On Milwaukee’s Lake Michigan shore, the Milwaukee Art Museum pairs galleries of classic and modern art with a landmark building by Santiago Calatrava. Its white Quadracci Pavilion has the movable Burke Brise Soleil, a wing-like sunscreen that opens and closes during the day. Inside, explore paintings, sculpture, photography and decorative arts in an airy layout, with works spanning different periods. The building and lake views are part of the visit, even if you only have time to see the exterior and the public lobby.
The Quadracci Pavilion and its moving wings
The museum’s architecture is a major part of the visit. Santiago Calatrava designed the Quadracci Pavilion, a modern addition unveiled in 2001. Its Burke Brise Soleil is a movable sunscreen with wing-like panels that open and close during the day. The structure spans 217 feet, and its movement gives the lakeside building a changing profile.
The pavilion’s bright interior includes glass and vaulted spaces. The architecture is visible from outside, and the lobby can be entered without going into the exhibition galleries. To visit the galleries, you need admission. The museum sits at 700 N Art Museum Dr, beside Lake Michigan.
Art across periods and media
The collection brings together classic and modern works, with paintings, sculpture, photography, drawings and decorative arts. The museum’s galleries include American and European art, Haitian art, German Expressionism and modern and contemporary work. The collection spans from antiquity to the present, and displays change as exhibitions rotate.
Georgia O’Keeffe is a notable presence in the collection. Other works named in the museum’s coverage include art by Pablo Picasso, Claude Monet, Andy Warhol and Auguste Rodin. A spacious layout gives you room to move between galleries and spend time with individual works.
Family activities and special exhibitions
Families can find activities beyond viewing the galleries. The museum has offered hands-on art-making, storytimes, interactive gallery tours and family events. ArtPack materials and family guides give children activities to use while exploring. Check the museum’s current program information to see what is available during your visit.
Special exhibitions change over time, alongside works from the permanent collection. Events such as Art in Bloom bring floral installations, a marketplace and live music to the museum. Dates and activities depend on the program, so check the museum’s website before planning around a particular event.
Planning a visit
A thorough visit can take at least four hours, given the range of galleries and exhibitions. If you have less time, focus on the pavilion and a selection of galleries. The building’s exterior and lobby are free to access, while entry to the main exhibition galleries requires a ticket. Admission prices and any special offers can change, so use the museum’s website for current details.
The museum has a cafe and restaurant, as well as a gift shop. The cafe is downstairs and has large windows looking toward the lake. The museum also has a theater, coat check and accessible entrance, restrooms and parking. Check current details online before setting out.
Häufige Fragen
Can you visit the Milwaukee Art Museum for free?
The building exterior and public lobby can be visited without entering the galleries. Admission is required for the main exhibition galleries.
How long should you spend at the Milwaukee Art Museum?
Allow at least four hours to explore the exhibits thoroughly. You can make a shorter visit by choosing a few galleries.
When do the museum’s wings open and close?
The Burke Brise Soleil moves during the day, with cited times at opening, noon and closing. Check the museum’s website for current details.
What can you see at the Milwaukee Art Museum?
The galleries include painting, sculpture, photography, drawing and decorative arts, with works spanning from antiquity to the present. The collection includes American, European, Haitian, modern and contemporary art.
