The Dallas Museum of Art is a large art museum in the Dallas Arts District, at 1717 N Harwood St. Its collection spans ancient works to contemporary art and includes pieces from Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas and the Mediterranean. You can see paintings, sculpture and decorative arts, then step outside to the sculpture garden. General admission to the permanent collection is free; some special exhibitions charge admission. Plan for at least two hours, or longer if you like reading the information beside each work.
A collection across cultures and centuries
The Dallas Museum of Art has works from ancient times to the present, with art from Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas and the Mediterranean. Paintings and sculpture sit alongside decorative arts and objects from earlier civilizations. The collection includes works by artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe, Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko.
The range makes it easy to move between periods and artistic traditions during one visit. You might encounter ancient Mediterranean objects in one gallery and modern painting in another. The museum also presents special exhibitions that change over time. Check which exhibitions are on before you go, since some require paid admission even though the permanent collection is free.
Architecture, galleries and outdoor art
The museum’s Dallas Arts District building was designed by architect Edward Larrabee Barnes and opened in its current location in 1984. White limestone galleries connect to a central barrel-vaulted space. Inside, the spacious rooms give you room to pause at individual works, though the layout can involve doubling back as you explore.
The sculpture garden extends the visit outdoors. It gives you another way to encounter art between gallery rooms, and a place to pause before continuing through the museum. Klyde Warren Park is nearby, so the museum can fit into a longer walk through the Arts District.
Planning your visit
Set aside at least two hours if you want to see a good portion of the collection. You can stay longer to read the gallery information or spend time with particular works. The museum also has a café, a water station, a gift shop and a family-focused Center for Creative Connection, with hands-on activities and materials for children.
The permanent collection has free general admission, while some temporary exhibitions charge separately. Check with the museum before your visit if you want to see a particular show or take part in a program. Late Nights take place on the third Friday of each month, with themed events and activities running until 11 pm. The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and the listed visiting days run from 11 am to 5 pm. Ask at the entrance about bags, bottles and umbrellas so you know where to leave them before entering the galleries.
FAQ
Is admission to the Dallas Museum of Art free?
General admission to the permanent collection is free. Some special exhibitions have a separate admission fee.
How long should I spend at the Dallas Museum of Art?
Plan for at least two hours to explore the collection. Allow more time if you want to read the gallery information or see a special exhibition.
When is the Dallas Museum of Art closed?
The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Its listed visiting days are Wednesday through Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm.
Does the Dallas Museum of Art have events at night?
Late Nights are held on the third Friday of each month, with themed programming until 11 pm.
