MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum Chiang Mai
A stunning architectural gem housing impactful contemporary art from Thailand and Asia, MAIIAM offers a unique cultural experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum Chiang Mai
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning architectural gem housing impactful contemporary art from Thailand and Asia, MAIIAM offers a unique cultural experience.
"MAIIAM is hands down one of my favorites! I love spending hours here, just taking in the peaceful atmosphere."
🚗 Transportation is Key
Use Grab, a private driver, or rent a car. It's outside the Old City.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Plan for 1.5-2 hours to explore the diverse exhibits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

MAIIAM's Striking Architecture
Exterior
A former factory transformed with thousands of mirrored glass panels, reflecting the surrounding nature.

Thought-Provoking Contemporary Art
Exhibition Halls
Engaging installations and artworks addressing social issues, sustainability, and humanity.

The 'Cold War' Mural
Exhibition Hall
A massive 20x8 meter artwork by Thasnai Sethaseree that captivates visitors.

Unique Souvenir Shop & Cafe
Entrance Area
Discover artistic souvenirs and enjoy delicious desserts and coffee at the in-house cafe.
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Plan Your Journey
Tickets & Timing: Maximize Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Transportation is Key
Use Grab, a private driver, or rent a car. It's outside the Old City.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Plan for 1.5-2 hours to explore the diverse exhibits.
💰 Worth the Entrance Fee
200 THB is considered a fair price for the quality and experience.
☕️ Relax at the Cafe
Enjoy coffee and desserts after your art immersion.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Transportation is Key
Use Grab, a private driver, or rent a car. It's outside the Old City.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Plan for 1.5-2 hours to explore the diverse exhibits.
💰 Worth the Entrance Fee
200 THB is considered a fair price for the quality and experience.
☕️ Relax at the Cafe
Enjoy coffee and desserts after your art immersion.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The mirrored exterior is a stunning photo opportunity.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum is widely praised as a worthwhile destination, offering a unique blend of striking modern architecture and thought-provoking contemporary art. Visitors appreciate the impactful exhibitions that address social issues and the museum's international acclaim. While the 200 THB entrance fee is noted as being on the higher side for Thailand, most feel it's justified by the quality of the experience and the support it provides for privately funded cultural institutions.
"A really nice way to spend an afternoon. If you have time to drop by, it's definitely worth it. 🙂 It took about 1.5 hours to walk through the whole museum and the entrance fee is 200 Bath. You can buy some great, artistic souvenirs in the shop at the entrance. There's a cafe inside where you can have a cold drink and lunch if you got hungry while visiting. 😊"
Klaudia Wojenka
"An eclectic mix of displays from traditional landscapes, to abstract art, to 3d imagery, massive murals and even a decorated Volkswagen Beetle, a.k.a. a bit of 'car art'.
Car parking was a breeze for my private driver* and I also grabbed a couple of honest cappuccinos to go (yes, there is a funky inhouse cafe - as well as souvenir gift shop), after I had finished marveling at the wonderous artwork.
Well worth checking out and yes, I do hope to be back."
Coffee Chill TV
"MAIIAM is hands down one of my favorites!
I love spending hours here, just taking in the peaceful atmosphere and admiring the impressive collection of art from many talented artists. The entrance fee is 200 THB, which I think is totally worth it.
There’s also a coffee shop right before the museum entrance. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a unique place to explore, MAIIAM is definitely worth a visit!"
Buc
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
MAIIAM is located in San Kamphaeng, about 20-30 minutes from Chiang Mai's Old City. The most convenient ways to get there are by using ride-sharing apps like Grab, hiring a private driver, or renting a car.
Many visitors find a private driver offers the most flexibility for exploring the area.Yes, parking is generally easy and readily available at MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum, making it convenient for those arriving by private car or rental.
Public transport options directly to MAIIAM are limited. It's recommended to use ride-sharing services or arrange private transport for a more straightforward journey.
MAIIAM is approximately a 30-40 minute drive from Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), depending on traffic conditions.
Yes, the San Kamphaeng area is known for its craft villages, umbrella making centers, and other cultural sites. Some visitors combine a trip to MAIIAM with visits to local cafes and artisan workshops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum is 200 THB per person. Many visitors find this fee to be justified by the quality of the art and the overall experience.
MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours, especially around holidays.
Advance booking is generally not required for MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance upon arrival.
While MAIIAM is a contemporary art museum, many of the installations can be appreciated by older children and teenagers. It's a great place to expose them to modern art and thought-provoking themes.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available. However, it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter if you are a student, senior, or part of a group.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the museum's exhibits and grounds. This allows enough time to appreciate the diverse artworks and the unique architecture.
MAIIAM features a diverse range of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia works. Many pieces address social issues, sustainability, and the human condition.
Yes, MAIIAM has a cafe located near the entrance that serves coffee, drinks, and desserts. It's a pleasant spot to relax after viewing the art.
Photography is generally allowed inside MAIIAM, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or installations. Tripods and professional photography equipment may require special permission.
Information on regular guided tours is not widely advertised. However, the museum's layout and the accompanying information for artworks provide a rich self-guided experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The mirrored exterior of the museum is a prime spot for stunning architectural photography. Inside, many of the art installations offer unique visual opportunities.
Drone photography is typically not permitted within the museum grounds or airspace due to privacy and safety regulations. Always check with museum staff if you have specific photography needs.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial for indoor shots. However, most modern smartphones can capture excellent images of the art and architecture.
While general photography is allowed, flash photography might be restricted for certain artworks to preserve them. Always be mindful of signage and museum staff instructions.
Commercial use of photographs taken at MAIIAM may require special permission. For personal use and social media sharing, it's generally acceptable.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
📸 Photography Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The MAIIAM Experience: Art and Architecture
Inside, MAIIAM showcases a dynamic collection of contemporary art from Thailand and across Asia. The exhibitions often delve into profound themes such as social issues, sustainability, and the human condition, making for a thought-provoking visit. Visitors frequently highlight the impactful nature of the artworks, with pieces like the 'Cold War' mural by Thasnai Sethaseree leaving a lasting impression.
The museum also features a well-curated souvenir shop and a pleasant cafe, offering a space to relax and reflect on the art. The cafe is known for its good coffee and delicious desserts, providing a perfect complement to the artistic journey.
Navigating Chiang Mai's Art Scene
Many travelers discover MAIIAM as a 'hidden gem' or a recommended stop when exploring areas outside the Old City. Its location in San Kamphaeng means it's often combined with visits to local craft villages or unique cafes in the region. The museum's commitment to showcasing impactful contemporary art makes it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Beyond MAIIAM, Chiang Mai offers a burgeoning art scene with smaller galleries and workshops. However, MAIIAM stands out for its scale, international recognition, and the sheer quality of its exhibitions, making it a prime destination for contemporary art lovers in Northern Thailand.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit