Discover where some of the country’s most impressive art collections have been hiding.
1. Small Town Treasures: Small towns can be unexpected havens of fine art, with museums boasting impressive collections. These locations blend affordable living with inspiring landscapes, perfect for artists.
2. Historical Spaces: Many small-town museums also preserve history through their buildings, which often include historical factories and mansions, offering varied art experiences from landscapes to minimalist installations.
3. Featured Museums: Explore a selection of remarkable small-town museums across the U.S. that showcase stunning art collections and unique historical contexts.
Hill-Stead Museum, Farmington, CT
Alfred A. Pope, an iron industrialist, collected French Impressionist masterpieces at a time when the movement faced outrage. The Hill-Stead Museum offers a cozy atmosphere where these works are surrounded by period furnishings, showcasing artists like Edgar Degas and Claude Monet within a Colonial Revival mansion designed by Pope’s daughter.
Ohr-O’Keefe Museum, Biloxi, MS
Biloxi’s Ohr-O’Keefe Museum surprises visitors with its avant-garde design by architect Frank Gehry. Opened in 2010, the museum celebrates the eccentric George Ohr, showcasing brightly colored pottery and 19th-century vernacular architecture amidst its galleries dedicated to African American art and Gulf Coast history.
The Huntington, San Marino, CA
The Huntington, located in San Marino, offers a distinctly European vibe across its 130-acre gardens. Features include an extensive collection of 18th- and 19th-century British art, Renaissance paintings, and rare manuscripts. To enhance your visit, consider enjoying a meal at the Tea Room surrounded by its rose gardens.
Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum, East Lansing, MI
Located at Michigan State University, the Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum is an architectural gem designed by Zaha Hadid. Its futuristic facade contrasts beautifully with the contemporary and classic works housed within, which include artifacts from ancient Greece and Rome alongside modern pieces.
Parrish Art Museum, Water Mill, NY
Adopting a Modern Agricultural style, the Parrish Art Museum offers a minimalist aesthetic that resonates with the beautiful East End of Long Island. The museum honors artists like Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner, featuring local art that reflects the area’s history and landscape.
Chinati Foundation, Marfa, TX
The Chinati Foundation, founded by minimalist sculptor Donald Judd in Marfa, TX, spans 340 acres. It showcases large-scale works including installations by Judd and Dan Flavin, creating an open and airy space for contemporary art amidst the desert landscape.
Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, Bainbridge Island, WA
The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art opened in 2013, focusing on contemporary art from the local Kitsap and Olympic peninsulas. Its eco-friendly design, including a rooftop garden and sustainable features, epitomizes the region’s spirit and commitment to the environment.
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, AR
Located in Bentonville, the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art was founded by Alice Walton. It showcases American artwork from various periods, designed to integrate with the natural surroundings, featuring interconnected galleries and hiking trails that enhance the visitor experience.
Mass MoCA, North Adams, MA
The Mass MoCA campus, a repurposed industrial facility in North Adams, MA, showcases contemporary art in large, versatile spaces that celebrate the area’s rich industrial heritage. Its unique exhibitions and artist residencies provide a platform for innovation in the arts.
Springville Museum of Art, Springville, UT
The Springville Museum of Art, dating back to 1903, offers a rich collection of Western art, capturing the local landscape. Its historical significance is complemented by modern expansions and a sculptural garden, highlighting the community’s dedication to its artistic heritage.
Florence Griswold Museum, Old Lyme, CT
The Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme served as an artist colony for notable figures in the early 20th century. The historic house now showcases works painted directly on its walls by famous American Impressionists and offers an enticing glimpse into the artistic spirit of the era.
Taos Art Museum at Fechin House, Taos, NM
The Taos Art Museum, set in the former home of Nicolai Fechin, highlights the Taos Society of Artists’ works, celebrating the rich cultural history of the region, especially its breathtaking landscapes that have inspired countless artists.
National Museum of Wildlife Art, Jackson, WY
Perched on a cliff, the National Museum of Wildlife Art offers breathtaking views and houses over 5,000 artworks focusing on the relationship between humans and nature. Its collection spans various historical periods, highlighting wildlife in art from respected artists around the globe.
Dia Beacon, Beacon, NY
Dia Beacon, overlooking the Hudson River, inhabits a converted Nabisco box factory, providing a raw yet refined space for contemporary art. Opened in 2003, it features minimalist and conceptual art from the late 20th century, reinforcing its status as a serious contender in the world of modern art institutions.
Rahr-West Art Museum, Manitowoc, WI
The historic Rahr-West Art Museum is set within a gorgeous Queen Anne-style mansion that holds both 19th and 20th-century artwork, including works by artists like Pablo Picasso and Georgia O’Keeffe. Additionally, it features an annual event, Sputnikfest, commemorating a historic event tied to the city.
