These Are The Best Art Museums In Minnesota
Explore Minnesota’s art scene, from Twin Cities treasures to hidden gems all around the state. These are the best art museums in Minnesota.
Winona, Minnesota – Minnesota is home to incredible art collections that span centuries, from ancient times to today. From well-known museums in the Twin Cities to hidden gems in greater Minnesota, you’ll find art that truly shines. So, plan your next adventure around these must-visit museums!
Art Museums in Minneapolis-St. Paul
In south Minneapolis, you’ll find the Minneapolis Institute of Art, lovingly known as Mia. It’s like a treasure trove with over 80,000 objects from 5,000 years of history. Best part? Admission is free, and they have cool special exhibits too!
Heading south, you’ll discover The Museum of Russian Art, the only museum in North America dedicated to Russian art. It’s housed in a renovated church and funeral home, making it quite unique.
Don’t miss the Walker Art Center, a global star in contemporary art. Right next door is the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, a massive urban sculpture park.
On the University of Minnesota campus, you’ll find the stunning Weisman Art Museum designed by Frank Gehry. It’s not just about the building; they’ve got amazing exhibits, from modern American art to ceramics and more. The Goldstein Museum of Design is a hidden gem with a vast collection, including ceramics and designer fashions.
Art Museums in Southern Minnesota
Visit Winona to explore the Minnesota Marine Art Museum. It’s a treasure trove of Impressionist and Hudson River art, featuring works by Van Gogh, Monet, and more. You’ll also find wooden marine folk sculptures here.
In New Ulm, step into the Wanda Gag House, the childhood home of the famous children’s author and illustrator. You’ll see her lithographs, illustrations, and books.
Head to Rochester to check out the Rochester Art Center, where contemporary art takes center stage in a stunning building.
Art Museums in Northeast Minnesota
Up in Duluth, the Tweed Museum of Art at the University of Minnesota-Duluth has an awesome collection from around the world. They even have a unique collection of “Mountie” paintings commissioned by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Force.
Photography lovers, you’ll want to visit the Brandenburg Gallery in Ely, filled with amazing images by National Geographic photographer Jim Brandenburg.
Art Museums in Central Minnesota
Aitkin is where you can dive into the art of Francis Lee Jaques. His art graces famous museums, and now you can explore it at the Jaques Art Center in a charming former Carnegie Library.
In Collegeville, St. John’s University houses the Hill Museum & Manuscript Library. You can see selected folios from “The Saint John’s Bible” and other rare exhibits.
Art Museums in Northwest Minnesota
Moorhead’s Rourke Art Gallery + Museum is a hidden gem with a vast collection of contemporary art, including works by local legends and international stars like Andy Warhol.
Park Rapids is home to the Nemeth Art Center, displaying European paintings from the 15th-19th centuries. It’s quite the historical journey!
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So, there you have it – an art-filled adventure awaits in Minnesota. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, these museums have something for everyone. Happy exploring!