Bellevue Arts Museum
A contemporary art museum in Bellevue, WA, featuring rotating exhibitions, interactive installations, and a community art space.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quiet and calm atmosphere
Bellevue Arts Museum
Best Time
Quiet and calm atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A contemporary art museum in Bellevue, WA, featuring rotating exhibitions, interactive installations, and a community art space.
"A clean and sophisticated museum that rotates new art every six months."
Check Exhibit Schedule
Exhibits rotate every six months; check the website before your visit to see what's on display.
Student Discount Day
Enjoy free admission on the second Sunday of the month if you're a student.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rotating Exhibitions
Discover diverse and thought-provoking art from regional and national artists, with new shows every six months.
Community Art Room
2nd Floor
A vibrant space for kids to create their own art and proudly display it on the walls.
AI-Interactive Art
Experience innovative pieces like 'Mona Lisa Override' that blend technology, identity, and imagination.
BAM Arts Fair
An annual summer event showcasing over 270 artists with live music and activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Admission and Special Offers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Exhibit Schedule
Exhibits rotate every six months; check the website before your visit to see what's on display.
Student Discount Day
Enjoy free admission on the second Sunday of the month if you're a student.
Family Art Fun
The 2nd-floor community art room is perfect for kids to get creative.
Arts Fair Experience
The summer Arts Fair features over 270 artists and is a lively event. 
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Exhibit Schedule
Exhibits rotate every six months; check the website before your visit to see what's on display.
Student Discount Day
Enjoy free admission on the second Sunday of the month if you're a student.
Family Art Fun
The 2nd-floor community art room is perfect for kids to get creative.
Arts Fair Experience
The summer Arts Fair features over 270 artists and is a lively event.
Pre-Parade Float Viewing
See parade floats up close before Snowflake Lane at the staging area near the museum.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Bellevue Arts Museum for its clean, sophisticated atmosphere and engaging, rotating exhibitions. The staff are frequently commended for being friendly and knowledgeable, contributing to a positive experience. While smaller than some major city museums, it offers a more intimate and often less crowded environment, making it a great spot for a calm artistic exploration.
"Nice art museum with rotating exhibitions (check website). Lots of cool and beautiful art and exhibitions, although as others have mentioned this museum is significantly smaller than ex. SAM or MoPOP. (It is also cheaper!)
As a general heads up, they no longer do free first Fridays but offer a free 2nd Sunday for students, and discounts on tickets for Bellevue collection. When I went, tickets were $15 for adults/$8 for youth (17 and under). I have never seen a wait or a large crowd (except during artsfair in the summer) so it tends to be a quiet museum.
Their exhibits are mainly on the 2nd and 3rd floor. On the 2nd floor there's a cool community art room which is great for kids to make their own art and hang it on the walls. On the 3rd floor there's a small outdoor patio area as well you can access behind two doors."
Cindy Fu
"This is a clean and sophisticated museum that rotates new art every six months. I've found it to be a great place to visit for a calm and expressive experience before heading to one of the great restaurants nearby. I've also had memorable experiences learning from the staff here who are outgoing and knowledgeable."
Jonathan Leack
"Love, love, love this museum. Was recently there to install Nicole Gordon’s fantastic show “Altered States” and could not have had a more delightful experience. The staff and docents are great; friendly, knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Am returning soon (from Chicago no less) and very much looking forward to my next visit. This museum is a 10 out of 10 all the way round; really interesting exhibits and great staff, what more could you ask for?"
sue pitkin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bellevue Arts Museum is located in downtown Bellevue, WA. It's easily accessible by car, with parking typically available. Public transportation options are also available in the area.
Yes, parking is generally available, especially on weekdays. Visitors have noted that finding parking is usually not an issue.
Yes, before the parade, the floats stage between the W and the Bellevue Arts Museum, offering a great opportunity for close-up viewing and photos.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is $15 for adults and $8 for youth (17 and under). Discounts may be available for Bellevue Collection shoppers.
The museum no longer offers free first Fridays. However, students can enjoy free admission on the second Sunday of each month.
Museum hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Bellevue Arts Museum website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours.
Tickets can typically be purchased at the door. However, checking the museum's website for any advance booking recommendations or special event ticketing is always a good idea.
Yes, the museum has a community art room on the second floor that is great for kids to engage in creative activities.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
The museum features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art from regional and national artists, including installations, paintings, and interactive pieces.
Compared to larger institutions like SAM or MoPOP, the Bellevue Arts Museum is significantly smaller, offering a more intimate viewing experience.
Yes, there is a small outdoor patio area accessible from the third floor.
Some exhibits, like 'Mona Lisa Override,' are designed to be interactive, blending technology and imagination.
Generally, yes. Except during the summer Arts Fair, the museum tends to be quiet, making it a great spot for a calm and expressive experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not appear to have a dedicated cafe or restaurant. However, it is located near many excellent dining options in downtown Bellevue.
Downtown Bellevue offers a wide array of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining, providing plenty of choices after your museum visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. It's best to check for signage within the museum or ask staff if photography is permitted.
The museum's unique architecture and the diverse art installations offer many visually interesting opportunities for photography. The community art room can also be a fun spot for candid shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Art Enthusiasts on a Budget
🛍️ Shoppers at Bellevue Collection
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bellevue Arts Museum Arts Fair
+2 Visitors can expect a lively atmosphere with live music and various activities, making it a popular destination for art enthusiasts and families alike. It's a fantastic opportunity to discover and purchase unique pieces directly from the artists. During the Arts Fair, the museum grounds and surrounding areas become an open-air gallery. Many artists set up booths, allowing attendees to interact with them, learn about their creative processes, and find one-of-a-kind art. The event is a highlight of the summer cultural calendar in Bellevue, drawing significant crowds and offering a dynamic experience for all who attend.
+1Exploring Interactive and Digital Art
These types of exhibits invite active participation, allowing visitors to engage with the art in new and dynamic ways. This focus on digital and interactive art reflects a broader trend in contemporary art museums to incorporate technology and create more immersive environments. Such exhibits often explore themes of identity, technology, and imagination, offering a glimpse into the future of artistic expression. Visitors can expect to find thought-provoking pieces that encourage dialogue and reflection, making their visit both educational and engaging.
Community Engagement and Family Activities
Beyond the art room, the museum's rotating exhibitions often feature elements that can appeal to a broad audience, including those with interactive components. The museum's staff and docents are also noted for being friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
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