoming. Matisse paintings and sculptures were a highlight. And Guerrilla Girls raise a smile - sisters telling it like it is. A beautiful museum with truly world-class collections well hung and with descriptions that were a pleasure to read.
Worth travelling to Baltimore to see this museum. I will be back.
I took my son here for a father son first time trip to this museum in Charles Village on a rainy Saturday afternoon. Usually, rainy days make for a good time to go to a museum. That is unless you want to check out outdoor Sculpture Gardens like they have at BMA. Oh well, maybe another time. Since this is the largest art museum in Maryland, there was still so much to see.
Admission, since 2006, was FREE. However, parking was a different story at $12 in the guest lot right outside the museum. I paid for parking at the end of our visit at the pay station in the East Lobby inside the museum. Before we toured the art gallery exhibits, we ate brunch at the onsite Gertrude's Chesapeake Kitchen restaurant. To get to the restaurant, make a right after walking through the main entrance of the museum and walk past the gift shop.
There were so many galleries on the three floors that I'm not positive we saw them all. On the first floor there was Oceanic Art, Asian Art, African Art, Indigenous Arts of the Ancient Americas, and the Center for Matisse Studies. The second floor housed European Art, Modern Art, American and Decorative Art, and Contemporary Art. We didn't make it to the third floor but that's supposed to have more Contemporary Art and a Library. Like the outdoor Sculpture Garden, we also didn't venture out in the rain to find the Spring House.
If you used a scooter to get to the museum, I'm afraid that's not allowed inside. You can, however, get a locker for FREE if you've decided to bring a laptop or a coat you don't want to carry around with you. The Museum draws the line on guests wanting to walk around barefoot so you'll have to put on some sort of shoes while on the property. I know, rules.
I had a few hours to kill and decided to visit this museum, which is free to enter. There was an exhibition that required a fee. Beautiful works of art, including some big names like Rembrandt, van Dyck, Botticelli, Rodin, etc. The museum's restaurant, Gertrude's, was excellent. I had some raw oysters and crab cakes that were delicious. I highly recommend visiting this museum.
This is my first visit to this impressive museum. A friend and I went to see the John Waters Exhibition and it was well worth the trip! A wonderful collection and exhibition of his art!
I was very disappointed in the long wait time (45 minutes) to enter the Matisse/Diebenkorn exhibit, despite arriving at the appointed time (noon), the line snaked around for 45 minutes before getting into the exhibit. The staff had said it would take about 15 minutes to get in, but that was a gross underestimate. It seems museum organizers, hungry for revenue, oversold the very expensive tickets ($17.50). The exhibit was well organized, but Diebenkorn's works were not nearly as good as Matisse, whose art I adore. The museum has many more works by Matisse that are not part of this exhibition with no line, no cost. I would skip the exhibition and go straight for them.
Personally i was not as impressed as I thought i'd be but it was still a nice museum with a decent number of pieces and different exhibits.
The museum was easy to reach via public transportation.
I enjoyed wondering through the galleries and was especially happy that they were not overly crowded. While admission is free, you currently need to have a timed ticket, so plan your trip in advance. I had to book a week before to get a Saturday ticket.
While I was viewing The Thinker, a museum staff member provided me with information on the sculpture and had me guess its weight. I found all of the staff to be friendly.
I had a snack from the SnowCone Sisters in the sculpture gallery before walking along the shaded paths.
Check site for special events. First Thursdays are usually nice. Pay arking lot and meter street parking.
Free entry to the museum which contains an exciting collection of modern art, including French Impressionists, such as Matisse, that were donated by the Cone Sisters. The Rodin sculptures are extraordinary and some very interesting Andy Warhol paintings in the contemporary art section. The Museum borders the Johns Hopkins University campus.
Nice museum, and you can’t beat the price! (Free)
They have some very nice things, well displayed.
easy to get to off the free purple line circulator bus
Negatives:
A number of galleries closed
No tours until fall
Confusing to find your way around. Be sure to get a map as you enter.
No place to even get a drink in the pm. They have a nice looking restaurant, but it was closed in the afternoon and fully booked when it reopened. No cafeteria or coffee shop.
The only museum catalog was $55
We are new to Baltimore and had a free afternoon. I looked at the website to be surprised that there is a magnificent Matisse collection here. It is truly amazing and then we saw the mosaics!!!! WOW!!
We went to the museum about an hour and a half before they closed, and we were pleasantly surprised by the variety of art they had in their collection. From Renaissance paintings and Roman mosaics to Rodin's Thinker and a fantastic collection of modern and contemporary art! My not-very-artsy husband thought the room with the horse race trophies (including the triple crown!) was especially fascinating. Highly recommend for a few hours before dinner or for half a day.
I love impressionist and modern art and this museum has good collections of both. I have been pleased with the frequency of the turnover of rotating exhibits and have found them to be interesting.
Excellent museum, the "Cone collection" being a fantasic modern art collection. The museum is free. Delicious resturant, Gertrude's" on site. Easy parking either in the lot or metered street parking.
Creative and thoughtful displays of outsider art, many accompanied by biographical text; increases our understanding of humanity. Some are interactive and have movemeent. Great for kids; very inspirational.
We are able to fly standby for free (yes, lucky us) so we took our chances (it’s getting harder and harder to find an empty seat) and stood by at ATL for a flight to Baltimore. We wanted to see the Matisse-Diebenkorn exhibition before it closed later this month. All the pieces fell into place: We got seats, we got Uber, and we got tickets for the very next timed entry.
We had never been to Baltimore, much less the Baltimore Museum of Art. It’s an imposing Classical edifice with an ultra-modern annex that houses contemporary works. All of it is free, except for special exhibitions. I was impressed at how organized it was: free coat check, free lockers, excellent shepherding of the crowds that appeared for the exhibition’s final days, and at how personable, friendly and helpful the staff were—one lovely gentleman directed us to a nearby auditorium where we could await our Noon entry in comfort and gave us information on where other works of interest were in the building…noting that the museum is home to one of the largest number of Matisses in the world. Couldn’t wait!
I must say here, though, that the young man at the ticket counter was less than enthusiastic about his work and if we had not pushed the point would have wrecked our “perfect” schedule. While waiting in the ticket line we ascertained from a supervisor that some 75 spaces remained for the Noon entry. But, only minutes later as we prepared to fork over our $30 for two seniors tickets, this young man told us the time slot was filled. Thank goodness the supervisor was nearby and came to our aid—it made a difference in what we could see overall, as our plan was to catch a late afternoon flight back home. I next asked him about the restaurant and he said, in effect, don’t bank on eating there because it’s going to be overflowing. That was cause for consternation as it is the only eatery on the premises. His solution: There were plenty of restaurants outside on adjacent streets. Note: Gertrude’s, the on-site, upscale restaurant, WAS crowded when we got there about 1:45 p.m., but we were seated within ten minutes.
The exhibition, which took less than an hour, was interesting to me mainly for the Matisses (I did not become a fan of Diebenkorn but at least now I know who he is). The real jewel is the permanent collection. In addition to Matisse, there are works by Monet, Van Gogh, Gauguin, Picasso, Sisley, Pissarro, Botticelli, Van Ruisdal, Corot, Fragonard, Boudin, Chagall, Brancusi, Miro, Cezanne, Van Dyck, Raphael, Titian, Reynolds, Hals, Delacroix, Rembrandt, Poussin, Henry Moore. And a number of lovely canvasses by artists I was unfamiliar with but who now are on my radar. We also passed several walls full of marvelous mosaics from Roman-era Antioch. There are also galleries of African, Asian, Contemporary, Pacific Islands, Native American and other art, but that’s all we had time for.
I would make this trip again just to spend more time among the permanent works. And to eat at Gertrude’s. We had a table in a tent annex, overlooking a small sculpture garden. We both ordered crab cakes (when in Rome…) at $26. Mine was called the Gertie, was practically all crab meat, and was grilled. My husband’s was the daily special, contained a few more ingredients, and was lightly pan seared. Both were excellent. A glass of white wine cost $10.
This is a wonderful, and undersung, museum.
The Cone exhibit of Matisse is worth the whole trip. Another highlight is the expo of mosaic floor panels excavated from Antioch, Turkey. Start or finish your visit with a meal at the attached restaurant. A must see for Baltimore!
Appealing variety of art in a comfortable setting. Especially enjoyed works from the Cone Sister's collection. Large collection of Matisse and Warhol. Free admission and free audio tour every day. What's not to like!
So we walked from Hampden through Johns Hopkins campus to the BMA lat weekend. Ended up at the bar in the museum restaurant because it was so humid that day.
After a quick spicy bloody Mary and a [very small] cup of Maryland crab soup at Gertrudes, we skipped the museum and went straight to the sculpture garden.
It is quiet and lovely. The sculptures are diverse and interesting. The grounds are surrounded by a busy area, but you can't tell. It is relaxing and beautiful.
We took our time and enjoyed the garden. I liked it so much, we plan to walk there again this weekend, even if it rains, to explore the Maureen, which houses a fantastic collection.
In some ways, this is a hidden gem in the city. Far from the touristy inner harbor, it sits on the edge of Hopkins immaculate and stunning campus. Take a trek north of the city. Treat yourself to one of the best restaurants in the city (Gertrudes) and see some gorgeous art. Stroll in the garden for free.
Lovely day. Wonderful couples and families. Friends or just by yourself for a restful day out.
Worth the walk or a quick ride in the north part of the city.
This lovely museum in the heart of Baltimore attracted us because of their modern art collection. It was amazing and the connections of collectors who contributed their art to the museum was very informative. Easy to navigate, good lighting and helpful staff.
Added bonus was Gertrude's Restaurant. Lovely décor and excellent food. Look forward to a return trip to both the museum and the restaurant.
The 20 paintings of Henri Matisse on permanent display would be the price of admission all by themselves. What's that? Oh, right, museum admission is free every day.
What a wonderful museum.
The Matisse works, including a number of black-and-white prints, form the largest collection of the French's painters works in the world.
There are other works from Picasso, Rodin, Rembrandt and other masters.
Prepare to spend several hours there. And make sure you bring the kids.
If you really admire Henri Matisse wonderful creations you will thoroughly enjoy this exhibit.
My wife and I decided to take a short detour from our way back from Washington D.C. To stop st the Baltimore Museum of Art to specifically see this exhibit. It was worth the extra 3.5 hours (that's total time of getting to Baltimore and viewing the exhibit.)
Diebenhorn was greatly influenced by Matisse and the juxtaposed paintings of each artist was striking at their similarities, sometimes figuratively and sometimes abstractly...
There were Matisse pieces from all over the U.S. And a few European museums and quite a few from Russian museums. (Apparently, Russians were generous patrons of Henri Matisse).
The Diebenhorn's were from all over the U.S. and several from Europe.
Next the exhibit heads to San Francisco, so if you want to see it get to Baltimore before January 30th...
The BMA has a nice collection of art ranging from European to African to Contemporary. The best part is free admission. During my visit they also had a Matisse exhibit with an admission cost of $17. Worth it to see a copy of Rodin's The Thinker and Degas' Little Dancer. Also during my visit they had an ongoing showing of the John Waters movie Pink Flamingos re-written for a G rating with a cast of children doing a script reading. Very bizarre but I had to stay for the whole thing. The BMA only has two small parking lots that hold about a dozen cars each. Best bet for parking if nothing is available on the street is to head to the Johns Hopkins University parking garage a short walk away. Be sure to validate your parking ticket at the machine outside of the BMA gift shop to save some money on the parking.
Our visit to the Baltimore Museum of Art was a revelation. My wife and I have lived in the Washington-Baltimore area since the mid-1970s and never had heard that the museum has such an incredible collection of Cezannes, Gauguins, and especially Matisses. Not necessarily each artist's best or best-known works, but still well worth a visit. Gertie's Cafe offered a splendid lunch overlooking the museum's sculpture garden. Both the museum and restaurant are practicing sound Covid-19 protocols. I can see going back often to explore other collections within the museum.
The BMA is a fabulous, world class museum with lots of interesting exhibits and a very strong permanent collection that has something for everyone. Admission is FREE for everyone at all times, and parking just $7 for the day. A tremendous value for just about anyone with even a passing interest in art. Highly recommended.
No visit to Baltimore should be complete without a visit to the Baltimore museum of art. Featuring a diverse collection, there is something for nearly everyone. I could have easily spent more time here and will definitely return.
My spouse and I visited the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) on a Saturday afternoon in early June 2018. The museum is open from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm on Wednesday through Sunday (closed Monday and Tuesday). General admission is free because of a grant given by several foundations in conjunction with Baltimore city and county. (The Walters Art Museum also offers free admission from the same grant.) You may have to pay a fee to view rotating special exhibitions, however.
The museum is located just outside of downtown Baltimore, adjacent to the Homewood campus of Johns Hopkins University (between the Charles Village, Remington, Hampden, and Roland Park neighborhoods). A small (paid) parking lot is onsite, with additional public lots and street parking available. A coat/bag/umbrella check room is available, as is a gift shop and a full-service restaurant (called Gertrude’s).
The museum opened in its present location in 1929. Prior to that, beginning in 1876, it occupied a downtown location and then another temporary location. Currently, it occupies a 3-story, 10,000-square foot building of the classic revival style. Its architect also designed the National Archives Building in DC, the American Museum of Natural History in NYC, and the Tate Gallery Sculpture Hall in London.
The BMA’s 95,000 work collection includes pieces from the ancient world (like the Antioch mosaics displayed in a sort of enclosed cloister) to contemporary modern art. The BMA collection includes sculptures (both indoors and outdoors in its landscaped 2.7-acre garden), decorative arts, drawings, prints, photos, and paintings. The highlight of the museum is the Cone Collection, donated by two local sisters who amassed a collection by painters including Matisse, Picasso, Cezanne, Manet, Degas, Gauguin, van Gogh, and Renoir. In fact, the BMA owns the largest public collection of works by Matisse. It also displays several rooms that were reconstructed/replicated from six local Maryland historic houses.
We enjoyed our brief visit to the Baltimore Museum of Art; we only spent about an hour there, but we could have easily spent the entire day!
If you're looking for art from Baltimore, this is not the place. Besides Pimlico and very very abstract art from millennials I can not find much Baltimore culture in the museum? What about local furniture; silver; coins; welding; quilt making; sailing, pirating, fishing, railroad and civil war artifacts; needle point and so forth? Skip this art museum and go to D.C., Philadelphia, or even Richmond.
On the bright side, at least this museum is free.
Maybe we've been to too many art museums. This one seemed pretty average to us with some interesting galleries but nothing to rave about.
It seems bigger inside than outside. Lots of amazing artwork in a beautiful Museum. You could definitely spend a day on the artwork alone.
Although we have lived near Baltimore most of our adult lives and visited museums all over the world, for some reason we never went to the BMA thinking it wouldn't measure up, especially with the National Gallery in DC nearby. Well we were wrong....the collection here is broad and very interesting. Only thing I would add is that they need a little better signage as we found it difficult to locate some of the collection. Don't miss the Cone sisters exhibit along with their living room that demonstrates how they lived among their great art collection. We will be back....especially appreciate that it is free!
The Baltimore Museum of Art has excellent permanent and temporary exhibits. And the sculpture garden is very much worth some time.
This museum was great and free. We stayed at the inner harbor for three days and one it rained so we went to this museum and then to the aquarium. This museum is well worth the visit. Take your time to explore.
PROS
* Very good gem of Baltimore, not as well known as other stuff
* Very good exhibits
* Unique architecture of the building
* Spacious place not crowded
* Near the campus of Johns Hopkins University Homewood Campus
* Free entry
CONS
* Not so well known
* In a residential area not known for other tourist stuff
* Not a lot of parking on site, and that’s expensive
“I VISITED THIS PLACE”…
… twice in order to see all the stuff that is there. I liked it very much- there is even a few Claude Monet paintings and there are a lot of Henri Matisse paintings, and even a number by his daughter.
The first time, I did paid parking on Charles Street at 28th Street and walked several blocks on icy sidewalks in subzero freezing cold wind and the second time, I was able to secure a parking space in front of the building.
WAS IT WORTH THE COST?
Yes- it was free
WOULD “I VISIT THIS PLACE” AGAIN?
Sure, but not my number one choice on my return visit
ADVICE
* This is a good place to visit
* Good luck with the posting
Impressed that this museum had works from Monet, Degas, Rembrandt, etc. It is not a large array of things, but definitely worth 30-60 minutes of museum time.
We came to the museum to see a special collection of paintings and sculptures on Monsters and Myths, including works from many famous surrealists. We enjoyed the exhibit, especially “I Saw Three Cities” by Kay Sage. Next we toured the galleries with the museum’s permanent Cone Collection. Obviously Henri Matisse was one of their favorites. At the end of one gallery is a room set up with furniture from the Cone sisters’ apartment. You get an even better view of how the sisters lived with a video presenting a virtual tour of the apartment, created from 37 photographs. It’s jaw-dropping to see how many works from famous painters were hanging on the walls.
If you have never been to the Baltimore Museum of Art now is the time to go. If you been, you must return to see the Matisse/Diebenkorn exhibit. More than 90 pieces from various museums collected to show the influence Matisse had on Diebenkorn. Try to guess who painted what. It's great. Plus tons more interesting items in this glorious museum. Senior citizens only $15 children 7 and up $7.50.
I've been to a lot of art museums, and I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the collection even beyond the signature Cone collection - fascinating ancient tile mosaics, early Renaissance paintings, contemporary art, and everything in between. Compare early madonna icons to Matisse's abstract females. Let yourself wander into the quiet side galleries of equestrian art and silverware to discover a series of beautiful rooms from various architectural styles and periods. I spent four hours and feel like I gave it just a quick skimming. If you're a tourist with limited time, go straight to the Matisses. If you live in Baltimore or visit often, explore every inch of this museum one gallery at a time over many visits. The museum is easy to get to via the free Purple circulator bus on Charles Street (to catch the bus back, go to the same stop - it goes around the corner and then heads back the opposite direction).
The Matisse collection of the Cone sisters defies belief. The exhibit curated by museum guards is wonderful. Astounding that admission is free. The sculpture garden is also first rate.
We could not do the museum justice on one abbreviated visit, but even a short time there was most enjoyable. They have a broad selection of art across the ages and the genres, and special exhibits.
One exhibit on "Home" was fascinating in its display of everything from a decorated wooden storage pole from a nomad's tent to exquisite miniature rooms.
Their special exhibition of modern art reinforced my judgment that a great deal of it is either pretentious or just plain silly, but some of it is either thoughtful or just fun.
This is the perfect example of what a city museum should be - we are museum lovers and visit whatever is available in whatever area we are in. Well this one was amazing - a beautiful building and I cannot stress how well integrated the "modern" addition was - I couldn't stop wandering around it and just looking at the way it was put together. So the space was wonderful - and then there was the Art - the Cone Collection, the Antioch Mosaics, a wonderful contemporary department - and the most thoughtfully laid out exhibits and rooms housing the collections - the flow was effortless - (which really seems to be hard to achieve - hence it was so impressive here - kudos to curators). And a sculpture garden that you could just spend the day in. And did I mention, it is FREE. Baltimore should be proud to be able to offer this to its citizens/visitors. And there is even a free bus that takes you from the inner harbor up to the Museum (Charm City Connector). We traveled on to NY and saw the "heavy hitters" - the Met, MOMA. Whitney, Guggenheim - but the Baltimore Museum really held its own in our minds.
BMA has world's largest collection of Matisse, thanks to Cone sisters leaving their vast private collection to the city. Very mich worth a visit, if not a trip. Museum is free, a nice touch.
A lot of the works did not interest me. I much preferred my visit to the Walters Museum... and would suggest that if your time was short and had to choose. Area is nice being near the Johns Hopkins campus. Not so much a bad museum in any way but just did not mesh right with my desires. Due to the layout and some closed galleries it was a little hard to navigate not being able to get through where you expected to.
Based on reading other reviews and looking at the floorplan, I was not planning to spend all day at the museum, but that is what happened. We were there for six hours and could have used even more time. If you love art post 1850's, you will spend all day here and be amazed. The Cohn sister's collection of Matisse's was incredible, and I can't believe I had not heard of them before. The contemporary art collection is also amazing and up-to-date. I was very excited to see the Joan Mitchell exhibit, but the most fun exhibit that I've seen put together is the exhibit by the security guards. What a neat idea, and it would be fun to see other museums do the same thing. I even bought the exhibit book. Plan to eat at Gertrude's. The food is the best in the city! Make a reservation.
I have always loved coming here. The museum is really special. I always enjoy their special exhibits. They have some unusual treasures in every area.
I have also found the restaurant located in the museum to be really excellent. The service is always outstanding. The food is always interesting and excellent. Fusion cuisine is done very well here. So that makes a trip to the museum easily worthy of a day's visit. Of course, you can spend a few hours only, if you like.
The Museum it self was wonderful. However as Black woman , it felt uncomfortable to fell like I didn’t belong.
The Black Lives Matter banner on the , outside of the building ,made me feel comfortable initially.
My roommate and I were followed by Security all over the Museum. We were harassed as well.
It for me dampers the whole experience.
And what made it so alarming, is that the manager , was pointing us out and , directing these experiences against us .
We saw him !!!
I've had many working luncheon meetings in the BMA. The atmoshpere is very relaxing..I love the exhibits that feature various genre of art work..
The cool galleries of the museum were welcoming on a scorching summer day, and we were enjoying the nice but somewhat thin collections of mostly second-tier artists when we entered the cloister filled with Roman mosaics. Our eyes bulged when we saw how many well-preserved mosaics they had. It’s hard to find a better collection in Italy. Those led to the Cone sisters’ collection wing, and it is indeed worthy of a museum in itself. Their Matisse collection stunned us — they seemed to have more than the Matisse Museum in France. With other mostly French Impressionist paintings, it was “worth the journey” in Michelin Guide parlance. After lunch we toured the impressive sculpture garden, shaded by big trees and pleasant on a steamy day. This museum is worthy of a half-day or more first visit and return visits.
This is a wonderful museum. The highlight is the Cone sisters' collection of early 20th century art -- Matisse, Picasso, Braque, Monet, Manet, Van Gogh, Degas, etc. etc. Extraordinary. Also a great sculpture garden.
The BMA has recently picked up an innovative and exciting air. You can follow them on Instagram to get a taste. In the meantime our recent visit reminded me of what a nice collection the museum has of Matisse and friends from the rich Cone Collection. The interactive apartment was a hit for us this time. The Contemporary Wing is getting more action of late, and since the museum is free I love to go even for a brief cleansing “art bath”.
The Cone Collection is superbly installed and a place to absolutely visit and study. But the American works ( all of them) lack cohesion making it very difficult to grasp who the artists are and the period in which they worked. More interpretation is definitely needed.
they have a large selection of artwork that spans the centuries. also you can travel there for free by using the purple line
This is a fantastic museum, and it's free entrance to boot!
There was a great mix of modern and classic art from all parts of the world, so really something for everyone. We also loved how they had so many interactive exhibits, especially the hearts for Valentine's Day.
A great place to stop by if you're in the area. It's a short drive from the Inner Harbor, and worth the trip.
Too big to be considered a gem of a museum and not quite up there with the greatest of the world’s museums, the Baltimore Museum of Art is just a fabulous museum very much worth a visit. Bigger than I expected, BMA dates from 1914, the era when the US was making its mark in the world and the world economy. Cities throughout the US were establishing museums that, when viewed from the vantage point of those cities today, are surprising in their size and excellence.
BMA features an outstanding selection of Impressionist masterpieces, and lots of very fine 19th and 20th Century American Art; including many by Americans who studied with and were inspired by the great impressionists in France. It also displays fine examples of the beauties of the Hudson Valley in the 19th Century, evocative mosaics from ancient Antioch, the Cone Sisters' amazing personal collection (with striking works by Cezanne, Degas, Renoir and others, as well as a uniquely personal selection of fabrics and artifacts from their world travels), the world's largest collection of Matisse, and much more -- more than we could see in one visit. When you are in Baltimore, go.
There's a cute little cafe with an outdoor garden in the back of the museum. Great place for Sunday brunch. Good food, and the museum has a great Impressionist collection.
Just loved my visit here. I saw the Isaac Julien video installation titled "Baltimore" featuring the legendary filmmaker Melvin Van Peebles. I greatly enjoyed other exhibits including one that showed a reclamation of African heritage via a performance under a Los Angeles freeway. The Matisse paintings are lovely, too. The security/docents are amazing. The new director should be very proud. The staff in the gift shop are nice, too. Also, I loved the quilt pieces/sculpture by Joyce Scott and her late mother Elizabeth Talford Scott! The African masks and other artifacts were also very moving.
this place was a beautiful site and my family and I really enjoyed everything that this place had to offer.
The Cohn sisters' full collection of work by Matisse is up for a period, and it's worth traveling to see it. It's quite the exhibition. Do plan enough time to enjoy the rest of the holdings and any of the other exhibits that are up. This is a world class collection and deserves the highest possible praise. The museum does a good job of insuring a safe environment -- patrons wear masks, and there are guidelines for how many visitors should be in a gallery for the trafficked areas.
My wife and I really enjoyed the vast selection of art in this very well organized museum. We especially enjoyed the Matisse collection and the room filled with 17th century work.
This gem of a museum hosts works from artists such as Rodin and VanGogh, as well as contemporary artists. We loved the mosaics retrieved from Turkey.
This museum has an amazing collection of art. It is a great place to spend the afternoon. We frequent art museums in different cities and have very much recommended the BMA to many people.
Needing an activity for a day trip to Baltimore, this museum came to mind. It was a perfect way to spend a few hours exploring. We were especially taken by the photography exhibit about prisons in the South and the Contemporary Art. The sculpture garden is a great place for little ones to get exposed to beauty while being active.
Let's start with the negative, I would have definitely liked to see more engagement with local artists and better representations from the community
Nonetheless, what an amazing museum. There was so much to get through and the collection is quite widespread. On this day, there was work from Kara Walker that had been installed. The gift shop was a lovely addition and the building is beautiful
We visited the Matisse-Diebenkorn exhibit at the BMA is really excellent. The exhibit traces the trajectory of both artists through their careers and compares them. It discusses Matisse's influence on Diebenkorn. I couldn't really see the influence in each individual painting.
Overall it was wonderful and I really loved the Matisse's.
We came to see a particular small exhibit of narrative quilts by Baltimore artist Stephen Towns. It was a visually and intellectually engaging exhibit of quilts that told the story of the Nat Turner Rebellion. The quilts were painterly -- which makes sense as Towns is a painter who turned to quilting to tell this particular story. From a visual perspective he combined fabrics to really create dimension and a spirituality to the quilts. To me, using quilting as the medium put the Rebellion in both a historical and emotional context. The more you look, the more you see.
After we visited the Town's exhibit we walked through the impressionist painting galleries. The collection was both more extensive than I'd expected and the quality of the paintings were excellent -- in particular the Matisse's -- but the collection is broad. Etta and Claribel Cone collected impressionist paintings and knew many of the artists they purchased from including Picasso and Matisse. And this added a level of intimacy to the collection as there is information throughout the galleries on the relationship between the Cone sisters and the artists. We only spent a couple of hours but there was much more to see.
This museum is a gem. The collection of ancient Assyrian mosaics alone is spectacular but it has a lot more to offer. The cafe is a great place for brunch on weekends.
We went there last weekend. They have a small collection of the European art of the highest quality from Rembrandt, Titian, Rafael among others, but the full exhibit is a bit small and we expected a lot more.
Thoroughly enjoyed our visit to this outstanding museum. First time to visit, certainly won't be our last when traveling to Baltimore in the future.
Baltimore Museum of Art is good regional museum. The collection isn't large but the canvases run the gamut from Rembrandt, Hals and Metsu to Lavinia Fontana, Rafael, and Titian, to French impressionists, Klimt, Picasso, Soutine and Kirchner. They have a terrific collection of Roman floor mosaics from Turkey. The museum store has a good selection of stuff and the restaurant there is pretty good.
Phenomenal art and admittance was free. We especially enjoyed the modern art. Gertrude's Restaurant was elegant and had delicious options.
They say you get what you pay for, but this art museum is free thanks to a subsidy from the state & local government and WOW, what a vast collection! The museum focuses on 1800 art through modern thanks to donations from Baltimoreans throughout the last two centuries. At present they are decommissioning some pieces the curators feel are very well represented in order to expand their collection of more modern pieces by women and other underrepresented groups. We look forward to coming back to see additional acquistions!
We visited the Matisse/Diebenkorn exhibit in October. What a spectacular collection!
The rest of the museum was even better!
Amazing experience! A must for any visitor to Baltimore.
An Art Museum that successfully manages all art & cultural subjects with great competence. The use of a computer to transport the viewer into an off-site building & then provide that person with a 360* vista of great clarity was a first for me,as demonstrated in the home of the Cone sisters. Superb. Cafe very good & a great menu.Difficult to fault.
You may visit quiet venues outside before or after your tour of eclectic, modern, renaissance, old masters and other artistic endeavors that may be on display according to the calendar of the museum. This is a place to unwind to visit for a peaceful afternoon or day. You may visit it any time regardless of the weather! Even young children find interesting articles that adults may enjoy, too, such as the armor knights wore in days of yore.
Another great art museum that just happens to be free to see. Complimentary coat room was a nice feature. Enjoyed all the old masters and contemporary art. 2 Faberge eggs were featured and it was awesome to see them. Great museum.
The art museum is wonderful. Their collections are top rate, and beautiful. We had a lovely day and will definitely return in the future.
Too often, museums of art carry an heir of pretentiousness. The Baltimore Museum of Art works sincerely to diffuse such an approach. Rather, the BMA staff goes out of its way to remain approachable to all comers. A very enjoyable way to spend an afternoon or two....or three.
The museum is set in a part like setting near Johns Hopkins University.
If you enjoy European French art from the early 1900's, the Cone sister's collection is a must see.
The museum is just the right size as one can tour it in halh a day.
The restaurant was excellent and offered a large menu in a beautiful setting inside or outside.
Lunch at Gertrude's was great. The c an chowder was excellent. We ate on the covered patio next to the sculptured garden. It was lovely. A great place for a quiet lunch. The garden is a little gem. We enjoyed the museum and were impressed that it held so many of the great master artists as well as contemporary pieces. The museum is free-- amazing! And we took the free bus from the Harbor. It was a perfect afternoon.
A few fantastic works with a Degas ballerina sculpture, an earlier Gustave Glimpt, and a Mary Cassast which are some of my favorites
This Baltimore treasure really my kind of place. You not only get to see terrific collections of art, but we get to enjoy those amazing masterpieces for FREE. Yes, FREE!!!! Some special exhibits and movies require paying extra, but for the most part, there is definitely a lot to enjoy without paying anything. While Matisse is not my cup of tea, the story behind acquiring such a massive collection of a single artist’s work is rather fascinating.
The building is a work of art in itself, but pick up a floor plan map and make a logical approach to get to every room and not miss miss anything. The third floor was closed for renovation during out visit, but we still spent two hours admiring their collection of master’s works as well as works of their lesser known artists.
The piece that impressed me most was a piece by Henri-Edmond Cross, an artist who was unknown to me. So, I encourage you to tour the galleries in a relaxed state of mind and allow each piece to speak to you. I wished we had planned more than two hours to absorb everything in the lower two floors that were open during our visit.
The only thing that was a big turn-off for me was the leftist political items I ran across in the gift shop that seemed oddly out of place in an art museum gift shop.
Visited this gallery as they have the Cone sisters collection of impressionist art from the 1890's - 1940's. This includes one of the largest collection's of Matisse painting's in existence. The gallery is beautifully set out and you can get really close to the pictures. The staff are really helpful & knowledgeable and our visit was a pleasure. Entry is free and on street or lot parking is available. We have visited galleries all over and this is one of the most pleasurable.
A must visit for modern art fans. I loved it!
If you are a history fan this is the place to be so many things about history and get to know so many stuff about the culture here.
We went to see show good place clean and good place to be with kids and friends
Parking good price starting $5
This wonderful little museum is not to be missed. Fascinating, moving, really an amazing place of wonders and information. The classes and clever displays and docents inform and expand the effects of your experience. You'll want to go back; better still, become a member and return often.
The hand crafted mobil toys, many with layers of tongue-in-cheek creativity and turning a corner into a holocaust survivor's perspective of life, then some of the finest artwork the Impressionist period and more, with the most extensive display of Matisse works, donated by citizens of Baltimore! leaves you kind of breathless. You won't be disappointed.
Amazing place, and it's free! (Parking is $7 in 2 small parking lots.) It sits inside the campus of Johns Hopkins Univ. We spent 6 hours there and didn't see it all. Similar in size and scope to the Smithsonian art museums in D.C. A must see are the Syrian mosaics-2000 years old! The building and grounds are beautiful and the outdoor sculpture garden is lovely.
We spent 3 hours viewing the art. Fabulous collection of the Cone sisters. It's free and plenty of street and off street parking (not free) but cheap enough. Not crowded and staff was attentive and helpful. Throughly enjoyed our visit.
Wow, the Matisse collection is terrific. But don't miss the terrific Corots and a lovely Van Gogh, as well as some terrific Monets. Lots of impressionists, but also some very nice Renaissance pieces -- including a knockout piece by Botticelli.
For me, the highlight was the Cone Collection. It was remarkable and worth seeing. Learning about the Cone sisters was an additional plus. Pay for parking, admission is free.
Even thought the third floor was closed, The other two floors were unexpectedly amazing. I spent the extra 15.00 to see the Monsters & Myths exhibit. SO worth it. Very well labeled and I really enjoyed the tour guide on my cell phone. The history and sometimes the artists perspective were a bonus. I will look for the next special exhibit.
The BMA is an excellent museum. It is located on the edge of the Johns Hopkins University Homewood campus. Hopkins campus is very interesting and itself very pretty. It is a lively campus with undergraduate and graduate students moving through the campus at all times.
The museum has multiple sections, but the works that the two Cone sisters - Isabel and Claribel - bought and gave to the museum is unsurpassed. The highlight is the works of Henri Matisse. The museum has one of the strongest and diverse collections of Matisse's works in the country. One of the highlights is his early work entitled The Blue Nude. Matisse paints a nude woman with blue tones. The woman has African features and is in a reclining pose surrounded by a pastoral setting of green plants. It is a remarkable painting which broke with the Impressionist and Academic works of the times. In addition to the Matisse paintings, there are ones by Picasso and Cezanne, Renoir and Monet. In a room near the Cone collection is also a terrific Miro painting from the Woman & Bird series.
The sculptures that are interspersed in the Cone collection by Matisse and Degas are also very lovely. Matisse would sometimes do a sculpture at the same time as he was working out the dimensions and poses of the women in his paintings. The collection has around 5 or 6 of his most delightful ones.
The Museum is definitely worth a visit particularly for parents and students visiting Hopkins. In addition, they have a wonderful restaurant, Gertrudes, at the museum. The restaurant is one of my favorites in Baltimore.
A free museum to visit for your cultural awareness. There are period art, contemporary and art from around the world. Located near John Hopkins University, it is within walking distance.
There are times when traveling exhibits are there at a charge. Recently viewed the Culture exhibit. It is a representation of the 50 years of Hip Hop culture. It's a great exhibit. It will be there until July 16th. A must see.
Highly recommend
They have everything from sculptures and paintings to silver and fabrics. Matisse, Warhol, and so many more are represented. It is Free! I would set aside a good two hours to fully take it all in.
Fortunately the Baltimore Museum of Art assembled a wonderful comparative exhibit of Matisse and Diebenkorn. Unfortunately the popularity of the exhibit caused overcrowding of the parking lot and restaurant. Staff were friendly and helpful under the stress. Make a reservation if you plan to eat at the BMA.
if you like Matisse this is a must visit museum. Thanks the sisters Cone, the BAM had the biggest collection of Matisse but also great paintings by Gauguin, a masterprice by Cezanne, beautifull Renoir, Van Gogh or Picasso
Came here on my day off! Beautiful museum and it’s free. If you park on site it costs $7 for the day or $5 in the evening. I imagine the outdoor garden area would be much prettier in the spring and summer months but still worth the visit in fall/winter!
The moon dust exhibit was a little disappointing, I was hoping it would be in a dark room by itself for maximum effect, it was in one of the entryway lobbies above a desk in a very bright room. Still worth seeing but not as spectacular as the images online or as it could be if it were set in a different setting.
We have visited several times over the years when we have been on vacation here but always pleasantly surprised by how nice it is and the quality of the collection. They have a beautiful area with Roman mosaics from what is now in Turkey. The Cone Collection is a great assembly of Matisse, Picasso, Impressionists, and other early 20th century artists. The museum is free so there’s no reason not to go. They have a nice sculpture garden and a good restaurant on site.
Our first visit to the Baltimore Museum of Art! We drove from Michigan to see the BMA's Joan Mitchell Retrospective. And it didn't disappoint!! Truly an awesome experience!! We bought our tickets with reserved our timed entrance that regulated the number of people in the exhibition space at any time and made our time with each work all the more meaningful (it didn't hurt that much of Mitchell's work is monumental so only a handful of works were in each gallery). We spent time in the galleries both before and after our Mitchell experience. The paper map could be more descriptive in guiding us through the galleries. Enjoyed the early European and American galleries. But the piece de resistance of the BMA is the Cone Collection! The sisters' art collection is fabulous, from the Impressionist works to the Matisse galleries. During our 5+ hours here, we took in all the galleries, including the modern and contemporary and the Guarding the Art exhibit. And we walked all around the building exterior, taking in the classical beauty of the John Russell Pope-designed building. Worth the drive!!
Of particular interest is the Cone collection of art with a substantial gathering of Matisse paintings, sculptures, and drawings. There is also a good collection of Andy Warhol works in the Modern/Contemporary gallery. We also enjoyed a delicious lunch in the museum restaurant, Gertrude's.
I went to the BMA for the first time this week and was very impressed. The Matisse/Diebenkorn exhibition is spectacular. It's curated exquisitely and hung superbly. We also visited several galleries of the permanent collection which is also stunning and very impressive. This is a must see collection if you're near Baltimore. I can't say enough good things about it.
This is the first museum I have gone to which has Greek-Roman Mosaics. There were many of them of large size. The museum was selected as one of three to excavate an area called Antioch-Syria, now modern day Turkey, which was found to have many of these mosaics. They are very intricate and beautiful.
Every time I visit the BMA I wonder why I don't go more often. It's a lovely way to spend a hot or cold afternoon. Always something to be learned from the terrific collection and wide array of special exhibits. They have a terrific gift shop and the restaurant is very good.
A wonderful museum with a great collection — thanks in part to the Cone sisters! We bought their biography in the gift shop. We were surprised to find one of our favorite sculptures (“Horse”) in the sculpture garden — we’d seen it before at the Chrysler Museum in Norfolk (are there two...more?...of them). We also loved Moon Dust by Spencer Finch. And of course we loved much more. We highly recommend the BMA.
Like the Walters museum the BMA is also free and full of wonderful exhibits.
I'm not a fan of contemporary art but i thought the media exhibit was really fun.The sections on African art and Greek frescos were also interesting.
I'm sorry that i was too early to visit the special exhibit with Picasso showing in March
Wide range of art very well presented. World's best collection of Matisse. No admission charge. Restaurant one of the best in Baltimore.
We went to see a quilt exhibit but visited the entire museum. What a treasure! There’s a lot more to see and the sculpture garden is to die for. It is truly a garden with incredible sculptures. A must see.
It is so wonderful to have a free art museum to visit. The collection is varied and after 2 hours we had to rest and schedule a return visit. There is also a wonderful gift shop with things related to current and past exhibits. Parking nearby was on a paid lot. Staff were very friendly and helpful.
One of the best Matisse collections in the US. The largest in the Eastern hemisphere number wise.
It was a pleasant surprise to find a Marie Lauransant piece in the US.
Entire museum never seems to be crowded and whenever I visit, it's quiet and relaxing.
Exquisite permanent collection!
Special exhibitions should be more interesting, in my opinion.
Apart from Andrew Wyeth show, no other event was that remarkable.
Being New York snobs, we didn't expect a museum that would rate up there with the Met or any other NY museum. We were happy to be proven wrong. Imagine, a free art museum (a small charge for parking), that is in the upper stratosphere of museums when it comes to variety, world class artists, a well maintained and new-look interior, a sculpture garden, a unique and popular restaurant, and just a great overall experience for art museum enthusiasts. Make sure you visit.
I'd not been to this museum in a very, long time but wanted to see the great Matisse-Diebenkorn exhibit leaving at the end of Jan 2017. This museum is free of charge except for the special exhibits, and is a great place to spend a few hours. While we did not have a chance to see much more than the exhibit, we did breeze through the excellent Cone collection - donated to the museum from the very wealthy art patron Cone sisters. Lots of wonderful 20th century European greats are offered. (They collected 3,000 pieces of art). There is lots more to appreciate, including wonderful mosaics, an African collection, contemporary art, etc. (saved for another day). There are some lovely gardens open in the summer, as well, and the restaurant is just wonderful with an extensive menu and something for everyone, really. (Hint - When in Baltimore, go for seafood). Don't miss this place. It is terrific!
I was pleasantly surprised with the extent of their collection. Visited several years ago, and I think it is even better now. Allow several hours to see everything.
I could have spent the entire day here! The exhibits are remarkable. You will see Monet's, Picasso's, Rodin's, Van Gogh's and so much more. You will not be fighting crowds so take your time as you peruse this remarkable museum. If you need a break or something to eat, dine at their restaurant (which is very good) or just hang out on the grounds and take in the wonderful sculptures.
Beautiful garden and some interesting pieces of art.
Free entrance.
Easy to go there, big parkinglot and also easy to reach with a rented scooter
Great visit with special Matisse exhibit which ends at the end of January 2016. However, general exhibits have Matissse, Renoir and Andy Warhol and a number of other famous pieces and artists.
Free entrance just fee for special temporary exhibit
From impressionist to modern, from European to Baltimore natives, from sculpture to textiles you can find it all; sometime it can look like a maze and the curator thinking can seem disjointed but a very enjoyable museum. The shop is very well stocked and I needed all my self control to not empty my wallet.
The adjacent restaurant is such a great find that you might need a reservation (at least on weekend)
The BAM is one of the best museums around, and it's free to boot. Excellent permanent collections, fine restaurant (Gertrude's), and very good special exhibitions. The one that just closed - Monsters and Myths - wasn't my favorite, but the museum is great.
This is a world-class museum. Went to see one amazing show (Matisse/Diebenkorn) and spent the whole day. Great restaurant and gift shop too.
This location was very lovely with wonderful artwork. I found it very easy to spend a few hours here.
Took several hours to enjoy the Baltimore Museum of Art over the Memorial Day weekend. Entrance was free and there is an on-site Museum parking lot that you can pay to park in. Very convenient. Also the Museum has Gertrude's Restaurant on the first floor of the Museum. Always Good. I took my time and enjoyed myself for about 3 hours. I really enjoyed the European collection but there is so much to see. Avery large diverse collection. Very enjoyable.
This is a gem, perhaps the best art museum in the USA outside of New York, Boston or Washington, DC (yes, it is at least the equal of the Art Institute of Chicago IMHO). Perhaps the largest collection of works Matisse in any museum. Admission was free in 2022. Outstanding restaurant on the premises. Convenient secure parking.
The collection itself is fairly decent, but the hours are very limited. I was surprised the museum wasn't open to 9 or 10 pm on Fridays.
Because the museum is free they don't even give you a guidebook. Basically, you're on your own outside of a one-page map. Not much information compared to other museums of this caliber.
BMA is a lovely museum - just large enough to enjoy in a day. It is very well laid out and the staff really are there to help you. It has a fine gift shop and a lovely restaurant (Gertrudes - book early). The special exhibits are superb. We saw the Matisse-Diebenkorn exhibit and loved the audio that comes with the price of the ticket. Instead of the usual description of the paintings, two curators discuss them, why each painting was chosen and the influences that produced it. A novel and fun way to view the exhibit. The restaurant is lovely - and well worth the price and the (occasional) wait. Can't wait to return
The relatively small collection has been brilliantly assembled. You could hold an art history survey class here and feel like you had done justice to most nations and eras.
Going to the Baltimore Museum of Art is always a treat. The Cone collection is world famous and recognized as a destination art exhibit. In addition, the other galleries are beautifully outfitted and most enjoyable. The restaurant is quite good and serves a fabulous Sunday brunc with jazz music.
Very clean and beautiful place. The bathrooms are clean the staff was there not the kindest, but at least they were available.
Matisse exhibition was very well designed, tickets were easy to purchase and crowds were well managed by staff.
Construction on Charles Street meant we needed to take a circuitous route to get to the Baltimore Museum of Art. Fortunately parking was not a problem. We had reserved a place on a docent led tour of the galleries hosting the special exhibit of works by Joan Mitchell spanning six decades. It was a valuable experience since the docent was able to provide important context on the life, settings and artistic processes of Mitchell which one could not have gained on a self tour. After the tour we enjoyed visiting the two sculpture gardens. The gift shop enhanced our experience where we found books and materials related to the present and recent shows.
The museum is located in a beautiful complex near the Johns Hopkins campus -- be sure to not miss the beautiful sculpture garden to the left of the main entrance. Superb. Inside, the museum specializes in American, contemporary, modern, Asian and African. The modern collection is superb -- more than a dozen by Matisse, with excellent pieces by all the important French moderns. Enjoyed the German expressionists and the impressionists. Very impressive. And then the interestingly curated contemporary work with the classic abstractionists & Pop artists. But very new work by Susan Oppenheimer, Alison Saar and others brightened part our day. Saved for last, the American collection was truly outstanding. The best work was 20th century and forward.. it was breathtaking in both scope and quality. A truly superb collection with a focus on great works by great artists.
This was a great museum with several different exhibits. Admission is free and there were lots of helpful friendly staff around to give you directions or answer any questions about any of the exhibits that were displayed. They also had an elevator for those who may be wheelchair-bound or unable to maneuver the stairs. They also had an interactive display that would be great for children. Parking can be a little difficult but it is reasonable. I would definitely go back!!
It was such a pleasure to spend almost four hours on the two floors of exhibits. There were many Impressionist artists that I love including Renoir, Matisse, Picasso and many others. The Asian exhibit was so fascinating. The "Joseph Education Center" was huge. So many exciting things to see and do. The school children are so lucky to have this wonderful field trip. It's a must see for all ages. We were fortunate that there were not an overcrowding of people in the different genres. We had lots of time to read and enjoy the beauty of the works of art.
Make this museum a must-see! You don't have to be an art historian. Bring the kids or the aunt visiting from out of town. Friendly front desk will suggest paths through the magnificent rooms and guides to the collection. The BMA has a solid collection spanning the art world and complimented by periodic, breathtaking exhibitions.
Need contemplative time? A slow walk through the outdoor sculpture garden with Moore, Calder and others. A visit to ancient Turkey? Grand scaled, elaborately bordered Antioch mosaics. A stroll through Paris thanks to Baltimore's Cone Sisters? Enjoy the stunning (world's largest) collection of beautiful Matisse drawings and oils, and don't miss the Picasso and Van Goghs. Want a scavenger hint for the kids? The friendly staff will loan costume boxes to younger children who - dressed in the period costumes - can speech through the halls for the paintings in which those same period costumes appear. Contemporary? Absorb the Jasper Johns, Robert Rauschenberg, Andy Warhol, Olafur Eliasson.
Plan a second trip then figure you'll stop by at least every quarter.
I came for the Moroccan art history. It was a beautiful show and apparently I came on the last night, unintentionally. What a beautiful museum.
This is a great museum because it has a diverse amount of art. There are sculptures and paintings throughout the museum that depict different parts of history. The European sports was one of the highlights of my trip
Although this museum offers free admission, we opted to buy a "dual" membership which gives one passes for 2 to special exhibits and discounts in the adjoining restaurant and the museum gift shops + free parking (which is very limited but, if obtained, very convenient). We enjoy great museums of art. Compared to the National Gallery in Washington or the Metropolitan, the BMA is small. But, that is part of its charm. It still offers a great overview of "Western Art," and has special areas of emphases (the Cone Collection of Matisse, etc.) that make one want to return again & again. The sculpture garden and the adjoining restaurant add to the ambiance. The staff and guards are cordial. Smaller than the Boston or Chicago museums, it still impresses one with the quality of the presentation of its permanent exhibits and the innovation of the concept of its special exhibits. Truly a gem!
After seeing wonderful exhibitions one can have a delicious lunch or dinner in the restaurant. One will find the BMA a great place for the family or just a date night. If you visit Baltimore this is a must stop. Great art and great food at one location.
Growing up in Towson, MD I always went to the BMA for events as well as just for fun. A great day is having brunch at Gertrudes and then walking the museum. The collections are terrific, the children's programs great, and the Cohn collection takes you back to 1920's Paris. This is a terrific place to relax and absorb the beauty.
Museums are always a great place to visit. You can easily lose yourself in history. When finished you come out with knowledge yo didn't have going in. Take your time and explore all the rooms
A surprisingly first-class collection of impressionist art in the permanent collection. The African and modern art collections are also nothing to sneeze at. It's one of my favorite places in Baltimore to visit.
I had no idea Baltimore had this much great art in one place!
This museum should be at the top of the to-do list for anyone visiting Baltimore.
Everyone from Gainsborough to Matisse to Warhol!
The best part?? IT'S FREE!!!
For a free museum, this is an amazing place. Cezanne, Warhol, Renoit, VanGogh are all here along with many African pieces. The museum was founded over 100 years ago and has a vast collection. 2 sisters donated a TON of stuff which is a wonderful addition to the already vast collection. Museum is doable in a few hours. It's spacious, has a restaurant and a very quaint sculpture garden. Closed on odd days (Mon/Tues) but open both weekend days. Easy to park for a small fee.
First visit, great surprise. Outstanding exhibit of Joan Mitchell, quite an eye opener. Beautiful building, very good permanent collection, surprising number of excellent Matisse works.
Is amazing and well positioned and offers an amazing experience and a great cultural trip. Be sure to visit the restaurant next door.
The Baltimore Museum of Art is one of my favorite museums. Housed in a graceful neoclassical building next to Johns Hopkins' lovely campus, it has a superb permanent collection for its.size. Its temporary exhibitions are first rate -- the recent Diebenkorn-Matisse exhibit was frankly better curated and more interesting than any show I've seen in Philadelphia in the past couple of years. And even though this should not be one's primary purpose in visiting a museum, the bar at Gertrude' s in the museum is a real pleasure: a beautiful spot with a great menu and excellent gin selection (the Baltimore Shot Tower, distilled a few blocks away, is not to be missed). Park at JHU underground garage next door if the parking lots are full.
This free museum near Johns Hopkins houses an amazing collection spanning thousands of years of art. I especially enjoyed the modern and contemporary art collections.
I just returned from 3 weeks in Paris where I visited the Louve for the second time, and the Georges Pompidou Museum for the first time. This Baltimore Museum of Art contains a vast array of all types of art. It’s holdings are impressive.
I spent about 1.5 hours perusing the collections at the museum. There is a lot to see, including the sculpture gardens. Really nice museum!
Impressive arts collection. Visited the museum in course of the study trip. Arrived by train from New York and returned back the same day.
Whether you are a tourist or a local, you'll fall in love with this museum. The BMA is a gorgeous piece of architecture located at a convenient spot and full of beautiful artwork. The permanent collections include African, Asian, American, European, Modern and Contemporary art. They have a wide variety of paintings and sculpture (including a lovely sculpture garden.) So, regardless of what type of art you prefer, you'll certainly find something you like at this museum.
The museum is not huge, so you can see most of it on a single visit. But just to help you planning your visit, here are some tips:
- Don't worry about entrance fee: It's FREE.
- If you have some extra time/money, eat at Gertrude's (the BMA's restaurant). Their food is pretty good. Just make sure to make a reservation-- the place can get quite busy (especially for Sunday brunch).
- If you are traveling on a budget, pack sandwiches or snacks at home and enjoy them at the benches located on the museum gardens.
- Allocate some time to visit the museum store; it has lots of nice stuff--though some of items are a bit pricey.
- Parking: You can park up to 30 mins in one of the 2 museum parking lots at no cost. Or, you can pay $7 (for non BMA members) for the entire day.
This museum is a great option for anyone!
We didn't have a lot of time to spend at the museum and I was a bit disappointed that there were not more Impressionist works. The sculpture garden is certainly worth a visit. Admission is free. If you are traveling car hire, Lyft does not pick up at the museum. You have to walk to Charles St
This is not the Met in NY or
National Gallery. But it is a well presented good collection that is well worth a visit. They have a very educational presentation. Gertrude's, located in the building, is a great dining spot,
Run There. Never seen so many Matisse. Many impressionism : Van Gogh, Gaughin, Vuiilard, Caillebotte and Bonnard. Miro. Beautiful furniture Art nouveau and Art Deco... And it’s free !!!
A great mixture of eras and styles, this is an impressive collection for a city that isn't New York. I recognized some Magritte and Warhol works in the modern section. Sculpture and installations were peppered throughout the museum, which made even hallway treks a venue for unexpected discovery. There was even a contemporary section where an artist was discussing his displayed work with curious museum goers. The sculpture garden is perhaps the gem of the museum, and you might require half an hour to an hour just for that portion.
My only complaint was that an usher/guard was rude about us having a bottled water, though there is no sign announcing it's forbidden nor trash can near the exhibit that disallows it. I understand that liquids must not be allowed as a safety precaution, but the man was uncharacteristically rude for a Baltimorean.
Went here after living in Baltimore for a couple years. The museum is free for it's standard exhibits. It is a great way to spend a day. You won't be able to see everything in one visit. It really is the type of place that is just fun to explore. There is also a restraint connected to the museum that does a good brunch. We just had drinks but will definitely be eating the next time we go.
I love this museum and visit from Northern Virginia at least once a year. It has interesting exhibits - traveling and stationary. My favorite is Degas' little dancer. I can look at her all day, she's beautiful. Also, there is a version of Rodin's The Thinker, and some beautiful tile work floors on display.
Nice museum and great place to visit when you have time. Parking - really poor and insufficient. There are very few places to park so you are at the mercy at finding someplace on the street.
We really enjoyed this museum, and it is free to the public. Great collection, great special exhibits, and nice store. Added bonus is that Gertrude’s restaurant is connected to the museum and is a great place to get lunch brunch or dinner.
The museum also has kid activities. Great rainy day activity.
Always a delight and not to difficult to get to placed at the outskirts of the city. A visually wonderful day
It has a sense of diversity that is laid out nicely. I like smaller museums in that you can appreciate the art without a marathon. The architecture of the building was especially interesting. There were people of all ages and they seemed to enjoy themselves. It is easy to get a place to park. There modern section was laid out especially well for children. It took me about two hours to see everything..
As NYC and LA expatriates we often complain about Baltimore, unfairly for the most part. Baltimore has some great art and unlike NYC or LA much of it is free or inexpensive. Baltimorians for the most part describe "The Greatest City" ,what is embossed on benches all about town.....in an unfairly positive way. Here it really is world class.
This is a nice place to go with the family. Gertrude's restaurant on site makes the trip that much more enjoyable!
We were surprised by the extensive collection of this museum with renowned artists. We really enjoyed the contemporary art section. We also read that the museum will focus on only procuring pieces by women in 2020 to help with the imbalance of female representation in the art world.
I'm a huge fan of Kara Walker and I saw that they had an exhibit of her work at the museum. Unfortunately, the Walker exhibit was more of a showcase than a full-fledged example of her work, but the teaser worked. I walked around and viewed some art from the greats of the Italian Renaissance.
My companions weren't that interested in the artwork, but they did enjoy viewing the furniture collections from the past that adorned many of the rooms.
We recently made a point of visiting The Baltimore Museum of Art to see the Kone Sisters collection. The museum holds a fantastic collection and I would highly recommend visiting.
We really enjoyed this museum, especially the Matisse and Antioch mosiac sections. Definitly recommend if going to Baltimore. We got there early and had no problem getting a parking spot, but was full when we left. Recommend getting there early.
We had a one day stopover in Baltimore on a cruise trip and took advantage of the time to spend in a rushed visit to the most important art museuem . We got to the museuem at about 10 am and spend a marvelous 5 hour seeing some of the top art works in the world. We were fortunate in that the museuem had a special Matiesse and Diebenkorn exhibit and we some of the best works of these two fantastic artists. The museuem was laid out efficiently and we managed to see all of the exhibits
I so appreciate a museum of this caliber remaining free for everyone to attend. It is a great gift to a city and all those who visit. I visited from Minnesota with my teenage son. We also attended the special Matisse exhibit- very extensive. I had never heard of the Cone sisters and found it fascinating. Their apartment was my favorite-so very interesting to see how they lived with the things they loved and collected. Such amazing art. We had a great day and would recommend anyone coming to Baltimore to see the Baltimore Museum of Art. Thank you for sharing your museum Baltimore.
Has been redone over the last 10 years-Always changing exhibits-Great gift shop- Tours with loops-Wide and spacious
The art collections are substantial, especially in American and modern art. Take note of the outstanding Cone Collection, with its focus on Matisse and other artists of his period.
The Baltimore Museum of Art Meyerhoff Auditorium provided excellent space to enjoy a Candlelight Concert featuring the Best of Bridgerton on Strings.
I recommend securing parking when you schedule events at BMA. There are parking Apps to find and secure a space.
Please know about Gertrude's, a fabulous fine dining experience within the BMA. Remember to secure reservations when you book your event.
This is a great little museum, and though not as large a one of the Smithsonian museums in nearby DC, they have quite the collection. You can see everything in about 2-4 hours, and they even have a little area for dining and a gift shop. We have visited many times throughout the years. They sometimes have free visit days on certain days of the month or year, so check their website before visiting. We have even stopped in on a date with one of our children just to wander and find new things we may have missed before. Several famous pieces by Degas, Monet, and more. Whether your interest is modern art, impressionism, sculptures, or historical pieces, you will find it here.
The museum does a great job partnering with local schools for educational demonstrations or exhibiting students' art from the local schools.
And gentleman if you want to woo your lady this could be a very romantic spot to take her, walking distance from Johns Hopkins University and close to Loyola University or UMAB. Wink wink!
This is a great place to experience art from around the world. It is beautiful and spacious. You can get there by using MTA Bus or a short drive up Charles street. Takes about 10- 15 minutes.
The museum is not extensive by large city standards. It’s nice to spend a rainy day here exploring all the collections. From impressionists to modern it’s the museum that has it all. Staff is always happy to sharpen your knowledge of a particular holding. Worth your time to wander the halls.
The museum has a wonderful range of art including a really special African collection. However, it's the Impressionists that wowed me. The restaurant also smelled delicious but we didn't have time to stop in.
While the BMA is well a worth a visit for its collections, make sure not to miss the worlds largest collection of Matisse, and dive into the story of Gertrude Stein and the Cone sisters who put this private collection together
Do not miss the mosaic collection. Marvelous. Well positioned to capture light to well orchestrate texture, color, and purpose of the mosaic in history. Yes, contemporaneous audiences appreciate mosaic as art..., but the beauty of the format in its antiquarian purpose is portrayed in a superb manner.
Parking is well situated surrounding the facility.
Come prepared to stay and appreciate the many forms of expression.
I have been in a lot of art museums in both the United States and Europe, and I am embarrassed to admit that I had overlooked a local gem.
We planned a family day in Baltimore, which was to consist of a late breakfast at the Papermoon Diner, and then a visit to the Baltimore Museum of Art. We were drawn to the museum by the "Guerrilla Girls" exhibition, and we expected little else of interest. To the contrary, this museum is just wonderful. The size is just right for those who might be intimidated by a huge building, in which one can become confused, lost, etc.
The story of the Cone Sisters, who were the major benefactors of the museum, is fascinating, and well presented. The collection of art by Mattisse, combined with the very well put together Contemporary and Modern collections, really blew me away.
And the bonus is that the museum is only a couple blocks from the Papermoon Diner, which is a separate, surreal treat.
First time visit to BMA but won't be the last. Such a worthy collection and it's free. We went for a special exhibition and even that was only $15 per person. We visited the "Modern Influence: Matisse, Etta Cone, and Baltimore" exhibit, which was very well put together. The pieces were thoughtfully put together to tell an accessible story about Matisse's style and work alongside Etta Cone's development as an art collector and patron. We also visited some other exhibits and especially loved the "Women Behaving Badly" exhibit, which explores women's role in social movements over history -- and the backlash against them -- through art. That one is small but also not to be missed. We also enjoyed the sculpture garden on our way out.
We didn't get to see everything, although we might have tried if our feet would have held out. Also, the Contemporary Art collection was not viewable on our visit. Will definitely return for another visit soon. Totally worthwhile.
Often visiting art museums is a chore but not here. Cheap parking was available right at the front door. The museum is free, lockers are free, staff is very friendly, and so were the other patrons. The kids room was very popular and permitted kids to make their own masterpieces. The restaurant, Gertrude's, is fabulous. You can view the entire collection in 2 hours. I loved the pieces by Rodin, Henry Moore, and many French impressionist paintings collected by the Cohn sisters.
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All different kinds of art. From art everyone agrees is art (ie. Degas, Matisse, Rodin, etc) to mockable modern art, you can find it here. Since admission is free, you can stay until you get your fill and not feel like you have to spend several, or more, hours here.
The Baltimore Museum of Art is a free museum that has beautiful art and many interesting exhibits. I love their Cone Sisters collection as well as the Impressionists paintings and Rodin sculptures. One of my favorite exhibits is the miniature rooms (like little dollhouses). They only had a couple of them available at this visit to make room for a special exhibit, but I was assured the rest were in storage and would be displayed again. The Museum gift shop is another great place to browse - unique gifts!
Baltimore Museum of Art is located in Johns Hopkins. It’s free entry and the staffs are very helpful. The paintings are good too. I would visit it.
Another great art museum in Baltimore? Yep. The Baltimore Museum of Art has a great collection and it's FREE admission. (You will have to pay to see some temporary exhibits.) I visited the museum because as I was riding the train into town from the airport, I saw a sign on the train advertising an exhibit that was to close in a few days: "Monsters & Myths: Surrealism and War in the 1930s and 1940s." The exhibit cost $15, but was definitely worth it. Such an interesting exhibit! I also loved that they had an audio tour of the exhibit you could listen to using your phone (I had headphones on me luckily, because I had taken the bus to the museum). It was a little crowded in the exhibit, but not too bad. The museum doesn't have the most impressive permanent collection I've ever seen, but for a free museum, there was so much to see! Definitely worth a visit!
I have been a suppporter of the Baltimore Museum of Art for many years and have visited a myriad of exhibitions. I have never been disappointed. Since the new construction, the Museum has taken on a more contemporary feel, more refined, and more inviting to its admirers. Add the fine dining supplied by Gertrude's and the new Museum Shop which offers a vast selection of one of a kind items, establishes this great place as a Balitmore site worth going to time and time again.
Beautiful paintings by famous artists. Neat display of furniture from Cone sisters. Sweet doorman and hostess at restaurant could not get us a cab, but polite man working in gift shop did. We tried to tip him but he suggested we give the money as a donation to museum. The museum has a valuable employee with him there!
They have it all: Old Masters, Impressionists, Modern, Contemporary, and all of it is simply WONDERFUL. I spent 2 hours here and could have stayed longer but my feet didn't hold out. The gift shop is small but the offerings are well-edited, and Gertrude's for brunch is one of Baltimore's best kept secrets.
Beautiful exhibits and sculpture garden. Right next door to Johns Hopkins. Entrance is free. Very nice gift shop.
This museum would be a must-see if only for the Cone Collection, a treasure trove of (mostly) Impressionist and post-Impressionists personally chosen by sisters Claribel and Etta Cone in the first half of the 20th century. When the establishment scorned pioneers like Matisse, the pair trusted their taste and crammed their sprawling apartment with paintings of the highest quality, which they left to the museum. An interactive video lets you picture the works in their original home.
The current marquee exhibition, a Joan Mitchell retrospective, is also a treat and will particularly fascinate readers of Ninth Street Women, Mary Gabriel’s bestselling book on the women who helped shape abstract expressionism. No doubt I missed plenty. One visit can’t do justice to the BMA.
We have visited three times and hope to visit again. There is so much to see. Plan your visit, so you will not have to rush through.
Use the website to get a feel for what you want to see. We find a two hour visit will fill you and than save the rest for another visit.
On our recent visit we went to the Cone collection and American Collection.There was a wonderful booklet for children in the American section.
My wife and I visited, and joined the BMA. The museum reminds me of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts before it's courageous expansion about ten years ago. It has some nice pieces (although far too many Matisses). The staff is friendly, and the gift shop is nice, but the overall feeling is of a small-town operation.
We went to see the Cone collection -- one of the largest collections of Matisse in the U.S. -- and were surprised to see how much more there was to the museum, from ancient mosaics to contemporary installations. It seemed well-curated and organized. The sculpture garden was a nice surprise. Although it's not a large museum, there was more than we could see in one trip. We'll be back!
The BMA is a gem of a museum. Its collection is unique & varied, & includes a vast collection of Henri Matisse along with contemporary & modern art. Don't miss lunch at Gertrude's (in the lobby of the museum) & try getting a table in the sculpture garden!
One of my favorite places on Earth. The Cone Sister built a great collection of Matisse's, Bonnard's Picasso's, Rodin, an Van Gogh or two and more. And a great restaurant, Gertrude's as well.
I only had a short amount of time and I definitely could have done with longer. Loved this museum- diverse collection from renaissance to contemporary. Had some really great installations and lots of great artwork.
Trips to Baltimore always include a stop at the Baltimore Museum. It's a great collection, in part, because of the collection of the Cone sisters. There's a lot more in the museum, but it's the Cones' collection that distinguishes the collection. It can only leave one in awe of Claribel and Etta Cone who put the collection together and an awareness of how special the Baltimore Museum is.
The BMA has a nice and varied collection of art work both from around the world and over the ages. They are currently putting considerable effort into expanding their collection of art with an African flavor. Parking is readily available in the area.
Great museum! You could easily spend a day here, there is so much to look at. There is also a nice little restaurant.
Terrific museum with a focused collection. The impressionist collection is among the best I've ever seen, particularly the range of work by Matisse. The modern art and African art collections, while not huge, are also great. I appreciated being able to go through the museum, learn about the art from the very well-done curation, and not be overwhelmed by a huge collection. The museum also free admission (at least when I was there), a terrific restaurant (Gertrude's), and a very nice auditorium. Definitely worth a trip, a meal, and a concert if something interesting is playing.
Who knew that you could go and see such beautiful art for free. That's what you can get at the Baltimore Museum of Art.
Why we chose to actually join the museum anyone is invited to tour for free. We started our day with brunch and gertrudes downstairs in the lobby area. Reservations are required for gertrudes. It's the best place for brunch. Then headed upstairs and retreated to wonderful exhibits. I was so intrigued by the Cone Exhibit.. Matisse Picasso Calder and do much more... an amazing collection.
Before we knew it it was already 5 p.m. and closing time.
Parking is $7 a day or discounted if you join the museum. If you like art invest in the future. Join the museum. We did.
Wonderful museum with especially terrific texts accompanying the art -- longer, more informative and interesting than one usually gets. Often thought-provoking and occasionally even provocative -- in a good way. Be sure to check the website for special exhibitions (we strongly recommend the current Joan Mitchell retrospective and the wonderful, creative "Guarding the Art" exhibit curated by long-time BMA security guards) and concerts. We can't recommend "Jazz in the Sculpture Garden" highly enough -- relaxed event, fantastic setting and wonderful music. The museum restaurant is pricey, but very good and by comparison the museum gift shop seemed very reasonably priced compared to other museums and with a great selection of items.
Great way to spend the afternoon and their gift shop is interesting. Their restaurant is great! Brunch or lunch is terrific.
In many years of visiting art museums throughout the Northeast I’ve somehow been ignoring the Baltimore Museum of Art. This has been my loss, as I realized recently. BAM is a delightful place made accessible to all by its every day free admission policy. Although there are some lovely and important examples of medieval and renaissance art, and even ancient Roman mosaics, emphasis has always been placed on contemporary art. When BAM was founded in 1914 that meant Impression and 20th century movements including surrealism. Paintings by Matisse are particularly strong, as is the American collection. The museum continues to acquire and display work from living artists. Women have always been important here as directors, donors, and artists. We saw a wonderful series of installations by Tomás Saraceno (born 1973). There is a shop with lots of art books and artisan jewelry on sale and a white tablecloth restaurant.
We visited on a school holiday. While the museum was hardly deserted, it wasn’t packed either, making it pleasant to walk around and enjoy the art. Its moderate size also keeps it from being overwhelming and exhausting.
As a art student, I go here because of school's recommendation. This museum have almost everything. They just opened their African art gallery and the pieces are amazing.
Sometimes when you go, you get children on school trips, which I don't mind at all. The only people I do mind is the "stuck up" people who go in there and judge you when you're trying to enjoy the artwork in the museum. Sadly you can't do anything about that.
This Museum is packed with all genres of art both old and new. Many exhibits change periodically so it is always fresh.
Best of all is that there is no entry fee so anyone and everyone has access to this awesome museum.
I have been to BMA countless time, to catch a special exhibit, revisit some old favorites, rediscover the Cone collection after visiting France, just browse the store,..... It is always a pleasurable experience. There are some indisputable great pieces but many more that are thought-provoking or just great conversation starters. The sculpture garden is beautiful and quiet. The store is a little gem for art-lovers and children. Gertrude is great for brunch with girlfriends as well as dinner with colleagues from out of town. It's a treat to just sit in a beautiful space and think. People watching is always fun...couples on dates, men who are there to accompany their wives and men who know how to artfully toss a scarf. It's enjoyable in so many ways...and completely free!
One of the most impressive collections of Matisse in the world. Being from Baltimore, I never knew our town had some of the rarest and most famous art pieces. It isn't a copy cutter municipal museum like all the other cities either- It's amazing.
We had been to Baltimore about half a dozen of times since 2000 but had not been to the Baltimore Museum of Art. We just visited Baltimore and visited the BMA for the first time. We drove there from our Harbor East hotel. It was a short drive and traffic was not bad.
Beautiful museum. Free admission. Parking on either side of the building. Parking is free for 1st 30 minutes; $5 for members; $7 for non-members ($5 after 5pm). Check the hours as they are not open all week long.
Museum not as big as the museums in Philadelphia or NYC but has a nice collection. We were not able to check out the Contemporary Art or Sculpture Park outside during this visit. The is a wonderful restaurant (Gertrude’s) next to the BMA store on the east side of the museum.
the museum is top notch. the american paintings are exceptional, but the american furniture is the true find. the collection of maryland early furniture is a real gem. not to be missed
The BMA often goes unappreciated. The building,sculpture gardens and collections are as good as any other city's. It is free to the public ( except for certain special exhibits). The restaurant (Gertrude's) is very good for brunch or lunch. Make sure to get a reservation. The gift shop is first rate and fairly priced - a place to find a special gift for someone special. The BMA website is informative. This is a must for a Baltimoreans and as well as out-of -towners.
Nice collection of painting,sculpture and constructions. Has the flavor that it is more of a teaching museum than a gallery. Unique changing exhibits. Check museum website. Nice building and facilties including a very good book store/gift shop.
My husband and I went on a rainy afternoon our fist day in Baltimore. It is not a huge museum, but there is a wonderful variety of art from all over the world. From ancient art to present day installations. My favorite part was the incredible collection from the Cone sisters. I have never seen so many pieces of work from Matisse in one place at one time. The whole collection was fascinating and we learned so much about the artists represented. Definitely get the free audio tour. It makes the whole museum much more interesting. I really enjoyed all the background stories.
The Baltimore Museum of Art was the fortunate recipient of The Cone Collection, a significant collection of art from the late 1800s and early 1900s that includes a world-reknown collection of works by Henri Matisse, as well as those by Picasso, Seurat, Degas, and others. Beyond these are other notable resident exhibits that include Warhol, Impressionists, Rodin, and a variety of other genres; a sculpture garden, and some furnishings. The museum also hosts an excellent, Maryland-themed restaurant named Gertrude's. Parking is limited to a small, paid lot, street parking, and an adjacent lot on the main campus of The Johns Hopkins University. Admission to the museum is free, but special exhibitions may require an admission fee and possibly a timed ticket.
Fantastic contemporary collection and nice architecture of the contemporary wing. Great lightening. Fully recommended!!!!!!!
A wonderful Sunday afternoon spent looking at amazing art from around the world. Especially liked how so many of the rooms were designed to make you feel as if you were in a period piece - extraordinarily well done.
The Sunday kids' activity was great, and free!
Parking is easy and cheap (about $7), especially when considering that admission is free.
On a crowded day after Thanksgiving, the special Matisse exhibition sure brought the crowds. While the BMA may not be one of the world's greatest art museums, it surely is a first rate attraction for any visitor to Baltimore and should not be missed. Situated in a lovely park-like setting adjacent to Johns Hopkins University, the free admission (charge for special exhibits) is a plus in this day and age. Nice collection of French artists and donated collections from local philanthropists. A nice way to spend an afternoon.
What an incredible Baltimore treasure. The exhibit was fantastic, the staff extremely courteous and helpful.
This museum contains some stunning items including roman mosaics, period furniture, and some classic paintings. The rooms are spotless. Clean restrooms. Excellent gift shop. It is adjacent to the Johns Hopkins campus so one can combine a trip to both.
Read some articles about the Cone sisters and the incredible art collection they purchased in the early 1900’s, traveling to Paris and throughout Europe.
Their story is quite unique and their art collection is mind blowing! Two wealthy but single women, they thought nothing of traveling back and forth across the ocean, beginning in 1901, becoming good friends with Henri Matisse, meeting Picasso and filling their apartments with over 3000 pieces of stunning art etc.
They left it to the BMA!
In 2002, the collection was valued at over a billion dollars.
Be prepared to be impressed.
On my visit, a huge disappointment was that two of the galleries were closed for renovations. And it’s obvious that not all of the collection is on display.
Yet, everything is beautifully displayed from the Degas sculpture to the many Matisse paintings- including a rare one by his daughter, Marguerite Matisse.
Another interesting and incredible collection is the magnificent Antioch mosaics, which came from the Museum's participation in the excavations at Antioch, Syria. Twenty-eight mosaic pavements from Antioch on view, tell the story of this ancient city prior to its destruction in 528 A.D.
The sculpture garden offers a relaxing and beautiful area.
Visiting the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) transports me to my school days. Art Club of St. Brigids School in Brooklyn, NY often visited the Guggenheim and the Whitney. Sometimes I visit the BMA's Modern wing to recall fond memories.
The Oletha DeVane and joint Joyce Scott & Elizabeth Talford Scott exhibits lifted my spirits.
Food & service very good. Prices are ok . Presentations are usually very attractive. I particularly enjoy eating outside near the sculpture garden.
Small museum but great artworks of Van Gogh, Matisse, Claude Monet, Picasso, Cezanne and Joan Miro! Must see. Free admission.
Just thank you for this amazing and huge collection !
It's free and it worth it.
Matisse, Lady with a turban, for instance just incredible
I had an event to attend in Baltimore and I needed somewhere to spend a few hours. I am so glad I chose this gem. Incredible!!
Parking was $1.25 for a few hours. I parked on the street in front. They also have a small parking lot with affordable rates. The gift shop has lovely items. On Thursday they stay open late and I saw a few tours happening that evening. The employees are so kind. One even offered to guide me to a particular exhibit but I was there to browse. The art!!!! Omg. I could spend all day there. In fact, I was late to my event because there’s so much to take in. I had the best time ever. The prices are all intentional and well maintained. I’ll be back
We decided to visit this museum and spend a few hours -- instead we spent all day here. First parking -- you can either park on the street, or park in their lot. We chose the lot which gives you 30 minutes or less free, or a $7 all day flat fee. You can pay your $7 at the desk at anytime to get the ticket you need to exit.
The first floor provided African and Asian art, and during our visit a photo exhibition. To the left of the desk you can enter another special exhibition area. In addition to exhibits, many short videos were playing in a darkened viewing area, but parents beware. The subject matter and language of many videos was not appropriate for children.
The second floor housed the special exhibition which required a separate paid ticket which we chose not to buy -- we had plenty to see for free. The second floor also had European, American, and modern art, and a huge room of art and furniture made in Maryland. On this day the contemporary wing was closed for a new installation.
Along the way we got hungry and headed to the cafe on the first floor expecting cafeteria type offerings. We were pleasantly surprised that the food was high quality and delicious. We each got a 1/2 sandwich and soup combo. There were a lot of crab choices on the menu (crab soup, crab omelettes, crabcakes, etc.) So I had the red crab soup and my husband the cream crab soup. Both were terrific.
There are lots of silver dishes, furniture, masks, mosaics, etc. for those not into paintings and sculptures -- so enjoy !
This museum is a real gem of an art museum and it is free too. The collects are excellent and has a very nice impressionist section. Gotta check this one out.
This museum was my favorite in Baltimore. Amazing art, welcoming and helpful staff. 5* Everything was amazing! Great collection of Henry Matisse. The sculptures, including the Thinker, were incredible. The European and American Art were excellent. Easy to get to by bus, and free. Make this a definite museum to visit.
The Cone Collection is one of the Crown Jewels of Baltimore. There are two whole rooms of Matisse's work and the collection boasts some of his earliest pieces as a young student to some of his latest work as an older man - the difference in the two is fascinating and really gives an appreciation of how artists evolve as individuals in a peer group of other artists. There's quite a variety of classic, modern, and contemporary art at the BMA with everything from ancient tile work to blinking neon signs. Picasso to Warhol and all sorts of stunning pieces in between. Well worth the visit for the curious and an absolute must for art lovers. The money you save on the always-free entry can be spent at the well stocked and eclectic gift shop or restaurant.
And this place is free! So much art in easily accessible places. Examples of all the major French painters of the 19th century. Amazing they are all in Baltimore. Thank you Coen Sisters!
I visited for the recent John Waters exhibit. A very nice museum, good collections, enjoyed the gift shop, easy to navigate.
You don't have to travel to New York or DC for art. The BMA has it all right here in Charm City. Don't miss it!
Spent a very informative and enjoyable afternoon at BMA. My husband and sons went ahead of me as I was taking everything in. The Asia and Africa exhibits are extremely interesting. The Matisse collection was engrossing. The staff was professional and knowledgeable. We will definitely be back. Many thanks, BMA.
This museum has the largest holding of art by Henri Matisse in the world. It is a stunning collection to say the least. Admission is free, which is just one wonderful aspect of this facility's offerings. The gift shop is fantastic. The restaurant was completely amazing as well! Can't wait to go back someday!
A wonderful experience! Lovely Moon Dust Exhibition by Spencer Finch as you enter. One of the best Matisse exhibitions, lots of other famous works of Picasso, Van Gogh, Klimt - wonderful sculptures, vases, silverware - a very interesting contemporary art section. As with all Galleries the Shop is filled with beautiful, unusual gifts. In future no matter where I visit I'm going straight to the Art Gallery store for shopping.
A simple, free trip on the purple bus takes you right there and that it's free is just a huge plus.
A must is to visit the restaurant Getrude's. A bit snooty but a bit of class makes it right for the gallery restaurant.
...and do at the Baltimore Museum of Art. So glad we took our children to this museum. Lots to see and do for all ages.
You can't really compare this museum to any of the Smithsonians bit it's a nice little gem, with some great Matisse works. Also - there's a nice restaurant there.
We loved this Museum! The building is nice and all their collections are amazing! They have good pieces and everything is well distributed. The place is really quiet and is free, so there is no excuse for not visiting. They have a small parking lot but you can always find a space. Also, the pink bus goes into this direction. Their gift shop is ok. Definetely a must when visiting Baltimore.
BMA has a wonderful collection of modern art: a lot of minor works by Matisse, Van Gogh, Picasso, Gaugin. A room-full of Warhols and a wonderful collection of contemporary sculptures and installations. The sculpture garden is pretty, too.
It's not crowded, it's quiet, easy to find parking.
Gertrude's restaurant is lovely. You can head right back to the museum after a nice lunch.
This is a wonderful place to come on a date or a rainy day. The art work is magnificent, the stately rooms are so cool and big. With each step you take there is another beautiful work of art and what is even nicer, is they change the artwork thru the year
This place is a bit of way from the harbour - but it is on one of the free bus routes. Interesting collection and free entry
Normally we travel to D.C. for anything musuem related but with us being in Baltimore we were really able to get into this museum and we thought it was really nice
The Baltimore Museum of Art is located in Charles Village and adjacent to the main campus of John Hopkins University. I was in sync with the sprawling, grand, historic building occupying 222,000 sq. ft.. The museum itself is armed with collections of artistic expression from Asia, Europe, Americas and the Pacific Islands. I must say that I was enthralled with the modern art masterpieces by Matisse, Picasso, Monet, Degas, Cezanne and Vincent Van Gogh. My view of such an outstanding collection was 'rock'n'roll' for my eyes.
Wonderful diverse collections from old and new artists alike -currently showing the FABULOUS collection of some of Baltimore's own John Waters' unique works of art
It's Free as in "no admission charges none at all." Wow & how can this be? Such a delightful collection - not too big - not too small; and a bunch of very nice Impressionist artists are represented. American, Asian, European, Flemish etc makes it a wonderful sampler of so many genre. Do take the time to check out their Rodin, Remington plus more bronzes; very nice representations. Hint for You is to park anywhere near this museum or the Inner Harbor and take the Charm City Circulator - free bus - all the up and down those areas; you'll find that free bus takes you to almost anywhere in Baltimore's cultural and university areas. A very special bonus and totally Free. Do this; take a day or two and just enjoy Baltimore's museums, Vegan-friendly restaurants, opera and symphony plus the Inner Harbor and more. Do it and please Enjoy all of it!
What an amazing museum and a perfect place to spend a rainy day in Baltimore. The quality of the artwork was superb and there is a nice restaurant on the lower level for lunch
It was execellent. They took us for a tour of the museum. We had a wonderful dinner. And they gave us a beautiful book to take home
This museum, in majestic building designed by John Russell Pope, has one of the finest collections of impressionist, post-impressionist and 20th cent art--including very large group of Matisse masterpieces. A very beautiful sculpture garden (in which you can eat) as well as a first rate restaurant (Gertrudes)
First of all this place is free! Secondly, it is wonderfully done! The Cone collection is amazing and the whole museum is filled with world famous artists. I had recently been to the Louvre in Paris and honestly enjoyed some of the collections here equally as much.
We visited the Baltimore Museum of Art after learning about it's collections on line and in articles we'd read. The layout and curation of the painting, sculptures and installations was really well done and time flew by as we looked at the exhibits.
There's so much to see that we ran out of time and are looking forward to going back again.
What a nice addition to Baltimore's cultural heritage. I have visited the BMA several times over the past couple of decades and always enjoyed my visits there. Inside there are a variety of exhibits that are well displayed, the interiors are fresh and lighting is good. I particularly like the American decorative arts galleries and the Cone collection, which was SUCH a wonderful gift to the city. I love, not just the extraordinary collection of paintings, but also the story about the women who collected them. One item on this last visit that DELIGHTED me was the virtual tour of the apartments of the Cone sisters that was recreated from 37 old photographs. It was so wonderful to see those beautiful paintings and artwork and how it was hung in their home when they were alive. I also like the restaurant, "Gertrude's" in the BMA; we had a nice lunch on the covered terrace, the waiter attentive and solicitous and the food good.
I love the backstory about the collections of the Cone sisters and their interactions with the up and coming modern painters. A generally nice collection, but in my mind, the highlight is the Antioch mosaics. Stunning, and beautifully displayed.
We were visiting Baltimore for a couple days of R&R, found BMA on Trip Advisor - and it was definitely worth the visit. About a 2 hour walkthrough with a very good and varied collection of art - modern, contemporary and cultural.
My daughter took me to this unassuming museum which was quite a surprise. Beautiful pieces I had no idea were hiding here in Baltimore...If you have time, check it out!
I had one day free in Baltimore and this
Museum did not disappoint!! It had just reopened after Covid shutdown and not all of the exhibits were open. However the space is laid out beautifully, it has a large Matisse exhibit. A must see, and it’s free
Well it was a great dating location but no longer, kids, Cant go on rainy day because kids would never endure it. But still a great location. Many fine works and great atmosphere. They host many special events as well so check their website.
I took the Silver Line Bus from downtown and it was about a 15 minute ride. You pass several other statues and a museum on the way. I love museums but was glad that it was not too overwhelming like the Met in NYC. The admission was FREE (no gimmicks to try to squeeze donations out of you). I walked every room in an hour, but it is a place you can linger peacefully for hours if you want. Wonderful impressionist collection and more! The park (across the street) is lovely and Johns Hopkins is a quick, leisurely stroll up the street. I really liked the area.
If you are not up for drive to DC for the National Gallery, the BMA is a nice substitute. While not overflowing with Old Masters, it has some important works of art and everyone loves the Cone sister's collection.
The museum is in a lovely setting and has a nice restaurant as well.
We had an afternoon to fill on a rainy day in Baltimore...not weather to visit the Harbor area. I expected an average art museum, having never heard much about it. What a surprise. Works from all over the world, including Africa and Asia. I especially loved the works of Matisse, Picasso, and Monet. This museum has the most Matisse works I’ve seen anywhere. And don’t miss the sculpture garden!
The visionary Cone family (Etta and Claribell) gave us this gift of a museum. They collected the greats when they were unknown, struggling artists. Now, the museum is thinking about doing the same in the 21st C by off-loading some of its redundant pieces and including collected works by women and people of color. Imagine that! About time. Other art institutions should take their lead. Kudos.
Very nice. I was confused on some exhibits as they were over my head. It was very well styled. I will return when I'm more enlightened on art elements
Very nice art and easy to navigate the museum. Relatively easy to find parking either in the museum's lot or nearby on the street.
Seriously wonderful museum with a great eclectic collection from the Cone Collection to antiquities right down to the John Waters Restrooms! Just go.
Building was beautiful! Wide variety of artistic exhibits! Loved the Cone Collection & the Mark Bradford Collection. Definitely worth visiting!
Highly recommend the BMA. Wasn't sure what to expect from this museum located on the edge of the Johns Hopkins campus. Was truly impressed with the fantastic Cone collection donated to the museum by Baltimore natives the Cone sisters- amazing Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works including an entire room of Matisse. We went on a rainy afternoon and it was a delightful way to spend several hours. Also recommend Gertrude's restaurant located in the basement of the museum.
Beautiful museum with an amazing collection!
The Matisses are great, they also have impressive exhibitions like the amazing John Water a Baltimore son. Great museum shop and a very good restaurant (see my review)
Lovely free art museum with many galleries and exhibits. Had not been here in a few years. It is closed on Monday and Tuesday and open from 10 AM to 5 PM the other days. On Sunday parking on the street in front of the museum is free. On other days it is paid, hourly parking. There is a fee to park in the museum's lot.
I was interested in the American, contemporary and modern art. Do not miss the amazing Cone Collection in the modern art section. Two Baltimore sisters who collected hundreds of works by artists such as Matisse and Picasso in the early part of the 20th Century, which they donated to the Baltimore Museum of Art.
Photography for personal use is allowed, without flash. There are free lockers in the checkroom to store coats, backpacks, etc.
This place is a true gem of Baltimore and should not be missed.
This museum had a nice array of works, beautiful gift shop and restaurant, and best of all, free of charge.
This was our first time in Baltimore and first visit in this museum. We got there with no problem with Waze, and there was ample parking right near the entrance ($9 flat rate for the whole day). We were pleasantly surprised to realize that entrance to the museum is free! There are many exhibitions and rooms to see and walk through. There is something for everyone. There is also a nice gift shop, and a garden, where we had our lunch (which we took away from the nearest Chipotle). The museum has its own restaurant on location, which seems very nice.
It's hard to imagine the Baltimore Museum of Art with the collection of the Cone Sisters. But their unparalleled collection of art is the centerpiece of the museum, and it is the reason to make sure that one gets to the BMA. In addition there are special exhibits, a wonderful sculpture garden and a fine restaurant (and bar). If you're lucky, there's plenty of on street (metered) parking nearby, but the museum is free and just waiting for you to come in.
A huge museum new and old combined. What surprised me was the quality of the one collection. It has to be admired what tbse sisters collected. What a vision to buy van Gogh, Matisse, Pissarro and mord. What a quality collected to be viewed for free.
We enjoyed lunch at the restaurant of the museum. Friendly and proffessional staff. The foof (crabcake) was excellent!
Always enjoy a leisurely afternoon at the BMA. The special exhibits are always well done. "Visiting" the Cohn sisters Paris apartment is a must do.
I found the museum to be nice, low key, and enjoyable. It's a small collection in comparison to some of the neighboring cities, but you can spend a full day here if you wanted to. There are limited hours, but it is a free collection which I think is more important to note.
In November,I returned to this wonderful art museum and spent two delightful days there once more.I appreciated its fine Old Master paintings from the International Gothic Period to the 18th Century,including fine paintings by Giovanni Dal Ponte("Saint Anthony Abbott"),Biagio D'Antonio("Madonna and Child With Angel',fine Renaissance work),Hendrick Christian van Vliet("Interior of Protestant Church"),Bernardo Strozzi("Saint Apollonia",fine Tenebrism), Raphael,,Rembrandt("Titus,My Son"),Jean Chardin("Game of Knucklebones"),Hubert Robert("Water Jet"),and Francesco Guardi("Venice,Grand Canal With Maria Della Salute"),among others.I appreciated their fine 19th and 20th Century paintings their works by Johan Jongkind("Moonlight on Canal"),Claude Monet("Charing Cross Bridge"),Camille Pissarro("Strollers on Country Road"),Paul Signac("Quay at Clichy",awesome Pointillism),Marie Laurencin("Group of Artists"),Henri Matisse("Blue Nude"),("Pierced Rock"),Albert Marquet("Norwegian Landscape With Grimstad"),and Max Pechstein("Circus"),among others.At this free art museum beside the lovely campus of John Hopkins University,i appreciated fine Contemporary works by Olaffur Elliason("Flower Observatory"),Andy Warhol ("Physiological Diagram"),Alice Neel("Nancy and Her Twins"),Thomas Hirschorn("Chandelier With Hands"),and Felix Gonzalez Torres(water strands of beads hanging device),among others.I also relished their splendid array of ancient Roman Mosaics from Antioch("Dancing Satyr and Maened",2nd Century)("Europa and Bull",3rd Century).Kudos once more to a delightful art museum.
The Baltimore Museum of Art is not a comprehensive or great as New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art, Washington's National Gallery, the Philadelphia Museum of Art or the Art Institute of Chicago ... but it is a good medium sized art museum that possessed a fine selection of post-impressionist, fauvist, modernist paintings including a lot of Matisse, Cezanne, Picasso, etc. There is a darling little Van Gogh and a interesting portrait of the artist's teenage son by Rembrandt. Some good 18th Century American antiques. Check out the Museum store.
One of the best in the nation. A super well-balanced collection of American, European, and other art. Sme preserved interiors, and some real gems. We had been here when we first lived in the beltway and were coming back after a decade-plus away. This is a great place to introduce someone new to art or to renew your acquaintance with fine art. Very helpful staff, and a superb venue. Food and gift shops are very good as well. We were killing a few hours before a concert, and we plan to go back and finish it. Fave among many-- the Tifany display with the blue tiffany columns.
We enjoyed our visit to the museum very much ! Greeted at the door and what a wonderful selection of art to enjoy.
The show is beautiful especially the early Diebenkorns. The exhibit is beautifully mounted. The biggest issue was the accoustiguide which I thought was terrible. I guess you get what you pay for and this was free! The curators spoke too much about themselves and their ideas. Half way through, I decided just to read to labels and enjoy the rest of the show which I did. The Matisse pieces are also beautiful. It would have been interesting to learn why the Russians don't lend paintings when so many others do. They had small photos of work from Russia put it would have been wonderful to see them larger. As someone who goes to many exhibits, this one had many plusses but many minuses also.
The permanent collections are spectacular. The Cone sisters collection especially.
We spent about 3 hrs there. The museum was free parking cost $7 in the museum lot.
I consider it a spectacular bargain.
Living in SF, I'm used to museums packed with exhibits, audio tours and lots of tourists. This museum felt in many ways like Baltimore's equivalent - beautiful temporary exhibits, great unique collections, halls connected by adjoining rooms full of paintings, marble, and displays. There truly was something for everyone here. Afterwards, we walked around the gardens outside, sat on a bench and enjoyed the sunshine. The staff was wonderful and informative, no room felt overcrowded, and the exhibits were very well arranged. I'd definitely return again!
First class art museum, second in the city. Collection is not big, but some precious things are there. Really, must see. Not forget that they are closed Mon and Tue
Near Johns Hopkins U . Small, free museum but good on a cold day. Some eclectic art with looking at.
Go for the Cone Collection of Impressionists alone. There is a wonderful outdoor sculpture collection and an excellent restaurant called Gertrude’s that overlooks it.
The museum was light and bright. Had a very clean feel to it. I didn't have the opportunity to spend many hours there. You need about 3-4 hours to do it justice. Nicely curated works. The hidden highlight was the museum restaurant which is why we were rushed through the exhibits. I had a fantastic gf. Meal. It was an outstanding meal like I never had in before.
So for great trip to this museum was had by all.
My daughter went for a fun day to the museum. Although they did have displays of Matisse and some Van Gogh, I was not overwhelmed by the displays. It was free as I remember and the lunch was remarkable for a museum.
Years ago my husband and I came to a showing of Degas and his ballerinas. It was awesome. I have not seen anything posted like that in a while.
I have been to many museums around the country and I feel they offer more to their patrons. Philadelphia is always bringing new shows in that are interesting. I won't compare to MOMA. I just came back from a beautiful show about the Summer of Love in San Francisco.
Washington has Yoko Ono's Tree of Peace.
I believe Baltimore could compete on this level. I waited in lines for thirty minutes sometimes to see the shows at these other locations.
We need to be more creative.
From the peaceful sculpture garden to the galleries, we love the BMA's shows, programs and special events!
The BMA is bigger than I expected based on the floor plan, but still small enough that it's not overwhelming. It has a great collection of art, from ancient mosaics to an impressive post-impressionist collection. Parking is easy, and handicapped parking is free. Highly recommended.
This is a beautiful building. The collections are worth seeing. Staff are pleasant and helpful. It has a fantastic Matisse collection and post-impressionist section.Also, worth seeing are the American portraits and Syrian mosaics. It has an excellent shop and a white tablecloth restaurant. Well worth a visit.
A self-sustaining museum with a respectable holding of most major art schools is rare. Baltimore is fortunate to have a museum with world-class breadth. Better, the curators use that breadth to mount small, highly focused temporary exhibits. Now, for example, they have a display of posters of the secession movement centered in early 1900s Vienna. Ten posters tell enough of the story to inform the viewer about the movement and encourage that visitor to investigate further. You find you don't like or care about secessionism? Fine, you have not invested a lot of time. But carefully curated exhibits teach and open possibilities. With its rich holdings, the BMA is able to introduce patrons to many topics.
And the most wonderful surprise? The museum is free, so you can return again and again to soak up these cultural tidbits a little at a time.
There is a special exhibition at the museum about the artists Henri Matisse and Richard Diebenkorn going on until January 29. It is quite popular and the museum is extending its hours to accommodate the demand.
The main theme of the exhibit is that the younger artist, Diebenkorn, was inspired and greatly influenced by the works of the older Matisse and sought out his paintings in various venues, such as private homes and museum exhibitions. He used various subject matters Matisse used and copied them, although he added his own twist in his own works. The curators have placed works of the two artists side by side in the exhibition to show how Diebenkorn achieved this.
The Baltimore museum also has quite an extensive collection Matisse paintings in its Cone Sisters permanent collection, aside from this special exhibition. The mosaics of Antioch and other permanent paintings and sculptures are worth checking out too.
Every art lover and art historian should try to catch this exhibition on Matisse Diebenkorn before it ends and travels to San Francisco next.
Photos were taken by Florence T.
Was in Baltimore on Mon/Tues... which is when the BAM is closed in off season...but went for 2 hrs on Wednesday, to see the Matisse/Diebenkorn exhibit. (Permanent collection is free; pay to see the special exhibit.) The M-D exhibit was extremely well curated - paintings were hung to show influence and parallel thinking, and the audio narrative (provided free with ticket purchase) was excellent and easy to operate. A world class exhibit, which the BAM curators were responsible for mounting. (It will travel.) Though we were short of time, we decided to look at the permanent collection as well - and it is astounding. Plenty of European masters (Picasso, Sisely, Matisse, etc, etc), but a surprisingly good contemporary art display, worth a visit on its on. Plenty of inexpensive parking nearby (on street, at least in November), and inviting architecture made this all around a thoroughly enjoyable outing. They also seemed to have a good kids program, Would have spent longer had we not had to hit the road. Coming from Boston, I had a frame of reference for what is good in a museum - the BAM certainly measured up and exceeded expectations.
Upon selling 7 pieces of bequeathed art, and replacing exhibit space with bizzare and disturbing items including an exhibit with animal skulls and dried twigs and grasses (see picture)
Upon entering the European collection, one is struck by a spaces devoid of anything of note.
However most glaringly, the Modern Art collection has suffered the greatest loss since the exhibit space opened in the 1980s. The Andy Warhol collection was sold off to Pittsburg and replaced with "local artists". At a place where art was superb, it seemingly has been turned into a collection of kitsch. Andy Warhol? Jackson Pollack? Nope, the BMA has this (see pictures) Save your time and go elsewhere. You'll be glad you did.
Looking at the facade, I thought it was a small museum compared to the museums in DC. But it has so much to offer. I particularly loved the Matisse collection. Would have walked through the sculpture garden but it was closed because the rain the previous day made the walking paths slippery. Contented myself with peeking through the iron bannisters. I'll definitely be visiting again when I'm in the area.
It's free and there is a bag check. Beautiful space worth a visit. Afterwards take a walk around the sculpture garden and then check out the area near Hopkins.
The BMA is a treasure trove of art from all eras and locations. Standouts in the collection stem largely from the Cone Sisters of Bolton Hill Baltimore, who had the good fortune to be in Paris in the heyday of impressionism. Their large collection forms the core of one of the finest batches of Matisse to be found anywhere, including France.
Don't neglect the other galleries, however, including art of Asia and Africa, and a slew of 17th and 18th century works. Sculpture and mosaics from Greece and Rome up to Moore and Giacometti, and an outdoor sculpture garden complete the picture.
The Museum cafe is Gertrudes, one of Baltimore's fine dining experiences.
If you can name an influential artist, there is a good chance they have a piece here. Too many to even list here. The main disappointment, is how many people will likely never visit because of how poorly this incredible museum is marketed to the public. I mean, the website tells you almost nothing about what is there, and they have produced ZERO organic marketing thru travel blogs or websites. With an amazing collection like this, in such a beautiful building, it should be shouted from the rooftops. It is as good as anything you would see in DC in my opinion.
An older African American man with light blue eyes who has been with the museum for almost 20 years gave me a personal tour. He's a security guard/docent for the museum. He had a plethora of knowledge about the museum! He walked me around and made sure I didn't miss a thing and I'm so glad he did. The museum is fairly big and it is easy to miss a few things. They have everything there that you could imagine. Very classic portrait paintings and sculptures to super modern and revolutionary pieces. I've traveled to several different countries and I've been to a lot of different museums. But I can say without a doubt that this was was my favorite art museum experience ever. Don't go to Baltimore without making sure to take a visit. It's also a special treat that it's free :)
The Walters may be more known, but it's always fun to catch all of the museums. Afterall, who goes everyday.
A pretty amazing collection of art from various places and artists. European section has a large collection of Matisse, as well as a few Monet, Picasso and Van Gogh.
One drawback is only 1 eating facility on site - a nice classy-looking restaurant, but don't try eating there on weekends, without a reservation.
Great museum. Didn't give it 5 stars because many rooms were closed off. We enjoyed the Cone sisters exhibit. This museum has a great number of paintings by Matisse. It is worth a visit.
I was very happy to visit this museum, since I wanted some place to go to in Baltimore and I wasn't sure of where to go. It turns out they have a lovely Impressionistic collection, which I really like. And they have a nice African collection as well. I went to the gift shop hoping to find some African masks for sale but there were none....However, one of the clerks made a recommendation that changed my life. She recommended SanKofa.....and boy what a find!!!! Jim is an expert in African history and culture and I met him, bought Masks and intend to return.
Popular Attraction Reviews
When it comes to places to visit for the pleasures of viewing art collections, Baltimore is certainly not high on the lists of tourists, and in particular, foreign travelers, but should you find yourself in Maryland with a spare afternoon, the European and Modern collections here are surprisingly robust.
There is a beautiful Rembrandt portrait of his son Titus that would be the highlight of any collection, several wonderful Venetian works and a strong showing of Dutch Masters. More surprisingly, the Cone sisters, doyennes of Baltimore society at the turn of the century, amassed a spectacular collection of what was then “contemporary” art: Monet, Signac, Seurat and onwards through Matisse including some beloved works by Van Gogh and Picasso. The museum is the number one destination in the city, by my lights.