American Visionary Art Museum
A one-of-a-kind museum celebrating self-taught artists, featuring raw, uninhibited creativity and unique thematic exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate viewing
American Visionary Art Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A one-of-a-kind museum celebrating self-taught artists, featuring raw, uninhibited creativity and unique thematic exhibits.
"One of the best museums I've ever been to, truly one-of-a-kind!"
Budget 2+ Hours
Allow ample time to explore both buildings and the outdoor art.
Gift Shop Treasures
Don't miss the 'Sideshow' gift shop; it's free to enter and full of unique finds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Thematic Rotating Exhibits
Both Museum Buildings
Experience art born from pure passion, created by self-taught artists from all walks of life.
Kinetic Art Building
Second Museum Building
Marvel at moving sculptures and interactive pieces that bring art to life.
Outdoor Sculpture Garden
Between Museum Buildings
Discover whimsical sculptures and mosaics, including a unique treehouse and bird's nest balcony.
Sideshow Gift Shop
Ground Floor, Main Building
A curated collection of affordable art and unique gifts from self-taught artists.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Unexpected
Tickets & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Budget 2+ Hours
Allow ample time to explore both buildings and the outdoor art.
Gift Shop Treasures
Don't miss the 'Sideshow' gift shop; it's free to enter and full of unique finds.
Engage with the Art
Look for hidden details and interactive elements throughout the museum.
Check Exhibit Schedule
Exhibits rotate, so check the website for current themes before your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
Budget 2+ Hours
Allow ample time to explore both buildings and the outdoor art.
Gift Shop Treasures
Don't miss the 'Sideshow' gift shop; it's free to enter and full of unique finds.
Engage with the Art
Look for hidden details and interactive elements throughout the museum.
Check Exhibit Schedule
Exhibits rotate, so check the website for current themes before your visit.
Kid-Friendly Scavenger Hunt
Ask for the scavenger hunt to keep kids engaged with the art.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the American Visionary Art Museum for its unique and genuine collection of art from self-taught artists. The museum's engaging exhibits, creative architecture, and friendly staff are frequently highlighted. While some may find the art unconventional, most appreciate its raw emotional impact and the museum's commitment to showcasing diverse artistic visions.
"Really loved this museum. Great art from only self taught artists, which really shows and is more genuine. Multiple floors in both buildings (ticketed only $10), plus a sculpture garden and tree house you can walk through, ticket or not. The outside of the building is really cool with mosaics and sculptures mounted around. I would highly recommend going in or the very least, walk around the area. I will be going back for new exhibits and look forward to it. The staff were all very nice and informative, as well as, holding knowledgeable and engaging conversations. Even recommendations for local food, ect. spots based on requested restrictions. Being knowledgeable of the area already, the recommended locations were all local and non touristy establishments which I appreciate and honestly expect nothing less from the locals. The Charm City pride is strong here and I love it."
Greg Noyes
"For starters you can go to their gift shop called the “side show” for free and support those artists. Normally gift shops are steep, but this one is not that way. Everything is priced really fairly and has been curated over many decades.
I spent about 2hrs at the museum. The museum two buildings, the round mosaic building has 4 floors of art. When I was there it was mixed media. The second building (which you get to by walking through the outdoor sculpture garden) has kinetic art, which means it moves! It has three floors, the third one lets you go into this cool birds nest balcony. There is a lot of attention to detail and cohesion, jam packing art even into the bathrooms or elevators. The stair railings incorporate the cast metal look tree branches and organically bent metal tubing that cohesively can be found if you look closely in the benches, outdoor sculptures, and door handles across the multiple buildings. This is not just celebrating art but showing by example how it can be incorporated into mundane furnishings.
Next to highlight the platform and investment this museum put into the children of the community from displaying art to having the mosaics projects that adorn the building involve them. Highly recommend you support ."
Melissa Goetter
"Explore Baltimore - American Visionary Art Museum
800 Key Hwy, Baltimore, MD 21230
Open ⋅ Closes 5 PM
(410) 244-1900
JOHN CULVER Untitled Low Res.jpg
What is Visionary Art?
Like love, you know it when you see it. But here's the longer definition, straight out of our Mission Statement
“Visionary art as defined for the purposes of the American Visionary Art Museum refers to art produced by self-taught individuals, usually without formal training, whose works arise from an innate personal vision that revels foremost in the creative act itself.”
In short, visionary art begins by listening to the inner voices of the soul, and often may not even be thought of as 'art' by its creator.
What is Art?
The ancients—the Greeks, Egyptians, Hopis, and the New Guinea tribesmen— were among earth’s most prolific art-making peoples. Yet, none had any word for “art” in their respective languages. Rather, they each had a word that meant “well made” or “beautifully performed.” Our American Visionary Art Museum believes that this view of what art really means is as perfect an understanding of art as ever was. It speaks to an art incumbent upon all its citizens, pervasive throughout all the arts of our daily life. Its emphasis is on process and consciousness, not mere artifact.
Martin Luther King, Jr. expressed his profound respect for the true artistry each member of a society can uniquely evidence to bless our communities, “If a man is called to be a streetsweeper, he should sweep streets even as Michelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music, or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the Hosts of Heaven and earth would pause to say: ‘Here lived a great streetsweeper who did his job well. ’”"
Art Poetry Images
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The American Visionary Art Museum is located at 800 Key Hwy, Baltimore, MD 21230. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options, including buses and the Charm City Circulator, also serve the Federal Hill area.
Yes, there are parking options available near the museum. Street parking can be found, and there are also paid parking lots in the vicinity. It's advisable to check for real-time availability.
While it's a bit of a walk, it's possible to reach the American Visionary Art Museum from downtown Baltimore, especially if you enjoy scenic routes along the waterfront. The Charm City Circulator's 'Orange Route' also stops nearby.
For visitors coming from outside Baltimore, driving and parking or using ride-sharing services are convenient options. If arriving by train, a short taxi or ride-share from Penn Station will get you to the museum.
While not explicitly mentioned, the museum's location in a vibrant area with cycling culture suggests bike racks might be available. It's always a good idea to confirm directly with the museum if this is a primary concern.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the American Visionary Art Museum is generally around $16 per ticket, with potential discounts available. The gift shop, 'Sideshow,' is free to enter.
The museum typically opens around 10 AM and closes at 5 PM. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary seasonally or for special events.
You can explore the outdoor sculpture garden and the 'Sideshow' gift shop without a ticket. However, to access the main exhibition spaces in both museum buildings, a ticket is required.
While tickets are often available for purchase on-site, booking in advance is recommended, especially for weekend visits or during peak seasons, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or military personnel. It's advisable to check the museum's official website or contact them directly for current discount information.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours exploring both buildings, the sculpture garden, and the gift shop. This allows for a thorough appreciation of the unique exhibits.
The museum exclusively features 'visionary art,' created by self-taught artists without formal training. The art is often deeply personal, raw, and stems from an innate creative vision.
No, the American Visionary Art Museum is known for its rotating thematic exhibitions. This means each visit offers a new and unique collection of art to discover.
Yes, the museum can be very engaging for children, especially with the scavenger hunt provided. The interactive elements and unique art can spark their imagination.
'Sideshow' is the museum's gift shop, which is free to enter. It offers a curated selection of art and unique items from self-taught artists, often at fair prices.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not have a full-service restaurant. However, the surrounding Federal Hill neighborhood offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale establishments.
The Federal Hill area boasts numerous restaurants. Locals often recommend establishments that offer authentic Baltimore flavors and a non-touristy vibe. Ask museum staff for personalized recommendations based on your preferences.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside museum exhibition spaces to protect the artwork. There may be designated areas for consumption, but it's best to confirm with the museum staff.
While not a full restaurant, there might be small concessions or vending machines available for light snacks or beverages. It's advisable to check the museum's amenities list or inquire upon arrival.
The area around the museum offers a diverse culinary scene, including seafood, classic American fare, and international options. You'll find everything from quick bites to sit-down dining experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, personal photography without flash is often permitted for non-commercial use, but it's crucial to check for signage or ask staff for specific exhibit rules.
Yes, photography of the outdoor sculptures and the building's exterior mosaics is typically allowed and encouraged. It's a great way to capture the unique character of the museum.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and near public attractions due to privacy and safety regulations. It's highly unlikely that drone photography would be permitted over the museum or its grounds.
The mosaic-covered exterior of the main building, the outdoor sculptures, and the kinetic art installations inside offer fantastic photo opportunities. The 'bird's nest balcony' in the kinetic building is also a unique shot.
Tripods and professional camera equipment may require special permission or may not be allowed to avoid disruption to other visitors. Always inquire with museum staff beforehand.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Allow ample time, as kids might be fascinated by the moving parts in the kinetic art building or the sheer creativity of the self-taught artists. The outdoor sculpture garden also provides space to explore. While there isn't a dedicated children's area, the museum's unique approach to art makes it an accessible and inspiring experience for younger visitors.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to make the most of your time without feeling rushed. The museum's location in Federal Hill also means you can find more affordable dining options in the surrounding neighborhood rather than within the museum itself.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Creatives
+1Pay close attention to the details in the exhibits and the museum's architecture. The integration of art into everyday objects and spaces is a testament to the museum's philosophy. The rotating nature of the exhibits ensures that even repeat visitors will find something new and inspiring.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Essence of Visionary Art
+2The museum's mission emphasizes that visionary art arises from listening to the 'inner voices of the soul.' It challenges traditional notions of what constitutes 'art' by highlighting the beauty and skill in 'well made' or 'beautifully performed' creations, echoing ancient philosophies that didn't have a separate word for art, but rather for craftsmanship. This philosophy extends to everyday life, suggesting that any task, when performed with dedication and skill, can be a form of art.
Exploring the Museum's Unique Architecture and Design
The museum comprises two main buildings. The first, a round mosaic-covered structure, typically houses mixed-media exhibits across four floors. The second building is dedicated to kinetic art, featuring sculptures that move and interact, offering a dynamic viewing experience. This building also includes unique architectural features like a 'bird's nest balcony,' providing a novel perspective. The outdoor sculpture garden connecting the two buildings further enhances the immersive artistic environment.
Community Engagement and the Kinetic Sculpture Race
A signature event hosted by AVAM is the Kinetic Sculpture Race, an iconic Baltimore tradition. This unique event features human-powered sculptures that race through various obstacles in the city, including water and mud. It's a celebration of ingenuity, engineering, and artistic expression, embodying the museum's spirit of unconventional creativity and community engagement.
Social
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