Best Art Museums In The US | Updated Rankings 2023

1. Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City

Metropolitan Museum of Art
Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, located in New York City, is one of the best art museums in the US. It houses a vast collection of artworks from various cultures and time periods. You can explore beautiful paintings, sculptures, ancient artifacts, and even costumes and accessories from around the world.

2. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), New York City

The Museum of Modern Art, also known as MoMA, is located in New York City and is considered one of the best art museums in the US. It focuses on contemporary and modern art, showcasing innovative and thought-provoking works by renowned artists. You can see paintings, sculptures, photographs, and even film exhibitions that push the boundaries of artistic expression.

3. Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia Museum of Art
Philadelphia Museum of Art

The Philadelphia Museum of Art, located in Philadelphia, PA, is one of the best art museums in the US. It features an extensive collection of artworks spanning different periods and styles. From ancient treasures to contemporary masterpieces, you can immerse yourself in the world of art through paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and more.

4. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art, or LACMA, is situated in Los Angeles, CA, and is renowned as one of the best art museums in the US. It offers a diverse collection of artworks representing various cultures and artistic movements. With its vast range of exhibitions and programs, LACMA provides visitors with an enriching and immersive art experience.

5. The Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago, IL

The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago, located in Chicago, IL, is widely recognized as one of the best art museums in the US. It houses an extensive collection of artworks from around the world, including iconic masterpieces. From Renaissance art to contemporary installations, you can explore a rich tapestry of artistic expressions and engage with renowned works that have shaped the art world.

6. National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.

National Gallery of Art
National Gallery of Art

The National Gallery of Art, situated in Washington, D.C., is considered one of the best art museums in the US. It boasts an impressive collection of European and American artworks spanning centuries. With paintings, sculptures, prints, and photographs, the museum offers visitors a chance to appreciate the beauty and significance of art through the ages.

7. Museum of Fine Arts (MFA), Boston, MA

Museum of Fine Arts (MFA)
Museum of Fine Arts (MFA)

The Museum of Fine Arts, located in Boston, MA, is among the best art museums in the US. It houses a diverse collection of artworks, ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary installations. With its extensive exhibitions and educational programs, the MFA provides visitors with a comprehensive understanding of art history and appreciation.

8. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), San Francisco, CA

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)

The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, or SFMOMA, is situated in San Francisco, CA, and is considered one of the best art museums in the US. It showcases a remarkable collection of modern and contemporary artworks. From paintings and sculptures to media arts and photography, SFMOMA presents thought-provoking works that reflect the ever-evolving nature of art.

9. Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit, MI

Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit, MI

The Detroit Institute of Arts, located in Detroit, MI, is renowned as one of the best art museums in the US. It houses an extensive collection of artworks from around the world, spanning different time periods and artistic styles. Visitors can explore paintings, sculptures, textiles, and other art forms that provide insights into diverse cultures and artistic movements.

10. Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH

Cleveland Museum of Art
Cleveland Museum of Art

The Cleveland Museum of Art, located in Cleveland, OH, is considered one of the best art museums in the US. It offers a comprehensive collection of artworks from various regions and time periods. With its impressive displays of paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and more, the museum provides visitors with a rich and engaging artistic experience.

11. Getty Center, Los Angeles, CA

The Getty Center, situated in Los Angeles, CA, is among the best art museums in the US. It is known for its stunning architecture and picturesque views, as well as its impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. With its commitment to scholarship and public access, the Getty Center offers a unique and enlightening art experience.

12. The Whitney Museum of American Art, New York City

The Whitney Museum of American Art, located in New York City, is one of the best art museums in the US. It specializes in American art and showcases a wide range of contemporary works. From paintings and sculptures to video installations and performance art, the Whitney Museum celebrates the diversity and innovation of American artists.

13. Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington, D.C.

The Smithsonian American Art Museum, situated in Washington, D.C., is considered one of the best art museums in the US. It houses an extensive collection of American artworks, including paintings, sculptures, folk art, and new media. With its diverse exhibitions and educational programs, the museum offers visitors a deeper understanding of the rich artistic heritage of the United States.

14. Walker Art Center, Minneapolis, MN

The Walker Art Center, located in Minneapolis, MN, is renowned as one of the best art museums in the US. It showcases contemporary art in various forms, including visual arts, performing arts, and design. With its thought-provoking exhibitions and innovative programming, the Walker Art Center provides visitors with a dynamic and immersive artistic experience.