MAR - Rio Art Museum, Rio de Janeiro - A building with a lot of stairs painted on it
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MAR - Rio Art Museum Rio de Janeiro

4.7
·21k reviews·, Brazil

A vibrant museum showcasing interactive Brazilian art within a stunning architectural complex, offering bay views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more immersive

CrowdLow
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MAR - Rio Art Museum, Rio de Janeiro - A building with a lot of stairs painted on it

MAR - Rio Art Museum Rio de Janeiro

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more immersive

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant museum showcasing interactive Brazilian art within a stunning architectural complex, offering bay views.

4.7
(21k reviews)

"Beautiful, Interactive, and So Worth It! This museum was absolutely beautiful and full of life."

Vertical photo
TIP

💳 Card Only Payments

The museum exclusively accepts card payments for tickets. Be prepared!

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Surroundings

Don't miss the nearby Museum of Tomorrow and the vibrant Praça Mauá area.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Brazilian Art

Interactive Brazilian Art

Engage with diverse art forms, from sculptures to music, that vividly showcase Brazilian culture.

Stunning Waterfront Views

Stunning Waterfront Views

Enjoy breathtaking panoramas of Guanabara Bay and the Museum of Tomorrow.

Architectural Marvel

Architectural Marvel

Explore the unique blend of historic and modern architecture that houses the museum's collections.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save Time

Lines can get long, especially for popular exhibits. Consider visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours. Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to avoid queues and potential scams.TikTok

Embrace the Interactive Experience

MAR is known for its engaging and interactive exhibits that bring Brazilian culture to life. Be prepared to touch, listen, and immerse yourself in the art and history.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Lines may shorten
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

pro tip: if the lines are huge consider just walking around and then going to jardim botanico instead cause it will be super packed inside and you won’t even have space to move. otherwise BEAUTIFUL💜 #traveltiktok #riodejaneiro #riodejaneirotrip #brazil🇧🇷 #braziltravel #braziltraveltips #braziltiktok #brasil #traveltok #travellife
@sunvole
148K likes • 825.9K views

💳 Card Only Payments

The museum exclusively accepts card payments for tickets. Be prepared! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Surroundings

Don't miss the nearby Museum of Tomorrow and the vibrant Praça Mauá area. Reddit

One of the most beautiful libraries you will ever visit! #fyp #rio #brasil #brazil #riodejaneiro #explore #traveltok #royalportuguesereadingroom #realgabineteportuguēsdeleitura #library #amazingarchitecture #thingstodo #tourism #visitbrazil #travelvlog
@sincerelyadwoa
74.8K likes • 410.4K views
Luciano Magno as a reporter for a day. For international audiences and those from other Brazilian states, here's an interesting record of yesterday's itinerary of Rio de Janeiro, from Praça Mauá, where the Rio Art Museum (MAR) is located, to the Brazilian Caricature Museum (at 22 Primeiro de Março Street), in the dead of night. Passing by the Rio Art Museum (MAR), the Museum of Tomorrow (Museu do ...
museudacaricatura
11 likes • 429 views

📸 Capture the Views

The waterfront location offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially of the Museum of Tomorrow. TikTok

⏳ Check Exhibit Status

Some floors or exhibits might be closed, so check in advance if possible. Reddit

CARREFOUR DE L’ART AFRO-BRÉSILIEN | Encruzilhadas da Arte Afro-Brasileira 💥 📍CENTRO CULTURAL BANCO DO BRASIL, RIO DE JANEIRO • Du 16 Novembre 2024 au 17 Février 2025 • Rua Primeiro de Março, 66, Rio de Janeiro • Entrée libre • Du mercredi au lundi, de 9h à 20h @ccbbbrasilia @ccbbrj #expositionwhitewalls #expositionbresil #art #ccbbriodejaneiro #ccbbrasil #whitewallsexposition
arnaud_cabri_wiltzer
793 likes • 33K views

Tips

from all over the internet

💳 Card Only Payments

The museum exclusively accepts card payments for tickets. Be prepared! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Surroundings

Don't miss the nearby Museum of Tomorrow and the vibrant Praça Mauá area. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The waterfront location offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially of the Museum of Tomorrow. TikTok

⏳ Check Exhibit Status

Some floors or exhibits might be closed, so check in advance if possible. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(21k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about MAR's beautiful and highly interactive exhibits that make learning about Brazilian culture engaging and fun. The stunning views of the bay and Museum of Tomorrow are a major highlight. However, some guests have noted issues with rude staff and the museum's card-only payment policy.

"Beautiful, Interactive, and So Worth It! This museum was absolutely beautiful and full of life. It was very interactive and made learning about Brazilian culture so fun and engaging. We explored different genres of art—sculptures, photos, and even physical items we could touch. We got to make music, listen to traditional sounds, and watch powerful videos that brought the culture to life. Every part of the museum had something new and meaningful to experience.
Highly recommend if you're in Rio—it’s a must-visit!"

S Williams

"Cool museum, astounding view over Rio and Museum of Tomorrow, the museum shows were well presented and interesting. Only problem : the museum only takes a card (no cash) for purchasing tickets. Luckily some nice Italian tourists let me give them $40 Reais to buy two tickets for me."

Emily Fisher

"Cool Museu:) really shows the culture of brazil but wish not so many floor were closed.

Tuesdays free:)"

Jimmy He

What People Like

Interactive exhibits
Beautiful views
Showcases Brazilian culture

What People Dislike

Card-only payment
Rude staff

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The MAR Rio Art Museum is located at Praça Mauá, in the port area of Rio de Janeiro. You can reach it via Uber, 99 (a popular ride-sharing app in Brazil), or public transport like buses and the metro. A Rio Card can be used for various public transport options.TikTok The area around Praça Mauá is also walkable from other central points.Reddit

Yes, public transportation in Rio, including buses and the metro, is a viable option. Using a Rio Card can simplify travel across different modes of transport.TikTok Ride-sharing apps like Uber and 99 are also widely used and reliable for getting to the museum.

For seamless travel, consider getting a Rio Card for access to buses, subways, and BRTs.TikTok Ride-sharing apps are also a convenient alternative. If you're exploring the Centro area, walking from Praça XV towards Praça Mauá is also an option.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but it's essential to check the official MAR website for the most current information. Some sources mention a fee around $13 USD, but this can change.TikTok Remember, the museum only accepts card payments.Reddit

While it might be possible, it's strongly advised to purchase your tickets online in advance. This helps avoid long queues and potential scams from vendors.TikTok Also, be aware that only card payments are accepted.Reddit

Yes, Tuesdays are often free admission days at the MAR Rio Art Museum, which can be a great way to save money and experience the exhibits.Reddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official MAR website before your visit. Generally, museums in Rio are open from Wednesday to Monday, often closing on Tuesdays for maintenance or free admission days.Instagram

While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to secure your entry and avoid long waits, especially during peak times or for special exhibitions.TikTok

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

MAR showcases a diverse range of Brazilian art, often focusing on contemporary and historical exhibitions. You can expect to see sculptures, photography, music, and interactive displays that highlight Brazilian culture and history.TikTokReddit

Absolutely! MAR is known for its highly interactive exhibits that allow visitors to engage with the art through touch, sound, and visual experiences, making it a fun and educational visit for all ages.Reddit

The museum offers stunning panoramic views of Guanabara Bay and the iconic Museum of Tomorrow, making it a picturesque location.TikTokReddit

Yes, visitors are often required to leave handbags and backpacks at a cloakroom before entering certain exhibition areas. Be prepared for a potential wait to retrieve them.Reddit

While specific accessibility details should be confirmed on their official website, museums of this caliber typically strive to be accessible. The interactive nature of some exhibits may also cater to a wider range of visitors.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary depending on the exhibition. Generally, personal photography is allowed in many areas, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the artworks. It's always best to check for signage or ask museum staff.

The museum's architecture itself is very photogenic. The waterfront location offers excellent opportunities to photograph the Museum of Tomorrow and the bay. Many exhibits are also visually striking and encourage photos.TikTok

Focus on capturing the interactive elements and the unique architectural features. The views of the bay and the Museum of Tomorrow are particularly popular for photography.TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

MAR is an excellent choice for families due to its highly interactive exhibits. Children can engage with art through touch, sound, and visual experiences, making learning about Brazilian culture fun and accessible.Reddit The museum's design often caters to a younger audience, encouraging participation rather than just observation.

Plan for at least a few hours to allow children to fully explore and enjoy the interactive displays. While the museum itself is engaging, consider bringing snacks and drinks for younger ones, though check their policy on outside food. The proximity to the Museum of Tomorrow also offers another engaging option for families in the same area.Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, visiting MAR on Tuesdays offers free admission, making it a fantastic opportunity to experience world-class art without the cost.Reddit Even on paid days, booking tickets online in advance can sometimes offer slight discounts or at least save you time waiting in line.TikTok

Consider utilizing Rio's public transport system, such as buses or the metro, which can be accessed with a Rio Card, to reach the museum affordably.TikTok Exploring the surrounding Praça Mauá area is also free and offers great views and atmosphere.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

MAR is a dream for photographers, offering a blend of striking architecture, captivating art, and stunning waterfront views. The juxtaposition of the historic and modern buildings provides unique photographic opportunities.Instagram Don't miss capturing the iconic Museum of Tomorrow from the museum's vantage points.TikTok

Experiment with different angles to showcase the interactive exhibits, which often make for dynamic and engaging shots. Be mindful of any restrictions on flash photography, especially within exhibition spaces. The exterior views, particularly during golden hour, can be spectacular.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Port Area: MAR and Beyond

The MAR Rio Art Museum is situated in the revitalized port area of Rio de Janeiro, a district brimming with cultural attractions. Adjacent to MAR is the striking Museu do Amanhã (Museum of Tomorrow), an architectural marvel focused on sustainability and the future.Instagram This area, Praça Mauá, has become a hub for art and culture, offering visitors a rich experience. You can easily spend a day exploring these two major museums and the surrounding public spaces.

Beyond the major museums, the port area offers glimpses into Rio's history. Walking around Praça Mauá and the nearby streets can reveal historic buildings and a sense of the city's past.Reddit For those interested in more niche collections, the Museu da Vida (Museum of Life) and the Museu de Arte Sacra (Museum of Sacred Art) are also in the vicinity, though MAR and the Museum of Tomorrow are the primary draws for most visitors. The proximity of these sites makes it an efficient area to explore for art and history enthusiasts.

Consider combining your visit to MAR with a stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the sea breeze and the vibrant atmosphere of this redeveloped urban space. The area is well-connected by public transport, making it accessible from various parts of the city.TikTok

The Interactive Nature of MAR

One of the most frequently praised aspects of the MAR Rio Art Museum is its highly interactive nature. Unlike traditional museums where viewing is passive, MAR encourages visitors to actively engage with the exhibits. This can involve touching artworks, participating in sound installations, and watching immersive video presentations that bring Brazilian culture and history to life.Reddit

This hands-on approach makes the museum particularly appealing for a wide range of visitors, including families and those who might not typically frequent art museums. The goal is to create a dynamic and memorable learning experience, allowing visitors to connect with the art on a deeper level. Whether it's through creating music, listening to traditional sounds, or exploring physical objects, the interactivity ensures that the cultural narratives are not just seen but felt.Reddit

When planning your visit, be prepared to immerse yourself fully. The interactive elements are designed to be a core part of the experience, offering a unique and engaging way to understand the richness and diversity of Brazilian artistic expression. This makes MAR a standout destination for those seeking a more dynamic museum visit.TikTok

MAR's Architectural Significance

The MAR Rio Art Museum is housed within a striking complex that beautifully blends historic architecture with modern design. The museum occupies two buildings: a restored 1940s-era building and a contemporary structure designed by renowned Brazilian architect Gabriel Vissotto.Instagram This juxtaposition of old and new creates a visually captivating environment that complements the art within.

The historic building provides a sense of grandeur and context, while the modern addition offers sleek lines and expansive spaces suitable for contemporary exhibitions. The design thoughtfully integrates the two structures, creating a cohesive and engaging visitor flow. The museum's location on Praça Mauá further enhances its architectural appeal, offering stunning views of the surrounding bay and the nearby Museum of Tomorrow.

Visitors often comment on the beauty of the museum's setting and its architectural features, which contribute significantly to the overall experience. The interplay between the historic facade and the modern elements makes MAR not just a repository of art but also a significant piece of Rio de Janeiro's architectural landscape.

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