Susquehanna Art Museum
A former bank transformed into a vibrant art space, showcasing diverse temporary exhibitions and engaging community programs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate viewing
Susquehanna Art Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A former bank transformed into a vibrant art space, showcasing diverse temporary exhibitions and engaging community programs.
"Beautiful building, friendly staff, unique art and design."
Check Exhibit Schedule
Exhibits change frequently; always check the museum's website before visiting to see what's on display. [^Review]
Student Discounts Available
If you're a student, inquire about discounted admission fees – it's a great way to save! [^Review]
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Temporary Exhibitions
Main Galleries
Discover ever-changing displays, from quilting to civil rights art, ensuring a fresh experience with each visit.
+1
Art & Activism at Tougaloo College
Special Exhibition Space
Explore powerful works tied to the Civil Rights Movement, showcasing art's role in social change.
DeSoto Family Vault
Steel Bank Vault
See unique art pieces, like quilted swing coats, displayed within the museum's historic steel bank vault. [^Review]
Making Your Mark Exhibition
Interactive Space
An engaging, hands-on area exploring modern painting techniques for all ages. [^Review]
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Embrace the Arts District Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Exhibit Schedule
Exhibits change frequently; always check the museum's website before visiting to see what's on display. [^Review]
Student Discounts Available
If you're a student, inquire about discounted admission fees – it's a great way to save! [^Review]
Explore the Arts District
Combine your museum visit with exploring nearby galleries and public art for a full cultural immersion.
Look for Workshops
The museum offers workshops for children and adults; check their schedule and sign up if you have time. [^Review]
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Exhibit Schedule
Exhibits change frequently; always check the museum's website before visiting to see what's on display. [^Review]
Student Discounts Available
If you're a student, inquire about discounted admission fees – it's a great way to save! [^Review]
Explore the Arts District
Combine your museum visit with exploring nearby galleries and public art for a full cultural immersion.
Look for Workshops
The museum offers workshops for children and adults; check their schedule and sign up if you have time. [^Review]
No On-site Dining
Plan to eat before or after your visit, as there's no restaurant or cafeteria at the museum. [^Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Susquehanna Art Museum for its unique exhibitions and friendly staff, often highlighting the engaging temporary displays and the historic bank building setting. While some find the museum to be on the smaller side, its affordable entry and focus on diverse art forms, including those with social commentary, make it a worthwhile stop. [^Review]
"I attended the Seventh Annual A Taste of Jazz fundraiser this Sunday evening, sponsored by St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Harrisburg.
It is a wonderful evening for jazz and to view the current exhibit, Tribute to the Civil Rights Movement: Quilted Swing Coats, by Patricia A. Montgomery.
How cool is it that the DeSoto Family Vault displays two quilted swing coats in the steel bank vault?
This wonderful gathering of familiar faces, Jazz ensembles, light bites, cocktails, and a silent auction will help raise funds for programs that serve the Harrisburg community, especially the Beacon Health Clinic, which provides free healthcare for uninsured adults."
Eugenia Russell Hargrove
"Great art and artists from near and far. Harrisburg is a major player in the art scene!"
JBlair Brown
"I had hoped to see more painting artworks during our visit, but may be we came at the wrong time. We were able to explore the entire museum in less than 30 minutes it's quite a small museum"
Jin Kim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Susquehanna Art Museum is located in downtown Harrisburg, PA. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options also serve the downtown area.
Yes, there are parking garages and street parking options available in the vicinity of the museum. It's advisable to check local parking apps for real-time availability and rates.
Absolutely! The museum is situated within Harrisburg's Arts District, making it easily walkable from many downtown hotels and attractions.
Yes, Harrisburg's public bus routes serve the downtown area, providing access to the museum. Check the local transit authority's website for specific route information.
If you have a car, navigating to the museum is straightforward. Use GPS to direct you to the museum's address, and then look for nearby parking facilities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are generally quite affordable, with special discounts often available for students. It's best to check the museum's official website for the most current pricing information. [^Review]
While specific free admission days aren't always advertised, it's worth checking the museum's events calendar or social media for any special promotions or community days.
Museum hours can vary, especially with special events. It's highly recommended to consult the Susquehanna Art Museum's official website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
While some museums offer online ticket purchasing, it's best to confirm directly with the Susquehanna Art Museum's website. For smaller institutions, on-site purchase is common. [^Review]
Yes, the museum often features interactive exhibits and workshops designed for children, making it a family-friendly destination. [^Review]
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
The museum showcases a diverse range of art, with a strong emphasis on temporary exhibitions that can include contemporary paintings, quilts, sculptures, and works related to social activism.
Given its size, a typical visit can range from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on your interest in the current exhibitions and if you participate in any workshops. [^Review]
Information on guided tours isn't always readily available online. It's best to inquire at the museum's front desk upon arrival or check their events calendar for scheduled tours.
Yes, the museum typically features a gift shop where you can find art-related items, books, and unique souvenirs.
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but it's always wise to check for signage or ask museum staff.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, the Susquehanna Art Museum does not have an on-site restaurant or cafeteria. Visitors are advised to dine at nearby establishments in the Arts District. [^Review]
The surrounding Arts District and downtown Harrisburg offer a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants.
Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside art museums to protect the artworks. It's best to consume any food or beverages outside the galleries. [^Review]
📸 📸 Photography
The museum's architecture, especially the former bank vault, and the unique temporary exhibits offer great photo opportunities. Look for interesting installations and artistic details.
Flash photography is generally not allowed in art museums as it can damage delicate artworks. Always check for specific signage or ask staff.
Yes, the surrounding Arts District features public art and interesting streetscapes that are perfect for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there isn't an on-site cafe, the museum's manageable size means kids can explore without getting overwhelmed. It's a perfect opportunity to introduce them to different art forms and spark their creativity in a welcoming environment. Remember to check their schedule for any family-specific programming. [^Review]
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Students
+1 [^Review]Students will appreciate the affordable admission costs and the opportunity to engage with diverse artistic styles and themes. The museum's location in the Arts District also makes it a convenient stop for those exploring Harrisburg's creative landscape. [^Review]
🏛️ History Buffs
Furthermore, exhibitions often delve into historical contexts, such as the Civil Rights Movement, providing a blend of artistic appreciation and historical learning. It's a unique way to connect with the past through a creative lens.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Museum's Unique Architecture
One of the most talked-about features is the DeSoto Family Vault, a former steel bank vault that now serves as a unique exhibition space. This unusual setting provides a dramatic backdrop for certain artworks, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the viewing experience. It's a testament to the museum's creative approach to utilizing its space. [^Review]
This architectural character makes the museum not just a place to see art, but also an interesting destination in itself. The juxtaposition of the solid, historic bank building with the fluid, ever-changing nature of art exhibitions creates a dynamic and memorable environment for visitors. [^Review]
Exploring Temporary Exhibitions
These exhibitions cover a wide spectrum of artistic mediums and themes. You might find everything from quilted swing coats and needlepoint art to powerful installations addressing social issues like the Civil Rights Movement or immigration. The museum has also hosted exhibitions on painting techniques and public space sculptures.
+2 [^Review]Because the exhibits are temporary, it's crucial to check the museum's website before your visit to see what is currently on display. This will help you plan your trip and ensure you don't miss out on a particular exhibition that interests you. The ever-changing nature of the programming is a major draw for many visitors.
Art and Activism
+1Exhibits like 'Queremos Justicia: How We Shutdown Berks' and 'Art & Activism at Tougaloo College' exemplify this focus. These displays often feature works that tell stories of struggle, resilience, and the fight for justice, drawing from historical movements and contemporary challenges.
+1This approach makes the museum more than just a place to admire aesthetics; it becomes a space for reflection and understanding of important societal topics. Visitors can expect to encounter art that is not only visually compelling but also intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant, sparking conversations about community and advocacy.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit