Centro de Arte Contemporáneo de Quito
Discover free contemporary art in a stunning, historic former military hospital in Quito's vibrant center.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art immersion
Centro de Arte Contemporáneo de Quito
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more art immersion

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover free contemporary art in a stunning, historic former military hospital in Quito's vibrant center.
"The architecture alone is stunning and makes the visit worthwhile."
🎯 Free Entry Alert!
Admission is completely free, making it a perfect budget-friendly art experience.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
The building's architecture and art installations offer fantastic backdrops for memorable photos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stunning Architecture
Entire building
Wander through a beautifully restored former military hospital, a visual treat in itself.

Rotating Art Exhibitions
Gallery spaces
Discover diverse contemporary art, from photography to immersive installations, with constantly changing displays.

Graffiti Art
Specific gallery areas
Experience vibrant and thought-provoking graffiti art that adds a unique urban edge to the exhibits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Impact
Historic Architecture Meets Modern Art
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry Alert!
Admission is completely free, making it a perfect budget-friendly art experience.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
The building's architecture and art installations offer fantastic backdrops for memorable photos.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
It's conveniently located near downtown and the Basilica del Voto Nacional for a full day of sightseeing.
☕ Relax at the Cafe
Enjoy a coffee break at the on-site cafe after exploring the exhibits.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry Alert!
Admission is completely free, making it a perfect budget-friendly art experience.
📸 Perfect Photo Ops
The building's architecture and art installations offer fantastic backdrops for memorable photos.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
It's conveniently located near downtown and the Basilica del Voto Nacional for a full day of sightseeing.
☕ Relax at the Cafe
Enjoy a coffee break at the on-site cafe after exploring the exhibits.
💡 Engage with Artists
If you're lucky, you might meet passionate artists who are happy to share insights about their work.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Centro de Arte Contemporáneo for its stunning, historically significant architecture and the value of its free admission. While some note the collection size is modest, the quality of the photography and immersive installations is often highlighted. The approachable artists and convenient location near other attractions are also frequently mentioned positives.
"I visited the center today and was thoroughly impressed. The architecture alone is stunning and makes the visit worthwhile. The collection isn’t huge, but I really appreciated what was included. There was a lot of stunning photography, along with some immersive, three dimensional art installations that you could walk into and really feel. I also had the opportunity to meet some of the artists, who were approachable and passionate, making the experience even more enriching. So great. Thank you!"
Matt H
"Nice place.
A bit too feminist!
It would be great to be neutral!"
Mansour Mansouri
"The building is beautiful, but the collection is small. Some other wings appear to be under construction. Admission is free and it’s a nice building to wander around and get out of the sun."
Evelyn Anne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Centro de Arte Contemporáneo de Quito is located in the historic center, making it easily accessible by public transport or a short taxi/ride-share from most parts of the city. Many visitors find it convenient to walk from other downtown attractions.
While there isn't dedicated parking for the center, you can find street parking in the surrounding areas or use nearby public parking lots. It's often easier to rely on public transport or walking due to its central location.
Yes, the Centro de Arte Contemporáneo is very walkable from many popular sites in the historic center, including the Basilica del Voto Nacional.
From the airport, you can take a taxi or a pre-booked shuttle service directly to the historic center. Public buses are also an option but can be more time-consuming.
Several local bus routes serve the historic center. It's advisable to check with your accommodation or use a local transit app for the most up-to-date route information upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The best part? Admission to the Centro de Arte Contemporáneo de Quito is completely free!
The center is typically open from Wednesday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and on weekends. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most current hours, as they can sometimes vary.
No, advance booking is not required as entry is free. You can simply walk in during their operating hours.
Generally, all exhibitions within the Centro de Arte Contemporáneo are included with the free admission. However, it's wise to confirm if any special temporary shows have unique ticketing policies.
Yes, the Centro de Arte Contemporáneo de Quito offers free admission to all visitors, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a diverse range of contemporary art, including photography, sculpture, mixed media, and immersive installations. Exhibitions change regularly, featuring local and international artists.
Absolutely! The center is housed in a beautifully restored former military hospital, and its architecture is a significant part of the visitor experience.
The center sometimes offers historical tours of the building and insights into the current exhibitions. Check with the information desk upon arrival for availability.
While it's a contemporary art space, some installations might be engaging for older children. It's a great place for families to explore art and history together.
The center typically has restrooms, and a pleasant coffee shop on-site for visitors to relax.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a nice coffee shop located on the grounds of the art center where you can grab a drink or a snack.
Being in the historic center, you'll find numerous restaurants and cafes nearby offering a variety of Ecuadorian and international cuisine. La Ronda street is particularly known for its food options.
It's generally recommended not to bring outside food and drinks into exhibition areas to protect the artwork. You can enjoy refreshments at the on-site cafe.
Yes, the historic center offers many local eateries and street food vendors where you can find affordable and delicious meals.
Cafes typically offer a range of options, but it's best to inquire directly at the coffee shop for specific dietary choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most areas, but flash photography and tripods may be restricted to protect the artwork. Always look for signage or ask staff.
The stunning architecture of the former military hospital and the unique art installations provide many excellent photo opportunities throughout the center.
Professional photography or videography usually requires special permission and may incur a fee. It's best to contact the center in advance if you plan for this.
You can often find impressive photography exhibitions as part of the contemporary art displays.
Drone photography is almost certainly not permitted inside or around the art center due to safety and privacy regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow children to explore at their own pace. The on-site cafe also provides a convenient spot for a break. While not a traditional children's museum, the experience offers a valuable cultural exposure that can be both educational and fun.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with other free or low-cost activities in the historic center, such as exploring plazas, walking La Ronda, or admiring the Basilica del Voto Nacional from the outside. The center's location also means you can easily walk to many other attractions, saving on transportation costs.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be mindful of photography rules, as flash and tripods might be restricted. However, the natural light and the interplay of historical and modern elements create a photographer's playground. It's an excellent spot for capturing both artistic details and architectural grandeur.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of the Building: A Former Military Hospital
Exploring the various wings and corridors offers a journey through both art and architecture. The sheer scale and design of the former hospital contribute significantly to the overall visitor experience, making it more than just a gallery visit. It's an immersion into a space that has witnessed decades of history before becoming a vibrant hub for contemporary culture.
Experiencing Contemporary Art: What to Expect
Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to engage with art in new ways, especially with installations that allow you to step inside and experience them firsthand. The approachable nature of some of the artists, who are sometimes present, adds an enriching layer to the visit, offering direct insights into their creative processes and inspirations.
Making the Most of Your Free Visit
Since exhibitions rotate, each visit can offer a fresh perspective. Don't hesitate to explore all accessible areas, as some wings might be under renovation or preparing for new displays. The combination of free entry, evolving exhibits, and the stunning historical building makes it a highly recommended stop for art lovers and curious travelers alike.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit