The Metropolitan Museum of Art – New York City
With over 2 million works spanning 5,000 years, the Met offers an unparalleled global art experience. From Egyptian temples to contemporary exhibits, the iconic NYC institution places world culture under one roof.
National Gallery of Art – Washington D.C.
This free Smithsonian museum houses masterpieces from the 13th to 20th century in two grand buildings. Gaze at van Gogh’s vivid brushstrokes and wander sculpture gardens overlooking the National Mall.
Art Institute of Chicago
The Midwest’s premiere art palace dazzles with impressionist gems like Monet’s dreamy haystacks and American classics like Hopper’s haunting Nighthawks. The Institute’s trove of artifacts spans human history and creativity.
Getty Center – Los Angeles
Perched on a hilltop with sweeping city views, the Getty’s gleaming modernist buildings hold European works by masters from Rembrandt to Cézanne. Meticulous gardens and dazzling architecture elevate the experience.
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
America’s largest cultural institution south of the Smithsonian encompasses art from ancient Mediterranean frescoes to contemporary photography. Holdings like Rodin’s bronzes and works by O’Keeffe and Warhol wow.
Cleveland Museum of Art
Housing over 45,000 artworks from across human history, this gem often escapes lists but rivals any global institution. Highlights include exquisite Asian art and a stunning medieval armor collection.
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art – Kansas City
Known for its impressive Impressionist works, the Nelson-Atkins also boasts Chinese jades, a room replicating an 18th century salon, and grounds filled with sculpture by the likes of Henry Moore.
High Museum of Art – Atlanta
The leading fine arts museum of the Southeast immerses visitors in world cultures through acclaimed exhibits of photography, folk art, African art and modernist greats from Warhol to O’Keeffe.
Smithsonian American Art Museum – Washington D.C.
This branch of the Smithsonian celebrates creativity across America with iconic works like Hopper’s Cape Cod Evening and folk art covering themes from the whimsical to political.
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
Founded in 1870, America’s oldest major museum offers an astonishing global collection from Egyptian sarcophagi to contemporary crafts. Must-sees include works by everyone from John Singer Sargent to Monet.
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