Museum of Fine Arts Boston
A vast collection spanning millennia, from ancient Egyptian wonders to Sargent's masterpieces and vibrant Impressionist art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
$5 entry, often with programming
Museum of Fine Arts Boston
Best Time
$5 entry, often with programming
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast collection spanning millennia, from ancient Egyptian wonders to Sargent's masterpieces and vibrant Impressionist art.
"A cultural treasure that seamlessly blends classical elegance with artistic daring."
💡 Use BPL Card for Discounts
Boston Public Library cardholders can often get discounted MFA passes, sometimes including special exhibits. :ticket:
🚶♀️ Stroll through the Fens
Enjoy a walk in the adjacent Back Bay Fens, especially beautiful in warmer months. :park:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
John Singer Sargent's Masterpieces
American Wing
Iconic works like 'The Daughters of Edward Darley Boit' and 'Fashioned by Sargent' showcase his dramatic portraits.
Ancient Egyptian Collection
Art of the Ancient World
Discover artifacts from Giza tombs and ancient civilizations, offering a profound glimpse into history.
Impressionist and Post-Impressionist Art
European Paintings
Admire works by Monet, Degas, Renoir, and Van Gogh, including his famous self-portraits.
Japanese Art Collection
Art of Asia
Explore one of the largest collections of Japanese art outside of Japan, recently reopened.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Allocate Ample Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💡 Use BPL Card for Discounts
Boston Public Library cardholders can often get discounted MFA passes, sometimes including special exhibits. :ticket:
🚶♀️ Stroll through the Fens
Enjoy a walk in the adjacent Back Bay Fens, especially beautiful in warmer months. :park:
☕ Dine at Museum Cafes
The New American Cafe and Gardner's Cafe offer good dining options within the museum. :forkandknife:
🗺️ Grab an Activity Book
Visitor desks offer free activity books for kids, perfect for a scavenger hunt. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
💡 Use BPL Card for Discounts
Boston Public Library cardholders can often get discounted MFA passes, sometimes including special exhibits. :ticket:
🚶♀️ Stroll through the Fens
Enjoy a walk in the adjacent Back Bay Fens, especially beautiful in warmer months. :park:
☕ Dine at Museum Cafes
The New American Cafe and Gardner's Cafe offer good dining options within the museum. :forkandknife:
🗺️ Grab an Activity Book
Visitor desks offer free activity books for kids, perfect for a scavenger hunt. :child:
🎧 Consider an Audio Guide
Enhance your visit with an audio guide for deeper insights into the collections. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the MFA Boston for its vast and diverse collections, spanning ancient to contemporary art, with particular acclaim for its Egyptian, Japanese, and Impressionist wings. The museum's architecture and thoughtful curation are frequently highlighted as enhancing the visitor experience. While parking can be expensive and some wish for audio guides, the overall consensus is that it's a must-visit cultural gem.
"My favorite museum I’ve ever gone to. Spent a whole day there opening to close enjoying the gorgeous exhibits. They have fine art but also jewelry, furniture, sculpture, glass art, and a huge ancient art collection. Well worth a visit! Wonderful curation and design. The cafe in the main atrium has delicious food and great service as well."
Eva B
"The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston is a cultural treasure that seamlessly blends classical elegance with artistic daring. From the moment you arrive at its grand neoclassical entrance, you’re welcomed into a world where centuries of creativity come alive.
During my two separate visits, I was fortunate to experience two remarkable special exhibitions — one devoted to the emotional intensity of Vincent van Gogh, the other to the surreal genius of Salvador Dalí. The Van Gogh gallery, featuring masterpieces like The Bedroom, his iconic self-portrait, and Portrait of Joseph Roulin, offered a deeply moving glimpse into the artist’s soul. Richly colored walls and thoughtful curation amplified the intimacy and expressive force of each work.
In contrast, the Dalí exhibition was a surreal, cerebral delight. His dreamlike compositions — from melting clocks to optical illusions — challenged perception and drew viewers into a realm of bizarre beauty and psychological depth. Each piece was a puzzle, inviting quiet awe and contemplation.
Outside these features, the MFA’s permanent collection is no less impressive. Lavish European galleries with crimson walls and ornate frames house everything from Baroque masterpieces to silverware displays arranged with regal symmetry. The museum’s scope — spanning continents and centuries — is both immersive and inspiring.
Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply seeking a day of beauty and reflection, the MFA offers an unforgettable journey through the minds of artistic masters. A must-visit in Boston."
Jimmy Shen
"The Museum of Fine Arts houses an incredible collection, and if you’re someone who enjoys history, you could easily spend a full day or even two exploring it. The museum has two floors, and in my opinion, you need at least a day for each to truly appreciate the sculptures, paintings, and the stories behind them. It’s definitely a must-visit spot in Boston. For Northeastern University students, entry is free, which makes it a great opportunity to explore whenever they have time.
One suggestion I’d make is to add an audio guide system, while I’m joking about how tiring it is to read through so much information, audio guides would be really helpful for visitors, especially with multiple language options."
Ashwini Chinnappa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The MFA is easily accessible via public transportation. Take the Green Line E train to the 'Museum of Fine Arts' stop, or the Orange Line to 'Ruggles' and walk a few blocks. Several bus routes also stop nearby. Driving is an option, but parking can be expensive and challenging to find.
Yes, the MFA has a parking garage, but it can be costly. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot. Some visitors opt for nearby garages.
Absolutely! The two museums are very close, just a 3-5 minute walk apart. You can easily visit both in one day, perhaps starting with lunch at the Gardner's cafe and then exploring the MFA.
The MBTA Green Line (E branch) is the most direct route to the MFA. The Orange Line is also a convenient option. Many visitors also use ride-sharing services.
While there aren't dedicated free shuttles, the 'Museum of Fine Arts' stop on the Green Line E train provides direct and convenient access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission prices vary, but it's recommended to check the official MFA website for current pricing. Look out for special discount days like 'Third Thursdays' for $5 entry.
Yes, Boston residents who are students can often get free entry during 'Boston Family Days' weekends. Also, check if your Boston Public Library card offers discounted passes.
The museum is typically open from 10 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours on some days. It's closed on Tuesdays. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date hours.
It's highly recommended to book general admission tickets online in advance, especially for popular special exhibitions, to guarantee entry and save time.
Yes, the MFA offers 'Third Thursdays' where admission is just $5 from 5 PM to 10 PM, often featuring live music and art-making activities.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
Highlights include John Singer Sargent's works, the Ancient Egyptian collection, Impressionist paintings by Monet and Degas, and the extensive Japanese art collection. Don't miss 'Saint Luke Drawing the Virgin' by Rogier Van Der Weyden.
To truly appreciate the vast collections, plan for at least 3-4 hours. Many visitors find they can easily spend a full day or even two days exploring.
Yes, the MFA offers family programs and activity books for children, making it engaging for younger visitors. The scavenger hunt ideas are great for keeping them entertained.
The MFA boasts over 100 galleries with a diverse collection spanning ancient Egyptian artifacts, European masterpieces, American art, contemporary works, and a significant collection of Japanese art.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use in most galleries, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Always check for specific signage in each gallery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the MFA has several dining options, including the New American Cafe and Gardner's Cafe, which are known for good food and service.
Besides the museum cafes, there are various cafes and restaurants on the other side of the Back Bay Fens, offering more local dining experiences.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the museum galleries. It's best to dine at the museum's cafes or restaurants.
Museum dining can be pricier than off-site options, but the quality is generally good. Consider it part of the overall museum experience.
While specific menus can change, museum cafes often offer a range of options, including vegetarian choices. It's advisable to check the current menu on their website or inquire upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, personal photography is generally permitted in most galleries, but without flash or tripods. Always look for signage indicating any restrictions.
The grand neoclassical architecture, the stunning courtyards, and the diverse art collections themselves offer endless photographic opportunities. The John Singer Sargent wing is particularly photogenic.
Yes, phone cameras are welcome for personal use, as long as flash is turned off.
While personal use is allowed, commercial photography or professional shoots usually require special permits. For typical social media sharing, you should be fine.
You can capture everything from ancient sculptures and Egyptian sarcophagi to vibrant Impressionist paintings and intricate jewelry. The sheer variety ensures diverse photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during Boston Family Days for free admission for Boston residents.
The museum's diverse exhibits, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to vibrant paintings, offer something to spark the imagination of children of all ages. The spacious galleries also allow for comfortable exploration, even with strollers. 💰 Budget Travelers
If you're a student, check for potential discounts or free entry days. To maximize your visit without overspending, pack snacks and water, though outside food isn't permitted inside galleries. Consider dining at the museum cafes during lunch hours for potentially better value than dinner.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Keep an eye on the MFA's schedule for special exhibitions, which often feature world-renowned artists and unique thematic displays.
Consider an audio guide to gain deeper insights into the artworks and their historical context. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the MFA's Diverse Collections
Beyond antiquity, the museum excels in European paintings, showcasing masterpieces by Impressionist and Post-Impressionist giants like Monet, Degas, Renoir, and Van Gogh. The American Wing is equally significant, home to iconic works by John Singer Sargent, Copley, and Albert Bierstadt, capturing the spirit of American art history.
Don't miss the Art of Asia, which houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Japanese art outside of Japan, recently revitalized. The Contemporary Art section also offers thought-provoking pieces, ensuring the MFA remains a dynamic and relevant cultural institution.
Experiencing MFA Boston's Special Events and Programs
Beyond exhibitions, the MFA is known for its Late Nites and Third Thursdays programs, which transform the museum into a vibrant evening destination. These events often feature live music, art-making activities, and cultural celebrations, making them a popular choice for a more social and dynamic museum experience.
+1 For families, Boston Family Days offer free admission to Boston residents, making the museum accessible to a wider community. The museum also offers educational programs for all ages, including art classes for children and adults, lectures, and guided tours. These programs aim to deepen understanding and appreciation of the collections, providing a richer, more interactive visit.
The MFA and Its Surroundings
Just a short walk from the MFA is the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, a unique and intimate museum housed in a Venetian-style palace. It's famous for its stunning courtyard and the infamous art heist of 1990. Visiting both museums in one day is a popular itinerary for art lovers.
For dining, while the MFA has its own cafes, the surrounding areas offer a variety of culinary options. You can find charming cafes and restaurants on the other side of the Fens, providing a taste of local Boston flavors.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit