Exploring the Milwaukee Art Museum: Hours and Visitor Information

Welcome to the Milwaukee Art Museum! If you’re looking to explore one of the premier art museums in the Midwest, you’ve come to the right place. Our museum showcases more than 30,000 works of art from ancient times to contemporary, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and decorative arts. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply seeking a culturally enriching experience, we are thrilled to have you as a visitor. Here is some essential information you’ll need to know before your visit.

Milwaukee Art Museum Hours

If you’re a fan of art and culture, a visit to the Milwaukee Art Museum is a must-do activity when you’re in the city. This extraordinary museum is a testament to creativity and imagination, and it boasts a collection that will take your breath away. Not only is the Milwaukee Art Museum filled with awe-inspiring works of art, but it is situated in a stunning location as well, with over 25,000 square feet of gallery space and a stunning view of Lake Michigan. Here is a guide to help you plan your visit to the Milwaukee Art Museum with regards to its operating hours.

Overview of Milwaukee Art Museum

The Milwaukee Art Museum is a world-renowned institution that is among the largest art museums in the United States. It was opened in 1888 and features over 30,000 works of art that span over 5,000 years. In the museum, you’ll find ancient artifacts, modern artworks, and stunning pieces from every corner of the globe. Even the building itself is a work of art – the Milwaukee Art Museum features a signature “wings” design that welcomes visitors with impressive architecture and natural light.

Regular Hours of Operation

The Milwaukee Art Museum is open six days a week, making it easy to plan your visit. However, it is always important to check the museum’s official website for any updates on hours of operation. Here are the regular opening and closing hours of the Milwaukee Art Museum, including days of the week:

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 10:00am – 5:00pm
  • Wednesday: 10:00am – 5:00pm
  • Thursday: 10:00am – 8:00pm
  • Friday: 10:00am – 5:00pm
  • Saturday: 10:00am – 5:00pm
  • Sunday: Noon – 5:00pm

Note that the Milwaukee Art Museum is closed on select holidays, including New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. On some holidays, the museum operates on limited hours, so it is best to check with the museum directly for any changes to their regular operating schedule.

Extended Hours and Special Events

The Milwaukee Art Museum is a hub for culture and creativity, and they offer every opportunity for the public to enjoy the museum in different ways. In addition to their regular hours of operation, the museum offers extended hours on certain days of the week, including:

  • Thursday: 10:00am – 8:00pm

The museum also holds numerous special events throughout the year, including after-hours exhibitions, holiday hours, and member-exclusive events. During the summer months, the museum often stays open until 8:00pm on Fridays, so you can take in some of the stunning art collections in the early evening hours. Some of the other special events held by the museum include lectures, workshops, and art competitions. These events are designed to showcase the unique history and cultural significance of the Milwaukee Art Museum.

In conclusion, the Milwaukee Art Museum is a fantastic cultural institution, and its routine and extended hours are designed to encourage visitors to take their time exploring the fascinating collections on display. Whether you’re in the city for a short time or a long stay, take some time to visit the Milwaukee Art Museum – it is an unforgettable experience you won’t regret.

Milwaukee Art Museum Hours

The Milwaukee Art Museum is a popular destination for art enthusiasts in the Midwest. If you are planning a visit to this world-class museum, it’s important to know its business hours to make the most of your trip.

Operating Hours

The Milwaukee Art Museum is open every day except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Its operating hours are as follows:

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 10 AM – 5 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM – 5 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM – 8 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM – 5 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM – 5 PM
  • Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM

Please note that the museum can have different hours for holidays, special events, and other occasions. Be sure to check their official website for updated information before your visit.

Admission Fees and Discounts

Before you plan your visit to the Milwaukee Art Museum, it’s important to know how much it will cost. Here’s what you need to know about admission fees and discounts:

General Admission Fees

The general admission fees for the Milwaukee Art Museum are as follows:

  • Adults: $19
  • Seniors (65+), students with ID, and active military: $17
  • Children under 12: Free (must be accompanied by an adult)

If you are visiting with a group of 10 or more, you can get a discounted group rate of $15 per person. There are also package deals available that include admission to other local attractions, such as the Harley-Davidson Museum and the Discovery World Science and Technology Museum.

Discounted Admission Options

The Milwaukee Art Museum offers various types of discounted admission to certain groups of visitors, including:

  • Senior citizens (65+)
  • College students with ID
  • Military personnel (both active and retired)

To receive discounted admission, you must present a valid ID at the ticket desk. Discounts cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions.

Free Admission Days

Although general admission can be costly, there are several days throughout the year when you can visit the Milwaukee Art Museum for free. These free admission days include:

  • First Thursdays of the month, from 10 AM to 8 PM
  • Kohls Art Generation Family Sundays, which occur on the first Sunday of each month from 10 AM to 4 PM
  • American Alliance of Museums’ Art Museum Day, which is on May 18th of each year
  • Some holidays and special events
  • Additionally, community event days offer free access to specific groups, such as Milwaukee County residents, active military personnel and their families, and local school groups. Check the museum’s website for the latest information on free admission opportunities.

    Plan your visit to the Milwaukee Art Museum by checking its operating hours and admission fees beforehand. It’s always best to review their official website for the latest updates and schedules to make sure your visit goes as smoothly as possible.

    Tours and Programs

    Visiting a museum is not only an opportunity to appreciate art, but also to learn and engage with the history and stories behind it. That’s why the Milwaukee Art Museum goes beyond just displaying art pieces, and offers a variety of tours and programs for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

    Audio and Guided Tours

    Whether you are a seasoned art enthusiast or a curious first-time visitor, the Milwaukee Art Museum has audio and guided tours that can enhance your experience. The audio tours are available in several languages, and can be accessed through your personal device or rented devices for a small fee. With the audio tour, you can explore the museum at your own pace, and listen to informative and entertaining commentary on the artworks on display.

    If you prefer a more interactive approach, or want to learn more about specific artwork or themes, the guided tours might be the perfect fit for you. Led by knowledgeable and friendly docents, the guided tours can take you through selected exhibitions or parts of the museum, and can be customized based on your interests and preferences. There are guided tours available for both adults and families, so everyone can find a tour that suits their needs.

    Programs for Adults and Children

    The Milwaukee Art Museum believes that art education is essential to nurturing creativity, empathy, and critical thinking. That’s why they offer a wide range of educational programs designed for visitors of all ages, from youths to adults.

    For the younger visitors, the museum has hands-on activities and programs that encourage them to explore art in a fun and engaging way. From storytime and art making workshops to family tours and summer camps, the programs for children are designed to spark their curiosity and inspire their creativity.

    Adults can also benefit from the educational programs offered at the museum. From lectures and workshops to artist talks and book clubs, there are plenty of opportunities for adults to deepen their understanding of art and connect with other art enthusiasts. Some of the programs even offer continuing education credits for teachers and professionals.

    Accessibility Services

    The Milwaukee Art Museum is committed to making their exhibitions and programs accessible to all visitors. They offer a variety of accessibility services to ensure that everyone can enjoy the museum’s collections and activities.

    For visitors with mobility issues, the museum offers wheelchair and stroller rentals, and has plenty of elevators and ramps throughout the building. For visitors with sensory sensitivities, there are sensory-friendly experiences available upon request, such as low-light settings and sound-reducing headphones. For visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing, there are sign language interpretation services available for select programs and tours.

    Visitors can also request special accommodations for their visit, such as audio-described tours or touch tours. The museum’s accessibility services are continuously improving, and they welcome feedback and suggestions from visitors.

    In conclusion, the Milwaukee Art Museum offers much more than a world-class art collection. With their tours and programs, they aim to provide visitors with a meaningful and enriching experience that goes beyond just looking at art. Whether you are a family with young children, a teacher looking for professional development opportunities, or someone with accessibility needs, the museum has something for you.

    Milwaukee Art Museum Hours


    The Milwaukee Art Museum is a breathtaking work of art, both inside and out. The museum’s collection spans from ancient art to contemporary pieces, and it is a must-visit destination for art lovers in Milwaukee. To make the most out of your visit to the museum, it is important to know the visiting hours, the directions to the museum, parking options, and various on-site amenities available.

    Visitor Information

    The Milwaukee Art Museum is located at 700 N. Art Museum Dr., Milwaukee, WI, 53202. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 5pm and Thursday from 10am to 8pm. It is closed on Mondays (except for Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Memorial Day). The museum is also closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. The admission fee for adults is $19, for students and seniors, it is $17, and children under 12 have free admission.

    Directions and Parking

    The Milwaukee Art Museum is located on Lake Michigan and is easily accessible by public transport, bike, or car. Visitors can take the Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) to get to the museum. The MCTS offers several bus routes that go to the museum. Biking to the museum is also a popular option, and the museum has bike racks for visitors to lock their bikes. The museum also has paid parking available in the underground parking garage or surface lot. The parking rates in the underground parking garage are $8 for up to 1 hour, $12 for 1-2 hours, $15 for 2-3 hours, and $20 for over 3 hours. The surface lot parking rates are $8 for up to 1 hour, $12 for 1-2 hours, and $15 for over 2 hours.

    On-Site Amenities

    The Milwaukee Art Museum has several amenities on-site to make the visitor’s experience more comfortable and enjoyable. The museum has cafes and restaurants, including Cafe Calatrava and Windhover Coffee, where visitors can stop for a quick snack or a meal. The museum also has a Museum Store, which offers a wide range of unique gifts, books, and art pieces. The museum store is perfect for finding souvenirs or gifts to take home. The museum also has several rest areas available throughout the museum for visitors to relax and rejuvenate.

    Group Visits

    If you are planning a group visit to the Milwaukee Art Museum, you are in for a treat. The museum offers group discounts and guided tours for groups of 10 or more visitors. To make a reservation for a group tour, call the museum’s reservation line at (414) 224-3842, or email them at reservations@mam.org. The museum also offers special event planning for corporate events, weddings, and other private events. To plan an event at the museum, contact the Private Events Department at (414) 224-3284.

    In conclusion, visiting the Milwaukee Art Museum is a must-do activity in Milwaukee. Knowing the visiting hours, the directions and parking options, the on-site amenities, and the information about group visits can make the trip to the museum easier and more enjoyable. So, plan your visit today and get ready to be amazed by the stunning art collection at the Milwaukee Art Museum.

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