Minneapolis Institute of Art
A world-class museum with a vast collection spanning 5,000 years, offering free general admission and diverse exhibits.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Minneapolis Institute of Art
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A world-class museum with a vast collection spanning 5,000 years, offering free general admission and diverse exhibits.
"Absolutely amazing museum – and it's completely FREE!"
🎯 Free Admission is a Gem
Enjoy world-class art without breaking the bank! General admission is free, making MIA a must-visit.
⏰ Allow ample time
Don't rush! Plan for 3-4 hours or more to truly explore the vast collections.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Asian Art Collection
Asian Art Galleries
Explore serene Japanese ceramics, intricate Chinese porcelain, and ancient artifacts. A truly breathtaking and meditative experience.
Impressionist Masterpieces
European Paintings Galleries
Discover works by renowned Impressionist artists, including a notable Van Gogh. A delightful surprise for art enthusiasts.
Ghanaian Fantasy Coffins
African Art Galleries
Marvel at the unique and vibrant 'fantasy coffins' from Ghana, a truly memorable and culturally rich display.
Toulouse-Lautrec Exhibition
Special Exhibitions Gallery
Immerse yourself in 19th-century Parisian nightlife with works by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, including 'At the Moulin Rouge'.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Free Admission
Plan Your Visit Duration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission is a Gem
Enjoy world-class art without breaking the bank! General admission is free, making MIA a must-visit. +1
⏰ Allow ample time
Don't rush! Plan for 3-4 hours or more to truly explore the vast collections.
🎶 Hans Zimmer Tour
Check out the free self-guided tour pairing art with Hans Zimmer's movie scores.
🌸 Art in Bloom Festival
Experience floral interpretations of art during this popular spring event.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission is a Gem
Enjoy world-class art without breaking the bank! General admission is free, making MIA a must-visit. +1
⏰ Allow ample time
Don't rush! Plan for 3-4 hours or more to truly explore the vast collections.
🎶 Hans Zimmer Tour
Check out the free self-guided tour pairing art with Hans Zimmer's movie scores.
🌸 Art in Bloom Festival
Experience floral interpretations of art during this popular spring event.
📸 Print Your Memories
Capture your favorite artworks and print them for souvenirs with a mini-printer.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Minneapolis Institute of Art for its incredible collection and the remarkable fact that general admission is free. The museum is described as a welcoming, well-organized space with diverse exhibits that can easily fill several hours of exploration. While special exhibitions may have a fee, the vast permanent collection offers immense value and accessibility for all.
"Absolutely amazing museum – and it's completely FREE!
The Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) is hands-down one of the best cultural attractions in the Twin Cities. From the moment you walk in, the staff is incredibly welcoming and helpful. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning, you'll always be greeted with a smile and a warm atmosphere.
What makes Mia even more impressive is the quality and variety of the exhibits – everything from ancient artifacts and Asian art to modern masterpieces and local work. The galleries are well-organized, beautifully curated, and surprisingly expansive. You could easily spend several hours wandering through and still have more to see on your next visit.
And yes, it’s completely free to visit, which is honestly incredible for a museum of this caliber. Donations are encouraged but not required, making art and culture truly accessible to everyone. It’s a perfect place for families, solo visitors, students, or tourists looking for something enriching and peaceful to do.
The museum also has a lovely gift shop and a nice café if you want to take a break. Plus, the building itself is stunning, with lots of natural light and clean, open spaces.
Overall, the Minneapolis Institute of Art is a must-visit. Friendly people, world-class art, and free admission"
Nassar Abujabal
"The Minneapolis Institute of Art is an absolute treasure. The fact that admission is free makes it even more incredible given the scale and quality of the collection. You can wander from ancient artifacts and Asian art to European masters and contemporary pieces, all beautifully displayed in a stunning building.
The museum is clean, well-organized, and staff are welcoming and helpful. Special exhibits do sometimes have a fee, but they’re worth it—always thoughtfully curated and impressive. Parking is pretty easy, and it’s accessible by public transit too. You could easily spend several hours here, and still feel like there’s more to explore. Highly recommend to anyone visiting Minneapolis—art lovers, families, or just anyone looking for an inspiring day."
Tam Huynh
"For a museum in a midsize city, I was pretty impressed by the quality of the collection. It’ll take a good 3 to 4 hours if you decide to see the entire museum. If you focus on a sub genre, you could probably do it in an hour and a half. Definitely worth a stop if you have any interest in art.
Surprisingly good collection of impressionists that you have heard of as well as impressionist that you haven’t. That was my biggest positive surprise of the day, and I’m really glad that I went."
Lon Welsh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA) is easily accessible by public transit, including bus routes. Driving is also an option, with ample parking available.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Several bus lines serve the Minneapolis Institute of Art, making it a convenient destination for those using public transportation in the Twin Cities. Check local transit schedules for specific routes.
The museum is designed to be accessible to all visitors, with features like elevators and ramps to ensure a comfortable experience.
The Minneapolis Institute of Art is located at 2400 Third Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55404.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to the Minneapolis Institute of Art is completely free, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone. Special exhibitions may have a separate fee. +1
No, you do not need to buy tickets for general admission to the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Entry to the permanent collections is free.
The Minneapolis Institute of Art typically has varied hours, often open Tuesday through Sunday. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours of operation.
Yes, while general admission is free, special exhibitions at the Minneapolis Institute of Art may require a separate ticket purchase.
For general admission, reservations are typically not required at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. However, it's always a good idea to check their website for any specific event or exhibition requirements.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the expansive Asian art collection, Impressionist masterpieces (including Van Gogh), Ghanaian fantasy coffins, and rotating special exhibitions like Toulouse-Lautrec.
Most visitors recommend at least 3-4 hours to see the entire museum, though you could easily spend a full day or break it into multiple visits. +1
The museum offers various tours, including self-guided options like the Hans Zimmer-inspired tour. Check their schedule for available guided tours.
Photography is generally allowed in the galleries for personal use, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Always check signage in specific galleries.
Many visitors suggest breaking up your visit by floor or collection to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Take your time and savor each section.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Minneapolis Institute of Art has a cafe that offers sandwiches and other light fare, providing a convenient spot to take a break.
The cafe typically offers self-service options, including sandwiches and other refreshments, suitable for a quick meal during your visit.
Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the galleries of the Minneapolis Institute of Art. The cafe is available for dining.
The museum is located in a vibrant area of Minneapolis with numerous restaurants and cafes nearby, offering a wide range of culinary choices.
The cafe at MIA is generally considered reasonably priced for a museum cafe, offering good value for the quality of food.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, personal photography is generally permitted in the galleries of the Minneapolis Institute of Art, but always check for specific restrictions.
Tripods are typically not allowed inside the galleries of the Minneapolis Institute of Art to ensure the safety of the artworks and the comfort of other visitors.
No, flash photography is generally prohibited inside the galleries of the Minneapolis Institute of Art to protect the artworks from light damage.
Many visitors enjoy capturing the grandeur of the museum's architecture, the intricate details of the Asian art collection, and the vibrant colors of special exhibitions.
Absolutely! Your phone is a great tool for capturing memories at MIA. Some visitors even print their photos later.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for any family-friendly programming or special tours that might be available. The museum's cafe also provides a convenient spot for a snack break. The free admission makes it an ideal choice for an enriching outing without a hefty price tag, ensuring a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
While special exhibitions might have a fee, the extensive permanent collection offers hours of exploration. Pack a lunch or grab an affordable bite at the museum's cafe to keep costs down. The accessibility of free admission means you can enjoy a rich cultural experience without impacting your travel budget.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Keep an eye on the museum's schedule for special exhibitions, which often feature significant works not typically on view.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Diverse Collections
Beyond Asia, the MIA houses significant works from European masters, including a surprisingly strong collection of Impressionist paintings. Art enthusiasts will be delighted to find pieces by well-known artists, and a notable Van Gogh painting is often highlighted as a personal favorite.
Don't miss the decorative arts and period rooms, which offer a glimpse into different historical styles and aesthetics. The sheer breadth of the collection means that even frequent visitors can discover something new with each visit, making it a truly dynamic cultural destination.
Special Events and Exhibitions
+1 This initiative highlights the museum's creativity in making art accessible and relatable to a wider audience.Another popular annual event is Art in Bloom, a four-day festival where professional and amateur florists create stunning floral interpretations of artworks from the MIA's permanent collection.
+1 This vibrant event transforms the museum into a fragrant wonderland, drawing significant crowds and offering a fresh perspective on the art. Visitors often share their favorite floral arrangements on social media, showcasing the beauty and creativity of the event. Furthermore, the MIA has hosted significant exhibitions, such as one focusing on Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, bringing iconic works like 'At the Moulin Rouge' to Minneapolis.
These temporary exhibitions provide opportunities to see rare and significant pieces that are not part of the permanent collection, adding another layer of appeal to the museum's offerings. Photography and Souvenirs
For those who love to commemorate their visits, the MIA offers a gift shop where you can find reproductions, art-inspired merchandise, and unique souvenirs. Some visitors even bring mini-printers to capture and print images of their favorite artworks on-site, creating personalized keepsakes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit