McNay Art Museum
A historic mansion housing diverse American & European art, from Medieval to contemporary, set in beautiful grounds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free admission!
McNay Art Museum
Best Time
Free admission!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic mansion housing diverse American & European art, from Medieval to contemporary, set in beautiful grounds.
"The McNay blends a Spanish style historic mansion with thoughtfully curated art from a range of time periods."
🎯 Free Thursday Evenings
Enjoy free general admission every Thursday from 4-9 PM. A great way to save!
📸 Photography Opportunities
The museum grounds and architecture offer stunning photo ops. Professional camera use may require permission.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dreamland: The Nightmare Before Christmas
Special Exhibition Gallery
Step into a spooky, whimsical world inspired by the iconic film. A must-see for fans!
Sandy Skoglund: Enchanting Nature
Special Exhibition Gallery
Immerse yourself in surreal landscapes with neon cats and ceramic goldfish. A dreamlike experience.
Spanish Colonial Revival Architecture
Original Mansion
Explore the stunning historic mansion, the first modern art museum in Texas. Beautiful grounds and architecture.
+1
Sport and Spectator Exhibition
Special Exhibition Gallery
See sports gear transformed into remarkable works of art. A unique perspective on athleticism and creativity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Thursday Evenings
Plan for Special Exhibits
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Thursday Evenings
Enjoy free general admission every Thursday from 4-9 PM. A great way to save! +2
📸 Photography Opportunities
The museum grounds and architecture offer stunning photo ops. Professional camera use may require permission.
🎟️ Discount Opportunities
Look for military, veteran, senior, and student discounts. Membership also offers benefits.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the peaceful courtyard and garden areas. Perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Thursday Evenings
Enjoy free general admission every Thursday from 4-9 PM. A great way to save! +2
📸 Photography Opportunities
The museum grounds and architecture offer stunning photo ops. Professional camera use may require permission.
🎟️ Discount Opportunities
Look for military, veteran, senior, and student discounts. Membership also offers benefits.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the peaceful courtyard and garden areas. Perfect for a relaxing stroll.
⏳ Allow 1.5-2 Hours
While not huge, you can easily spend 1.5-2 hours exploring exhibits and grounds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the McNay Art Museum for its beautiful architecture, serene grounds, and diverse art collections, ranging from historical to contemporary. The free Thursday evenings are a major draw, though special exhibits are the true highlights for many. Some find the museum size just right for a few hours of exploration, while others wish for more extensive collections.
"Beautiful grounds and home. Some iconic artwork. We went for the pottery by 5th generation native American, female Potter from Santa Clara NM. Also found egg tucked away in decorative cutout window on the balcony"
Lori Persyn
"We visited the McNay on a quiet weekday and had a great experience. The check-in process was smooth, and we appreciated the military and senior discounts.
The museum blends a Spanish style historic mansion with thoughtfully curated art from a range of time periods—Renaissance religious works, modern pieces, and artists like Monet, Pollock and Diego Rivera. We also enjoyed some unique video installations and interactive spaces.
The central courtyard and pond was peaceful and relaxed. We spent about two hours and followed it with lunch nearby—a lovely, low-key afternoon."
Shawna Wilson
"Super cool exhibits, and some of them were interactive. Very interesting ideas, styles and inspirations put on display by the artists. There was also a sort of cohesive juxtaposition between the traditional tiles and woodwork of the house compared to the modern art pieces that lined its rooms. Very fun!"
Caraline Rose
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The McNay Art Museum is located at 6000 N New Braunfels Ave, San Antonio, TX 78209.
Yes, the McNay Art Museum offers parking for visitors.
Information on public transport routes to the McNay can be found on their official website or by using local transit apps.
Yes, there are several hotels located near the McNay Art Museum, offering convenient accommodation options for visitors.
The McNay Art Museum is committed to accessibility. Please check their website for specific details on ramps, elevators, and other facilities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The McNay Art Museum typically has hours from Tuesday to Sunday, with extended hours on Thursdays. It's always best to check their official website for the most current operating hours. +2
General admission prices vary, but the McNay offers free admission every Thursday from 4-9 PM. They also provide discounts for military, veterans, seniors, and students. +3
Yes, the McNay Art Museum offers free general admission every Thursday from 4-9 PM. +2
While not always required, purchasing tickets in advance, especially for special exhibits, is recommended to guarantee entry and avoid queues.
McNay membership offers various benefits, including free admission and discounts. Details on membership tiers and pricing can be found on their official website.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss special exhibits like 'Dreamland' inspired by 'The Nightmare Before Christmas' and Sandy Skoglund's 'Enchanting Nature.' The museum also features a diverse collection spanning various eras.
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most galleries, but professional photography may require special permission. Check the museum's policy.
Yes, the McNay often has family-friendly exhibits and activities, including sections showcasing high school student work. The grounds are also great for kids to explore.
The McNay boasts a diverse collection of American and European art, from Medieval to contemporary pieces, including works by artists like Monet, Pollock, and Diego Rivera.
Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the exhibits and grounds. You can also find a quiet spot to relax or read.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The McNay Art Museum typically has a cafe or dining option on-site for visitors to enjoy refreshments. Check their website for current offerings.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes located near the McNay Art Museum, offering a variety of culinary choices.
Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the museum galleries. Please check the museum's specific policy.
📸 📸 Photography
The Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, the central courtyard, the sculpture garden, and the grounds offer beautiful backdrops for photos. Special exhibits can also be very photogenic.
Professional photography may require prior permission or a permit. It's advisable to contact the museum in advance to inquire about their policy.
While personal photography is usually allowed, flash photography and tripods might be restricted in certain areas or during specific exhibits. Always check signage and museum guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during free Thursday evenings for a budget-friendly family adventure, or opt for a weekday visit to avoid larger crowds and allow children more space to engage with the exhibits. 💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2 The diverse art collections themselves, especially the special exhibits, provide unique subjects. While personal photography is generally permitted, be aware that professional camera equipment may require special permission, so it's wise to check the museum's policy beforehand. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the McNay's Collections
The museum is particularly noted for its commitment to modern and contemporary art, often featuring thought-provoking installations and exhibitions. Beyond the paintings and sculptures, the McNay also showcases decorative arts, prints, drawings, and photography, ensuring a rich and varied experience for every art enthusiast. The thoughtful curation ensures a cohesive narrative, even with the juxtaposition of historical and modern pieces within the same spaces.
Recent and upcoming exhibitions highlight the McNay's dynamic programming. The 'Dreamland' exhibit, inspired by 'The Nightmare Before Christmas,' and Sandy Skoglund's 'Enchanting Nature' demonstrate the museum's ability to engage audiences with imaginative and immersive art experiences. The 'Sport and Spectator' exhibition further broadens the scope, exploring the intersection of art and athletics.
+3The Architecture and Grounds
+1Beyond the mansion, the museum's campus is spread across 25 secluded acres, featuring beautifully landscaped grounds. The central courtyard and garden are particularly serene and offer a peaceful escape, making the McNay a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. These spaces are not only aesthetically pleasing but also provide ample opportunities for quiet contemplation and photography.
Visitors often praise the museum's grounds for their beauty and tranquility. It's a place where art extends beyond the gallery walls, inviting guests to wander, appreciate the natural surroundings, and find inspiration in the harmonious blend of architecture, art, and landscape.
Maximizing Your Visit: Tips and Tricks
Keep an eye on the special exhibits schedule, as these often draw significant attention and offer unique artistic experiences that are only available for a limited time.
+2 The museum also offers various discounts, including for military personnel, veterans, seniors, and students, so be sure to inquire about any applicable savings. Don't forget to explore the sculpture garden and the museum's grounds, which are often highlighted as a significant part of the visitor experience. Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully appreciate the collections and the beautiful surroundings.
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