Hallie Ford Museum of Art
Discover a gem in downtown Salem, Oregon, featuring regional, Native American, and contemporary art, including Rodin sculptures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Free admission for kids!
Hallie Ford Museum of Art
Best Time
Free admission for kids!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a gem in downtown Salem, Oregon, featuring regional, Native American, and contemporary art, including Rodin sculptures.
"One of the best small art museums I’ve ever visited, with something for everyone."
🎯 Free Admission Days
Keep an eye out for free admission days, especially during summer or school breaks!
🔎 Magnifying Glasses
Utilize the provided magnifying glasses to get up close with ancient coins and intricate details.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Northwest Artists Collection
Permanent Collection
Explore a stunning array of works by Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists from the Pacific Northwest.
Rodin Sculptures
Permanent Collection
Be amazed by the unexpected presence of exquisite Rodin sculptures, a true treasure.
Native American Baskets
Permanent Collection
Admire a magnificent exhibition of PNW basketry and carving, showcasing intricate craftsmanship.
Rotating Special Exhibits
Special Exhibition Galleries
Discover diverse and thought-provoking temporary exhibits, from neurodivergent artists to global themes.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Hallie Ford Museum
Art & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission Days
Keep an eye out for free admission days, especially during summer or school breaks!
🔎 Magnifying Glasses
Utilize the provided magnifying glasses to get up close with ancient coins and intricate details.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is generally available, but check for any special event parking advisories.
🚶♀️ Manageable Size
The museum is well-curated and manageable in size, perfect for a focused art experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission Days
Keep an eye out for free admission days, especially during summer or school breaks!
🔎 Magnifying Glasses
Utilize the provided magnifying glasses to get up close with ancient coins and intricate details.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is generally available, but check for any special event parking advisories.
🚶♀️ Manageable Size
The museum is well-curated and manageable in size, perfect for a focused art experience.
🖼️ Student Showcases
Don't miss the spring exhibition highlighting talented senior art majors from Willamette University.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Hallie Ford Museum of Art as a well-curated and manageable gem, offering a delightful art experience for all ages. Highlights include impressive Northwest art, unexpected Rodin sculptures, and engaging special exhibits. While some may wish for more dining options on-site, the surrounding downtown area provides ample choices.
"One of the best small art museums I’ve ever visited. We brought our 4 children ages 6-15, and they all found things to enjoy and appreciate.
We saw the Singular exhibit featuring neurodivergent artists, and our kids loved looking at the creative pieces up close (safely behind glass of course).
The historic art area was excellent as well, I loved how they have the Ancient Greek and Roman coins set up so that you can see both sides up close with a magnifying glass."
Jennifer D Warren
"We adore this small museum that features terrific NW artists. This time Brenda Mallory’s constructed artwork was featured. We’ve previously visited to see Lucinda Parker paintings, Peter Voulkos ceramics, and a magnificent PNW basketry and carving exhibition. Well worth the effort to visit."
Merry “Merrycyclist”
"Well curated, manageable in size, nice collection. Worth a visit. (We were there over spring break with the kids and admission was free to all!)"
Sadie Carney
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hallie Ford Museum of Art is located at 700 State St, Salem, OR 97301. It's situated in downtown Salem, making it easily accessible. If you're driving, parking is generally available. For those using public transport, check local bus routes that service the downtown area.
Yes, parking is typically available for visitors. It's advisable to check the museum's official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on parking facilities and any associated fees, especially during peak times or special events.
Absolutely! The Hallie Ford Museum of Art is a fantastic destination for a day trip. Its manageable size allows for a thorough exploration without taking up your entire day, and it's a great addition to exploring other attractions in the Salem area.
No, the Hallie Ford Museum of Art is located in Salem, Oregon, not Salem, Massachusetts. While both cities have their unique attractions, this museum is a key cultural spot in the Willamette Valley.
Downtown Salem is accessible by various means. If you're coming from other parts of Oregon, consider Amtrak or bus services. Within Salem, local bus routes can help you navigate to the museum. Driving is also a common option, with parking available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hallie Ford Museum hours can vary, so it's always best to check their official website for the most current operating hours before your visit. They are typically open Tuesday through Saturday, with some variations on Sundays.
Admission prices can vary. The museum sometimes offers free admission days, particularly during school breaks or for special events. Check their website for current ticket prices and any upcoming free admission opportunities.
For general admission, booking in advance is usually not required, but it's always a good idea to check the museum's policy, especially if you plan to visit during a popular exhibition or on a weekend.
Yes, the museum has offered free admission in the past, particularly during summer heatwaves or school breaks. It's recommended to check their website or social media for announcements regarding discounts or free admission days.
Yes, the museum is very family-friendly! Children of all ages can find something to enjoy, from the historic art to special exhibits. The museum is praised for engaging younger visitors.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
The Hallie Ford Museum features a diverse collection, including regional art, Native American baskets and carvings, contemporary art, and works from around the world. They also host rotating special exhibits.
The museum is home to several notable pieces, including three Rodin sculptures and works by prominent Pacific Northwest artists like Lucinda Parker and Peter Voulkos.
This exhibition celebrates the museum's 25th anniversary, showcasing nearly 100 works by both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Northwest artists, alongside global treasures from their permanent collection.
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted in some areas, but it's best to check for signage or ask museum staff for specific guidelines.
The 'Singular' exhibit featured neurodivergent artists, offering creative pieces that were particularly engaging for younger visitors, allowing them to appreciate art up close.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Hallie Ford Museum of Art does not typically have an on-site cafe or restaurant. However, downtown Salem offers a variety of dining options within walking distance, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants.
Downtown Salem has numerous eateries. You can find everything from quick bites to sit-down meals. Explore the streets around the museum for local cafes, bistros, and restaurants catering to various tastes.
Generally, food and drinks are not permitted inside the galleries of art museums to protect the artworks. It's best to consume any food or beverages outside the museum or in designated areas if available.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can differ for permanent collections versus special exhibitions. Typically, non-flash photography for personal use is allowed in some areas, but always look for posted signs or ask museum staff for the most accurate information.
While the art itself is the main focus, the museum's architecture and the way exhibits are displayed can be quite photogenic. The Rodin sculptures and the intricate details in the Native American basketry are particularly captivating subjects.
Photography of the Rodin sculptures is usually permitted, provided it's without flash. These pieces are often a highlight for visitors, and capturing their grace is a popular choice.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Permanent Collections
Beyond these, the museum also features historic art areas, including ancient Greek and Roman coins displayed with magnifying glasses for close examination. This thoughtful presentation allows visitors to appreciate the fine details of these historical artifacts. The museum's commitment to showcasing diverse artistic expressions ensures there's something to captivate every visitor, from seasoned art connoisseurs to curious newcomers.
Special Exhibitions and Rotating Displays
Each spring, the museum proudly showcases the work of senior studio art majors from Willamette University. This exhibition is a culmination of their four years of study and features a variety of media, including photography, painting, fiber arts, and mixed media installations. These student showcases offer a glimpse into emerging talent and the future of the art world. The museum's dedication to hosting these varied and timely exhibitions ensures that repeat visits can offer entirely new and exciting artistic discoveries.
Family-Friendly Art Experiences
Beyond specific exhibits, the museum's thoughtful curation extends to interactive elements, such as the magnifying glasses provided for viewing ancient coins, which can add an engaging dimension for children. The opportunity to see works by renowned artists like Rodin or explore the rich history of Native American art also provides educational value. Planning a visit during Spring Break is often recommended, as the museum has offered free admission to children during this period, making it an even more accessible and appealing outing for families.
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