All contemporary art museums to visit in Philadelphia

Experience the cutting-edge world of contemporary art at 16 museums in Philadelphia. These museums showcase works by modern artists, exploring current themes and innovative techniques.

Are you a fan of contemporary art? These are the best contemporary art museums in Philadelphia:

  1. Philadelphia Museum of Art1

    Philadelphia Museum of Art

     Philadelphia, PA
    The Philadelphia Museum of Art, the largest art museum in Philadelphia, is a hub of diverse art collections from various periods and regions including Europe, America, and Asia. The museum welcomes approximately 800,000 visitors each year, making it a popular destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.
  2. Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts2

    Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts

     Philadelphia, PA
    The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) holds the distinction of being the oldest art museum and art school in the United States. It is located in the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and was founded in 1805. This makes it a significant landmark in the history of American art and education.
  3. Barnes Foundation3

    Barnes Foundation

     Philadelphia, PA
    The Barnes Foundation is a unique combination of an art museum and school, situated at 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was originally located in Lower Merion, a suburb of Philadelphia, until May 2012 when it moved to its current location. The foundation was established by Albert C. Barnes, a pharmaceutical entrepreneur who amassed a fortune from the invention of an antiseptic in 1907.
  4. Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center4

    Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center

     Philadelphia, PA
    The Shofuso Japanese House and Garden is a unique cultural landmark in Philadelphia. It is a traditional 17th-century Japanese-style house and garden, located in the scenic Fairmount Park. The site was originally part of the 1876 World's Fair, adding a historical significance to its charm. Visitors can explore the traditional Japanese architecture and the serene garden, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
  5. Institute of Contemporary Art5

    Institute of Contemporary Art

     Philadelphia, PA
    The Institute of Contemporary Art, also known as ICA, is a contemporary art museum situated in Philadelphia. It is closely associated with the University of Pennsylvania and is conveniently located on its campus. This makes it easily accessible for visitors who are exploring the university or the surrounding area.
  6. Woodmere Art Museum6

    Woodmere Art Museum

     Philadelphia, PA
    The Woodmere Art Museum is situated in the Chestnut Hill section of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique cultural experience in a historic part of the city. The museum is a great place to explore for those interested in art, history, and architecture.
  7. Fleisher Art Memorial7

    Fleisher Art Memorial

     Philadelphia, PA
    The Samuel S. Fleisher Art Memorial, located in the Bella Vista neighborhood of South Philadelphia, is a unique complex of four buildings. These include the former Church of the Evangelists and St. Martin's College for Indigent Boys. The site is steeped in history and offers a unique blend of architectural styles, reflecting its diverse past.
  8. The Fabric Workshop and Museum8

    The Fabric Workshop and Museum

     Philadelphia, PA
    The Fabric Workshop and Museum, situated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a non-profit arts organization. Its primary focus is on the creation of new work, utilizing new materials and media, in collaboration with emerging and recognized artists both nationally and internationally. This unique approach to art creation makes the museum a fascinating destination for those interested in contemporary art and the creative process.
  9. Philadelphia's Magic Gardens9

    Philadelphia's Magic Gardens

     Philadelphia, PA
    Philadelphia's Magic Gardens is a unique non-profit organization, folk art environment, and gallery space located on South Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This distinctive space offers a blend of art, history, and community, providing a unique cultural experience for visitors.
  10. Painted Bride10

    Painted Bride

     Philadelphia, PA
    The Painted Bride Art Center, also known as The Bride, is a non-profit arts and culture organization. It is situated at 5212 Market Street in the West Philadelphia neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The organization is known for bringing together artists, audiences, and communities to push the boundaries of how art is created and experienced.
  11. Philadelphia Art Alliance at University of the Arts11

    Philadelphia Art Alliance at University of the Arts

     Philadelphia, PA
    The Philadelphia Art Alliance at University of the Arts is a multidisciplinary arts center situated in the Rittenhouse Square neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It offers a diverse range of visual, literary, and performing arts, making it a vibrant hub for art enthusiasts.
  12. The Print Center12

    The Print Center

     Philadelphia, PA
    The Print Center, originally known as The Print Club, is a nonprofit gallery situated in Rittenhouse Square in Philadelphia. The gallery's mission is to encourage the growth and understanding of photography and printmaking as vital contemporary arts through exhibitions, publications, and educational programs.
  13. National Liberty Museum13

    National Liberty Museum

     Philadelphia, PA
    The National Liberty Museum is situated at 321 Chestnut Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. This location is easily accessible and is in the heart of the city, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring Philadelphia.
  14. Philadelphia Museum of Jewish Art14

    Philadelphia Museum of Jewish Art

     Philadelphia, PA
    The Philadelphia Museum of Jewish Art, established in 1975, is situated within the historic Congregation Rodeph Shalom in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This location not only provides a unique setting for the museum but also adds a layer of historical significance to the overall experience of the visitors.
  15. 15

    Rosenwald-wolf Gallery

     Philadelphia, PA
    Displays work of students of the University of Art. Get carried away by the art of the youngest generation!
  16. 16

    La Salle University Art Museum

     Philadelphia, PA
    The museum houses six galleries, each showcasing a variety of art. The collections span from the Renaissance to the present and include both European and American art. This wide range of art periods and styles provides a comprehensive overview of art history.