The Walters Art Museum - A room filled with lots of paintings and a skylight
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The Walters Art Museum

4.8
·4k reviews·Baltimore, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Thursday evenings

Extended hours for a relaxed visit

CrowdLow
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The Walters Art Museum - A room filled with lots of paintings and a skylight

The Walters Art Museum

Best Time

Thursday evenings

Extended hours for a relaxed visit

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.8
(4k reviews)

"One of the best museums I've ever been to, with an overwhelming and well-displayed collection."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient World Wonders

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

Kehinde Wiley's Stained Glass

Special Exhibitions

Marvel at the vibrant, monumental stained-glass portraits by Kehinde Wiley, a breathtaking contemporary art experience.

Instagram
Global Masterpieces

Global Masterpieces

Asian Art, European Art, and American Art Galleries

Explore diverse artistic expressions from across continents, showcasing intricate paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

Reddit
Sculpture Garden Serenity

Sculpture Garden Serenity

Outdoor Sculpture Garden

Find a peaceful escape amidst beautiful sculptures, offering a refreshing outdoor art experience.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Free Admission, Big Rewards

The Walters Art Museum offers free admission, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option. Plan for at least 1.5-2 hours to explore its vast collections, as you'll want to soak in the details without feeling rushed. Instagram

Navigating the Collections

With 36,000 pieces spanning global art history, it's easy to get lost. Consider using their provided cards for self-guided tours or focus on specific eras or regions that pique your interest to make the most of your visit. Reddit

Best Times

When
Thursday evenings
Why
Extended hours for a relaxed visit
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Quiet atmosphere before crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer visitors, more space
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @Drishti🤩 this is just the tip of the iceberg - comment your fav affordable activities! #philly #phillytiktok #phillytok #phillydatenight #phillydateidea #phillygirlsnight #phillyfoodies #phillyrestaurants #phillymuseums #greenscreen
@phillyfoodladies
14.9K likes • 298K views

🎯 Free Admission All Day!

Enjoy world-class art without spending a dime. Perfect for budget travelers and art enthusiasts alike! InstagramReddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the vast collections. Prioritize comfort for an enjoyable experience. Instagram

🔴 The Walters Art Museum, USA has a painting of a woman with a giant flashlight which mesmerizes a deer. This painting originates back from Dravidia (ancient India) 🔺I wonder how the flashlight is working? . . . . . #scary #scarymovie #scaryvideos #alien #aliens #alienware #alienabduction #alienlife #aliensky #reptiles #reptil #reptilesofinstagram #reptilian #reptile #reptilien #aliensarereal...
ciatruth
17.2K likes • 612.4K views
🖼️ Free things to do in Baltimore - Visit The Walters Art Museum During my most recent solo outing, I had to go check out Kehinde Wiley’s Saint Amelie (first exhibition shown), which is apparently one of twelve stained-glass window portraits by Wiley. Now I wanna see the remaining portraits! Be sure to give yourself enough time to peruse the entire museum when you visit ☺️ Although the museum i...
explorewitheu
187 likes • 4.8K views

⏰ Allow Ample Time

Set aside at least 1.5-2 hours to truly appreciate the diverse exhibits. Don't rush your visit! Instagram

🗺️ Utilize Self-Guided Tours

Grab a tour card at the entrance to help navigate the extensive collections and learn more about the art. Reddit

DAY 11 l The Walters Art Museum I had so much fun exploring this incredible (and totally free!) art museum in Baltimore’s Mount Vernon neighborhood. They have 36,000 pieces of art, including a sculpture garden, paintings, and jewelry. I’d recommend setting aside 1.5 to 2 hours to take it all in! 🚗 Parking: Reserve a spot in the Walters lot online for convenience 📍 600 N. Charles St., Baltimor...
leah.beyondbaltimore
62 likes • 2.6K views

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! InstagramReddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the vast collections. Prioritize comfort for an enjoyable experience. Instagram

⏰ Allow Ample Time

Set aside at least 1.5-2 hours to truly appreciate the diverse exhibits. Don't rush your visit! Instagram

🗺️ Utilize Self-Guided Tours

Grab a tour card at the entrance to help navigate the extensive collections and learn more about the art. Reddit

🚗 Parking Options Available

The museum has its own lot, or street parking is often available nearby. Check rates beforehand. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(4k reviews)

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

Free admission
Vast & diverse collections
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be overwhelming

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. Reddit For those driving, there's a dedicated parking lot, and street parking is also an option, though it can be competitive. InstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

🎫 🧭 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. Instagram

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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

The museum cafe usually offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, pastries, and beverages, providing a convenient spot for a light meal or snack. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTok

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. TikTok

While general photography is permitted, some special exhibitions or specific artworks may have restrictions. Always adhere to signage and staff instructions regarding photography. TikTok

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. Instagram+1

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). TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Walters Art Museum is a fantastic, free outing for families. Its vast and varied collections offer something to capture the imagination of children of all ages, from ancient mummies and armor to colorful paintings and sculptures. Reddit The museum often provides engaging materials for self-guided tours, which can help keep younger visitors entertained and informed. Plan for a visit of about 1.5 to 2 hours to avoid overtiring little ones, and take advantage of the on-site cafe for a convenient snack break. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

As a completely free museum, The Walters Art Museum is a dream for budget-conscious travelers. You can immerse yourself in world-class art and history without spending a single dollar on admission. InstagramReddit Combine your visit with a picnic lunch or explore the many affordable dining options in the surrounding Mount Vernon neighborhood to keep costs even lower. The ability to re-enter on the same day also offers great value if you want to split your visit. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & History Buffs

For those with a deep appreciation for art and history, The Walters Art Museum is an absolute must-visit. Its extensive collections span millennia and continents, offering a comprehensive overview of human creativity and cultural development. Reddit+1 Take advantage of the detailed exhibit information and consider focusing on specific periods or cultures that particularly interest you to maximize your learning and enjoyment. The museum's commitment to displaying a wide range of artifacts, from ancient civilizations to contemporary works, ensures a rich and rewarding experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Diverse Collections

The Walters Art Museum boasts an astonishing collection of over 36,000 objects spanning 55 centuries and all the world's cultures. This vastness means there's truly something for everyone, from ancient Egyptian mummies and Roman sculptures to medieval armor and Renaissance paintings. Reddit The museum is thoughtfully organized into distinct galleries, allowing visitors to embark on journeys through specific historical periods or geographical regions. Whether you're fascinated by the intricate details of Asian ceramics or the dramatic narratives in European art, you can tailor your visit to your interests. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

A Free Cultural Gem in Baltimore

The Walters Art Museum stands out as a remarkable cultural institution due to its unwavering commitment to free admission. This policy ensures that art and history are accessible to all, regardless of economic background, making it a beloved local treasure and a significant draw for tourists. InstagramReddit The absence of an admission fee encourages repeat visits and allows for spontaneous exploration, transforming it from a one-time destination into a regular part of the community's cultural landscape. This generosity fosters a welcoming atmosphere, where visitors can linger, revisit favorite pieces, and discover new favorites without the pressure of a ticking clock or a hefty ticket price. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

Photography at The Walters

For photography enthusiasts, The Walters Art Museum offers a wealth of visually stimulating subjects. The museum generally permits personal photography throughout its galleries, a policy that is greatly appreciated by visitors looking to capture their favorite pieces or document their experience. TikTok However, it's crucial to be mindful of the guidelines: no flash photography is allowed, as the intense light can damage delicate artworks over time. TikTok Additionally, while tripods and selfie sticks are usually prohibited to ensure the safety and comfort of all guests, the ample lighting and diverse exhibits still provide ample opportunities for stunning shots. TikTok

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. Instagram+1 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. TikTok

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