The Best Art Museums to Visit in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is home to some of the finest art museums in the country, showcasing everything from classical masterpieces to contemporary works. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a casual visitor, these museums offer incredible collections and experiences. Here are some of the best art museums to visit in Pennsylvania, but there are many more in Pennsylvania Day Trips.

Photo credit: Flickr user cometstarmoon. The PMA at night.

Philadelphia Museum of Art (Philadelphia) 

One of the most iconic art museums in the U.S., the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a must-visit for any art lover. Known for its famous “Rocky Steps,” the museum houses an extensive collection of European, American, and Asian art. Highlights include works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Picasso, as well as a stunning collection of Renaissance and medieval armor. I love the PMA and can spend hours in the Modern Art section alone. If you are headed to Philadelphia, it is a must-see site.

The Andy Warhol Museum (Pittsburgh) 

As the largest museum in North America dedicated to a single artist, The Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh celebrates the life and work of the pop art icon. Visitors can explore Warhol’s paintings, films, and personal artifacts, including his famous portraits of Marilyn Monroe and Campbell’s Soup Cans. The museum also features interactive exhibits, making it a must-visit for modern art fans. Do not miss Warhol’s Silver Cloudsroom, where you can actually interact with the floating balloons.

The Carnegie Museum of Art (Pittsburgh) 

Founded by industrialist Andrew Carnegie, the Carnegie Museum of Art is one of the oldest modern art museums in the U.S. The museum’s collection includes contemporary and classical works, with a strong focus on photography, sculpture, and decorative arts. The Hall of Architecture and the Hall of Sculpture provide a fascinating look at artistic traditions from around the world. I was delighted to find some of the Guerilla Girls artwork on display during a visit last fall. And, it’s housed in the same building as the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. It's hard to see it all in one visit, but doable if you plan ahead.

The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (Philadelphia) 

As the oldest art museum and school in the U.S., the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) is a treasure trove of American art. The museum’s collection spans from colonial-era portraits to modern and contemporary pieces. Works by artists such as Thomas Eakins, Mary Cassatt, and Charles Wilson Peale highlight the evolution of American painting. 

The Allentown Art Museum (Allentown) 

For those visiting eastern Pennsylvania, the Allentown Art Museum offers a diverse collection of European, American, and Asian art. The museum features works by Rembrandt, John Singer Sargent, and local Pennsylvania artists. It also offers interactive exhibits and family-friendly programs. It’s a beautiful museum that is always free to visit, and it is fully bilingual, with all of the signage in English and Spanish.