Walker Art Center Tours

Walker Art Center which includes art
Walker Art Center featuring a garden and autumn leaves as well as an individual male
Walker Art Center
Walker Art Center
Walker Art Center as well as a small group of people


View famous and eccentric contemporary visual art and sculptures at the home of the Spoonbridge and Cherry, a Minneapolis icon.

Visit Walker Art Center to see work by Warhol, Picasso, Moore and many other world-renowned artists, alongside many lesser known but equally intriguing works of art. Outside you may recognize the spoon bridge with cherry-shaped fountain that appears in so many travel brochures about the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. This eye-catching structure is part of the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden on the same grounds.The Walker Art Center came from humble beginnings in 1927 when a local lumber baron opened a room of his house to the public to show his favorite paintings. His name was Thomas Walker. From the 1940s the focus of the museum shifted to modern visual art.More than 600,000 people per year visit the 17-acre (seven-hectare) complex, with parks, art center and sculpture garden. After browsing the famous paintings, enjoy some more unusual works at the museum’s special selection of fringe art. See draft versions of finished artworks at the Visual Arts Study Collection.Moving-image art, which is an art form that includes film, digital animations and new media, is strongly represented as well. The Ruben/Bentson Film and Video Study Collection maintains nearly 900 productions, from the old silent films to post-World War II American experimental films, among others. Full film screenings are common during the day, or come back at night to watch performance art in dance, theater and music.The Walker Art Center is near downtown Minneapolis. The center is open daily and Thursday nights, but is closed Mondays. Gallery admission is free for children under 18 and on the first Saturday of each month for everyone. This is when activities are organized, including art classes and films aimed at younger children and their parents. Download a free audio guide to your cell phone, or join a free gallery or sculpture garden tour on the weekends.

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The Royal Sonesta Minneapolis Downtown
Wyndham Garden Otsego-Minneapolis
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Best Lodging Options Near Walker Art Center

Cambria Hotel Minneapolis Downtown

Cambria Hotel Minneapolis Downtown

3 out of 5
1020 HAWTHORNE AVE, Minneapolis, MN
Cambria Hotel Minneapolis Downtown
Fairfield Inn & Suites By Marriott Minneapolis Downtown

Fairfield Inn & Suites By Marriott Minneapolis Downtown

2.5 out of 5
1028 Hawthorne Avenue, Minneapolis, MN
Fairfield Inn & Suites By Marriott Minneapolis Downtown
The Royal Sonesta Minneapolis Downtown

The Royal Sonesta Minneapolis Downtown

4.5 out of 5
35 S 7th St, Minneapolis, MN
The Royal Sonesta Minneapolis Downtown
Hampton Inn & Suites Minneapolis / Downtown

Hampton Inn & Suites Minneapolis / Downtown

3 out of 5
19 North 8th Street, Minneapolis, MN
Hampton Inn & Suites Minneapolis / Downtown
Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis Downtown

Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis Downtown

3.5 out of 5
1101 4th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN
Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis Downtown
Hyatt Place Minneapolis Downtown

Hyatt Place Minneapolis Downtown

3 out of 5
425 South 7th Street, Minneapolis, MN
Hyatt Place Minneapolis Downtown
Sheraton Minneapolis Downtown Convention Center

Sheraton Minneapolis Downtown Convention Center

3.5 out of 5
1313 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN
Sheraton Minneapolis Downtown Convention Center
The Lofton Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

The Lofton Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

4.5 out of 5
601 1st Ave N, Minneapolis, MN
The Lofton Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Embassy Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Downtown

Embassy Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Downtown

4 out of 5
12 Sixth Street South, Minneapolis, MN
Embassy Suites by Hilton Minneapolis Downtown
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Walker Art Center

At the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, visitors can explore a range of activities, including engaging with contemporary art at the museum, enjoying outdoor exhibits, and attending various arts events. The center also offers a vibrant atmosphere for theater and entertainment, making it a perfect destination for art lovers and those seeking cultural experiences. Don't forget to check out the museum visit book for the latest updates on exhibitions and programs!

Food and drinks

Experience the charm of 7 Vines Vineyard, an alcohol winery located 18 miles from the Walker Art Center, offering a romantic atmosphere and entertainment. For dining options, explore nearby restaurants in the heart of Minneapolis for local flavors and vibrant bar scenes.

Shopping

Nicollet Mall, only 0.9 miles away, offers a vibrant mix of shops and dining. Byerly's, located 4 miles from the center, provides quality groceries and gifts. If you're up for a drive, the Mall of America, 8 miles away, features countless stores and entertainment options for the whole family.

Recreation

Experience the excitement at U.S. Bank Stadium, just 2 miles from the Walker Art Center, where you can soak in the vibrant sports atmosphere. For a fun adventure, glide across the ice at The Depot Skating Rink, also 2 miles away. Unwind in the serene surroundings of Theodore Wirth Park, offering wellness and relaxation vibes.

Adventure

Explore the scenic River Road Trail, located 1 mile from Walker Art Center, perfect for hiking enthusiasts. For an exhilarating experience, try the Sky Glider, situated 6 miles away, offering thrilling views. If you're into winter sports, head to the Hyland Ski and Snowboard Area, 9 miles away, for skiing adventures.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Walker Art Center is vibrant and diverse. Catch a show at the Orpheum Theatre, just 0.8 miles away, for a romantic evening. For gaming excitement, head to Mystic Lake Casino, 19 miles away. Alternatively, enjoy a family-friendly film at Riverview Theater, 4 miles away.

Find the best attractions near Walker Art Center

When visiting the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, you'll find a vibrant mix of modern art, urban parks, and beautiful lakes. Explore the renowned Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, take in a performance at the Guthrie Theater, and enjoy family-friendly outdoor experiences. The area is perfect for those seeking culture and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local art scene and natural beauty.

  • Minneapolis Convention Center: Just 0.7 miles from Walker Art Center, this venue buzzes with business energy, hosting a variety of conferences and events. Its modern architecture and spacious interiors make it a hub for professionals and attendees alike.
  • Target Center: Located 1 mile away, this vibrant arena is perfect for family-friendly entertainment, featuring concerts and sporting events. The lively atmosphere and proximity to restaurants make it a great place to enjoy a fun-filled day.
  • University of Minnesota, Twin Cities: About 5 miles from Walker Art Center, this modern university boasts a dynamic campus with a mix of historic and contemporary buildings, offering a lively urban vibe and cultural activities.

Best time to go to Walker Art Center

Visitor numbers around Walker Art Center is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Walker Art Center is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January15.1°F (-9.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February17.1°F (-8.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
March32.7°F (0.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April44.6°F (7.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
May58.5°F (14.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August71.4°F (21.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September64.2°F (17.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November35.4°F (1.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December22.1°F (-5.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Walker Art Center

To save money on your visit to Walker Art Center, consider exploring nearby free attractions like the Mall of America and Nicollet Mall. The best time to visit is from November to January when accommodation prices drop. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels by filtering for eco-certified options and sorting prices from lowest to highest. Consider booking a package deal that combines flights and hotel stays for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and help you earn cash for future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Walker Art Center are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, June and August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel category. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase available sustainable and eco-friendly hotels. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Walker Art Center with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.