Third floor - late 19th century paintings
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Biggs Museum of American Art

4.6
·324 reviews·Dover, United States

Discover American art from the 18th century to today, featuring decorative arts, contemporary pieces, and vibrant historical interiors.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

First Weekend of Month

Free admission!

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Third floor - late 19th century paintings

Biggs Museum of American Art

Best Time

First Weekend of Month

Free admission!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover American art from the 18th century to today, featuring decorative arts, contemporary pieces, and vibrant historical interiors.

4.6
(324 reviews)

"A 100% worth a stop museum with diverse exhibits and free admission!"

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TIP

🎯 Free First Weekend Fun

Enjoy free admission every first weekend (Fri-Sun)! A great deal for art lovers.

🗣️ Join a Free Tour

Highly recommended! Guides make art engaging and understandable for everyone.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Decorative Arts Collection

Decorative Arts Collection

Second Floor

Marvel at exquisite furniture, silver, and period room wallpaper coverings spanning centuries. Vibrant colors and intricate designs.

Contemporary Local Artists

Contemporary Local Artists

Third Floor

Discover vibrant, new acquisitions and special exhibits showcasing talented regional contemporary artists. A fresh perspective on American art.

Comic Couture: Beyond the Panels

Comic Couture: Beyond the Panels

Special Exhibition Space

Explore a bold exhibition merging pop culture with high-concept aesthetics, redefining comic-inspired fine art. A unique visual experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Admission Days

Score free entry on the first weekend of each month (Friday-Sunday)! It's a fantastic way to experience the Biggs Museum's diverse American art collection without breaking the bank. Plan ahead for these popular days.

Guided Tours Enhance Experience

Don't miss the free guided tours! Knowledgeable guides make the art accessible and engaging, even if you're not an art aficionado. Check the schedule upon arrival for the best experience.

Best Times

When
First Weekend of Month
Why
Free admission!
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space
Crowd
Low
When
During Guided Tours
Why
Engaging art insights
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

How lucky am I to stumble upon the Museum of transport in London on my route down to dover 😅. Not that I have a set route 🤣, but I was still surprised that it was very close to where I was heading. They all loved my machine, but I loved there's even more 😄 I was very inspired and I left with an idea or two 😁 Love you guys 🥰 Don't forget to check my profile
@itskius
86.7K likes • 1.4M views

🎯 Free First Weekend Fun

Enjoy free admission every first weekend (Fri-Sun)! A great deal for art lovers. Instagram

🗣️ Join a Free Tour

Highly recommended! Guides make art engaging and understandable for everyone. Reddit

We’re thrilled to announce that the Biggs Museum of American Art has been voted Best Museum in the Daily State News Stars of Delaware Voters’ Choice Poll! 🏆🎉 A huge thank you to the staff of DSN for hosting a wonderful event, and to our friends and fans who took the time to vote for us! Your support means the world to us. Lastly, congratulations to our fellow award recipients! Here’s to celebratin...
biggsmuseum
35 likes • 1.4K views
🎨Discover the rich tapestry of American Art at the Biggs Museum — @biggsmuseum. Established in 1993, this museum showcases an exquisite collection of American fine and decorative arts. 📍406 Federal Street, Dover, DE 19901 Hours: Thursday through Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Don’t miss out – every first weekend, Friday through Sunday, enjoy free admission and dive into creativity at their Family Crea...
firststatedates
0 likes • 2.4K views

✨ Vibrant Wallpaper

Don't miss the stunning period room wallpaper – centuries old but incredibly vibrant! Reddit

🖼️ Support Local Artists

The museum actively supports regional artists with acquisitions and exhibits. Instagram

Step into a story that spans centuries at the Biggs Museum of American Art (@biggsmuseum)! The Biggs Museum of American Art, located in Dover, Delaware, offers visitors a powerful journey through time—featuring an extraordinary collection that spans from the 18th century to today. From paintings and sculpture to silver and furniture, the museum highlights a rich array of American artistic tradit...
artsdelaware
28 likes • 553 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free First Weekend Fun

Enjoy free admission every first weekend (Fri-Sun)! A great deal for art lovers. Instagram

🗣️ Join a Free Tour

Highly recommended! Guides make art engaging and understandable for everyone. Reddit

✨ Vibrant Wallpaper

Don't miss the stunning period room wallpaper – centuries old but incredibly vibrant! Reddit

🖼️ Support Local Artists

The museum actively supports regional artists with acquisitions and exhibits. Instagram

📸 Capture the Art

Photography is generally allowed, but check for any specific exhibit restrictions. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(324 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Biggs Museum for its free admission and engaging guided tours, which make art accessible to all. The diverse collection, from historical decorative arts to contemporary local pieces, offers a rich experience for a relatively small museum. While some note its size, most find it a worthwhile and enjoyable stop.

"This museum is 100% worth a stop if you're in Delaware. There are different exhibits on the 2nd and 3rd floors, each with their own charm and beauty. Going through it at a leisurely pace will take an hour of well spent time. And it's free!"

Jonathan West

"Took a free guided tour on a whim and had a great time! Our tour guide was truly phenomenal. She explained the information in a way that was engaging and really easy to understand, which was great because I don’t know anything about fine art. I forgot her name but she had brown hair and glasses if I’m remembering correctly!"

Abby Hastings

"Free! Small gallery but features a good enough mix of abstract, contemporary, sculpture and painting art."

Nashalie M

What People Like

Free admission
Engaging guided tours
Diverse art collection

What People Dislike

Can be small

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Biggs Museum is located at 406 Federal Street in Dover, DE. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Public transportation routes may also serve the downtown Dover area. Instagram

Yes, there are parking options available near the museum in downtown Dover. Street parking and public lots are typically accessible. Instagram

The museum is situated in downtown Dover, making it accessible from major routes like US-13 and DE-1. Instagram

Depending on your starting point, many downtown Dover attractions, including the Legislative Hall and Dover Green, are within walking distance of the Biggs Museum. Reddit

The museum is generally accessible, but it's always a good idea to contact them directly for specific accessibility details regarding ramps, elevators, and restroom facilities. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Biggs Museum is typically open Thursday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It's always best to check their official website for the most current hours, as they can change seasonally or for special events. Instagram

Admission to the Biggs Museum is often free, especially during special promotions like the first weekend of the month (Friday-Sunday). General admission is also frequently free, making it a great value. InstagramReddit

The museum offers free admission every first weekend of the month, from Friday through Sunday. This is a popular time for visitors. Instagram

For general admission, especially when it's free, advance booking is usually not required. However, for special ticketed events or if you're visiting during a peak free weekend, it's wise to check their website. Instagram

The museum welcomes group visits. It's recommended to contact the museum in advance to arrange group tours or visits, especially for larger parties, to ensure a smooth experience. Instagram

🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience

The Biggs Museum features a diverse collection of American fine and decorative arts, spanning from the 18th century to contemporary pieces. This includes paintings, sculpture, silver, furniture, and vibrant period room wallpaper. InstagramReddit

A leisurely visit to explore the exhibits at the Biggs Museum typically takes about an hour. You can spend more time if you delve deeper into specific collections or attend a guided tour. Reddit

Yes, the Biggs Museum offers free guided tours. These tours are highly praised for being engaging and informative, making the art accessible to all visitors. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or artworks. Instagram

Key highlights include the exquisite decorative arts collection, the vibrant period room wallpaper, and rotating exhibits featuring contemporary local artists. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Biggs Museum does not typically have an on-site cafe or restaurant. Visitors are encouraged to explore the many dining options available in the surrounding downtown Dover area. Instagram

Yes, the downtown Dover area surrounding the Biggs Museum offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to suit different tastes and budgets. Instagram

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum galleries to protect the artwork. There may be designated areas for refreshments, but it's best to confirm with the museum staff. Instagram

You'll find a range of options from casual cafes and delis to sit-down restaurants offering American cuisine and other international flavors in the vicinity of the museum. Instagram

Absolutely. The museum's central location in Dover means numerous dining establishments are just a short walk away, making it convenient to grab a bite after your visit. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally permitted at the Biggs Museum. However, always look for signage or ask staff if certain exhibits or artworks have restrictions. Instagram

Flash photography is typically not allowed in art museums as the light can damage delicate artworks over time. It's best to err on the side of caution and avoid using flash. Instagram

While general photography is usually allowed, temporary exhibitions or special installations might have specific rules against photography. Always be observant of posted signs. Instagram

The vibrant period room wallpaper, the contemporary art pieces, and the museum's architecture itself can make for great photo opportunities. The 'Comic Couture' exhibition also offers unique visual content. InstagramReddit

Professional photography sessions or the use of tripods usually require special permission from the museum. It's advisable to contact the museum's administration in advance if you plan to do so. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Biggs Museum can be a surprisingly engaging outing for families. While it's an art museum, the diverse collection, including decorative arts and contemporary pieces, can capture children's attention. The free admission on the first weekend of the month makes it an affordable family activity. InstagramReddit

Consider taking advantage of the free guided tours, as the guides are skilled at making art accessible and interesting for all ages. The vibrant colors in the period room wallpaper and the imaginative contemporary works can be particularly captivating for younger visitors. It's a great way to introduce children to art in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Biggs Museum is a dream. Free admission is a significant perk, especially during the first weekend of every month (Friday-Sunday). InstagramReddit This allows you to immerse yourself in American art without any cost. Even outside of these free weekends, general admission is often free, making it an excellent value. Reddit

Combine your visit with exploring other free attractions in Dover, like the Dover Green, to create a full day of sightseeing without spending a dime on entry fees. The museum's manageable size also means you can have a fulfilling experience in about an hour, saving you time and energy. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

Art lovers will appreciate the Biggs Museum's curated collection, which offers a thoughtful exploration of American art history. The decorative arts section, with its antique furniture and intricate silver, provides a deep dive into historical craftsmanship. Reddit Don't miss the period room wallpaper, a unique and visually stunning aspect of the collection. Reddit

The museum's commitment to contemporary regional artists adds a layer of current relevance, showcasing emerging talent and modern artistic trends. Instagram Keep an eye out for special exhibitions, such as the 'Comic Couture' show, which pushes the boundaries of traditional art forms. The free guided tours are also highly recommended for gaining deeper insights and context from knowledgeable docents. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art Collection: A Journey Through American Art

The Biggs Museum of American Art boasts a rich and diverse collection that spans centuries of American artistic expression. From the elegant craftsmanship of the 18th century to the bold statements of contemporary artists, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the nation's creative heritage. Visitors can expect to see a wide array of mediums, including paintings, sculpture, silverware, and furniture, each piece telling a story of its time and place. Instagram

A particular point of pride is the museum's collection of decorative arts. The period room wallpaper coverings, for instance, are a stunning testament to historical design, with colors and patterns that remain remarkably vibrant despite their age. These immersive displays offer a glimpse into the domestic lives and aesthetic sensibilities of past generations. Reddit

Beyond historical pieces, the Biggs Museum is committed to showcasing today's regional artists. They actively acquire works early in artists' careers, providing crucial support and recognition. This forward-thinking approach ensures the collection remains dynamic and relevant, reflecting the evolving landscape of American art. Instagram Special exhibitions, like 'Comic Couture: Beyond the Panels,' further push boundaries by merging popular culture with fine art, offering a truly unique experience. Instagram

Experiencing the Biggs Museum: Tips from Visitors

Many visitors highlight the free admission as a major draw, especially the first weekend of each month when the museum opens its doors without charge from Friday to Sunday. This makes it an accessible cultural experience for everyone. InstagramReddit

The free guided tours are consistently praised as a must-do. Even for those who don't consider themselves art experts, the guides are adept at making the collections engaging and easy to understand. One reviewer specifically mentioned a guide with brown hair and glasses who was phenomenal. Reddit This personal touch significantly enhances the appreciation of the artworks.

While the museum might be considered small by some, reviewers emphasize that it offers a good enough mix of art styles, from abstract and contemporary to sculpture and painting. A leisurely pace allows for an hour of well-spent time, making it a perfect stop for a few hours of cultural enrichment. Reddit

The Biggs Museum's Role in the Community

The Biggs Museum of American Art plays a vital role in supporting and promoting the arts within Delaware and the surrounding region. Unlike many institutions that focus solely on historical figures, the Biggs is actively investing in today’s regional artists. Instagram This commitment is demonstrated through their acquisition of new works and their dedication to showcasing contemporary talent. By doing so, they not only enrich their own collection but also provide a crucial platform for emerging and established local artists to gain exposure and recognition. Instagram

This focus on living artists makes the museum a dynamic space, constantly evolving with fresh perspectives and innovative creations. It fosters a sense of community pride and connection to the arts. The museum also collaborates with local organizations and galleries, such as The Bridge Art Gallery for exhibitions like 'Comic Couture: Beyond the Panels,' further embedding itself within the local arts ecosystem. Instagram

Furthermore, the museum's commitment to accessibility, including free admission days and free guided tours, ensures that art is not a privilege but an experience available to everyone. This inclusive approach makes the Biggs Museum a valuable cultural asset for Dover and the state of Delaware. InstagramReddit

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