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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more contemplative

Utah Museum of Contemporary Art
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more contemplative

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dynamic downtown space showcasing rotating exhibits of local and national contemporary art, fostering dialogue and creativity.
"This gem is donation-based, with a suggested $10 donation per person. Your contributions help keep art accessible to all!"

🎯 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rotating Contemporary Exhibits
Main Galleries
Experience ever-changing displays of local and national artists, from paintings to sculptures and multimedia installations.

Feminist Art Focus
Various Galleries
Discover a surprising amount of feminist art, reflecting contemporary dialogues and diverse perspectives.

Local Artist Showcases
Gift Shop & Galleries
Support local talent through featured artists in the gift shop and special exhibitions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Unexpected
Donation-Based Entry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
📚 Discover Unique Books
You might find cool, niche books on design and typography in their collection.
🗣️ Engage with Staff
The staff is super friendly and helpful, offering insights into the art.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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.
📚 Discover Unique Books
You might find cool, niche books on design and typography in their collection.
🗣️ Engage with Staff
The staff is super friendly and helpful, offering insights into the art.
🛍️ Browse the Gift Shop
Features cool items, often from local artists, though can be a bit pricey.
What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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. The gift shop, while potentially pricey, can also be a place to find unique, affordable souvenirs if you look carefully.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Creatives
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. Consider attending opening receptions for new exhibits, which offer a chance to mingle with artists and fellow art lovers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Contemporary Expression
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. The experience is often described as intimate due to the museum's size, allowing for a focused engagement with each piece.
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.
Navigating UMOCA: Tips from Visitors
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. 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.
For those interested in specific themes, UMOCA has been noted for showcasing a surprising amount of feminist art, reflecting contemporary social dialogues. 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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit