art tourism sites

10 Great Travel Destinations for Art Lovers

From a japanese art island to a creative colony among ancient olive groves in israel, these are the global art towns, big and small, we’d happily visit..

• Copy Link copied

Art meets nature at Brazil’s Instituto Inhotim, home to one of the largest collections of contemporary art in the country.

Photo by Brendon Campos

New York, London, Paris, Berlin, Los Angeles, Florence, Miami Beach, Hong Kong, São Paulo—these cities are all home to blockbuster art markets, creative superstars, and museums as famous as the works they house. We love these places, but we also love art destinations outside of the art-world orbit: places with an air of mystery, a whiff of a pilgrimage, a winking nonconformity, a love of experimentation, and a tight-knit sense of community.

Read on for 10 great destinations, big and small, art lovers should bookmark for their next vacation.

‘Your Rainbow Panorama’ tops the AroS Art Museum in Aarhus, Denmark.

Photo by Shutterstock

Aarhus, Denmark

In the heart of Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city and one of its oldest (dating to the 8th century), a colossal rainbow ring rises above the city. This is artist Olafur Eliasson’s installation, Your Rainbow Panorama, a walkway circling and capping the ARoS Art Museum, itself a jewel among Aarhus’s many cultural institutions. The museum is home to another art colossus, the crouching Boy sculpture by Australian artist Ron Mueck, and it hosts collections of Danish art from the 18 th century to today, as well as the work of international artists. Art lovers can wander among pieces by London-based, British-Palestinian Mona Hatoum, known for her probing and glowing installations; Japanese photographer Miwa Yanagi; and New York–based Tony Oursler, who has been innovating video and installation art since the 1970s.

In Aarhus, self-dubbed “Smilets By” (Danish for “City of Smiles”) and the “World’s Smallest Big City,” ARoS is just a jumping-off point for a smørrebrød (smorgasbord) of art destinations and happenings. Spiral out from the museum and see the city’s famous modern architecture, such as The Iceberg , a seaside apartment building that lives up to its name, and the grass-covered Moesgaard Museum . We love Charlotte Fogh Gallery , a Danish and international contemporary art gallery; the Højkant art collective and design shop full of cheeky creations; and the intimate PS Art Gallery and studio in a green, half-timbered, 17th-century home in the city’s Latin Quarter.

Juxtapose all this contemporary art and design with Den Gamle By (The Old Town), an open-air folk museum comprised of 75 historic buildings relocated from across Denmark, cobbled streets, and Danes dressed in period clothing baking bread and chopping wood. You can eat an actual smørrebrød here, as well as fried fish and frikadeller (Danish meatballs).

Chris Burden’s ‘Beam Drop’ (2008) was re-created at Inhotim; the original work was on display in New York in 1984.

Brumadinho, Brazil

Brumadinho is home to the Xanadu of the art world: the Instituto Inhotim , a contemporary art museum and sculpture park in a 346-acre private botanical garden founded by mining magnate and art patron Bernardo de Mello Paz.

Celebrating 15 years in 2021, the institute is one of the largest outdoor art spaces in the world, placing hundreds of giants of the art world alongside thousands of giants of the plant world, from octopus agave to ponytail palm and swamp cypress. The garden hosts more than 700 works by 60 artists, including Brazil’s own beloved boundary-defying Hélio Oiticica. As Oiticica intended, visitors can walk through his Magic Square #5 (1977), a colorful abstracted “public plaza” built of cement, glass, and stone. You could spend weeks wandering the grounds, a crash course in modern and contemporary large-scale art, studying the likes of Elisa Bracher’s eucalyptus and cedar wood Embrionário , going tête-à-tête with Paul McCarthy’s Pinocchio Block Head , gazing through Olafur Eliasson’s mirrored Viewing Machine, and falling in love with your own reflection at Yayoi Kusama’s Narcissus Garden Inhotim, 750 stainless steel orbs bobbing in a reflecting pool.

While the garden is the main draw, Instituto Inhotim has many noteworthy pieces in its indoor gallery as well, such as the blue-and-white tile room Celacanto provoca maremoto by Adriana Varejão , the sci-fi-inspired plant and mirror maze structure Vegetation Room Inhotim by Cristina Iglesias , and the enforested glass geodesic dome by Matthew Barney .

There are several places to eat across the sculpture park and the institute has many recommendations for nearby lodging, including Villa Rica , decorated with local art, or Villa Domaso , surrounded by lush nature.

Zeitz MOCAA has become a destination unto itself in Cape Town, South Africa.

Photo by Kiev.Victor/Shutterstock

Cape Town, South Africa

Rising from the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, with Table Mountain as a backdrop, is the world’s largest museum devoted to contemporary African art: the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa , commonly known as Zeitz MOCAA. First things first, the museum itself is a marvel , a towering structure revamped from the historic Grain Silo Complex with an interior that looks like an abstracted concrete-and-glass honeycomb.

Zeitz MOCAA is home to works by some of the continent’s leading artists such as Athi-Patra Ruga and Mary Sibande of South Africa, Njideka Akunyili Crosby of Nigeria, Ghada Amer of Egypt, and Nandipha Mntambo of Swaziland. The permanent collection also includes works by artists of the African Diaspora, like Kehinde Wiley and Frohawk Two Feathers, both of the U.S.

But Cape Town was an artist’s haven long before the arrival of MOCAA in 2017. The Woodstock neighborhood alone, with its pink town hall, is home to several renowned galleries dedicated to contemporary African artists including SMAC , Goodman Gallery , Stevenson Gallery (all of which have sister galleries in another top South African art destination, Johannesburg).

Cape Town is also delightfully crowded with public art, such as Es Devlin’s installation Zoetrope at the Waterfront and Arch for Arch, a woven wooden structure next to St. George’s Cathedral that honors Archbishop Desmond Tutu. The organization Baz Art hosts the annual International Public Art Festival , which in 2021 focused on painting murals in the Salt River neighborhood . There are also several art road trips worth taking from the Cape. Drive inland through mountainous wine country (many of the vineyards you’ll pass have their own fantastic art collections) to Stellenbosch, an oak-lined university town packed with art studios and the awe-inspiring Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden .

Mismatched pastel buildings that look like scoops of gelato along the water in Collioure, France.

Photo by Pani Garmyder/Shutterstock

Collioure, France

Legend has it that Henri Matisse said the quality of light is just different— magical —in Collioure, a laidback and ancient fishing town on the French Mediterranean 15 miles from Spain. Matisse and André Derain would summer here and become the first fauves (French for “wild beasts”), leaders of fauvism, the early 19th-century art movement known for its bold colors and brushstrokes, an unruly descendent of Impressionism. Matisse’s famous Open Window (1905) and Derain’s Fishing Boats (1905) were painted here, among many more fauvist works.

Collioure’s very petit harbor still captures the brilliant sunlight, bouncing off a 13 th -century castle and fortress and layers of mismatched pastel buildings that look like scoops of gelato along the water. Visitors can see the town through the artists’ perspectives along the Chemin du Fauvism, which features both empty bronze frames that outline the views of their most famous canvases, as well as reproductions. The Maison du Fauvism offers guided tours.

Keep cool with an actual scoop of gelato—countless gelaterias line the streets and try a bite of Catalan fare at Le Neptune overlooking the bay or the Templiers restaurant and hotel, a cozy spot with a bar made from a ship hull and walls lined salon-style with paintings.

Bronze sculptures by the residents of Ein Hod, Israel, dot the surrounding landscape.

Photo by Leonid Radashkovsky/Shutterstock

Ein Hod, Israel

Within hilly olive groves, tucked between the Mediterranean sea and Mount Carmel, is Ein Hod , a small artist colony established in 1953 by artist Marcel Janco , one of the founders of the avant-garde dada movement, which formed in reaction to World War I. Legend has it that Janco toured Israel, sketchbook in hand, and stumbled across the then-abandoned village and found it could be the perfect refuge for artists.

Today Ein Hod , 12 miles south of Haifa, has about 650 residents—mostly painters, sculptors, jewelers, architects, and artisans—and the landscape is dotted with their handiwork: outdoor bronze sculptures (look for Couple in a Sardine Can by Ben Levy), murals, studios, galleries, and workshops that offer classes for visitors. See the abstract colorations of Miriam-Ruth Sernoff Frohlich at the Sernoff-Frohlich Gallery Of Fine Art , the soulful book art of Nechama Levendel at the Karoyan Gallery , and the work of many locals under one roof at the Artists Gallery Ein Hod .

This tiny bohemian enclave is also home to two museums, the Nisco Museum of Mechanical Music and the Janco-Dada Museum , created in 1983 to honor the work and vision of the colony’s founder. This museum features the restored stone-arch studio of Janco and the DadaLab , where museumgoers can try their own hand at creating the absurdist, convention-defying art that defined this movement. Since 1990, Ein Hod has hosted an international Sculpture Biennale , inviting artists to install large-scale works outside amid ancient olive trees.

You can eat with the locals in one of the village’s classic stone buildings at Café Ein Hold. While larger hotels are available in nearby Haifa, Ein Hod itself offers a handful of quaint and eclectic apartments for rent, many with views of the Mediterranean.

Hobart’s Museum of Old and New Art is

Photo by C. de la Cruz/Shutterstock

Hobart, Tasmania

Looking out from the Berriedale peninsula onto the River Derwent is the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), or as founder—businessman, art collector, and high-stakes gambler David Walsh—calls it: a subversive adult Disneyland.

MONA is as irreverent as its benefactor, its website describing the museum’s everchanging identity as a “really elaborate marketing stunt” and “somewhere people can come to say ‘not sure about the art but the architecture is amazing.’”

And many are not sure about the art : MONA has the work of some of the biggest shock jocks of the art world: Hermann Nitsch’s bloody 6-Day-Play videos and Wim Delvoye’s stinking waste machine that is Cloaca Professional, to name a few.

Regardless of your take, the museum has helped put Hobart’s art scene on the map, bringing deserved attention to other art spaces like the Art Mob , which specializes in Tasmanian and Australian aboriginal art by the likes of Queenie McKenzie and Dennis Nona. Across the harbor are the contemporary fine art Despard and Handmark galleries, the latter of which is part of the bustling Salamanca Arts Centre , a transformed warehouse space home to several galleries and exhibition spaces, a theater, and the jewelry and metal collective Hammer & Hand , as well as public art such as We Are Made of Stardust by Michaela Gleave and Escape Pod by Colin Langridge. Stay in the neighborhood at the Henry Jones Art Hotel , which features contemporary art by Tasmanian artists in its rooms.

Kilns have been firing in this hilly city of Jingdezhen, China, known as the “Porcelain Capital of the World.”

Photo by CYSUN/Shutterstock

Jingdezhen, China

Leading ceramics artists and students worldwide travel to Jingdezhen, China, the “Porcelain Capital of the World,” where the ruins of ancient kilns meet contemporary factories and galleries. For more than 1,700 years and many imperial reigns, kilns have been firing in this hilly city of Jiangxi province along the Chang River, where ceramic masters have innovated technologies to produce the most coveted china, such as the emblematic blue and white pottery developed during the Ming Dynasty.

The stunning Jingdezhen Imperial Kiln Museum —shaped like ancient kilns in red brick, and the Jingdezhen Ceramic Industry Heritage Museum , help put the expansive history of this art industry in context. The industry, however, is alive and well today, cultivating the next generation of ceramicists at the renowned Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute and employing 30,000 people at outfits like the Porcelain Sculpture Factory in the Eastern suburbs or in the nearby Sanbao International Porcelain Art Village filled with artist studios and workshops. The Pottery Workshop , run by artist and curator Caroline Cheng , is an education center and hub for young artists in Jingdezhen, known as jingpiao . Every Saturday morning, the jingpiao sell their wares—traditional pottery, jewelry, contemporary art—at the Pottery Workshop Creative Market .

Countless ceramic artists and designers have their practices in the city such as Cheng herself, plus Wan Liya , Juz Kitson , Lin Wang , Robin Best , and Ryan LaBar . Walk down the Taoxichuan, known as the Ceramic Art Avenue, to peak into studios, galleries, and markets, and try some classic Jiangxi fare such as Lushan San Shi and fish banquets. The Fairfield by Marriot Jingdezhen hotel is near many of these attractions, and there are a handful of gorgeous Airbnb options .

An art lover’s trip to Japan has to include Naoshima in the Seto Inland Sea.

Photo by N_FUJITA/Shutterstock

Naoshima, Japan

There is a string of tiny flecks of land in the Seto Inland Sea that are teaming with museums, architectural marvels, and art installations. Naoshima, commonly referred to as Japan’s art island, home of the Benesse Art Site , leads the pack. Here, massive sculptures such as Lee Ufan’s Porte vers l’infini (2019) and Beatriz Millhaze’s Yellow Flower Dream (2018) dot the landscape creating a fine art playground. (Until recently, one of Yayoi Kusama’s massive pumpkin sculptures sat on a pier before a typhoon swept it out to sea . Benesse Art Site is in the process of restoring it.)

Then there are the museums and galleries: the mind-bending subterranean Chichu Art Museum designed by architect Tadao Ando housing works by Claude Monet and James Turrell; the Benesse House Museum , which melds a hotel and exhibition space with nature (with a restaurant serving kaiseki meals that rival the art for presentation); the kooky art facility Naoshima Bath where—you guessed it—visitors can take a bath surrounded by the artwork of Shinro Ohtake; and the Miyanoura Gallery 6 in the site of a former pachinko parlor once popular with islanders.

If you’re willing to island hop, head to Teshima to see large-format paintings in the Teshima Yokoo House (named for artist Tadanori Yokoo) and Inujima for an art museum housed in a old copper refinery .

You could spend a full day just exploring Georgia O’Keeffe’s artwork in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Photo by Fred Mays/Shutterstock

Santa Fe, New Mexico

One of the oldest cities in the U.S. (older than the country itself, with a founding date of 1607) Santa Fe and its iconic pueblo architecture encompass many art scenes and histories, from the vast indigenous collections of the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA) to the electro-pop experiences of Meow Wolf to the storied career of Georgia O’Keeffe who was so deeply influenced by the New Mexico landscape.

Housed in a historic Peublo Revival-style post office downtown, the IAIA’s Museum of Contemporary Native Arts stewards the National Collection of Contemporary Native Art, featuring 9,000 artworks created since 1962 including pieces by legends such as George Morrison, Helen Hardin, and Fritz Scholder. From here, walk past the Santa Fe Plaza to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum to see up-close and personal Black Hollyhock Blue Larkspur (1930), Pelvis IV (1944), and Spring (1948), among others. O’Keeffe fans can stay at the Abiquiú Inn , next to the The O’Keeffe Welcome Center housed in the artist’s former home and residence.

Around Canyon Road, you’ll find 80-plus galleries including Turner Caroll Gallery —whose international roster of artists includes Judy Chicago, Wanxin Zhang, and Swoon; Nedra Matteucci Galleries with its renowned sculpture garden; and the art collective and gallery Cielo Handcrafted , with goods including stoneware ceramics, leather totes, and silver jewelry.

Down Cerrillos Road, follow the neon glow of Meow Wolf’s House of Eternal Return , an “explorable art experience,” a sort of dayglo haunted house with more than 70 immersive rooms.

The streets of tiny Todos Santos are full of galleries and shops stacked with handmade ceramics, metal work, and beautiful textiles.

Photo by Arturo Verea/Shutterstock

Todos Santos, Mexico

About 50 miles northwest of Cabo San Lucas on the Baja California peninsula lies the bohemian Todos Santos, oft-compared to a young Taos and one of Mexico’s “ Pueblos Mágicos ” (magical villages), a designation given to places that have preserved their original architecture, traditions, history, and culture. Surrounded by Mexican cardon, the tallest cacti in the world, and azure water where whale sharks pass, Todos Sontos is also home to a thriving artist enclave. February is a prime month to engage the local art scene with the annual weeklong Festival del Art and Todos Santos Open Studio Tour . However, visitors can stroll the old-town cobblestone blocks fluttering with papel picado year-round to see what artists are up to.

A great place to start is La Sonrisa de la Meurta , an international gallery and workshop (with a sister location in Belgium) featuring graphic arts—from limited-edition prints to card decks to handkerchiefs—printed by young and emerging Mexican artists. Nearby (everything is nearby in Todos Santos) are the Galería Arturo with Mexican artist Arturo Mendoza Elfeo ’s whimsical impasto and textured canvases, and Galería Logan , featuring American expat Jill Logan’s dreamy swirling canvases in sunbaked colors. For a historical perspective, stop by the Centro Cultural , housed in a red-brick former school with revolutionary murals dating back nearly a century.

The Hotel San Cristóbal makes for a chic home base in town, while Paradero Todos Santos could be your cultural retreat at the intersection of desert, mountains, and Pacific coast. At the hotel, and beyond, order any fish dish: Todos Santos began as a fishing town and fisherman still take their little panga boats out daily.

>>Next: 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites That Mix Nature and Culture

A Guide To The Best Art-Inspired Destinations In The US

One of the coolest things to do when traveling to a new place is to check out the art scene, and some U.S. cities have such an inspiring art presence that they are worth experiencing fully through the lens of such creativity. The United States, being the melting pot that it is and massive to boot, is a smorgasbord of traditions and heritage. With culture being heavily linked to different art styles, it only makes sense that cities with the most cultural foundations would have large art presences. The exploration of great art can certainly take you places you wouldn't first expect, though.

Finding great art anywhere isn't hard – wherever there are people, creativity can be found. However, some cities are teeming with beautiful and unique finds, and we've scoured the United States for some of the very best art installations and experiences for travelers who love an art-centric vacation. From world-renowned cities that are impossible to escape notice to small towns you may have never heard of, here are some of the very best places to visit for a colorful and art-filled bucket list vacation.

Best city for tattoo collectors

Richmond, Virginia has one of the highest rates of tattoo shops per capita in the country  (via The Box Houston ), beat out only by two high tourist cities that likely have a high number of shops geared toward visitors rather than residents. You'd be hard-pressed to find a Richmonder without at least one piece marking their skin, and the college city takes their ink very seriously with little to no gimmicky shops and many celebrated and renowned artists residing there. For travelers who are looking to add a little ink to their collection on vacation – especially of the traditional variety – a trip to Richmond should be highly considered.

Shops like Hold It Down Tattoo , a hidden gem found in a cobblestone alley near the Virginia Commonwealth University campus, and Heroes & Ghosts Tattoos  in Richmond's popular Carytown are home to various popular artists with different styles. While most artists in the city have a style all to their own that is noticeably unique and desirable, artists like Josh Stephens and Two Pillars owner Charles Berger are stand-outs for their bold and specialized style choices.

Richmond is also home to the world's longest-running tattoo convention, which celebrated its 29th anniversary in 2022 . Over 100 artists participate in the Richmond Tattoo, Art, and Music Festival and people come from all over to get tattooed at the convention, making it a great time to visit the heavily tattooed city.

Best open-air art scene

Detroit, Michigan has had a bad rap for quite some time with a high violent crime rate , but it is back on its feet and has become something of a haven for young people and artists. Art and innovation have sprung out of pure grit and willpower as the people take back Detroit , making what is still one of the nation's poorest cities into one of the coolest as well, rich in culture and creativity. The poverty still heavily present in the city should not be taken lightly when visiting, though. The city, as well as its many longtime residents, should be shown the utmost respect by tourists coming to awe at their home and creations.

It's easy to spend a few days in Detroit just visiting the various outdoor art installations and murals, and following Visit Detroit 's weekend art tour itinerary will take you along a journey that visits a lot of what the city has to offer in way of inspirational experiences. One of the best ways to experience the art scene and really understand the scope of how far Detroit has come back is by visiting The Heidelberg Project , an outdoor art display that strives to rehabilitate the area by turning vacant lots into environments of art. Detroit isn't a city to overlook, especially when it comes to its art scene.

Best city for affordable and awe-inspiring art

Surprisingly, one of the most affordable U.S. cities to travel to also happens to contain some pretty amazing and jaw-dropping art installations. Many travelers visit Philadelphia because of the city's ties to American history, as it is sometimes referred to as the birthplace of the United States. For art lovers, though, Philly is also a pretty great city to see, as the entire city is peppered with breathtaking visuals.

One of the most striking and visually stimulating attractions in Philly is the  Magic Gardens , which is a huge mosaic art piece and gallery that spans three city lots. The immersive art experience was first created by artist Isaiah Zagar in an effort to revitalize the South Street neighborhood of Philadelphia, which became a solid contributor to the city's art and revitalization period known as the South Street Renaissance . The wildly creative behemoth of a mosaic collection is a must-see for anyone visiting Philly, but certainly a point of focus for art lovers.

Philadelphia's Mural Mile is also a near-free attraction that has many impressive art styles on display. Travelers can take self-guided tours of all the important murals that use the city as a canvas. With over 4,000 murals crafted thanks to Mural Arts Philadelphia and local creatives who continue to fill the city with artwork, there is plenty to see when exploring the vast city.

Best cities for art museum-goers

New York City and Washington D.C. both contain some of the best museums in the United States, especially when it comes to art. With New York City being such a diverse and populous city and D.C. being the capital of the country, it makes sense that some of the most well-known art museums would reside within their limits. Both cities honor various styles and historic periods of art within their many art museums and galleries.

New York City is home to the Museum of Modern Art – popularly known as the MoMA – and The Metropolitan Museum of Art , both of which are revered as two of the most admired art museums in the world . The Met, of course, is popular for its annual Met Ball , which is basically an elaborate and upscale costume party where the most well-known celebrities wear designer outfits that reflect the year's theme. The MoMA holds some of the most influential contemporary and modern art in history. Van Gogh's "The Starry Night," arguably the single-most well-known and beloved modern painting, is among The MoMA's inhabitants , as well as paintings by Frida Kahlo, Picasso, and Andy Warhol.

Washington D.C. boasts a whole lot of museums and is home to another of the world's most beloved art museums: the National Gallery of Art . The museum hosts work from artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Monet, and Van Gogh and, better yet, is free for all to visit.

Best city for interesting and unique architecture

While cities like New Orleans and New York City are known to have amazing architecture throughout, Miami, Florida is an unexpected wonder when it comes to stylized buildings. The Art Deco Historic District is home to a number of striking buildings that showcase the Art Deco style of the 1920s, '30s, and early '40s, as well as Miami Beach's most iconic street, Ocean Drive. Movie buffs will recognize some of the striking art deco buildings from various iconic films, like "Scarface" and "Miami Vice" – it's hard not to notice how the style of architecture affected the films' whole vibe. Iconic buildings in this district like The Carlyle and Park Central Hotel with their extravagant yet subtly comfortable design are huge jewels in the crown of Miami's South Beach.

Art Deco isn't the only beautiful design choice that designers made in Miami, though, as the city boasts a pretty hefty presence of Mediterranean Revival-style buildings as well. This style pops up in many of Miami's neighborhoods, among the most famous of these buildings are The Alamo and The Freedom Tower . No matter the style, though, Miami's architecture is timeless and the diversity of its stylized buildings paired with how well the city pulls them off makes it a perfect city for art lovers to enjoy.

Best city for art festivals

Charleston, South Carolina is a Mecca for artists, and both they and their creations come in all shapes, sizes, and styles. The southern city is home to a number of annual art festivals that bring in artists from all over. Whether travelers are interested in adding to their art collections or just experiencing a wide array of artists and styles, attending one of Charleston's art festivals is a great addition to any art-led vacation.

One of Charleston's most anticipated festivals is the annual North Charleston Art Fest , a five-day festival that features not only the visual arts but a wide variety of art mediums. Similarly, the Moja Arts Festival uses different art forms to celebrate African American and Caribbean cultures and the harmonization of the many cultures that influence Charleston. For travelers more interested in music and the performing arts, Charleston's Piccolo Spoleto Festival delivers beautifully in these directions.

Festivals in Charleston are a community affair, but they also are open and welcoming to tourists who want to partake in what the many artists and creators have to offer. For being a decently sized city, Charleston still feels like a small town with its emphasis on community, the fast-paced art festival scene speeds things up in the city, making it a bustling and exciting area for creative-minded travelers to enjoy.

Best cities for guerrilla art

Graffiti and unexpectedly placed art can be found all over, specifically in highly populated cities. Naturally, New York City has a huge guerrilla art culture that can be seen in pretty much every neighborhood in the big city, like The Bushwick Collective . Local contributors as well as artists from all over the world have taken part in the massive art project that is made up of almost 100 blocks of murals and large-scale art pieces. Travelers can take a short, pay-what-you-want walking tour to see all the project has to offer.

Los Angeles is another city in which guerrilla art is heavily ingrained in the culture. Street art and graffiti have made quite a transformation over the years in L.A., and artists throughout the city are doing some pretty great things in terms of large-scale murals – a lot of which have deeper meanings than just beautifying the city. There are numerous areas that have a dense presence of beautiful and sometimes thought-provoking images, but The Arts District and The Container Yard are two that speak to the diversity of Los Angeles' street art styles, as they both display a vast number of differing works.

Graffiti has been around for a long time as a means of public creative expression. Murals have become popular all over the world, but a vacation planned around the art pieces should certainly include New York City and/or Los Angeles, as their cultural significance when it comes to guerrilla art is undeniable.

The city with the most culture-rich art

Any traveler heading into Chi-Town would be remiss to forgo any of the numerous opportunities to experience the bustling art scene the city has to offer. Chicago, Illinois has pioneered and innovated a number of different art forms and styles throughout the decades, like jazz music and the performing arts, and they remain a huge part of the creative scene in the city.

The city of Chicago is the perfect place for lovers of art in all its forms to visit, as visual art is just as prevalent as music and comedy or theater. Pablo Picasso even honored the city with a 50-foot sculpture named after himself to stand in Daley Plaza. Expo Chicago is an annual, international event that curates pieces from galleries all over the world and exposes new art from emerging talent.

The neighborhoods within Chicago are steeped in culture, and the different artworks that are scattered throughout reflect that. Neighborhoods like Wicker Park and River North are home to a number of galleries and host regular creative events like First Friday and the Art Crawl .

Best city for an emerging art scene

Though Austin, Texas has had a consistent art scene for decades, the city is still very much blooming with its indie art scene and, until very recently , a large influx of young people moving there and contributing to the creative atmosphere. Although it was projected to be one of the next big cities in the world for art , skyrocketing rent being seen in larger cities has people relocating. The affordability that first brought artists to Austin is now affecting smaller, nearby Texas towns in a great way.

While there are a number of smaller towns on the outskirts of Austin that are seeing an influx of artists, Bastrop is really emerging as a go-to spot  for outdoor art. The small town has had an art presence for a number of years, but with artists from Austin recently relocating to the town along with Austin's Art Institute, it is expected to boom with creativity in the coming years. The Lost Pines Art Center is a huge gallery, offering free access daily. With murals popping up throughout the town and the Bastrop Art Fest hosting unique artists and vendors, including the metal casting company Pyrology , the town has no problem showing off its creativity. For travelers who like a more small-town feel and want to feel like they are a part of something up and coming, Bastrop is the perfect destination – especially when the established art city of Austin is just a short drive away.

A city built for more than music

While Nashville, Tennessee is overwhelmingly known as a city where would-be country music stars and musicians in various genres flock to, it also has a brilliant art scene. Exploring Nashville's art district is striking, with murals that are both beautiful, moving, and reflective of the city's rich history.

Jefferson Street is home to both history and art, the nearby Fisk College hosts a number of art galleries. A historically Black community, the art around Jefferson Street reflects the culture and experience of those who have resided there and heavily features the neighborhood's ties to music. An undeniable and impactful addition to Nashville's art scene is the Norf Art Collective , which is responsible for a number of the large murals in the city that act as historical and cultural memorials. The collective has incorporated and honored a number of Black figures important to Nashville's story in their art – exemplified in their "Family Matters" mural.

You could spend a lifetime in Nashville, but the city could also be just the thing for travelers simply looking for a creative outlet. The music scene may be what people flock to the city for, but seeing the Music City through the lens of its impactful artwork is a whole different experience.

A small town that prioritizes art

In the middle of the Ozarks is the small, eclectic town of Eureka Springs. The town is nestled in the mountains and lined with local art, galleries, and shops. The town is an art colony and is home to around 300 artists, which is about 15% of the town's population!

A month-long art festival is a feature of the town, which is a great time to visit. The annual May Festival of the Arts is a huge event, with the ARTrageous Parade starting the event off in a major way. Participants in the parade go all out creating vibrant costumes that impress residents and visitors alike. Other art-centric events and mini-festivals are scattered throughout the festival month, like an air painting festival and a performing arts workshop.

With art as the focus of pretty much the whole town, it only makes sense that Eureka Springs would be home to a pretty great art school. The Eureka Springs School of Art hosts workshops for various art mediums and is active in many of the art-centric community happenings, like the annual ARTRageous Parade. The styles of art vary greatly in Eureka Springs, making it a place where pretty much everyone can find some beauty.

Where to see natural art in the wild

Art comes in all forms and frequently takes inspiration from nature, so it only makes sense that one spot on our guide to art in the U.S. would go to a destination where you can catch some truly amazing natural masterpieces. Near the U.S. and Canadian border is Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge , one of the only places to see the Northern Lights from the United States. Not to mention that the stargazing is prime here as well.

There is so much beauty and diversity in nature, and it doesn't take a whole vacation to see something amazing as just going outside can result in a natural wonder . However, the natural world is so sensitive that changing locations can result in some truly unique experiences – seeing the Northern Lights in Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge is one such endeavor. A great place to catch the aurora borealis in the refuge is Moosehead Lake , where you not only have a large, open view of the sky, but the reflection of the lights off of the water is truly awe-inspiring.

An unexpected but necessary destination

Amarillo, Texas may not be one of the large state's most sought-after destinations, but it is quite artistic and unique in its own right. The city's crown jewel of an art installation is the ever-changing Cadillac Ranch , which features ten half-buried Cadillacs on Route 66 that are continuously graffitied by artists. The vibrant Cadillacs can be seen from Route 66, which makes it almost impossible not to stop.

Cadillac Ranch may be one of the cooler art pieces in Amarillo, but it is not nearly the only thing that brings art lovers in. The Hoodoo Mural Festival is a feel-good creative outlet for the whole community that aims to bring people together through art and beautifying public spaces. Texas Monthly 's art guide to Amarillo outlines a lot of the top art destinations in the city, but it's almost as if Amarillo itself is art – a trip to the Texas town will be packed with stunning visuals and creative interactions. For travelers wanting to venture to a large city that is outside the typical art destination codex, Amarillo may be the perfect vacation.

THE 10 BEST Moscow Museums

Museums in moscow.

• Specialty Museums
• Art Galleries
• Art Museums
• History Museums
• Children's Museums
• Science Museums
• Military Museums
• Natural History Museums
• Observatories & Planetariums
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
• District Central (TsAO)
• Garden Ring
• Boulevard Ring
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. State Tretyakov Gallery

2. Moscow Kremlin

3. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

4. Armoury Chamber

5. Kolomenskoye Historical and Architectural Museum and Reserve

6. The Museum of Cosmonautics

7. Kuskovo Estate

8. Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts

9. New Tretyakov Gallery

10. State Darwin Museum

11. Diamond Fund (Almazny Fond)

12. Jewish Museum and Tolerance Center

13. Experimentanium Museum of Entertaining Sciences

14. Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines

15. Art Gallery of the European and American Countries of the XIX-XX centuries

16. Muzeon Art Park

17. Mikhail Bulgakov State Museum

18. Orlov Paleontological Museum

19. Museum-Diorama Tsar-Layout

20. Moscow Planetarium

21. Historical Park Russia - My History

22. Entertainment Center Arbat 16

23. Bunker-42 Cold War Museum at Taganka

24. The State A.S. Pushkin Museum

25. Museum Moskovskiy Transport

26. Novospasskiy Monastery

27. Victor Vasnetsov House Museum

28. Gorky's House (Ryabushinsky Mansion)

29. Artplay Design and Architecture Center

30. Borodino Battle Museum Panorama

What travelers are saying

• State Tretyakov Gallery
• Moscow Kremlin
• Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve
• The Museum of Cosmonautics
• Armoury Chamber
• Museum-Diorama Tsar-Layout
• Victor Vasnetsov House Museum
• Museum Moskovskiy Transport
• Kolomenskoye Historical and Architectural Museum and Reserve
• Museum in the Dark Sensorium
• Art Gallery of the European and American Countries of the XIX-XX centuries
• Kuskovo Estate
• Muzeon Art Park
• Jewish Museum and Tolerance Center
• Orlov Paleontological Museum
• Novospasskiy Monastery
• Historical Park Russia - My History
• Experimentanium Museum of Entertaining Sciences
• Mikhail Bulgakov State Museum
• Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines
• Entertainment Center Arbat 16
• Bunker-42 Cold War Museum at Taganka
• Museum of Illusions
• Museum of Death

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Moscow

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Moscow is one of Europe's most enigmatic destinations, home to a fascinating history and colorful, awe-inspiring architecture you won't find anywhere else in the world. Moscow might be one of the most populous cities in the world with over 11 million inhabitants, but this hasn't changed its strong cultural and social traditions.

Walk the cobblestone streets of the Red Square or the banks of the Moskva River early in the morning, and it's hard to tell what century you're in.

Tsarist architecture, must-see churches, and glamorous shopping opportunities blend together for a visual experience you won't forget. For ideas on what to see and do while visiting Russia, here's our list of top tourist attractions in Moscow.

1. Marvel at the Size of the Kremlin

2. catch a performance at the bolshoi theatre, 3. shop at the luxurious gum, 4. make your way into lenin's mausoleum, 5. spend an hour (or three) at red square, 6. discover history at the museum of cosmonautics, 7. ride the stunning moscow metro, 8. explore the moscow state integrated museum-reserve, 9. spend a rainy day at the tretyakov gallery, 10. walk up and down arbat street, 11. stop by the vdnkh all-russian exhibition centre, 12. wander around gorky park, where to stay in moscow for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in moscow.

Moscow's most recognizable structure is without a doubt the Kremlin, a 15th-century fortified complex that covers an area of 275,000 square meters surrounded by walls built in the 1400s.

The Grand Kremlin Palace -which has over 700 rooms- was once home to the Tsar family and is now the official residence of the president of the Russian Federation, although most heads of state choose to reside elsewhere.

The massive complex also includes many other buildings, some of which are open to the public and can be visited regularly. Aside from three cathedrals (including one where the Tsars were once crowned) and a number of towers, the Kremlin is also home to the Armory building, a museum holding everything from the royal crown and imperial carriages to the ivory throne of Ivan the Terrible and Fabergé eggs.

The Bolshoi Theater is home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world . While the theater has undergone several major renovations over the past century-including a recent one in 2011 to restore some of the imperial architectural details-it still retains all of its Neoclassical grandeur.

The Bolshoi Theater you see today opened in 1824, after several older versions burned down. Inside, red velvet, a three-tiered crystal chandelier, and gilt moldings give the place a Byzantine-Renassaince grandiose feel like no other.

Catching a show from the resident ballet and opera troupes is a treat, as the theater often presents a number of classic performances, such as Tchaikovsky's Mazeppa and Rachmaninoff's Francesca da Rimini, both of which originally premiered here.

Moscow's oldest and most upscale shopping center is an architectural marvel. GUM (short for Glávnyj Universálnyj Magazín or "Main Universal Store") was built in the late 1800s in neo-Russian style to showcase a beautiful mix of a steel skeleton and 20,000 panels of glass forming an arched roof.

This was a unique construction at the time, since the glass had to be strong enough to support the snow-heavy Russian winters. The building is just as impressive outside, with all three levels covered in marble and granite.

While GUM is no longer the largest shopping center in Moscow, it's still by far the most beautiful. Home to brands like Gucci and Manolo Blahnik, this might not be the ideal destination for most budget-conscious visitors, but the beauty of the building itself is worth a visit.

On the third floor, there are also great dining options, including a Soviet-style canteen that serves traditional Russian food, and a stand selling ice cream made by hand using an original 1954 recipe originally approved by the Soviet government.

Lenin's Mausoleum, the final resting place of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin, occupies a central spot in Red Square. His body has been in the mausoleum since his death in 1924-and although the original plan was for him to be buried after a short period of public display for mourning, the plan quickly changed.

After over 100,000 visited the tomb over a period of six weeks, it was decided that a new sarcophagus and a more permanent display space could actually preserve Lenin's body for much longer than expected-and Lenin's Mausoleum was built.

Over the years, the mausoleum and its marble stairs also became the main spot from where Soviet leaders would watch parades and events happening in Red Square.

Lenin's embalmed body can still be seen today, lying down in a bulletproof glass sarcophagus as if he's sleeping. While a visit to the mausoleum is certainly unusual, it has become a must-do for history buffs looking to understand how Lenin's legacy truly changed the nation. Come ready to wait, though -there are usually lines to get in.

All of Moscow's main streets start at Red Square, so it's easy to see why this is considered the heart of the city. A massive space of 330 meters by 70 meters, the square is flanked by the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, two cathedrals, and the State Historical Museum.

In 1945, a massive Victory Parade was held here to celebrate the defeat of Nazi Germany by the Soviet Armed Forces.

St. Basil's Cathedral , one of the most recognizable buildings on the square, was built in 1555. The unique cathedral has architectural details inspired by Byzantine and Asian design, as well as details that resemble those found in famous mosques. There are nine individual chapels inside the church, all decorated with colorful mural art.

Both the square itself and the Kremlin are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . On weekends, there are sometimes stalls selling souvenirs and traditional items here, such as matryoshka (Russian nesting dolls), at the entrance of the square.

At one point, Russia and the US were toe-to-toe when it came to space exploration. While that might no longer be the case, the museum's amazing collection-which includes over 85,000 items-is still awe-inspiring.

Main exhibits include the space capsule used by Yuri Gagarin , the first human to travel into outer space; a USSR flag with moon fragments; a Soviet spacesuit; and a rocket propulsion unit from the 1960s. A special two-story hall showcases sections of the Mir space station interior, and there are also models of the first sputniks and a replica miniature spaceship.

English-language tours are available, and there's also a Cinema Hall showing subtitled short films about the history of space exploration programs and the first manned space flight.

The museum is located inside the base of the monument to the Conquerors of Space, which was built almost 20 years before the museum opened.

Riding the Moscow metro is an experience all in itself, but even just heading underground to walk through the stations is something no visitor should miss. With 223 stations and 12 metro lines crosscutting through Moscow, however, this can be tricky, so visiting at least a few of the most impressive ones is a good start.

Arbatskaya station was designed by a skyscraper architect, so it's no surprise that it features multicolored granite slabs and impressive bronze chandeliers.

Park Kultury station , located next to Gorky Park, is covered in marble and features reliefs of people involved in sports, while Teatralnaya station is decorated with porcelain figures dancing and wearing traditional Russian costumes.

The metro is open between 5:30am and 1:00am but it's very crowded in the early morning and after 4pm, so it's better to visit in the late morning or early afternoon to really appreciate the architecture without the crowds.

The Moscow State Integrated Art and Historical Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve is a cultural open-air museum complex comprised of four different historical sites.

The most important site, the Kolomenskoye Estate, was once the summer residence of Tsars as far back as the 14 th century. The complex, which covers almost 300 hectares, is home to fairy-tale wooden palaces; a tent-roof stone church built in the 1500s; a water tower; fort towers and structures; and the 24-room Museum of Wooden Architecture , which includes the restored dining room of Tsar Alexei I.

Beautiful manicured gardens , riverside picnic areas, and a massive collection of both artifacts and structures make this a great destination to help you see what medieval Russia looked like. English-language tours are available, but you're also free to wander the grounds on your own.

The largest collection of Russian art in the world sits here, with over 180,000 paintings, sculptures, and religious art dating back to over a millennia ago. The gallery, built using beautiful red and white colors from classical Russian architecture, is located near the Kremlin and it was built in the early 20 th century.

Significant art pieces include the Vladimir Mother of God; a Byzantine icon of the Virgin and child dating back to the 1100s; Andrei Rublev's The Trinity icon from the 15 th century; and several works by Ilya Repin, the most famous realist painter in Russia.

On the grounds of the museum, there is also an 86-meter-tall statue of Peter the Great, as well as a number of Socialist Realism sculptures.

Moscow's one-kilometer-long pedestrian street has been around since the 15 th century. Originally a trade route in the outskirts of the city, Arbat Street is now very centrally located, home to posh buildings and lots of places to eat and shop.

Beautiful street lamps and two significant statues-one of Princess Turandot (from Puccini's last opera) and one of Soviet-era poet Bulat Okudzhava-adorn the street, which fills up with both locals and tourists on evenings and weekends.

A great place to pick up souvenirs or sit down at an outdoor café, Arbat Street also offers a chance to visit the former home of poet Alexander Pushkin and the café both Anton Chekhov and Leo Tolstoy used to visit.

Although it was originally designed as a general-purpose trade show venue, this park complex now houses amusement rides , ice rinks , and a number of galleries and other attractions for all ages.

The park's most famous landmarks are the Moskvarium, a marine biology center home to over 8000 species of marine animals, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, and a shopping center selling traditional products from former Soviet countries.

There's even a film museum showing Soviet cartoons or even a full-length film (for an extra fee) and an education center offering masterclasses on everything from becoming a barista to video montage (call or write in advance to find out which ones are English-friendly).

Soviet-era pavilions, sculptures, and fountains abound here as well, including the famous Friendship of the Peoples Fountain, which features statues of women dressed in costumes from different former Soviet countries.

Named after the famous Russian writer Maxim Gorky (who was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature five times but never won it) and sitting right across the Moskva River, Gorky Park covers 120 hectares of beautiful ponds and green spaces.

Popular with both locals and tourists, the park offers a variety of things to enjoy-from sunbeds, hammocks, and drinking fountains to free yoga classes and children's playgrounds. There's free Wi-Fi and sockets for charging your phone, as well as many food stands and plenty of wild animals, including deer, rabbits, and pheasants.

Visitors can rent paddle boats and bicycles to explore the park-and from May to October, there is also an open-air movie theater, as well as scheduled presentations by street performers, musicians, and artists. Gorky Park attracts the young and old, so don't be surprised to see a mix of people exercising, playing chess, and sunbathing.

Luxury Hotels :

• Lotte Hotel Moscow is one of the top 5-star properties in Moscow offering the largest Royal Suite in Russia. The trendy rooms and suites here all have contemporary style and great city views. On-site amenities are plentiful. There are two restaurants: one serving contemporary Italian fare, and the other Japanese. There is an impressively lit indoor swimming pool, a well-known spa, and a state-of-the-art gym.
• Another excellent luxury hotel is the Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow . The residential-style property is in the heart of Moscow just next to the Bolshoi Theatre and within walking distance of the Kremlin and Red Square. The rooms and suites have been opulently designed by Tony Chi. The on-site restaurant serves a mix of European and Armenian specialities. There is also a Japanese sushi bar and a rooftop lounge with fabulous city views.
• The St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya also has a central location just a few minutes from the Kremlin and Red Square. The 5-star property has a mix of elegant rooms and suites, including interconnecting room options for families with kids. There are multiple restaurants on-site including an Italian bistro. Other amenities include the fabulous Iridium Spa, which does a full range of treatments and has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Palmira Business Club is a top mid-range choice. The contemporary lifestyle hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, including options for families. Suites are quite spacious and have kitchenettes. Amenities here include a complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant, a hot tub, sauna, and spa. There is also a fitness center.
• The trendy Mercure Moscow Baumanskaya offers a mix of rooms and suites with contemporary decor. The mid-range hotel can arrange airport transportation and offers baggage storage. Other amenities include a restaurant and room service. The front desk is open 24 hours.
• Boutique Hotel Brighton is about 10 minutes from the city center in a leafy park area. It offers excellent value for money and has charming rooms and suites with sound-proof windows and doors, as well as blackout curtains. A complimentary breakfast is served, and there is also an indoor swimming pool.

Budget Hotels :

• Hotel Ibis Budget Moscow Panfilovskaya is about a 15-minute drive from Moscow's downtown, and it's within walking distance from a metro station that will take you there. The soundproof rooms at this budget property are clean, comfortable, and can sleep up to three people. The hotel is pet friendly, has paid parking available on-site, and also has a salon.
• If you just need a budget hotel near the airport then check out Aviator Hotel Sheremetyevo . Located right at the airport, it has soundproof rooms, including options for families. Amenities include an indoor play area for kids, a sauna and swimming pool, and a free breakfast.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Russia: Whether you are interested in history, nature, or architecture, there's much to see in Russia. For a good introduction to some of the most fascinating spots in the country, take a look at our article on the Best Places to Visit in Russia . For more on Russia's second-largest city and all it has to offer, check out our piece on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Petersburg .

Must-see attractions in Moscow

The Armoury dates to 1511, when it was founded under Vasily III to manufacture and store weapons, imperial arms and regalia for the royal court. Later it…

Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts

Arbat & Khamovniki

This is Moscow’s premier foreign-art museum, split over three branches and showing off a broad selection of European works, including masterpieces from…

St Basil's Cathedral

At the southern end of Red Square stands the icon of Russia: St Basil’s Cathedral. This crazy confusion of colours, patterns and shapes is the culmination…

Moscow Kremlin

The apex of Russian political power and once the centre of the Orthodox Church, the Kremlin is the kernel of not only Moscow, but of the whole country…

Lenin's Mausoleum

Although Vladimir Ilych requested that he be buried beside his mum in St Petersburg, he still lies in state at the foot of the Kremlin wall, receiving…

Zamoskvorechie

Moscow's main city escape isn't your conventional expanse of nature preserved inside an urban jungle. It's not a fun fair either, though it used to be one…

Immediately outside the Kremlin’s northeastern wall is the celebrated Red Square, the 400m-by-150m area of cobblestones that is at the very heart of…

State Tretyakov Gallery Main Branch

The exotic boyar (high-ranking noble) castle on a little lane in Zamoskvorechie contains the main branch of the State Tretyakov Gallery, housing the world…

Hermitage Gardens

All the things that have improved Moscow parks no end in recent years fill this small, charming garden to the brim. Today, it is possibly the most…

Garage Museum of Contemporary Art

The brainchild of Moscow art fairy Darya Zhukova, Garage is one of the capital's hottest modern-art venues. In 2015, the museum moved to spectacular new…

19th & 20th Century Art Gallery

This branch of the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts contains a famed assemblage of French Impressionist works, based on the collections of two well-known…

Novodevichy Convent

The Novodevichy Convent was founded in 1524 to celebrate the taking of Smolensk from Lithuania, an important step in Moscow’s conquest of the old Kyivan…

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

This opulent and grandiose cathedral was completed in 1997 – just in time to celebrate Moscow's 850th birthday. The cathedral’s sheer size and splendour…

Mikhail Bulgakov Museum

Author of The Master and Margarita and Heart of a Dog, Mikhail Bulgakov was a Soviet-era novelist who was labelled a counter-revolutionary and censored…

Moscow Planetarium

The planetarium has become one of the biggest and brightest stars on the Moscow museum circuit, now incorporating all kinds of high-tech gadgetry,…

Park Pobedy

The Great Patriotic War – as WWII is known in Russia – was a momentous event that is still vivid in the hearts, minds and memories of many Russian…

Winzavod Center for Contemporary Art

Meshchansky & Basmanny

Formerly a wine-bottling factory, this facility was converted into exhibit and studio space for Moscow artists in 2007. The post-industrial complex is now…

Assumption Cathedral

On the northern side of Sobornaya pl, with five golden helmet domes and four semicircular gables, the Assumption Cathedral is the focal church of pre…

Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve

Set amidst 4 sq km of picturesque parkland, on a bluff above a bend in the Moscow River, Kolomenskoe is an ancient royal country seat and a Unesco World…

Art Muzeon & Krymskaya Naberezhnaya

Moscow's answer to London's South Bank, Krymskaya Nab (Crimea Embankment) features wave-shaped street architecture with Scandinavian-style wooden elements…

Tsaritsyno Palace

On a wooded hill in far southeast Moscow, Tsaritsyno Palace is a modern-day manifestation of the exotic summer home that Catherine the Great began in 1775…

Jewish Museum & Centre of Tolerance

Occupying a heritage garage, purpose-built to house a fleet of Leyland double-deckers that plied Moscow's streets in the 1920s, this vast museum, filled…

Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines

Growing up in 1980s USSR was a peculiar, but not necessarily entirely bleak experience. Here is an example – a collection containing dozens of mostly…

Ascension Church

Overlooking the river, the Ascension Church, sometimes called the ‘white column’, is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve's loveliest structure. Built between 1530…

New Tretyakov Gallery

Moscow's premier venue for 20th-century Russian art, this branch of the Tretyakov Gallery has much more than the typical socialist-realist images of…

Central Museum of the Armed Forces

Covering the history of the Soviet and Russian military since 1917, this massive museum occupies 24 halls plus open-air exhibits. Over 800,000 military…

Palaces for workers! There is no better place to see this Soviet slogan put into practice than at VDNKh, which stands for Exhibition of Achievements of…

Archangel Cathedral

The Archangel Cathedral at the southeastern corner of Sobornaya pl was for centuries the coronation, wedding and burial church of tsars. It was built by…

Easily the most feared edifice in Russia, looming on the northeastern side of Lubyanskaya pl is the brain centre behind Stalin's genocidal purges and the…

Annunciation Cathedral

The Annunciation Cathedral, at the southwest corner of Sobornaya pl, contains impressive murals in the gallery and an archaeology exhibit in the basement…

Borodino Field

The entire battlefield – more than 100 sq km – is now part of the Borodino Field Museum-Preserve, its vast fields dotted with dozens of memorials to…

Changed beyond recognition in recent years, Sokolniki park is criss-crossed by cycling paths, and blends into a proper forest bordering on Losiny Ostrov…

Donskoy Monastery

Moscow's youngest monastery, Donskoy was founded in 1591 as the home of the Virgin of the Don icon, now in the Tretyakov Gallery. This icon is credited…

Park Zaryadye

Moscow's first new park in 50 years, Zaryadye was inaugurated in 2017 and occupies a prominent site along the Moscow River, wedged into historic Kitay…

The model for Le Corbusier’s Unité d’Habitation design principle, this architectural landmark was an early experiment in semicommunal living. Designed…

Moscow State University (MGU)

Head to the hills south of the city for one of the best views of Moscow. From the square in front of Moscow State University, most of the city spreads out…

Park Zaryadye Pavilion

This glass-dome pavilion was the first element of Park Zaryadye to open to the public. A creation of Sergei Kuznetsov, the pavilion was designed as an …

Novodevichy Cemetery

Adjacent to the Novodevichy Convent, the Novodevichy Cemetery is one of Moscow’s most prestigious resting places – a veritable who’s who of Russian…

Moscow Museum of Modern Art

A pet project of the ubiquitous artist Zurab Tsereteli, this museum is housed in a classical 18th-century merchant’s home, originally designed by Matvei…

Museum of Decorative & Folk Art

Just beyond the Garden Ring, this museum showcases centuries-old arts-and-crafts traditions from around Russia and the former Soviet republics. Of the 40…

More destinations you need to see

Luxury art travel experiences

Travel the world on intimate journeys curated through the lens of art

Experience an insider's view through artists' studios, museums, galleries, and collectors' homes 

Build your art collection with the help of a skilled team

Make a difference by supporting art's impact on the world

Welcome to Artful

Bespoke or Museum Trip

Artful fog design+art, la frieze prequel, santa fe: indigenous to contemporary, a pilgrimage to marfa, the home of american art, the center of the art world, america's museum redefined, contemporary art in london, contemporary art in paris, art in the hamptons, art in the hudson valley, land art in the american west, art basel in miami beach, unlock a world of art experiences, featured jaunt: washington d.c..

Spend a day experiencing magical Glenstone, one of the most exciting new private museums in the world. Located in Potomac, Maryland, 15 miles from downtown Washington, D.C. and set on 230 acres, Glenstone, designed by architect Charles Gwathmey, is renowned for its idyllic architectural spaces and important collection— 1,300 works by some of the most significant postwar artists from around the world. Developed and financed by billionaire American businessman Mitchell Rales and curated by his wife Emily Wei Rales, Glenstone—which collects artists in-depth and will only purchase work after an artist has been exhibiting for 15 years—has been compared to historic U.S. private museums such as the Frick Collection and the Phillips Collection. During your time in D.C., you will also visit major museum exhibitions of the moment, as well as new galleries and collectors' homes.

Space is extremely limited (8-10 people).

A unique blend of art, travel, and philanthropy

Unique itineraries

Enriching experiences

Impactful giving

Join our newsletter.

Sign-up for private access to virtual events, early invitations to  the finest in art travel and  receive our art newsletter with the latest from the magazine.

Artful Advisory ®

Artful impact.

Now more than ever, art matters. Artful Impact was established to help amplify art's philanthropic influence on our communities. Our charitable efforts directly support artists, museums, public installations, art education, as well as social justice and sustainability issues. We donate a third of the revenue generated from art purchased on a jaunt to the Artful Impact Fund. Please take a moment to learn about some meaningful charities. We think you will agree they are making a significant difference.

The latest from Artful Magazine

At prospect.5 new orleans, history and the present haunt each other.

The long-awaited fifth edition of the triennial, delayed by the pandemic and a hurricane, finds artists reflecting on the nation’s past while coping with current-day catastrophes.

Mariane Ibrahim on Her New Paris Gallery and Why the City is the Next Cultural Capital

The French-Somali art dealer, whose space in Chicago has been an influential showcase for artists from the African diaspora, has just opened a new branch in a rising Paris art district.

Ei Arakawa on Post-Pandemic “Performance Anxiety” and Artists’ Mental Health

The influential performance artist speaks to Artful about his new show at Artists Space in New York, inspired by the advocacy of the tennis player Naomi Osaka and the architecture of New York City’s outdoor dining structures.

join our Newsletter

Sign up to be the first to hear about our newest Jaunts, and get the latest articles from Artful Magazine

• Español
• Français

Choice of language

• Read in English
• Leer en español
• Lire en français
• Leggere in italiano

What is Art Tourism? A form of sustainable travel

Art tourism is a form of trav­el that revolves around engag­ing with artis­tic and cul­tur­al activ­i­ties, in touris­tic or his­tor­i­cal set­tings. Some­times referred to as cre­ative tourism, It involves vis­it­ing des­ti­na­tions that also fea­ture art dis­play. It offers a unique trav­el expe­ri­ence and con­tributes to the con­ser­va­tion and reap­pro­pri­a­tion of cul­tur­al spaces that might have oth­er­wise been lost.

Breathing Fresh Air into History

For vis­i­tors, Art Tourism trans­lates in explor­ing his­tor­i­cal sites, muse­ums, gal­leries , towns or exhibits with a fresh per­spec­tive . It can also look like par­tic­i­pat­ing in cre­ative work­shops or see­ing artists per­form on loca­tion. But why does it mat­ter?

Artis­tic ini­tia­tives and inter­ven­tions cre­ate new inter­est in his­tor­i­cal des­ti­na­tions that might have oth­er­wise been over­looked, for­got­ten or under­fund­ed.

The prac­tice pro­motes the con­ser­va­tion of his­tor­i­cal des­ti­na­tions and cul­tur­al spaces that might have fall­en into dis­re­pair or neglect. By attract­ing tourists with art, these places receive much-need­ed atten­tion and invest­ment for their preser­va­tion. It allows com­mu­ni­ties to fund the restora­tion of his­tor­i­cal build­ings and even revi­talise neigh­bour­hoods . They pre­vent the loss of invalu­able cul­tur­al her­itage.

Many small towns and vil­lages in Europe, for exam­ple, have wit­nessed sig­nif­i­cant eco­nom­ic devel­op­ment through artis­tic tourism . By lever­ag­ing their cul­tur­al assets and her­itage, these des­ti­na­tions attract tourists, cre­ate jobs and fos­ter a vibrant local econ­o­my.

Asso­ci­a­tions, donors and inter­na­tion­al orga­ni­za­tions play a cru­cial role in sup­port­ing these sort of endeav­ors, often work­ing on a non-prof­it basis to ensure the sus­tain­abil­i­ty of the projects and their pos­i­tive impact on the local com­mu­ni­ty.

(La la la la) Art tourism is all around the world

Due to its suc­cess in rekin­dling local economies, artis­tic tourism has recent­ly mul­ti­plied through­out Europe and the rest of the globe. Ini­tia­tives relat­ed to the prac­tice can man­i­fest in the most dis­parate regions , each with its unique artis­tic her­itage wait­ing to be explored.

One pos­i­tive exam­ple is PROYEC­TO ARMAZÓN , a project led by Mar­gari­ta Asuar in Spain. This ini­tia­tive revi­tal­izes old cas­tles by trans­form­ing them into exhi­bi­tion spaces fea­tur­ing art relat­ed to the 17 OECD sus­tain­abil­i­ty goals .

The select­ed works include paint­ings, pho­tographs, sculp­tures and more. Such projects not only attract vis­i­tors but also cre­ate a plat­form for pro­mot­ing social and envi­ron­men­tal aware­ness, all while pre­serv­ing his­tor­i­cal struc­tures.

A word of caution

Not all art tourism ini­tia­tives share the same non-prof­it and com­mu­ni­ty-focused goals. While some attrac­tions may present them­selves as such, they may pri­mar­i­ly serve com­mer­cial and sales objec­tives. Instead of help­ing local pop­u­la­tions, pre­serv­ing the envi­ron­ment or even sup­port­ing local economies, they might even hin­der them. This address­es ven­tures such as the Abu Dhabi Lou­vre .

Dif­fer­en­ti­at­ing between projects that gen­uine­ly sup­port local com­mu­ni­ties and those dri­ven pure­ly by com­mer­cial inter­ests is cru­cial in under­stand­ing the true nature of art tourism. It is essen­tial to crit­i­cal­ly eval­u­ate such ini­tia­tives to ensure they align with the prin­ci­ples of non-prof­it, com­mu­ni­ty devel­op­ment and cul­tur­al preser­va­tion, allow­ing art tourism to tru­ly make a pos­i­tive impact on the places it seeks to show­case and sup­port.

Sustainability. Last but not least.

By pro­mot­ing the con­ser­va­tion and reap­pro­pri­a­tion of cul­tur­al spaces, this cre­ative form of tourism fos­ters sus­tain­able eco­nom­ic devel­op­ment in rur­al areas. It leads to enrich­ment for both trav­ellers and local com­mu­ni­ties.

Art tourism offers a unique, sus­tain­able and reward­ing trav­el expe­ri­ence that com­bines cul­tur­al explo­ration, cre­ativ­i­ty and the preser­va­tion of his­tor­i­cal her­itage.

Written by Malu Benjamin July 12, 2023

Exploring Vegetarian Delights in Paris

Paris, renowned for its culinary prowess, has embraced vegetarianism with open arms. From flavorful Afro-Caribbean influences to innovative vegan fast-food chains and cozy cafes offering...

I Inside the Old Year Dying: The Tour in Paris

My heart raced at a dizzying tempo, and beads of sweat trickled down my spine. This was the moment I had yearned for my entire...

Miyam: Reinventing Responsible Supermarkets

Miyam is not just an ordi­nary super­mar­ket; it is a respon­si­ble estab­lish­ment that aims to trans­form the way we shop for gro­ceries. With a strong…

Boutique Japan

Japan’s Best Art Destinations and Biennials & Triennials

Japan is one of the world’s premier destinations for art lovers thanks to its rich traditional culture, and cutting-edge contemporary arts and architecture.

While major cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are home to innumerable world-class museums and galleries, further afield you’ll find even more fantastic art hubs.

From art islands, to amazing sculptures seemingly in the middle of nowhere, here are some of Japan’s most unique and worthwhile art destinations — along with some of the country’s best biennial and triennial art festivals.

Japan’s Best Art Destinations

Some of our travelers are more passionate about the traditional arts and craft, while others are most interested in Japan’s modern arts.

For any art lover, the two most logical places to begin are in Tokyo and Kyoto . Contrary to popular misconception, Tokyo is not all futuristic neon (and Kyoto is not all temples and shrines). In both cities, you’ll find a spectacular range of museums and galleries, catering to virtually any lover of ancient or contemporary art.

To a similar though lesser degree, other major cities in Japan — such as Osaka , Fukuoka, and Sapporo — also boast a variety of museums, galleries, and sculpture parks for art-loving travelers.

But beyond the urban centers, you’ll find some of Japan’s most appealing art destinations in more off-the-beaten-path areas of the country, and in this guide we introduce you to a short list of our favorites.

First up is perhaps Japan’s best-known art destination, the “art island” of Naoshima and its lesser-known neighbors, Teshima and Inujima.

The Art Islands of Naoshima, Teshima, and Inujima (Benesse Art Site)

In recent years, Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama and her iconic polka-dotted pumpkins ( kabocha in Japanese) have become almost ubiquitous, and one of the best places on Earth to see her work is on Naoshima , a small island (part of Kagawa Prefecture) in Japan’s Seto Insland Sea.

On Naoshima, located at the end of a short pier in front of the unique museum-hotel Benesse House (designed by legendary Japanese architect Tadao Ando), you’ll find what is likely Kusama-san’s most photographed sculpture, her black and yellow kabocha (pumpkin) overlooking the Seto Naikai (Seto Inland Sea).

This is but one of countless highlights of Benesse Art Site , which encompasses not only Naoshima itself, but also the nearby islands of Teshima and Inujima. Taken together, the three islands comprise one of the world’s most spectacular contemporary art destinations.

Naoshima is worth at least a full day’s exploration, being home to a small handful of notable museums (including the breathtaking Chichu Art Museum ), along with galleries and installations (such as the Art House Project ), located around the rural island and its small fishing village ports.

The islands of Teshima and Inujima are home to fewer art offerings, but each merit a half-day’s exploration or more (for many people, the Teshima Art Museum is the highlight of the islands), and are full of local off-the-beaten-path charm.

During the Setouchi Triennale (see below), things get very exciting yet crowded. It can be a fun time to experience new artworks, and explore even smaller and lesser-visited islands in the region, but the most famous museums and other art sites can get extremely congested.

Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum Japan

If you’re going to be in Naoshima (above) and have some time to spare, consider spending a couple of days in the city of Takamatsu, home to wonderful sanuki udon , a laid-back atmosphere, and an interesting if unassuming collection of artistic and architectural offerings.

Takamatsu is easy to reach by rail from the city of Okayama, or ferry from Naoshima. The city is home to Ritsurin Koen (a magnificent garden), as well as some worthwhile museums and architecture (including renowned architect Kenzo Tange’s Kagawa Prefectural Office ).

But our favorite destination in the area is the meditative Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum Japan , located about 25 minutes outside Takamatsu proper, in the village of Mure. Assuming you don’t have a car (though having a vehicle on Shikoku Island can be handy), the easiest and most convenient way to get here is by taxi.

In the last years of his life, Noguchi spent about half the year in serene Mure, and a visit to the studio-like museum gives you an intimate glimpse into his life and work (in a sense, the studio feels almost frozen in time, with numerous unfinished works).

Please note that the museum has a very limited schedule, opening only three days a week, at set times. Visits are by advance reservation only, and can be made by following the instructions on their English-language reservations page . The official tours, which are the only way to visit, are held in groups and are in Japanese only, but English-language pamphlets are available (if you can, consider coming with a guide-interpreter).

Adachi Museum of Art

Most first-time visitors to Japan have never heard of the relatively remote Shimane Prefecture, a lovely area north of Hiroshima in western Honshu (Japan’s main island). Here in rural Shimane, about an hour from the city of Matsue (as well as Izumo Taisha Shrine ) is the remarkable Adachi Museum of Art .

While being notable for its collection of paintings by the celebrated Japanese painter Yokoyama Taikan , for many travelers the biggest draw is the Adachi Museum’s famed garden. As described in our article on Japan’s most beautiful gardens :

Not many gardens can claim to be the best in Japan, but this five-hectare landscape garden has held that title — bestowed upon it by the Journal of Japanese Gardening — uncontested since 2003. Walking through the gardens here is like exploring a Japanese painting from the inside.

A so-called “living Japanese painting,” the appearance of the garden changes every day, and is worth visiting during any season . The award-winning garden is just one reason to visit the Adachi Museum, which also houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary Japanese paintings, ceramics, and wood carvings.

Museum founder Zenko Adachi, himself a keen gardener, was a renowned champion of the late painter Yokoyama Taikan, and visitors will find Yokoyama’s works all over the museum. Per the museum, “Adachi felt a strong resonance between the sublime sensibility of the Japanese-style garden and the paintings of Yokoyama Taikan which he wished visitors to experience.”

Miho Museum

For art lovers spending time in Kyoto , consider a day trip to the striking Miho Museum , located about an hour away from the city.

Featuring awe-inspiring architecture from the legendary I.M. Pei , the Miho Museum houses the private collection of textile heiress Mihoko Koyama, and per the museum was designed “to fulfill her vision of promoting beauty, peace and joy through art.”

For many travelers, the breathtaking architecture — complemented by the lovely setting in rural Shiga Prefecture’s scenic mountains — is reason enough to visit. The museum’s extensive collection includes a wide range of Japanese art, along with ancient works from Egypt, Rome, and beyond.

The exhibits change frequently, and the museum also has a highly irregular schedule , with frequent extended closures in between exhibitions. Because of this, if visiting the Miho Museum is a high priority for you, make sure to check its calendar carefully before planning your trip .

For those who like to take it slow, you could easily spend several hours at the museum, but some travelers like to combine a visit to the Miho Museum with a stop in nearby Shigaraki, one of Japan’s most important pottery regions. (To see Shigaraki, one of Japan’s six ancient kilns , in context, see Day 9 of our 12-day Japan Cities, Mountains & Art sample itinerary .)

If planning to focus solely on the Miho Museum, you can travel by public transport, though a taxi or private vehicle will save you some time (at added expense, of course). From Kyoto Station, it’s about 15 minutes to JR Ishiyama Station, where you can catch the Teisan Bus all the way to the museum (make sure to consult train and bus timetables in advance).

If you want to make a day of it and visit both the Miho Museum and Shigaraki for its pottery, then a private vehicle (or rental car) will be most convenient.

Hakone & Odawara

Located within easy reach of Tokyo, the Hakone and Odawara areas are full of art, scenic landscapes, and natural hot springs. It’s perfectly possible to visit these areas as a full-day trip from Tokyo, though we typically recommend spending at least a night or two in the region to explore in more depth without rushing.

Perhaps the most unique and sublime of the region’s art destinations is the Odawara Art Foundation’s Enoura Observatory , a stunning site by renowned photographer and architect Hiroshi Sugimoto . Most of the other art highlights in the area are concentrated in Hakone itself (about 25 minutes from Odawara), and include the Hakone Open-Air Museum , the POLA Museum of Art , and the  Okada Museum of Art .

Read more on all of these (and Hakone in general) in our introduction to Hakone, Japan .

Arte Piazza Bibai

Located about an hour north of Sapporo, Arte Piazza Bibai is a stunning sculpture park filled with works by Kan Yasuda, himself a native of Bibai.

The tranquil park, surrounded by Hokkaido’s lovely nature, features 40 sculptures in all in white marble and black bronze.

Echigo-Tsumari Art Field

You truly have to traverse the expansive Echigo-Tsumari Art Field to believe it exists.

Picture a verdant 760 km2 field covered in 160 art installations made by artists from around the globe, beautiful even when covered in snow (see some wonderful photos here). Those behind the Art Field work with the local community to encourage tourism and bring visitors to this quiet area a couple of hours north of Tokyo.

Visiting Echigo-Tsumari Art Field and exploring the surrounding villages is a unique and delightful way to see the Japanese countryside . If you time your visit right, you’ll be there for the Echigo-Tsumari Triennale (see below).

Japan’s Top Biennales and Triennales

Setouchi triennale.

The fantastic Setouchi Triennale covers 12 islands of the Seto Inland Sea plus the city of Takamatsu and the town of Uno. Setouchi Triennale runs in three sections – March-April, July-September, and October-November — totaling 108 days. During the triennale you’ll find art installations in galleries and public spaces throughout the region (including, of course, Naoshima ), as well as a variety of related events. You’d need weeks to see most of the exhibitions in the Setouchi Triennale (2013’s show had 150 pieces), but fortunately some of the installations are set up year round. Getting between the islands is made simple by the inexpensive ferries that run regularly. Once you’re on the islands, walk, cycle, or hop on the shuttle bus.

Nakanojo Biennale

The Nakanojo Biennale started in 2007 and takes place in Nakanojo, a town in rural Gunma Prefecture (about 150 km north west of Tokyo). The 2015 Nakanojo Biennale saw 132 artists from Japan and around the globe descend on Nakanojo. The exhibitions, featuring installations, paintings, photograph, multimedia work, and videos, are set up in two onsen (hot springs) towns – Shima Onsen and Sawatari Onsen – and in Nakanojo’s town center in public and disused spaces, such as a former wooden schoolhouse. If you’re without a car, the best way to explore the Nakanojo Biennale is to base yourself in Shima Onsen, where you can stay the night in a ryokan .

Yokohama Triennale

Less than an hour south of Tokyo, the water city of Yokohama plays host to one of Japan’s most impressive art events. The most recent Yokohama Triennale , held in 2014, featured a whopping 444 pieces of artwork by 79 artists. Past Yokohama Triennale themes have included “Art Fahrenheit 451: Sailing into the sea of oblivion,” and “Our Magic Hour.” Talks by the artists, film screenings, workshops, and children’s activities round out the program.

Echigo-Tsumari Triennale

Since 2000, Echigo-Tsumari Art Field (also featured above) has hosted the Echigo-Tsumari Triennale , with artwork spread throughout the rural region. Beyond the pieces themselves, there’s a performance art element to Echigo-Tsumari Triennale, with performances held in the local villages.

More Great Posts

Japan’s Best Boutique and Luxury Hotels & Ryokans

The best hotels and ryokans in Japan range from charming traditional inns in the countryside, to stylish design hotels and…

Traveler’s Guide to the JR Pass (Is It Worth It?)

The Japan Rail Pass (or JR Pass, for short) can be a good way to get around Japan, but many…

Major Holidays and Peak Travel Seasons in Japan

If you’re considering a trip to Japan during one of the country’s peak travel seasons, be aware that things can…

Plan Your Japan Trip

Learn more and contact us to discuss your unique trip.

Get Started

• The Process
• Testimonials

Moscow’s Top 13 – The Main Attractions of the Russian capital

13 Moscow Attractions

One of the most fascinating metropolis, breathtaking city, and a vibrant European capital, Moscow is a powerful mix of history and edginess, full of world famous sites and attractions that are worth exploring. However, it would take weeks to really explore all facets of the Russian capital – unfortunately hardly any traveler has that much time, which is why you should concentrate on the absolute Moscow top attractions and highlights. Here is the list of top 13 Moscow attractions you can choose on your next Russian travel journey.

What Times Square means to New York, Pariser Platz with the Brandenburg Gate to Berlin, or Trafalgar Square to London – Red Square means to Moscow. The heart of Russia’s capital it is the central meeting point and the most famous photo opportunity. No place stands for Russia and Moscow more than “krasnaja ploshchad”, as Red Square is called in Russian.

It is arguably one of the Moscow main attractions and most visited. With the gigantic military parade on Victory Day in World War II, which takes place every year on May 9, the pictures of the square go around the world year after year. But for the rest of the year you will mainly meet local and foreign tourists here, who take peaceful pictures and soak up the unique spirit. The square looks spectacular illuminated at night, but you should visit the square at least once in daylight as well.

If you stand in the middle of the huge cobblestone square, in the clockwise direction you can see the Kremlin and the Kremlin Wall with a total of 20 individually designed towers, Lenin’s Mausoleum, Historical Museum built with red bricks, the little Kazan Cathedral, the impressive luxury department store GUM, the imposing St. Basil’s Cathedral and, the bridge over the Moskva River. This unique ensemble offers more sightseeing highlights at one stroke than any other tourist attractions in Moscow or the world.

So it’s no wonder that Red Square is UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers the most popular photo opportunities worldwide. When visiting Moscow, there is no reason not to visit to Red Square and a selfie is practically also a must – getting there is easy even for Russia newcomers. Although Red Square does not have its own metro station, it is still child’s play to find the way there – especially since the Square is the absolute geographical center of the city.

There are four metro stations in the vicinity, from which it is only a short walk to Red Square, Okhotny Ryad and Teatralnaya directly at the northwest entrance of the Square at the Historical Museum; further to the west is the Lenin Library station, from which one arrives at the same entrance through the Alexander Garden. As well as the station Revolution-square behind the GUM department store, which leads past to the northeast side of the Square.

The Kremlin

This is the biggest active fortress in Europe offering a week’s worth of attractions. For more than 70 years, the Kremlin was the power center of the Soviet Union, which the US President Ronald Reagan called the Empire of Evil exactly 35 years ago, one of the symbols of the East-West conflict in the Cold War. People in the West feared the «dark» plans that were built behind the thick walls of the Kremlin.

The Kremlin is built in a triangular shape on the natural elevation above the Moscow River, known today as the Kremlin Hill. Today’s metropolis Moscow has expanded in a circle around it and the road around the Kremlin is considered the first of several ring roads in Moscow counting.

Now Kremlin has lost its terrifying image, although it is still the seat of the Russian President and thus one of the most important places in World political events. It is an inviting, historical sight for tourists, and one of the famous Moscow tourist attractions which can be visited for just a few dollars.

The large parts of the 28 hectare site can be visited by tourists – with the exception of the Kremlin towers, the presidential Grand Kremlin Palace and the Senate Palace. The first port of call on the site is the so-called Cathedral Square, which is the geographical center of the Kremlin and at the same time the highest point on the Kremlin Hill and contains the three oldest structures in the complex. The three 15 th -century cathedrals of the Kremlin (the Dormition, Archangel Michael and the Annunciation Cathedrals), which together with the Ivan the Great Bell Tower and the Cathedral of the Deposition of Mary, make the most famous ensemble of the Kremlin. Also to be visited here are primarily the Armoury and the Patriarch’s palace.

To get to the Kremlin, you have to pass a security gate at one of the two publicly accessible entrances – these are located at the Kutafja and Borovitsky towers. Tickets cost from 700 rubles upwards, the admission to the Armoury, the Ivan the Great bell tower and the Patriarch’s Palace being paid for separately.

More about the Kremlin

Lenin’s Mausoleum

This is the ultimate love it or hate it tourist attractions in Moscow It may be mistaken for a gloomy performance, but Lenin remains an absolute attraction almost a hundred years after Vladimir Lenin death. The founding father of the Soviet Union is not only a fascinating historical figure of world renown for supporters of communism. Despite ongoing discussions about a final burial of the leader of the communist October Revolution in 1918, hundreds of thousands come year after year to the dark marble building on Red Square, right next to the Kremlin wall, to see the embalmed body of the legendary Russian revolutionary.

First opened to the public in 1924, the Mausoleum attracts 2.5 million visitors every year, so, visitors have to wait a long time to get into the illustrious building. Also, photos from inside the Mausoleum are prohibited. But a visit is still a must for Moscow visitors, especially since the visit is free. Please note that the Mausoleum is only open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The queue starts behind the Historical Museum and before you get into the actual mausoleum, you have to pass an airport-like security gate – cameras and cell phones are not allowed into the Mausoleum, but can be safely placed in a cloakroom for a small fee. On the way out of the Mausoleum, after the visit, you pass the graves of the other Soviet heads of state. Including the grave of Josef Stalin, who was briefly kept next to Lenin in the Mausoleum after his death. But in the course of de-Stalinization, the cruel dictator was moved to the less prominent place behind the Mausoleum.

More about the Lenin Mausoleum

The Alexander Garden (Alexandrovsky Sad)

If you visit Moscow in summer, the hustle and bustle in the metropolis of millions can get over your head. The city, best known for its icy winters, can turn into an absolute burning furnace in summer. It sometimes takes over an hour to get to the edge of the metropolis. The perfect retreat, located in the center of Moscow, is therefore the Alexander Garden and one of the Moscow top attractions.

Located directly on the western wall of the Kremlin, the Alexander Garden is just a small, but all the more well-kept park that extends to the nearby Manege Square (Manezhnaya Ploschad). The garden undergoes a lot of changes, with old trees cut down in 2012 and over 200 planted, the authorities also claim that there will be a rosary of 3000 roses. As soon as the first rays of sun warm up the Muscovites, tormented by the long winter, they set off into the countryside. If you are right in the center, you can choose the small park right by the Kremlin.

With a café in hand, which you can get yourself on Manege Square, you can linger here between the carefully tended flower beds. With the Grave of the Unknown Soldier and the regular changing of the guard, there is even a real tourist attraction on top. Entry is free.

The Moscow Metro

In no other metropolis in the world would the subway be declared a sight. Yes, that is truly right as riding this one of the top Moscow tourist attractions is an experience in itself or just a walk through the station is amazing in itself. Whether in New York, Berlin, London or Paris – the big city inhabitants of the world metropolises have a love-hate relationship with their metro. It’s different in Moscow – the residents of the Russian metropolis love their metro and there is a reason for that: in the early days of metro construction, dictator Stalin had built the stations into “palaces for the workers”.

All the splendor of the tsars, which the ordinary Russian never saw, is now open to everyone, regardless of their origin. Indeed, a number of stations on the Moscow Metro, each built shortly before or after the war, are unmatched architectural masterpieces. Mayakovskaya station is often compared to a ballroom for its chandeliers and ornaments. The Teatralnaya stop, located directly below the world-famous Bolshoi Theater, shines with decorations reminiscent of the country’s theater and ballet tradition. Colorful glass windows, almost like in a sacred building, adorn the Novoslobodskaya station.

But the uncalled queen among Moscow’s metro beauties is Komsomolskaya station, named after the youth organization of the Soviet Union. With its huge chandeliers and detailed ceiling decorations, it is the crown jewel among the 331 metro stations. It is not uncommon for tourists to stand in the middle of the platform and take photos under the glances of passengers who just want to walk past the annoying tourists to and from work as quickly as possible.

A ride on the metro currently costs 57 rubles, which is less than one dollar. You should plan a few hours for a tour of the most beautiful stations, but the good news is, once behind the turnstile, a single ticket is enough to stay in the metro system as long as you want.

The Bolshoi Theater

To see Tchaikovsky Swan Lake or the Nutcracker by the same legendary Russian composer on the famous Bolshoi stage – that is the dream of every ballet fan. Home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, nowhere else is the fine art of musical dance lived as much as in Russia – and has been since the times of the tsars.

The Bolshoi itself has been shining back to its former glory since it was built in 1776 since its extensive renovation that cost almost a billion dollars a few years ago. The large historical hall of the building impresses with its opulent golden decorations and creates a very special atmosphere – this was also used by the communist leaders of the Soviet Union, who held their congresses in the building directly at the Kremlin. The Theater is so famous that it currently adorns the 100 ruble banknote and is among the Moscow main attractions.

If you’d like to go to what is probably the most famous ballet theater in the world today, it’s easier than ever. The program can be found months in advance on the official website bolshoi.ru  and can be ordered at very reasonable prices. The cheapest seats in the hall can be booked for as little as 100 rubles, i.e. less than $ 2. However, you should reserve tickets early, as the performances are usually booked weeks in advance. Even for good seats, you pay very moderate prices compared to Western Europe.

There are a few things to watch out for, however, proper, appropriate clothing is welcome, but apart from the obligation to wear trousers, it is not an exclusion criterion for men. If you arrive late, you have to wait outside until the next break so as not to disturb the other guests during the performance. The best way to get to the Bolshoi is by taking the Moscow Metro via the Teatralnaya station, which was built especially for the theater and which stairs are right in front of the main entrance.

More about the Bolshoi Theater

The GUM department store

The Russian abbreviation GUM means main all-purpose shopping center and sounds quite formal for such a shopping temple. Located in front of the Kremlin on Red Square, GUM has existed as a department store since 1920 and was previously a market. It is the most iconic and largest department store in Russia and among the Moscow tourist attractions .   The facade of the building, built in 1890, fits perfectly into the overall picture of Red Square and is illuminated photogenically at night.

In contrast to the scarcity economy of the Soviet era, the GUM today really has everything to offer that one can imagine. It has become the flagship of the shopping and fashion metropolis Moscow. But today you will mainly find smaller luxury shops here. From western high-couture boutiques such as Prada or Gucci to fur for the icy Russian winter, a well-to-do Muscovite or a tourist will find everything their heart desires here.

People can walk through the wide and beautifully decorated arcades of the GUM, free of charge. Cafes invite you to linger. A delicatessen shop on the ground floor sells Russian specialties at affordable prices. Chocolate, honey and caviar, as well as the all-round vodka in Russia, can be bought here as souvenirs for friends and family at home. In addition, the Soviet-style cafeteria on the upper floor is very cheap for lunch.

The GUM offers a special highlight every winter when the department store administration built an ice rink in front of the building directly on Red Square. For only 200 to 300 rubles per hour, depending on the time of day, you can lace up your skates and glide over the ice with the unique panorama of Red Square.

More about the GUM department store 

The Historical Museum

The Historical Museum is a museum of Russian history wedged between Red Square, Lenin Mausoleum, small Kazan Cathedral, and Manege Square. The red brick building of the Museum is a real eye-catcher and Moscow top attractions located on the opposite side of St. Basil’s Cathedral. It is dedicated to Russian history and is built in the Old Russian style, the building did not open until 1883.

The Museum houses everything from an exhibition on the archeology of Russia, through the technological achievements, to the art of the gigantic empire in 16 sections and has a total of 5 million exhibits. So if you are interested in the history of Russia, you cannot avoid visiting this Museum and should plan enough time for it.

A visit costs 150 to 500 rubles, depending on which exhibition you want to visit. The Museum is open in winter, autumn and spring from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., closed on Tuesdays. In the summer months, the extended Saturday times apply daily.

It is probably the most famous park in the Russian capital and the top Moscow tourist attractions – a novel and its film adaptation and a Russian rock band have its name and numerous songs by Russian and international bands and TV series, such as House of Cards, mention it or act here. Gorky Park is a premier green space offering entertainment for every taste. Located southwest of the center of Moscow on the Moskva River, it is designed more for family attractions and rest and the classic park on the other side – has become one of the meeting places for Muscovites of all kinds in recent years.

Whether for a yoga class, a family picnic or beach volleyball match, skateboarding, and cycling – people meet here often. Because even in the Gorky there is an ice surface in winter, the largest in Moscow, which attracts many Moscow residents as well as tourists.

A large-scale renovation in 2011 breathed new life into the park – the roller kiosks were removed and more emphasis was placed on the maintenance of the green spaces. The park remained free of charge and developed into one of the most popular places in the capital. Whether with the rental bike through the green lungs, the pedal boat across the numerous ponds or simply watching the goings-on on the park bench – a visit to Gorki is also absolutely worthwhile for tourists.

Day trip to the Golden Ring

As much as the metropolis Moscow is fascinating, the side effects of a cosmopolitan city like Moscow – the noise, the traffic and the crowds – can overwhelm any tourist. What could be better than a day trip to escape the organized chaos of the cosmopolitan city?

The places on the Golden Ring near Moscow are an ideal destination for this and among the Moscow main attractions – located north-east of the metropolis, these old Russian cities, some of which have existed for much longer than Moscow itself, offer a welcome change from the hectic hustle and bustle of the capital.

Developed in the late 1960s uniting several mediaeval Russian cities located to the north-east of Moscow it is the most popular route around provincial cities of central Russia. More than a thousand year old city of Yaroslavl on the Volga is the largest, but at 260 km from Moscow also the most distant city of the Golden Ring. For only 650 rubles, however, you can take the three-hour train ride there.

Yaroslavl has been part of the world cultural heritage since 2005 and is best known for its two monasteries – the Monastery of our Savior and Transfiguration and the Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Tolga are located directly on the Europe’s longest river Volga and its inflow Kotorosl. Both testify to the long history of the Russian Orthodox Church. The cityscape of Yaroslavl is also really worth seeing with its classicist buildings – walking through the streets of the city with 500,000 inhabitants is a welcome contrast to Moscow. Things are even more slow in the small towns of Suzdal and Vladimir, both of which can still be reached with the Moscow suburban train network (known as Elektrichka) for a good 500 rubles. In both cities time seems to have stood a little – large sacred buildings dominate the cityscape.

Especially the Assumption Cathedral, located in the center of Vladimir, and the Golden Medieval Gate are the main attractions for tourists. The church, built in the early 12th century, is best known for its almost 700 year old wall paintings and frescoes and is a World Heritage Site. The Suzdal Kremlin is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage List and was first mentioned in writing in 1024.

Suzdal with its only 10,000 inhabitants has still retained the character of a small Russian town and in the town, which will celebrate its millennium in 2024, you can still find numerous wooden buildings typical of rural Russia – whether churches or houses, the colorful buildings are ideal as Photo motif and give an impression of the simple Russian provinces life away from the metropolises.

The exhibition of the achievements of the national economies is not in every travel guide as a classic Moscow main attractions and a must see of the Russian capital. But no other place in the modern mega-metropolis exudes the spirit of the Soviet Union as much as the enormous VDNKh (All Russian Exhibition Centre) in the north of Moscow. It was built as an agricultural exhibition before World War II, but was then renamed world exhibition for the 15 individual Soviet states and their achievements.

From the Armenian, Estonian and Kyrgyz culture, to the Soviet achievements in space travel and nuclear power, to statues about the heroes of the Soviet history, the VNDKh (Vystavka Dostizheniy Narodnogo Khozyastva) was an absolute attraction until the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. After that, the old charm fell into disrepair and the large central pavilion, which was built in the splendidly pompous Stalinist style, was filled with small traders selling souvenirs and matryoshkas.

Since its renovation in 2014, the exhibition in the park-like area is absolutely worth a trip again and with the metro station of the same name you can get from the center to the VDNKh quickly and without problems. There are still strange souvenirs, plus huge Soviet monuments worth seeing, as well as numerous rides for children. The Kosmos exhibition still exists and is now part of the Cosmonaut Museum, which is located at the front end of the park when coming from the metro station.

Here you can experience the various achievements of Soviet and Russian space travel vividly. From the very first Sputnik satellite, the spacesuit of Yuri Gargarin, the very first human in space, to the Buran space shuttle, you can learn an incredible amount about the conquest of the cosmos here. However, you should plan several hours just for a visit to the Cosmonaut Museum.

More about the cosmonaut museum

The Pushkin Museum and the Tretyakov Gallery

To complete the cultural program in Moscow, you should definitely make a tour to the Pushkin Museum and the Tretyakov Gallery when visiting the Russian capital. It is the largest museum of European art and among the Moscow top attractions. The former Museum of Fine Arts was named after Alexander Pushkin’s death in 1837 – it is still one of the most important art collections in the world today.

It boasts one of the richest collections of foreign art in Russia, showcasing global artistic developments from early times to the present day in expositions numbering 700,000 works of art.  Not far south of the Kremlin, exactly opposite the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the Museum is housed in a classic building specially built for this purpose in 1898. From early Byzantine art to the famous Madonna by Lukas Cranach, the Italian masters, Peter Paul Rubens and masterpieces of Expressionism, for example by Paul Cézanne, you can admire a huge selection of important art here.

The regular entry ticket costs 800 rubles and the Ьuseum is open on weekends from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., during the week until 8 p.m. – only Monday is closed.

The second important art collection in the capital is the State Tretyakov Gallery. It is the national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the greatest museums in the world. Started by the textile entrepreneur and philanthropist Pavel Tretyakov as a collection of local contemporary art in 1851, the gallery has now developed into one of the cultural highlights of Russia. In contrast to the Pushkin Museum, you will primarily find Russian art from the 19th century and older icons.

Entry cost is 400 rubles and the Gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. – Monday is also the day off.

Take a stroll across Red Square, meet Lenin and see the world-famous Kremlin?

Then first of all you need a visa! !

Alexander Popov

Welcome to Russia! My name is Alexander, I was born in Moscow and I'm a passionate tour guide. I want to share my passion for Russia and my hometown with you. On my website you will find useful information to make your individual trip to Russia as interesting as possible.

The Museum of Cosmonautics and the Planetarium in Moscow

Gorky park and sparrow hills: green lungs, place to relax and meet, you will also like, everything you need to know about russia: included..., traveling‌ ‌in‌ ‌russia‌ ‌–‌ ‌how‌ ‌safe‌ ‌it‌ ‌is‌..., choosing the best guide for a free and..., how do i exchange money in moscow, eating out in moscow, the best time to travel to russia, how do i get from moscow airports to..., the best taxi services in moscow, moscow’s best free city tour, with sim card purchase in russia: use whatsapp,..., leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

@2019-2020 - Moscow Voyager. Alexander Popov

We use cookies to provide you with a better experience. By continuing to use our site you accept our cookie policy. Accept Read More

• North America
• The Top Art Galleries Across...

The Top Art Galleries Across Mexico You Must Visit

Northern England Writer

It’s no secret that Mexico is a great destination for art lovers and aficionados, but many may not appreciate the wealth of artistic life beyond the (admittedly fantastic) capital city. Whether you head north to Monterrey, or want to sun yourself on the peninsulas of either Baja or Yucatán, you can rest assured that there’s an art gallery for you. Here are the top art galleries across Mexico that you must visit.

1. marco, monterrey.

2. Kurimanzutto, Mexico City

Owned by art collectors Mónica Manzutto and her husband José Kuri, the latter of whom is brother to one of Mexico’s finest artists, Gabriel Kuri, the portmanteau Kurimanzutto is one of Mexico City’s stalwart contemporary galleries and a reference point for new trends. Known for representing several world class artists, including Mexican superstars Gabriel Orozco and Dr. Lakra, as well as international installation specialists like South Korean Haegue Yang, Kurimanzutto is an unmissable art destination in the capital city.

Kurimanzutto, Gobernador Rafael Rebollar 94, San Miguel Chapultepec, Ciudad de México, México , +52 55 5256 2408

Kurimanzutto, Mexico City | © vladimix/Flickr

3. Soumaya, Mexico City

5. Fábrica La Aurora, San Miguel de Allende

An unsurprisingly picturesque destination in the quaint colonial town of San Miguel de Allende, Fábrica La Aurora makes for an Instagram backdrop, favourite of notable Mexican influencers like Sofía Lascurain among others. Once a textile mill, the renovated complex now houses cafés, stores and several galleries , including the Beatriz Castañeda Galería and Galería 910 to name but a few, which makes it the ideal spot for an all-encompassing art-exploring afternoon out.

Fábrica La Aurora, Calzada de la Aurora S/N, Aurora, San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, México , +52 415 152 1312

View this post on Instagram #loteria #loteriamexicana #ceramica #plantas #sanmiguel #mexico A post shared by Julie Harvey 🍥 (@zulieha) on Apr 23, 2017 at 12:32pm PDT

6. Galería Mérida, Mérida

Art Gallery, Building

7. Capilla del Arte, Puebla

8. Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Oaxaca, Oaxaca

Building, Museum

Galería Ida Victoria, San José del Cabo

Moving other to the other side of the country, we find San José del Cabo’s Galería Ida Victoria , which specialises in exhibiting the work of both emerging and established artists and has regularly been voted the best art gallery in the region – impressive, when you consider the artsy reputation of the area! Every taste is catered for here, but it seems that most of the represented artists are drawn to vibrant, eclectic styles that make for beautifully bright and appealing pieces.

9. Galería MUY, Chiapas

While Chiapas has an artsy reputation, and is wildly popular among backpackers, the art galleries of the state are often overlooked. However, we think that San Cristóbal de las Casas’ Galería MUY (which means pleasure in Tzotzil ) absolutely deserves to be considered one of the country’s top galleries, due to its impressive dedication to exploring and exhibiting the work of artists for the pueblos originarios of Chiapas. You’ll find everything from multimedia to performance art in this inclusive space and it’s ideally located right in the historic centre of the city.

Galería MUY, Nicolás Ruiz 83, Barrio de Guadalupe, San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas, México , +52 967 631 5157

View this post on Instagram "El que tenga una Canción tendrá tormenta el que tenga Compañia soledad el que siga buen camino tendrá Sillas peligrosas que lo inviten a parar Pero vale la Canción buena tormenta y la Compañia vale Soledad siempre vale la Agonia de la prisa aunque se llene de Sillas la verdad". SR A post shared by Alma Valeria Ruiz. (@almavaleriaruiz) on Sep 13, 2016 at 7:10pm PDT

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

See & Do

Best things to do on isla espíritu santo, mexico.

A Solo Traveler's Guide to Yucatán, Mexico

The Best Things to Do in Chichen Itza, Mexico

Guides & Tips

Top tips for travelling in mexico.

March, April and May 2023 Price Drop

Places to Stay

The best hotels in puerto escondido.

Coastal Vote: A Beach-Lover's Guide to Bacalar, Mexico

Foodie Paradise: A Culinary Expedition Around the World in 2024

The Best Trips and Tours in Mexico

The Best Places to Travel in December

Food & Drink

The best street food cities in the world.

Coastal Vote: A Beach-Lover's Guide to Sayulita, Mexico

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1269528
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

• Trip Planner

Denver’s Top Art & Culture Experiences

November 4, 2021 By //  by  Tim Landers

Denver is a vibrant city full of arts and culture. With hundreds of museums and art attractions around the city, you can experience the history and culture of a tantalizing amount of topics.

See some memorizing art and performance at a variety of indoor and outdoor locations around town. Year round you can find things to do in Denver . Whether you’re walking down the same street you’ve been before, try seeing it with new eyes. There are vibrant, colorful murals popping up all over town. And the Denver metropolitan area boasts world class theater, art exhibits and homegrown talent.

You don’t have to go far anywhere in the metro to find something culturally stimulating. Food-wise the Mile High has you covered: Whether it’s a trip down Federal for some Asian cuisine, over to Colorado Boulevard to get your Middle Eastern Fare, East Colfax for Ethiopian, massively large Aurora (in land size bigger than Denver, and population 3rd) for nearly anything, or into the heart of downtown for modern gastronomy.

Now with with a unique meal in you belly, something other than a hamburger and fries, you can explore the real art in the growing metropolitan. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful Mile High City and want to get your culture fix, check out one of these unique cultural experiences.

1. Explore the Denver Art Museum

The Denver Art Museum (or the DAM) is highly respected, and holds over 70,000 pieces of art. Exhibits in the museum range from contemporary displays to artist spotlights to photography exhibits and more. One of the known specialties of the museum is its collection of American Indian Art. Plus, admission is free for kids under 18, so it’s an easy and cheap activity for the whole family. Locals get a slight discount too, but don’t fret out-of-staters, the DAM has free days throughout the year, a dozen of them!

This museum is a hot spot for students, authors and any creative types as well. It’s known for inspiring many student writers looking to put together that perfect college essay. The metropolitan area is home to several institutions for high learning , the most prominent being the University of Denver, as well as the tri-college Auraria Campus, featuring CU-Denver, Community College of Denver and Metro State University.

Stroll one of Metro Denver’s Seven Art Districts

Denver is a true art mecca, with at least seven unique art districts including: the Art District on Santa Fe, which is the hub of the Denver art scene. Most are great to visit day or night, with your best chance of visiting studios Friday or Saturday night. Some art districts host regular events throughout the year, so be sure to attend on these days if possible. Lastly, many of the art studios in Denver can be visited by appointment.

Santa Fe Art District – Between 6th and 13th Avenue on Santa Fe Drive, lies the Santa Fe Art District. It showcases 30 or so participating galleries, artist studios and restaurants.

Golden Triangle Creative District – There’s also the Golden Triangle Creative District, which is a culturally stimulating neighborhood that is home to eight of Denver’s museums, including the Denver Art Museum. It’s a short walk across from Speer Avenue, connecting Santa Fe Art neighborhood with the Golden Triangle neighborhood.

River North Art District – Another popular art district in Denver s the River North Art District (or RiNo), which is just north of Downtown Denver . RiNo has rapidly become a hotspot for artsy types in Denver, with a remarkable array of creative businesses, vast murals, hip mustaches, and trendy watering holes. It’s definitely worth a visit.

Tennyson Street Cultural District – Another art district in the Mile High City, within Denver’s Berkeley neighborhood, is the Tennyson Street Cultural District. This neighborhood has a number of notable art galleries, and the number continues to increase. Plus, you’ll find a few live music venues, among a bunch of exciting bars and restaurants.

Arts on Belmar – There’s also Arts on Belmar in Lakewood , which is located less than 15 minutes away from downtown Denver. It’s host to a diverse collection of studios and galleries, intermingled with Belmar’s shopping and dining . It’s considered “downtown Lakewood”, with an old-town feel, but tons of contemporary stores, restaurants and entertainment.

40 West Arts –  It’s the sixth art district, which is known for having every available surface covered in art. The district has more than two dozen public art installations — many of which are colorful murals that have become the hallmark of the district.

Pearl Street – Lastly, in Boulder , a 30-45 minute drive from Denver, is the historic and picturesque walk on Pearl Street. It has many shops hosting local artists, live music, food, drink, and street entertainers. Evening time Pearl Street’s promenade comes alive.

16th Street Mall – Although the 16th Street Mall is not an “art district” by the city’s standards I suspect, it’s got art and a lovely promenade to stroll. Street performers, sculptures, arts and crafts shops, and even cow statues can be found here. It’s the heart of the city for sure, so head to 16th Street to feel the capital city’s pulse. This one’s great for a day tour, so to easily combine other bucket-list sights like the Capitol Building.

Denver Museum of Nature and Science Exhibitions

If you’re interested in science, then you need to check out the Denver Museum of Nature and Science . Its regular and rotating exhibitions are a great resource for families with kids, since there are tons of interactive displays that change every few months. Founded in 1900, the museum receives nearly 2 million visitors per year, 1.9 in 2016. It’s open daily from 9am to 5pm, year round.

Attractions include exhibits on the geology and natural history of the earth, with some local focus, as well as captivating shows via the IMAX and planetarium, kids activities, and expert science lectures. Discover the marvels of science in Colorado, the earth and beyond into the universe. Kids also love the Colorado History Museum and especially the Children’s Museum of Denver . There’s no shortage of intellectual family fun around Denver.

See a show at the Denver Performing Arts Complex

The Denver Performing Arts Complex hosts hundreds, if not thousands, of performance events each year. From touring musicals and shows, to ballets, symphonies and so much more, you can see a number of performances at this beautiful complex. It’s easy to find located just down 14th Street from the Colorado Convention Center and its big blue bear statue. On the opposite west side, the Denver Center for the Performance Arts is marked by a giant white statue of a couple dancing. It’s visible from Speer Avenue.

Theatres within the Denver Center for the Performing Arts include:

• Buell Theatre
• Conservatory Theatre
• Ellie Caulkins Opera House
• Garner Galleria Theatre
• Jones Theatre
• Ricketson Theatre
• Space Theatre
• Stage Theatre

What’s your favorite cognitive experience in the Mile High City. Aside from recreational marijuana, “Stimulate your mind, Craig!”

About Tim Landers

Tim is an outdoorsman and bookworm from the Western Slope. He enjoys traveling to all corners of Colorado and camping under the stars.

Join our Colorado travel community

Get In Touch

• Privacy Policy
• Disclaimer—Terms of Service

Things To Do

• Travel Blog
• Colorado Activities
• Colorado Events
• Colorado Towns
• Colorado Hotels
• Colorado Restaurants
• Colorado Transportation
• Made in Colorado

Fall Activities

• Federal Lands
• Ghost Towns
• Hot Springs
• Ski Resorts
• State Parks
• Train Rides

Pueblo is packed with galleries, museums, street sculpture and fountains, cafés, live music, and street performers that are all ready to challenge your imagination and inspire your visit. The Creative Corridor is focused around the three historic city centers of Pueblo: Downtown Main Street, Union Avenue Historic District, and the Mesa Junction. Each retains its uniqueness, while providing an enjoyable stroll from one end to the other.

• All Attractions
• Arts & Culture
• Family Friendly
• Gravel Cycling
• History & Heritage
• Home of Heroes
• Outdoor Recreation
• Pueblo Sports Tourism Division

Grassroots Gravel

Colorado State Fair

Pueblo Chile & Frijoles Festival

Holidays in Pueblo

• Try the Pueblo Chile
• Pueblo Slopper Tour
• About the Pueblo Chile
• Pueblo Chile & Frijoles Festival
• Farm Stands
• Plan Your Pueblo Event Toolkit
• Visitor Guide
• Food Truck Guide
• Local Food Guide
• Visitor Information
• Meetings & Conventions
• Regional Itineraries
• Moving? Choose Pueblo

Arts & Culture

Find arts & culture experiences.

Buell Children’s Museum

Innovative, hands-on exhibits focused on arts, science and history, recognized as the 2nd best children’s museum for art in the nation by Child Magazine.  

Creative Corridor

Explore one of 12 Colorado state designated creative districts, packed with galleries, museums, street sculptures and fountains, cafes and live music. View the Corridor and Public Art Map

Helen Thatcher White Galleries

Boasting 7 galleries with 24 new exhibitions every year, historic and contemporary works by artists of regional, national, and international renown.  

Paint N Bubbly Social Art & Wine Studio

Sip while you Paint! It’s fun for everyone, from the self-proclaimed artist to the person who has never picked up a paint brush.  

Pueblo Art Guild

Located in the historic boathouse by Lake Clara in Mineral Palace Park, visitors to the gallery may enjoy viewing the gardens and strolling by the lake.

Pueblo Arts Alliance

The Arts Alliance offers support, collaboration and affordable studio space to creative industry businesses in the Pueblo Creative Corridor.

Pueblo Neon Alley

Stroll through the historic district of Pueblo near the Riverwalk, and you might stumble upon a surprising gem—a neon wonderland tucked behind a bakery. Take a night stroll through the alley—it’s like entering a captivating neon universe! ✨🌃

Sangre de Cristo Arts and Conference Center

An award-winning children’s museum, comprehensive art educational programming, and an artistic space for meetings, performances and events.  

Performance & Theatre

Impossible Players

Founded in 1966, the Impossible Players are Pueblo’s oldest theater group. As a volunteer nonprofit organization, we strive to provide quality entertainment for our community.

Steel City Theatre Company

Steel City Theatre Company (SCTC- originally Southern Colorado Theatre Company) was founded in 2001 by a mismatched group of fervent, theatre-loving actors, directors, and educators.

Serving up all 4 seasons with plenty of sunshine and mild days!

Welcome to pueblo.

" * " indicates required fields

Our cordial welcome to you! Thank you for choose Pueblo and appreciating our city. Check any boxes below to indicate the services your group may be interested in.

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

New Mexico Map

• Native Culture
• Explore Ballooning
• New Mexico True Certified
• New Mexico Magazine
• Public Records
• Tourism Department Website
• Partner Login
• Become a Partner
• Legal & Privacy Policy

Arts, History & Culture

New mexico is a land of diverse cultures.

From Native American artists who have sustained traditions dating back thousands of years to the artists known for their unique art forms both traditional and contemporary, New Mexico is widely known for its arts communities and the artists that choose to make their homes here.  

Visit traditional Native American communities and pueblos and interact directly with the artists who reside there, explore the enchanting landscapes that have drawn and inspired numerous artists like Georgia O’Keeffe , take in spectacular performances, and let your creativity and imagination run wild in our numerous art museums and attractions.

There are museums and arts centers in every corner of the state dedicated to the expansion and exploration of contemporary arts and culture. Come and immerse yourself in a truly unique cultural experience.

Art Galleries and Studios

Dca, museums & historic sites, performing arts, native american art, studio tours, arts & cultural districts, historic cathedrals, native american museums, all new mexico museums, tour operators.

There are numerous companies that offer guided cultural experiences. Find your perfect guide here.

New Mexico is a Land of Broad Histories and Dynamic Cultures

Learn more about the annual events that take place in new mexico.

BALLOON FIESTAS & RALLIES Fanciful balloons - marvelous, mysterious, colorful balloons - evoke all of the wonder and fun of childhood’s simplest joys. ballooning-events

CULINARY EVENTS No place in the universe has a more beloved, and specific, local cuisine than New Mexico. It’s a land whose state question is “red or green (chile)?”  New Mexicans take their eating seriously. culinary-events

ANNUAL MARKETS Nowhere are there more abundant displays of work by folk artists, Spanish Colonial artists, or Native American artists market-events

NATIVE AMERICAN EVENTS Nowhere else in the United States have so many ancient Indian rituals and customs survived as in New Mexico. native-american-events

FAIRS & FESTIVALS New Mexico offers an exciting cornucopia of fairs, festivals, and expositions in every field of human endeavor. festivals-events

site categories

Donald trump hush money trial: former president reportedly dozes off again, disneyland ride concept art for attractions that were never built auctioned in beverly hills.

By Bruce Haring

Bruce Haring

pmc-editorial-manager

More Stories By

• No Doubt Joined By Surprise Guest Olivia Rodrigo For Coachella Headlining Set
• Ron Thompson Dies: Actor In ‘Baretta’ And Ralph Bakshi’s ‘American Pop’ Was 83
• L.A. County Public Health Warns About Traveler With Measles Visiting Local Attractions, Including Universal Studios And Santa Monica Pier

A rare collection of artwork featuring concepts for Disneyland rides and areas that never were built has been sold at auction. Heritage Auctions handled the sales earlier this month in Beverly Hills, California.

The event spotlighted hand-drawn sketches from the Bradley/Bushman Early Disneyland Archives, which conceptualized rides and themed lands for the Disney theme park in Anaheim.

Related Stories

Disneyland Cast Members Take Step Toward Joining Actors' Equity; Union Files Election Petition

Anaheim City Council OKs Disneyland's 40-Year $1.9B Expansion Plan; Final Vote Next Month - Update

Another concept detailed an 80-foot-tall statue of Goofy dressed as a clown. The colossus would have been located where the theme park’s Sleeping Beauty Castle now stands.

The “Anything Can Happen” land would’ve been based on “Anything Can Happen Day,” a weekly theme on The Mickey Mouse Club television series, according to a listing.

The land would have attractions themed to cartoon shorts featuring Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy and Pluto, the listing added.

Other sketches that were auctioned this month showed unrealized concept art for Steamboat Willie’s Paddle Boat, Pluto’s Dog House, the Lost Boys Tree, and a Casey Jones Jr. roller coaster.

Another area would have feature figures of lions, tigers and zebras, and, in an insurance nightmare, allowed children to swing from jungle vines like Tarzan.

Along with the Monstro aquarium exhibit, Disneyland planned to feature a water-based thrill ride that would see guests exit the mouth of the whale.

An early version of the Alice in Wonderland was originally planned to be a walk-through fun house type of attraction. Areas dedicated to characters including the White Rabbit and Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum were planned, as well as a section revolving around the Mad Hatter’s tea party.

Must Read Stories

Fox renewal status report: ‘the cleaning lady’ & ‘alert’ on the bubble.

‘African Queens: Njinga’ & 3 Veteran Soaps Lead Daytime Emmy Nominations

‘abigail’ leads thursday previews with $1m ahead of other newcomers, new ‘tortured poets’ is surprise double album with 15 extra tracks.

Subscribe to Deadline Breaking News Alerts and keep your inbox happy.

Read More About:

Deadline is a part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2024 Deadline Hollywood, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Epic Journey Across Time: Cyprus, Rhodes & the Turquoise Coast on Emerald Azzurra

April 9-18, 2025

Group Size: 100 travelers across all sponsors Price: Starting from $8,999 per person double occupancy, $13,499 single occupancy Co-sponsored with: National Trust for Historic Preservation, Museum Travel Alliance, Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures, The Alumni Associations of Colombia, Tufts, and Vanderbilt Universities

Trip Overview

Sail through millennia of history on a beautiful, seven-night Eastern Mediterranean cruise aboard the acclaimed new Emerald Azzurra . Journey from Cyprus, one of the world’s best-kept secrets, to the legendary Greek island of Rhodes and Türkiye’s pristine Turquoise Coast, where you will board private glass-bottom boats for a fascinating perspective on the submerged ruins of an ancient city. With experts guiding you through the extraordinary history of this less-traveled region, you’ll be enriched by this in-depth look at the rise and fall of ancient empires—from the Mycenaeans, Phoenicians, Greeks, and Lycians to the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans—and the historical interplay of Christianity and Islam. An optional prelude is available in Istanbul, one of the world’s most splendid cities with its ancient mosques and palaces, and the otherworldly landscapes of Türkiye’s Cappadocia region.

Schedule by Day

Depart for Larnaca, Cyprus, on an overnight flight.

Arrive this morning and transfer to the Indigo Hotel Larnaca for check-in. Guests who opt for the suggested flights will meet tour representatives at the airport and join the group transfer to the hotel.

This evening, attend a welcome reception with dinner at your leisure.

Overnight:  Radisson Blu Larnaca

This morning, you may choose between tours of Nicosia or Kition, fascinating sites featuring millennia of cultural treasures.

Explore Cyprus’s millennia-old capital, Nicosia, once ruled by Byzantines, Venetians, and the British. Nicosia is “the world’s last divided capital,” with a UN-monitored buffer zone between the Greek Cypriot-controlled south and the self-proclaimed Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in the north. Visit the Cyprus Museum and its extensive array of archaeological artifacts and ancient Cypriot art. After lunch, see the elaborately beautiful Selimiye Mosque, which was originally constructed in the 13th and 14th centuries as the Catholic Cathedral of Saint Sophia and later converted into an Ottoman mosque.

Alternatively, explore Larnaca starting with the ancient city of Kition, where Mycenaean Achaeans arrived in the 13th century B.C., followed by Phoenicians in the ninth century B.C. Join your expert guide to explore Kition’s remains, including the Temple of Aphrodite-Astarte, built by the Phoenicians, and a 60-foot-long Roman mosaic. After lunch, transfer to the Troodos Mountains to view the world’s largest group of painted Byzantine churches and monasteries. This UNESCO-recognized collection of monuments, richly decorated with frescoes and murals, highlights the evolution of Byzantine and post-Byzantine painting in Cyprus over 500 years. These monuments range from small churches to monasteries such as the ornate Monastery of St. John Lampadistis, with its blend of Italian Renaissance and Byzantine art. 

All participants continue to Limassol and embark Emerald Azzurra . Enjoy a private performance of Cypriot dance on board and raise a Champagne flute on deck as we cruise out of the harbor in the late afternoon.

Overnight:   Emerald Azzurra

Meals: B, L, D

Step ashore in Paphos, the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite, according to legend. Established by Greek settlers during the Mycenaean era, the city was eventually captured by Ptolemy I of Egypt and later the Romans, who claimed it as the island’s capital. On a guided walking tour of the Archaeological Park of Nea Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage site, visit the exquisite Houses of Dionysos, Theseus, and Aion, ancient Roman villas built from the second through the fifth centuries A.D. Marvel at their beautifully well-preserved mosaic floors depicting mythological and hunting scenes. View the medieval ruins of the Castle of Forty Columns, a seventh-century fortress named for its many granite columns.

Transfer to the Church of Chrysopolitissa, originally founded by the apostles Paul and Barnabas in 46 A.D. See the ruins of its fourth-century basilica and medieval Ottoman baths. View the modest yet famous St. Paul’s Pillar, said to mark the spot where the apostle Paul was whipped during his first missionary journey to Cyprus. After lunch on board, visit the Tombs of the Kings, followed by a visit to the Monastery of St. Neophytos. Carved out of the mountains, it houses a noteworthy ecclesiastical museum containing icons dating from the 16th century.

Return to the ship and set sail forTürkiye. .

Overnight:  Emerald Azzurra

Attend a morning lecture as the ship sails to Antalya, Türkiye’s largest Mediterranean city, renowned for its Greek, Roman, and Byzantine landmarks against a backdrop of the Taurus Mountains.

First, head south along the coast to the ancient trade center of Perge, once claimed by Lycians, Greeks, and Romans. Perge’s archaeological site features well-preserved bath complexes, an agora, basilicas, a theater, a stadium, and impressive fortifications. Nearby is the Antalya Archaeological Museum, notable for its collection of sculptures unearthed from the ancient site. In Aspendos, stop at the renowned Roman amphitheater built during Marcus Aurelius’s reign, known for its acoustics.

Return to Antalya and Emerald Azzurra , gathering for the captain’s welcome reception and dinner this evening.

Meals: B, L, R, D

Anchor off Türkiye’s fabled Turquoise Coast, named for the beautiful blue color of the waters, and board a tender into Kas, an ancient Lycian trading port.

Explore the remarkably restored, 4,000-seat limestone Hellenistic Theater, a rare relic of the ancient Lycian city, constructed in the first century B.C. Also, behold a well-preserved Lycian tomb located in Kas’s historical center. After a transfer to Kekova Bay, board glass-bottom boats and cruise for a mesmerizing perspective on the ancient submerged city of Simena. Below your feet, watch as ruins and rock-cut tombs appear in the clear turquoise waters.

Return to the ship and set sail for the island of Rhodes.

The ancient Lycians, initially nomads, settled in mountainous southwestern Türkiye in the eighth century B.C. and became known for their cliffside rock-cut tombs. Arrive in the beautiful port of Fethiye and transfer to the UNESCO-listed ancient Lycian capital of Xanthos, set on a cliff overlooking the Xanthos River, and delve into its rich history dating back to the eighth century B.C. Join an expert guide to explore its acropolis, Byzantine basilica, theater, and rock-cut tombs, remnants of its cosmopolitan past as a cultural, commercial, and political hub. Uncover connections between the Lycians, Greeks, and Persians, and remnants of the city’s later conquest by the Romans.

While here, discover the Nereid Monument, an intricately crafted tomb built in the fourth century B.C., showcasing a fusion of Lycian, Greek Ionic, and Persian architectural styles. An early example of Greek-style temple-tombs and a precursor to the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, the monument was named after sea nymphs from Greek mythology.

Continue to nearby Letoon, the ancient Lycian sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Leto and her twin children, Artemis and Apollo. See Letoon’s temples and colonnaded galleries that shed light on the religious practices and mythological beliefs of the Lycians.

Return to the ship for lunch and depart for Rhodes.

The island of Rhodes was known in antiquity for its schools of philosophy, rhetoric, and sculpture, including its mythical Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. From 1309 to 1523, the the Knights of St. John occupied the city, surrounding it with fortifications they expertly maintained. Upon morning arrival, explore the UNESCO-listed fortified town, one of Europe’s best preserved medieval cities. Walk along the Street of the Knights, overflowing with mosaics, finely carved portals, balconies, and coats of arms. Then visit the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes, housed in the medieval Hospital of the Knights, and see its collection of vases, figurines, Hellenistic mosaic floors, and more.

After morning arrival into Bodrum, delve into the history of Halicarnassus, visiting the Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, which showcases ancient artifacts from shipwrecks in the Aegean Sea.

Have lunch on board as the ship sails to Izmir.

After an afternoon at sea, celebrate your journey at the captain’s farewell reception and dinner.

Disembark this morning in Izmir and transfer to the airport for your flights home.

Accommodations

• One night accommodation at Radisson Blu Larnaca
• Seven nights aboard Emerald Azzura
• Optional Post-tour extension: Istanbul (April 18-20, 2025) Details coming soon

What to Expect

Busy pacing may include multiple hotel changes plus internal flights or long drives. May involve exposure to the outdoors, full days of touring, and walking up to two hours.

Study Leader(s)

Mode of travel.

Related Trips

For more information.

Please email [email protected] or call our office at 800-422-1636 or 617-496-0806.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Park Rangers Search for 2 Vandals Who Toppled Ancient Rocks at Lake Mead

After a video was widely shared online of two men pushing over a rock formation at Lake Mead National Recreation Area in Nevada, the authorities are asking for the public’s help to identify them.

By Rebecca Carballo

The National Park Service is seeking help from the public to find two men who were captured on camera toppling an ancient natural rock formation at Lake Mead National Recreation Area in Nevada last week, officials said on Monday.

A video posted on April 7 shows the two men, legs bent, pushing the large red rocks. A young girl in the background can be heard yelling: “Don’t fall … Daddy! Daddy!” As the men try to move the rocks, another person is heard off-camera saying, “But why?”

The National Park Service is asking anyone who might be able to help identify the “vandalism suspects” to call or text the National Park Service-wide Tip Line 888-653-0009, submit a tip online or email [email protected].

Lake Mead National Recreation Area, established in 1936, is 2,338 square miles. It runs along the Colorado River, from the western end of Grand Canyon National Park to below Davis Dam. The sandstone formations on the Redstone Trail were shaped over time by geological forces from 140-million-year-old dunes, according to the National Park Service .

“National parks are some of the most special, treasured, and protected areas of our country,” the agency said in a statement . “To protect these natural and cultural resources for this and future generations, all visitors to national parks are expected to follow park laws and regulations.”

John Haynes, the public information officer for Lake Mead National Recreation Area, told KVVU, a Fox affiliate in Las Vegas , that he didn’t understand why someone would vandalize it.

“This almost feels like a personal attack in a way,” Mr. Haynes said.

Vandalism in national parks is nothing new, Jordan Fifer, a public affairs specialist for the National Park Service, told The New York Times.

“Unfortunately, it’s common,” Mr. Fifer said. “We rarely, however, see something of this nature where the people in the video seem so intent on destruction.”

In 2021, vandals destroyed abstract geometric designs at Big Bend National Park in Texas that had survived for thousands of years by scratching their names and dates into them.

The U.S. National Park Service condemns such behaviors on its website, noting that disturbing wildlife or damaging their habitats can directly lead to their demise and is illegal.

Rebecca Carballo is a reporter based in New York. More about Rebecca Carballo