american visionary art museum

199ruthg

This is a unique museum with art works that were not necessarily produced by trained artists. Some of it could be called folk art. Other pieces could be described as works by people who see the world differently from most of us. You'll encounter all sorts of fun exhibits from moving robots and toys to a giant poodle on wheels to art work made of "junk." The balcony outside one of the upstairs meeting rooms looks like a giant birds nest from the exterior. Or just admire the mirrored tiles on one of the buildings. And if you're interested in James Rouse, go upstairs in one of the buildings to see the exhibit describing his life from his childhood on Maryland's eastern shore and how he came to create the new town of Columbia, Maryland. I'm sad that the restaurant closed, but do visit the gift shop, which has stuff as weird as the exhibits. Last time I was there I bought a small box of "Last Supper After Dinner Mints," and a nice sun hat!

PatandJimH

When you come to Baltimore, don't forget to seek out and enjoy the American Visionary Art Museum. What a wild place! We have been there many times and have enjoyed every visit as much as the last. It is facinating to see art that isn't strictly your basic museum stuff (Rembrandt, Picasso, etc.). There is an impressive exhibit on art work done by people who have OCD. Also there are art cars, a garden, mosaics, and space art. It is a great place to explore on lazy Saturday. Children will really love this museum!

688JasonC

The exhibits here range from mechanical toys, to cult memorabilia, to Jimi Hendrix watercolors, and more.The museum itself isn't very large, and should take roughly 1-1.5 hrs to complete. It is truly a bizarre cluster of things, but it is all entertaining and well worth the trip at least once.

courtneyn_11

This was a small, manageable, and fresh museum. The space is beautiful! I will certainly go back. Trip Advisor is asking me to write more on this review, but all I have to say is if you are visiting the city this museum is with a stop.

terrao_13

Not your normal art museum. It has two buildings of exhibits and some outdoor art between the two. You've got to read some of the blurbs posted with the art to really appreciate it. Fascinating stories. Really wish they had a book on Rev. Howard Finster and his work. (Lots of color photos and narratives and I'd have bought it.) I would not suggest bringing young children here; kids would be bored except for the cool sculptures you can see on the grounds before going in. Our teen had trouble getting interested in any of the work, stating he was convinced every artist featured was on LSD. He went out to the car to play games on his phone. But, my husband and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The Rusty Scupper with harbor views was a good place to grab lunch afterward and it is just across the street; no need to move the car.

judarg

Expressions of the human spirit in all its creative glory. Often wondrously moving or hilarious and sometimes both at the same time. Do not miss.

PamWihteHallMaryland

This museum takes you on a trip down memory lane with some of the exhibits. It has a whole range of art displayed from kooky to serious.

569robertg

Why should you have to pay a fee to get into this museum that offers nothing to its viewers. What is this place good for? Well, they have a great loft in one of their buildings for weddings. But, if you want to have a wedding in an attic like "Anne Frank in hiding" then this is the place for you!

810JoeS

AVAM is a must-visit museum. It is absolutely fantastic, and you will see things you have never experienced in any other museum. Go! Enjoy!

Aloha Louie

AVAM is the showcase for hundreds of exhibits by artists who are self-taught. If you ever wanted to see how to make things out of bottle caps or old toilets, this is the place to go.My 6 year-old granddaughter is extremely creative and loved every minute of it . . . even the booth showcasing fart noises throughout history.

janferg

Best museum for all BUTThe kids love itWhen have your children asked to go to an ART Museum?Kids can relate to the colors, shapes, and fun of artThey can actually copy and reinvent what they seeDon't misss the amazing storeGreat for kids to shop for giftsWhat a wonderful treat

bvanwely

AVAM is a wonderful place, displaying the personal visions of artists on the periphery. Their gift shop is like no other, full of things to delight the 10-year-old boy child in all of us. We live in Baltimore and enjoy AVAM so much that we've become members and visit regularly.

LaDivaMD

They call this the art museum for people who don't like art museums. Very eclectic collection and if you're not interested in the art museum itself, definitely check out the museum store. You can go to the museum store for free.

jcrystal

Definitely worth several hours, this very unique museum is unlike any other I've ever visited. Non-traditional, mystically-inspired, folk art of the best type, along with the unexpected. You won't quickly forget a visit here.

sbshoney2003

The American Visionary Arts Museum (AVAM) is a hidden gem in the museum world. There are two buildings - one admission gains you admittance to both. It's the perfect place if you like avant grade, modern art. The secondary space also hosts events. My cousin had her wedding there; the space was lovely and had a wonderful view. It's not too large; it is definitely do-able to visit in the morning, go to Miss Shirley's for lunch/brunch and then visit the Peabody or some other attraction in the afternoon without feeling overwhelmed.