The Walters Art Museum
A free, world-class museum housing 55 centuries of art and artifacts from across the globe.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Extended hours for a relaxed visit
The Walters Art Museum
Best Time
Extended hours for a relaxed visit

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, world-class museum housing 55 centuries of art and artifacts from across the globe.
"One of the best museums I've ever been to, with an overwhelming and well-displayed collection."
🎯 Free Admission All Day!
Enjoy world-class art without spending a dime. Perfect for budget travelers and art enthusiasts alike!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the vast collections. Prioritize comfort for an enjoyable experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient World Wonders
Ancient Near East, Egypt, Greece, and Rome Galleries
Journey through millennia with stunning artifacts, from Egyptian sarcophagi to Roman sculptures. A true time capsule.

Kehinde Wiley's Stained Glass
Special Exhibitions
Marvel at the vibrant, monumental stained-glass portraits by Kehinde Wiley, a breathtaking contemporary art experience.

Global Masterpieces
Asian Art, European Art, and American Art Galleries
Explore diverse artistic expressions from across continents, showcasing intricate paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

Sculpture Garden Serenity
Outdoor Sculpture Garden
Find a peaceful escape amidst beautiful sculptures, offering a refreshing outdoor art experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Rewards
Navigating the Collections
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission All Day!
Enjoy world-class art without spending a dime. Perfect for budget travelers and art enthusiasts alike!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the vast collections. Prioritize comfort for an enjoyable experience.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Set aside at least 1.5-2 hours to truly appreciate the diverse exhibits. Don't rush your visit!
🗺️ Utilize Self-Guided Tours
Grab a tour card at the entrance to help navigate the extensive collections and learn more about the art.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission All Day!
Enjoy world-class art without spending a dime. Perfect for budget travelers and art enthusiasts alike!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the vast collections. Prioritize comfort for an enjoyable experience.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Set aside at least 1.5-2 hours to truly appreciate the diverse exhibits. Don't rush your visit!
🗺️ Utilize Self-Guided Tours
Grab a tour card at the entrance to help navigate the extensive collections and learn more about the art.
🚗 Parking Options Available
The museum has its own lot, or street parking is often available nearby. Check rates beforehand.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Walters Art Museum as a hidden gem, highlighting its impressive and diverse collections, free admission, and peaceful atmosphere. Many appreciate the wealth of information provided with exhibits and the ease of navigation. While generally overwhelmingly positive, some visitors note that the sheer size can be overwhelming if not planned for.
"One of the best museums I've ever been to. It starts from the very entrance: they have that beautiful idea with the cards to make your own tour around the museum. Moreover, wherever you go, you see a lot of materials next to the exhibits which give you plenty of ideas and information for a deeper insight. I loved it! And of course, their collection is just overwhelming! There are so many exhibits and all of them are well displayed in intelligently organized spaces. It's the only museum I didn't go to its cafe. There was no time for it. I wanted to squeeze as much as I could from every minute of my being there. Highly recommended to all art-lovers!"
Aleksei Kudriashov
"The Walters Art Museum is truly a hidden gem in Baltimore and an incredible place to explore the art and culture of different countries, especially from the golden ages. From ancient artifacts to beautifully preserved works from Asia, Europe, and Africa, every gallery offers a unique journey through time and across civilizations.
We visited on a weekend and were pleasantly surprised by how quiet and peaceful it was—no crowds, just a calm environment perfect for enjoying the art. One of the best parts is that admission is completely free, and you can enter multiple times in a day, making it easy to take breaks and return at your own pace.
The museum also has a charming café and a well-curated gift shop to enhance the overall experience. Whether you’re a local or just visiting Baltimore, this is a must-visit destination to immerse yourself in global art and history. Highly recommended for all ages!"
Mithlesh Kumar Temre
"This is a truly wonderful museum. A true gem of Baltimore. The collection is very large and varied art and artifacts from all parts of the world and including European and American pieces and eastern art as well. The displays are very professional and accessible and the staff always very friendly. And, it’s FREE! I have found that parking in the general area is easy to find and not expensive.
If you find yourself in Baltimore make time to visit this beautiful museum."
Edward Rucastle
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Walters Art Museum is easily accessible in Baltimore's Mount Vernon neighborhood. If arriving by public transport, many bus lines stop nearby, and it's a walkable distance from Penn Station.
For those driving, there's a dedicated parking lot, and street parking is also an option, though it can be competitive.Yes, The Walters Art Museum offers parking in its own lot. It's advisable to check current rates and availability. Street parking is also available in the surrounding Mount Vernon area, but can be limited.
Yes, The Walters Art Museum is a pleasant walk from Baltimore's Penn Station, typically taking around 15-20 minutes. It's a great way to see a bit of the city on your way.
Several MTA bus lines serve the Mount Vernon area, making it convenient to reach The Walters Art Museum via public transit. Check local schedules for routes that best suit your starting point.
The Walters Art Museum is committed to accessibility. Most galleries are accessible, and information on specific accommodations can be found on their official website or by contacting them directly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Absolutely! Admission to The Walters Art Museum is completely free, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone.
The Walters Art Museum typically has varied hours, often open Wednesday through Sunday. Thursday evenings usually feature extended hours. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
No, advance booking is not required for general admission as the museum is free. However, for special exhibitions or events, it's recommended to check their website for any ticketing requirements.
Yes, you can often re-enter the museum on the same day. This is a great perk if you need to take a break or want to revisit certain exhibits.
While general admission is free, some special exhibitions or ticketed events may have associated costs. Check the museum's website for details on current offerings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that 1.5 to 2 hours is sufficient to see the highlights of The Walters Art Museum. However, art enthusiasts could easily spend half a day or more exploring its extensive collections.
Highlights include the ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman collections, Asian art, European paintings, and contemporary installations like Kehinde Wiley's stained glass. The sculpture garden is also a delight.
Yes, The Walters Art Museum is very family-friendly. Its diverse collections offer something to engage visitors of all ages, and the free admission makes it an accessible outing for families.
The museum provides self-guided tour cards to help visitors navigate the collections. While formal guided tours might be limited, the provided materials offer excellent insights.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most galleries, but without flash. It's always a good idea to check for any specific signage or restrictions in certain exhibition areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, The Walters Art Museum has a charming cafe where you can grab a bite to eat or a coffee. It's a convenient option for a break during your visit.
The Mount Vernon neighborhood surrounding The Walters Art Museum offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. You can find many choices within walking distance.
Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the galleries of most museums, including The Walters Art Museum. It's best to consume them outside or in designated cafe areas.
The museum cafe usually offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, pastries, and beverages, providing a convenient spot for a light meal or snack.
Many highly-rated restaurants are located in the Mount Vernon area, offering diverse cuisines. Exploring local listings will help you find the perfect spot to dine after your museum visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed in most galleries of The Walters Art Museum. However, always look for signs indicating restrictions and avoid using flash.
Tripods and selfie sticks are typically not allowed inside museums to ensure the safety of the artworks and the comfort of other visitors. Check the museum's specific policy for details.
While general photography is permitted, some special exhibitions or specific artworks may have restrictions. Always adhere to signage and staff instructions regarding photography.
The grand architecture of the building, the vibrant stained-glass installations, and the diverse artifacts offer numerous photogenic opportunities throughout the museum. The sculpture garden is also a great spot.
Short videos for personal social media are usually permitted, provided they don't disrupt other visitors and follow general photography guidelines (no flash, no tripods).
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Diverse Collections
One of the most captivating aspects is the museum's commitment to providing context. Informative labels and accompanying materials offer deep insights into the artworks, enriching the visitor experience beyond mere observation. This depth of information, combined with the sheer volume and quality of the collection, makes The Walters a standout destination for art lovers and history buffs alike. Don't miss the chance to explore the Ancient Near East, Medieval Art, and Asian Art wings for a truly immersive experience.
A Free Cultural Gem in Baltimore
Beyond its free entry, the museum's location in the historic Mount Vernon neighborhood adds to its charm. It's easily reachable by public transport and is a key stop on many Baltimore itineraries, often paired with other nearby attractions. The fact that it's a 'hidden gem' for many visitors, as noted in reviews, speaks to its understated brilliance and the delightful surprise it offers to those who discover it.
Photography at The Walters
Key areas that are particularly photogenic include the grand architectural spaces, the vibrant and intricate stained-glass installations by artists like Kehinde Wiley, and the diverse array of artifacts from around the world. The museum's well-lit galleries and the sheer variety of objects, from ancient sculptures to intricate jewelry, mean that photographers can find compelling compositions around every corner. Remember to always check for any specific signage regarding photography restrictions in certain areas or temporary exhibitions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit