The art of the most preeminent artists from around the world can be found in museums in the United States. Whether you prefer the beauty of baroque art or have an affinity for abstract creations, you may be surprised at the places where you can find classic paintings and works by new artists. The best museums are often built within areas that have an otherwise strong artistic culture so they may also be located in the best places to live in the country. These must-see museums will delight any art lover.
National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.
Created as a present to all Americans, the National Gallery of Art has a large, beautiful campus with a neoclassical primary building and a Sculpture Garden that spans more than six acres. This popular museum offers free admission along with an extraordinarily impressive collection that includes original artwork by Vincent Van Gogh, Mary Cassatt, William Blake, Rembrandt, and Jasper Johns. Fun fact: The only painting by Leonardo da Vinci in North America is located in the National Gallery of Art.
Getty Museum in Los Angeles, California
Set upon a gorgeous hilltop perch that provides visitors with beautiful views of nature along with the artwork on display, the Getty Museum is located in the upscale Brentwood area of Los Angeles. Over a billion dollars went into the creation of this museum, yet admission is always free. It hosts a wide variety of special events throughout the year, including family festivals and Saturday Nights at the Getty.
Museum of Fine Arts Boston in Boston, Massachusetts
While many travelers flock to Boston to check out the original Cheers bar where everybody knows your name, residents and tourists alike can appreciate the exquisite Museum of Fine Arts Boston. It was first established in 1870 and has been in its current location since the early 1900s.
The vast collections at this beloved museum range from fine art to photographs to musical instruments. It also displays artistic jewelry, textiles, and fashion art. Among the artists whose work is on display the Museum of Fine Arts Boston are John Singleton Copley, Mary Cassatt, and John Singer Sargent.
Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts in St. Louis, Missouri
People flock to the Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts in St. Louis for both its distinct architecture and the artwork that it contains. Works of art are typically only displayed on a temporary basis at this museum, but artists with work in its collection include Ellsworth Kelly and Richard Serra. It hosts community programs that aim to engage young people with art and help make art accessible to all.
Keep an open mind when it comes to exploring art museums. You may find an original work of Van Gogh in an out-of-the-way museum in a smaller city, or you may fall in love with a painting by a brand new artist in a big city like New York or Los Angeles. It’s worthwhile to consider the nearby museums whether you’re planning a move or your next vacation.
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