Columbus Museum of Art - Royal Academy of Arts permanent exhibition London
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Columbus Museum of Art

4.7
·4k reviews·Columbus, United States

A cultural gem in downtown Columbus, featuring diverse American and European modern art, contemporary pieces, and engaging special exhibitions.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunday mornings

Free admission!

CrowdMedium
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Columbus Museum of Art - Royal Academy of Arts permanent exhibition London

Columbus Museum of Art

Best Time

Sunday mornings

Free admission!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A cultural gem in downtown Columbus, featuring diverse American and European modern art, contemporary pieces, and engaging special exhibitions.

4.7
(4k reviews)

"A beautiful building with so many awesome pieces of artwork, a lovely garden, and delicious food."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Sundays are a Gem

Enjoy free admission every Sunday! A great way to experience the museum without breaking the bank.

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the diverse collections. Wear comfy shoes!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Maurice Sendak's 'Where the Wild Things Are'

Maurice Sendak's 'Where the Wild Things Are'

Wonder Room

Step into the whimsical world of Maurice Sendak's beloved children's book. A must-see for families and art lovers alike.

Ming Smith: August Moon

Ming Smith: August Moon

Special Exhibitions

Experience the powerful and beautiful photography of Ming Smith, a poignant tribute to August Wilson's words.

Modern and Contemporary Art Collections

Modern and Contemporary Art Collections

Explore a vast array of American and European modern art, alongside thought-provoking contemporary pieces that inspire.

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Planning Your Visit

Sunday Funday: Free Admission!

Score free entry to the Columbus Museum of Art every Sunday! It's a fantastic way to experience incredible art without the cost. Just be aware that popular exhibits might draw a larger crowd on these days. TikTokInstagram

Plan for Plenty of Time

Don't underestimate the size of the Columbus Museum of Art! Visitors recommend at least 3 hours to fully explore the diverse collections and new wings. You might find yourself wishing for more time, especially if you want to enjoy the cafe. Reddit

Best Times

When
Sunday mornings
Why
Free admission!
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more peace
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

♥️5 Things To Do: Columbus♥️ ➀︎ Penn & Beech Candle Pouring 📍Short North 💰$24-$40 + 100 fragrances to choose from ➁︎ Columbus Museum of Art 📍Downtown Columbus 💰Free on Sundays ⏰10am-5pm ➂︎ Parable Coffee 📍Downtown Columbus ⏰7am-5pm Mon-Thurs | 7am-11pm Fri-Sun + seasonal drink menu + ’pay what you can’ style ➃︎ Topiary Garden 📍Downtown Columbus ➄︎ COSI 📍Downtown Columbus 💰$25-$30 ⏰10am-5pm 📆Closed...
@morgsvstheworld
13.1K likes • 390K views

🎯 Free Sundays are a Gem

Enjoy free admission every Sunday! A great way to experience the museum without breaking the bank. TikTokInstagram

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the diverse collections. Wear comfy shoes! Reddit

🎨✨ Discover inspiration at the Columbus Museum of Art! Located in the heart of Columbus, this cultural gem features an impressive collection of American and European modern art, thought-provoking contemporary pieces, and rotating exhibitions that keep every visit fresh and exciting. 🖼️ Explore creativity with interactive galleries and hands-on activities for all ages! 🕒 Hours: Tues-Sun 10 AM–5 PM...
_db_realestate_
117 likes • 3K views
If you’re looking for a slow, peaceful place to read, make the museum your little hideaway🖼️📚 📍Columbus Museum of Art Free Admission on Sundays ♥️ #book #museum #bookish #bookaesthetic #columbus #art #booktaster #booktasterhn #aesthetic
booktasterhn
37 likes • 781 views

⏰ Allow Ample Time

Don't rush! Plan for at least 3 hours to truly appreciate the art and architecture. Reddit

📍 Don't Miss the Wonder Room

Maurice Sendak's 'Where the Wild Things Are' exhibit is a highlight, especially for families. TikTok

Let’s visit The Columbus Museum of Art @columbusmuseum in Ohio! This museum is an absolute gem with a massive and diverse collection. A #MuseumNerd must visit! #art #arthistory #museum #artlover #museumlover #travel #hiddengem #mustsee #arthistorynerd
museum_nerds
90 likes • 3.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Sundays are a Gem

Enjoy free admission every Sunday! A great way to experience the museum without breaking the bank. TikTokInstagram

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the diverse collections. Wear comfy shoes! Reddit

⏰ Allow Ample Time

Don't rush! Plan for at least 3 hours to truly appreciate the art and architecture. Reddit

📍 Don't Miss the Wonder Room

Maurice Sendak's 'Where the Wild Things Are' exhibit is a highlight, especially for families. TikTok

☕ Cafe for a Treat

The museum cafe offers delicious food, perfect for a midday break. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Columbus Museum of Art for its beautiful building, diverse collections, and friendly staff. The free Sunday admission and convenient parking are significant draws. While some find certain exhibits repetitive, the overall experience is highly recommended, especially for families and those seeking a peaceful artistic retreat.

"Beautiful building with so many awesome pieces of artwork. It has lovely garden and seating area with a restaurant serving some of the most delicious food I have ever had. The staff are knowledgeable, friendly and are able to fill you in on the artists. We loved the Columbus Art museum and will definitely come visit again in the future. We got to celebrate Margaret M. Walter wings 10 year anniversary, maybe we will make it a point to go back for the 20th."

michelle Grant

"My friend and I had a wonderful time at the museum. Getting there was straightforward, we just happened to accidentally miss the entrance and go to the top. It's nicely laid out with a ton of space to explore! We finished one spot and thought we were nearly done, but there were 3 more sections left for us. I enjoyed the exhibits and learned a lot about Ohio history. The attendants were helpful and the map was straightforward. I do wish there was a better sign that upstairs is mostly empty. We thought we had more to explore and we were unfortunately unable to visit the gift shop because their wifi was gone. In all it's a fun experience that I recommend people check out if they have the time."

Richard Castillo

"A nice museum that isn’t too large to cover all in one visit.
An array of work spanning different artistic periods. Mostly one of each of the artists you’d recognize (Hopper, Rockwell, the usual…)
It wasn’t overly crowded either, which was nice.
Enjoyed a specific exhibit: Ming Smith - August Moon, which was beautiful and a lovely nod to the words of August Wilson."

Jakob W. Plummer

What People Like

Free Sunday admission
Beautiful architecture
Diverse art collections

What People Dislike

Some repetitive exhibits
Occasional empty spaces

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Columbus Museum of Art is located in downtown Columbus, Ohio. It's easily accessible by car, with free parking available across the street behind the building. Public transportation options are also available. Reddit

Yes, there is free parking available directly across the street behind the museum building, making it very convenient for visitors. Reddit

Several COTA bus lines serve the downtown area near the Columbus Museum of Art. Check the COTA website for routes and schedules that best suit your starting point. TikTok

The museum is generally accessible, with elevators and ramps available. It's always a good idea to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility needs. Instagram

Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to get to the Columbus Museum of Art, with easy drop-off points near the entrance.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Columbus Museum of Art is typically open Tuesday through Sunday. Hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours and any special holiday closures. TikTok

Admission to the Columbus Museum of Art is free every Sunday! On other days, there is an admission fee, but it's generally considered a reasonable price for the extensive collections. Check their website for current ticket prices and potential discounts. TikTokInstagramReddit

While not always required, purchasing tickets in advance online can save you time, especially during peak hours or for special exhibitions. This is particularly recommended for free Sunday visits to help manage capacity. Instagram

Yes, admission is free on Sundays! The museum may also offer discounts for students, seniors, and military personnel. Check their website or inquire at the ticket counter for details. Reddit

Group visits are welcome! It's advisable to contact the museum's group sales department in advance to arrange your visit, discuss potential discounts, and ensure a smooth experience for your group. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss Maurice Sendak's 'Where the Wild Things Are' in the Wonder Room, and explore the beautiful photography of Ming Smith. The museum also boasts impressive collections of American and European modern art. TikTokReddit

Yes, the museum offers engaging exhibits like the 'Wonder Room' featuring Maurice Sendak's work, making it a great destination for families. Interactive galleries are also available. Instagram

Most visitors recommend allocating at least 3 hours to fully explore the museum's diverse collections and architecture. Some wish they had more time. Reddit

Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most galleries, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Always check for specific signage in each exhibition area. Instagram

The museum often offers guided tours led by knowledgeable docents. Check the museum's schedule upon arrival or on their website for tour times and availability. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Columbus Museum of Art features a cafe that serves delicious food, making it a great spot for a meal or a snack during your visit. Reddit

The cafe offers a selection of dishes, often including sandwiches, salads, and other contemporary American fare. It's known for serving some very delicious food according to visitors. Reddit

Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the museum galleries. It's best to enjoy your meals at the designated cafe area or outside the museum. Reddit

The cafe is usually open during museum hours, including Sundays. It's a convenient option for refueling after enjoying the free admission day. Reddit

Being in downtown Columbus, there are numerous restaurants and cafes within walking distance of the museum, offering a wide variety of culinary choices. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The museum's architecture, including the interior atrium and exterior spaces, offers striking photo opportunities. Specific exhibits, like the 'Wonder Room,' also make for memorable shots. Instagram

Yes, phone cameras are generally permitted for personal use in most areas. However, always be mindful of signage regarding flash and professional equipment. Instagram

Flash photography, tripods, and professional video recording are typically not allowed to protect the artwork and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Instagram

The museum features a diverse collection, from classic paintings and sculptures to contemporary installations and photography. The 'Wonder Room' and special exhibitions often provide unique visual content. Instagram

Wander through the different wings, paying attention to light, color, and composition. The interplay between the original building and new wings also offers interesting photographic perspectives. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Columbus Museum of Art is a wonderful outing for families! The Maurice Sendak 'Where the Wild Things Are' exhibit is a definite highlight, offering an interactive and imaginative experience for children. TikTok The museum's spacious layout allows kids to move around comfortably, and the diverse collections can spark curiosity in young minds. Reddit Consider visiting on a free Sunday to make the trip even more budget-friendly, but be prepared for potentially larger crowds. TikTokInstagram

📚 Book Lovers & Quiet Seekers

If you're looking for a tranquil escape, the Columbus Museum of Art can be your sanctuary. It's described as a 'slow, peaceful place to read', perfect for immersing yourself in a good book amidst inspiring surroundings. Instagram The museum's serene atmosphere, especially during weekday afternoons, offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Columbus Museum of Art is a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers, thanks to its free admission every Sunday! TikTokInstagramReddit This makes it an accessible cultural experience for everyone. Additionally, the museum offers free parking across the street, saving you additional costs. Reddit Plan your visit for a Sunday to maximize your savings while enjoying a rich art experience.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Collections

The Columbus Museum of Art boasts a diverse and impressive collection that spans various artistic periods and styles. Visitors consistently praise the American and European modern art sections, which feature works by renowned artists. The museum also dedicates significant space to contemporary art, showcasing thought-provoking pieces that engage with current themes and ideas. Instagram+1

Beyond the permanent collections, the museum is known for its dynamic traveling exhibitions, ensuring that each visit offers something new and exciting. From photography to painting, these rotating shows provide a fresh perspective and keep the museum experience vibrant. Be sure to check the museum's schedule for what's on display during your visit. Instagram

For a truly unique experience, don't miss the Maurice Sendak 'Where the Wild Things Are' exhibit in the Wonder Room. This beloved collection is a hit with families and anyone who appreciates the magic of children's literature brought to life through art. TikTok

A Gem for Families and Book Lovers

The Columbus Museum of Art is a fantastic destination for families, particularly with the Maurice Sendak 'Where the Wild Things Are' exhibit. This immersive space brings the beloved book to life, sparking imagination in young visitors. TikTok The museum's layout is generally spacious, allowing children room to explore without feeling too confined. Reddit

For those who love to read, the museum offers a surprisingly peaceful environment. As one visitor noted, it can be a 'slow, peaceful place to read', making it an ideal hideaway for bookworms seeking quiet contemplation amidst art. Instagram The combination of engaging art and a serene atmosphere makes it a unique spot for both artistic appreciation and personal reflection. Instagram

Architectural Marvel and Visitor Experience

The Columbus Museum of Art is not just about the art; its architecture is a significant draw. The merger of the original building with new wings is described as 'really well done,' creating striking counterpoints between the galleries and the interior atrium and outside spaces. Reddit This thoughtful design enhances the overall visitor experience, making the museum a visually appealing destination from every angle. Reddit

Visitors often highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff who are eager to share insights about the artists and their work. Reddit While the museum is generally well-laid out, some visitors have noted that certain areas, like an upstairs section, can feel a bit empty. Reddit However, the overall sentiment is that it's a 'nice museum that isn’t too large to cover all in one visit,' offering a satisfying experience without being overwhelming. Reddit

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