Mint Museum Uptown
Discover world-class art at The Mint Museum Uptown, featuring iconic pieces and dynamic special exhibitions. Free Wednesdays!

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Free admission!
Mint Museum Uptown
Best Time
Free admission!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover world-class art at The Mint Museum Uptown, featuring iconic pieces and dynamic special exhibitions. Free Wednesdays!
"This is one of the best art museums we have visited. A must-see if you are visiting the city!"
🎯 Free Wednesday Nights
Enjoy free admission every Wednesday from 5-9 PM. A perfect way to experience art affordably!
🖼️ Check Special Exhibits
Always something new and exciting, like Ernie Barnes' 'Sugar Shack' or the de la Torre Brothers.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Sugar Shack by Ernie Barnes
Special Exhibitions
Iconic painting featured on Marvin Gaye's album and 'Good Times.' A true piece of cultural history.

Collidoscope: de la Torre Brothers
Special Exhibitions
Experience mind-blowing lenticular art that changes as you move. A truly interactive and unique exhibit.

Contemporary Art Gallery
Permanent Collection
Explore a surprisingly impressive collection of contemporary works that visitors often rave about.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Wednesday Nights
Don't Miss Ernie Barnes' 'Sugar Shack'
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Wednesday Nights
Enjoy free admission every Wednesday from 5-9 PM. A perfect way to experience art affordably!
🖼️ Check Special Exhibits
Always something new and exciting, like Ernie Barnes' 'Sugar Shack' or the de la Torre Brothers.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfy shoes are a must for exploring all levels. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Special Events
Look out for unique events like 'Wine Night' or fashion pop-ups. Great for a lively museum experience!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Wednesday Nights
Enjoy free admission every Wednesday from 5-9 PM. A perfect way to experience art affordably!
🖼️ Check Special Exhibits
Always something new and exciting, like Ernie Barnes' 'Sugar Shack' or the de la Torre Brothers.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfy shoes are a must for exploring all levels. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Special Events
Look out for unique events like 'Wine Night' or fashion pop-ups. Great for a lively museum experience!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Mint Museum Uptown for its impressive collections, particularly the contemporary art and special exhibitions like Ernie Barnes' 'Sugar Shack.' The free Wednesday evenings are a major highlight, making art accessible and fostering a lively atmosphere. Some visitors wish for a purchasable guide to the permanent collection.
"This is one of the best art museum we have visited. Beautiful paintings, sculptures and modern art are displayed in different levels. We totally loved the entire experience and the information available for each painting or art. This is a must see place if you are visiting the city."
Manisha Sabat
"I really enjoy the different exhibits of the mint museum has to offer.
More recently I've been to the Annie Leibowitz exhibit. That was fantastic and really was neat to get a glimpse into the Rolling Stone photographer and overall landscape and people photographer.
And then just a couple weeks ago I went to a really funky cool event for local designers with a '70s '80s and '90s dance party with fashion show pop-ups.
What a cool way to get people to come to the museum!
And also I learned that they're doing this really neat event through August where every Wednesday is wine night in the gift shop, as if I needed another reason to go to the gift shop.
I really enjoy getting to see art. I really enjoy the layout of the mint museum and I look forward to seeing many new exhibits there this year and in the future.
It's a definite must go to if you need a little art in your life!"
S Lambert
"If you simply want to give something new a try and you're curious to learn more about art. Without a doubt, you should visit the Mint Museum. I visited on a Wednesday when entrance was free. Learning about various cultures and both local & global artists is a pleasant way to broaden your horizons. If you come, you won't be let down."
Dionysos Simpson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mint Museum Uptown is located at 500 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options, including the Lynx Blue Line light rail, also serve the Uptown area, making it convenient to reach.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available in Uptown Charlotte near the museum. Some garages may offer validation or special rates for museum visitors, so it's worth checking in advance.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to get to and from The Mint Museum Uptown. Drop-off points are readily available in the surrounding Uptown area. :car:
The Mint Museum Uptown is committed to accessibility. It is generally wheelchair accessible, with elevators connecting different floors and accessible restrooms. It's always a good idea to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility needs. :wheelchair:
If you're already in Uptown Charlotte, walking is often the easiest and most enjoyable way to reach The Mint Museum. The museum is centrally located and part of the vibrant Uptown district. :walking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Mint Museum Uptown is typically open Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Wednesday and Friday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM. On Sundays, hours are usually 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours.
General admission is typically around $15 USD. However, a major perk is that admission is FREE every Wednesday evening from 5 PM to 9 PM, making it a popular time to visit.
Yes! The Mint Museum Uptown offers free admission every Wednesday from 5 PM to 9 PM. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore the collections without a ticket purchase.
It's recommended to check the museum's official website for the option to purchase tickets online in advance. This can sometimes save time, especially during peak hours or special events. :ticket:
Admission policies for children can vary. It's advisable to check the museum's website or contact them directly for information on free admission for children or any age-specific ticket requirements. :child:
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss Ernie Barnes' 'The Sugar Shack,' a culturally significant piece. The 'Collidoscope: de la Torre Brothers' exhibit, featuring lenticular art, is also highly recommended for its interactive nature. The Contemporary Art gallery is also a visitor favorite.
Yes, the museum offers educational programs and exhibits that can be engaging for families. While specific children's areas might vary, the diverse collections offer something for various age groups to appreciate. :family_child:
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the galleries and special exhibitions. If you plan to attend an event or deeply engage with the collections, you might want to allocate more time. :clock1:
Information on guided tours can usually be found on the museum's official website. They often offer insights into the collections and specific exhibitions, enhancing the visitor experience. :magnifyingglasstilted_left:
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted in permanent collection galleries, but it's always best to check signage or ask staff for specific exhibition rules. :camerawithflash:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the museum itself may not have a full-service restaurant, it often has a cafe or a gift shop that offers light refreshments. For a wider selection of dining, the surrounding Uptown area has numerous restaurants and cafes. :coffee:
Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the galleries to protect the artwork. However, there might be designated areas where you can consume food purchased on-site or brought from outside. :apple:
Uptown Charlotte boasts a diverse culinary scene. You'll find everything from casual eateries to upscale dining options within walking distance of the museum, catering to various tastes and budgets. :forkandknife:
The museum gift shop sometimes offers a selection of snacks and beverages. It's also a great place to find unique souvenirs related to the art and exhibitions.
:gift_heart:Given the variety of restaurants in Uptown Charlotte, you'll likely find options that cater to various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. :leafy_green:
📸 📸 Photography
The architecture of the museum itself offers some great photo opportunities. Look for interesting angles in the galleries, especially with the lenticular art in the de la Torre Brothers exhibit, and the iconic 'Sugar Shack' painting.
Tripods and selfie sticks are generally not allowed inside museums to prevent accidental damage to artwork and to ensure a comfortable viewing experience for all visitors. Always check the museum's specific policy. :noentrysign:
No, flash photography is almost always prohibited in art museums. The bright light can damage delicate artworks over time. Always ensure your flash is turned off. :camerawithflash:
The 'Collidoscope: de la Torre Brothers' exhibit is particularly photogenic due to its interactive lenticular art. The 'Sugar Shack' painting is also a popular subject for photos.
The lighting inside the museum is controlled for art preservation. However, visiting during less crowded times, like weekday mornings or during the free Wednesday evening hours before it gets too packed, can offer better opportunities for unobstructed shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Collections
One of the most talked-about exhibits is the 'Collidoscope: de la Torre Brothers' Retro-Perspective.' This exhibition features stunning lenticular art, where images appear to change or move as the viewer shifts their position. This interactive element creates a dynamic and memorable experience, making it a standout attraction for many visitors.
Whether you're drawn to classic modern art, cutting-edge contemporary pieces, or culturally significant works, The Mint Museum Uptown offers a rich and varied artistic journey. The thoughtful curation and presentation ensure that each visit can reveal something new and inspiring.
Free Wednesday Nights: A Charlotte Gem
During these free hours, the museum often buzzes with activity. You might encounter special events, live performances, or themed parties, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit. It's a testament to the museum's commitment to being more than just a repository of art, but a dynamic cultural hub.
While the free evenings are popular, leading to a medium crowd level, the extended hours and the sheer volume of art ensure that you can still have a fulfilling experience. It's a smart way to explore the museum's offerings without the usual admission fee, making it a beloved part of Charlotte's cultural landscape.
The Significance of Ernie Barnes' 'Sugar Shack'
Barnes' distinctive style, often referred to as 'Neo-Mannerism,' captures the energy and emotion of Black life and culture. 'The Sugar Shack' itself depicts a vibrant, crowded dance hall, brimming with movement and expression. Its presence at the museum offers visitors a direct connection to a pivotal moment in music and television history, as well as a profound artistic statement.
Beyond 'The Sugar Shack,' the museum frequently showcases other works by Ernie Barnes, allowing visitors to delve deeper into his artistic vision. Experiencing these pieces firsthand provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the legacy of a celebrated Southern artist and his contribution to the art world.
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