Utah Museum of Contemporary Art
1 / 10

Utah Museum of Contemporary Art

4.2
·396 reviews·Salt Lake City, United States

A dynamic downtown space showcasing rotating exhibits of local and national contemporary art, fostering dialogue and creativity.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mid-morning

Fewer crowds, more contemplative

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Utah Museum of Contemporary Art

Utah Museum of Contemporary Art

Best Time

Weekdays, mid-morning

Fewer crowds, more contemplative

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A dynamic downtown space showcasing rotating exhibits of local and national contemporary art, fostering dialogue and creativity.

4.2
(396 reviews)

"This gem is donation-based, with a suggested $10 donation per person. Your contributions help keep art accessible to all!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Exhibit Schedule

Exhibits rotate, so check UMOCA's website before visiting to see what's on display!

💖 Support with Donations

Entry is donation-based. A $10 donation is suggested to keep art accessible.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rotating Contemporary Exhibits

Rotating Contemporary Exhibits

Main Galleries

Experience ever-changing displays of local and national artists, from paintings to sculptures and multimedia installations.

TikTok
Feminist Art Focus

Feminist Art Focus

Various Galleries

Discover a surprising amount of feminist art, reflecting contemporary dialogues and diverse perspectives.

Instagram
Local Artist Showcases

Local Artist Showcases

Gift Shop & Galleries

Support local talent through featured artists in the gift shop and special exhibitions.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Unexpected

UMOCA features rotating exhibits, so expect the unexpected! What's on display can range from thought-provoking installations to local artist showcases. Check their website before you go to see what's currently featured and plan your visit around exhibits that pique your interest. TikTok

Donation-Based Entry

This gem is donation-based, with a suggested $10 donation per person. Your contributions help keep art accessible to all and support rotating exhibits. Consider donating generously to help maintain this valuable community resource. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mid-morning
Why
Fewer crowds, more contemplative
Crowd
Low
When
First Fridays, 6-9 PM
Why
Opening receptions are lively
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Clark Planetarium in SLC #saltlakecity #thingstodo #saltlakecityutah #todolist
@whereskatyanow
26.7K likes • 293.3K views

🎯 Check Exhibit Schedule

Exhibits rotate, so check UMOCA's website before visiting to see what's on display! TikTok

💖 Support with Donations

Entry is donation-based. A $10 donation is suggested to keep art accessible. Reddit+1

Hidden gem in Salt Lake City: Natural Law Apothecary 🍄‍🟫🌸 423 S 600 W, Salt Lake City, UT ☕️ This apothecary has over 500 herbs, an incredible selection of teas, book nooks, and other fun local products and art! 🌸 They also host events like art classes, meditations, live music, sound baths, and have pop ups like palm reading and more things to do in utah. things to do in slc. slc hidden gems. uta...
@dariennedebrule
25.9K likes • 245.2K views
Salt Lake City doesn’t get enough credit for its fantastic museums— here are five to add to your SLC bucket list: 🖼️ Utah Contemporary Art Museum: Located right downtown, this small but fabulous museum of ever-changing exhibits is a great stop for art lovers. I loved their exhibit focused on climate change and the Great Salt Lake. 🏛️The Utah Capitol Building is free to visit, and the architect...
historyonholiday
33 likes • 1.6K views

📚 Discover Unique Books

You might find cool, niche books on design and typography in their collection. Instagram

🗣️ Engage with Staff

The staff is super friendly and helpful, offering insights into the art. Reddit

Found this cool book at Utah Museum of Contemporary Art at Salt Lake City! New Type Design Volume ll #typography #typedesign #typedesigners @utahmoca
parisa.tashakori
81 likes • 3.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Exhibit Schedule

Exhibits rotate, so check UMOCA's website before visiting to see what's on display! TikTok

💖 Support with Donations

Entry is donation-based. A $10 donation is suggested to keep art accessible. Reddit+1

📚 Discover Unique Books

You might find cool, niche books on design and typography in their collection. Instagram

🗣️ Engage with Staff

The staff is super friendly and helpful, offering insights into the art. Reddit

🛍️ Browse the Gift Shop

Features cool items, often from local artists, though can be a bit pricey. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(396 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Reviews for UMOCA are mixed, with some visitors finding the art to be thought-provoking and the donation-based entry a great way to support accessible art, while others feel the exhibits can be sparse or conceptually challenging. The friendly staff and unique gift shop are often highlighted as positives. InstagramReddit+1

"First of all, the art in here isn’t great. I’m no artist but I think I can tell when something was made with skill vs something made like a chill project that got rejected. I know it’s all perspective and point of view but if you’re gonna call yourself a “Museum” and put up what you have then I think you need to rename the place. Honestly it’s small for one, two is the art here is such a reach. To connect 2 dots in the descriptions of the art, you need to really need to reach for it. Doesn’t make sense. The lady up front was kinda nice. The place is actually quite boring and empty. The shop has cool stuff but is quite expensive. Sort of a let down but worth checking out if you want to be flabbergasted on what some people call art."

Ian Campbell

"Free, donation based museum. (Plz donate, let’s keep art free and accessible to all!!) staff is super friendly and they have rotating exhibits that change a couple times a year. I’ve been going here for years and have seen some of the coolest pieces. They also feature a lot of art from locals in their gift shop."

Liesel Bradshaw

"Tricky review here because I liked this place and went in very excited. The women at the entrance were extremely nice and helpful. They suggested a $10 donation….I love and support the arts and was happy to donate $30 for the three of us.

There were a lot of pieces that I really enjoyed….the problem is that it was almost like they were between exhibits or something. There was a lot of blank space in the museum. One room toward the back that was quite big had 4-5 small canvas pieces. It didn’t seem right. So much extra space.

Worth a visit. Donate because you care about art."

Jason Kelly

What People Like

Donation-based entry
Rotating exhibits
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Art can be challenging
Exhibits feel sparse
Gift shop prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

UMOCA is conveniently located downtown in Salt Lake City. It's easily accessible by public transportation, including TRAX light rail, and there's street parking available nearby. Many visitors find it a straightforward stop when exploring the downtown area. TikTok

Street parking is available around the museum, but it can be competitive, especially during peak hours. Consider using public transport or rideshares if you're concerned about parking availability. TikTok

Yes, UMOCA is centrally located downtown, making it walkable from many other attractions like the Utah State Capitol or Temple Square. It's a great addition to a day of exploring the city on foot. TikTok

The museum is well-served by Salt Lake City's public transit system. Look for bus routes or TRAX light rail stations that stop in the downtown area, as UMOCA is a short walk from many of them. TikTok

As a modern museum, UMOCA is generally designed to be accessible. It's recommended to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility details regarding ramps, elevators, or other accommodations. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

UMOCA operates on a donation-based admission model. While there are no set ticket prices, a donation of $10 per person is suggested to support the museum's operations and exhibits. Reddit+1

No, tickets are not required in advance as admission is donation-based. You can simply visit during operating hours and make your contribution at the entrance. Reddit

Museum hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official Utah Museum of Contemporary Art website for the most up-to-date information on opening days and times before your visit. TikTok

The museum is donation-based, meaning you can visit anytime by making a donation. This model aims to keep art accessible to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay a fixed admission fee. Reddit

As the museum operates on donations rather than fixed ticket sales, refunds are not applicable. The donation supports the museum's mission to showcase contemporary art. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

UMOCA features a diverse range of contemporary art, including paintings, photographs, sculptures, multimedia installations, and sometimes interactive pieces. Exhibits are constantly rotating, showcasing both local and national artists. TikTokInstagram

While UMOCA showcases contemporary art, some exhibits might be more suited for older children or adults due to their conceptual nature. It's recommended to check the current exhibits or consider visiting with children who have an interest in modern art. Reddit

The museum is relatively small, so a visit can typically take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest level and the current exhibitions. Some visitors find it's a quick but impactful stop. Reddit

Information on guided tours can vary. It's best to check the museum's official website or inquire at the front desk upon arrival for any available tour options or scheduled talks. Reddit

Photography policies can differ per exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is often permitted, but it's crucial to look for signage or ask staff to confirm the rules for the current displays. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

UMOCA does not typically have an on-site cafe or restaurant. However, being located in downtown Salt Lake City, there are numerous dining options within walking distance, ranging from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants. TikTok

Absolutely! The downtown area surrounding UMOCA is packed with diverse culinary choices. You can find everything from quick bites to sit-down meals just a short stroll away. TikTok

Generally, museums discourage bringing outside food and drinks into exhibition areas to protect the artwork. It's best to consume any food or beverages outside the galleries. Reddit

The area around UMOCA offers a variety of cuisines. Popular choices often include cafes for coffee and pastries, sandwich shops for a quick lunch, and restaurants serving American, Italian, and other international flavors. TikTok

While there isn't a dedicated picnic area within the museum, you might find public parks or plazas in the downtown vicinity where you could enjoy a picnic before or after your visit. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary depending on the specific exhibition. While non-flash photography for personal use is often permitted, it's essential to check for signage or ask museum staff for confirmation. Instagram

For personal social media use, non-flash photography is usually allowed, but always verify with museum staff. Some exhibits may have restrictions to protect the artwork or due to artist agreements. Instagram

Beyond the art itself, the museum's architecture and any unique installations can make for interesting photos. Keep an eye out for visually striking pieces or the overall gallery design. Instagram

Flash photography is almost always prohibited in art museums, including UMOCA, as the bright light can damage delicate artworks over time. Always ensure your flash is turned off. Instagram

Tripods and selfie sticks are typically not allowed inside art museums as they can obstruct pathways and potentially damage artwork. It's best to leave these items at your accommodation. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting UMOCA with children can be a unique experience. While the museum's contemporary art might be conceptually driven, some exhibits can spark curiosity and conversation. It's advisable to check the current exhibitions beforehand to gauge suitability for younger visitors. Reddit Some exhibits might be more abstract or conceptual, so engaging children by asking open-ended questions about what they see and feel can enhance their experience. Reddit

Consider focusing on the visual aspects of the art and discussing colors, shapes, and textures. The gift shop might also offer interesting items that appeal to children. Remember, the goal is to foster an appreciation for art in its many forms, and UMOCA provides a different perspective than more traditional art museums. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

UMOCA is a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers as it operates on a donation-based admission. While a $10 donation is suggested, you can contribute what you can afford, making it an accessible cultural experience in Salt Lake City. Reddit+1 This allows you to enjoy contemporary art without a fixed entry fee, freeing up your budget for other activities or dining. Reddit

Combine your visit with exploring other free downtown attractions, like the Utah State Capitol building or walking through Temple Square. The museum's central location also means you can easily walk or use public transport, saving on transportation costs. TikTok The gift shop, while potentially pricey, can also be a place to find unique, affordable souvenirs if you look carefully. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Creatives

For those passionate about contemporary art, UMOCA offers a curated glimpse into current artistic trends and local talent. The ever-changing exhibitions mean there's always something new to discover, from established names to emerging artists pushing boundaries. TikTok Engage deeply with the artist statements and descriptions to understand the context and intent behind the works. Reddit

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the diverse mediums presented, which can provide inspiration for your own creative endeavors. The museum's intimate size allows for a focused and contemplative experience, perfect for artists seeking inspiration. Reddit Consider attending opening receptions for new exhibits, which offer a chance to mingle with artists and fellow art lovers. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Contemporary Expression

The Utah Museum of Contemporary Art (UMOCA) is a dynamic space dedicated to showcasing the cutting edge of artistic expression. Unlike traditional museums that focus on historical collections, UMOCA thrives on its rotating exhibits, ensuring that every visit offers a fresh perspective. These exhibitions often feature works by both emerging and established artists from Utah and beyond, covering a wide spectrum of mediums including painting, sculpture, photography, video, and installation art. TikTok

Visitors often remark on the museum's commitment to presenting thought-provoking and sometimes challenging art. This can lead to a wide range of reactions, from deep appreciation to genuine surprise. The museum aims to foster dialogue and critical thinking about contemporary issues through its curated selections. Reddit The experience is often described as intimate due to the museum's size, allowing for a focused engagement with each piece. Reddit

UMOCA also plays a vital role in supporting the local art community. They frequently feature local artists and provide a platform for emerging talent, making it a crucial hub for Utah's creative scene. The gift shop often reflects this, offering unique items from regional artists. Reddit

Navigating UMOCA: Tips from Visitors

One of the most frequently mentioned aspects of visiting UMOCA is its donation-based admission. While a $10 donation is suggested, the museum encourages contributions of any amount to keep art accessible to everyone. This model is highly appreciated by visitors who value free and open access to cultural institutions. Reddit+1 It's a great way to support the arts in Salt Lake City and ensure these spaces can continue to operate. Reddit

When it comes to the museum's size, opinions vary. Some find it to be a small but impactful museum, perfect for a focused visit. Others note that there can be significant blank space between exhibits, making it feel emptier than expected. Reddit This can mean that while the art is interesting, the overall presentation might feel less dense than larger institutions. However, the intimate setting can also allow for a more personal connection with the artwork. Reddit

For those interested in specific themes, UMOCA has been noted for showcasing a surprising amount of feminist art, reflecting contemporary social dialogues. Instagram Additionally, keep an eye out for unique finds in the gift shop, which often features local artisan crafts and books, though some visitors note the prices can be on the higher side. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2