Top 15 Art Museums in Atlanta, Georgia

Art Galleries
Written By Sarah Ransome

Atlanta, Georgia, a city rich in history and culture, has emerged as a thriving hub for the arts.

From its humble beginnings as a railroad terminus in the mid-19th century, Atlanta has transformed into a vibrant metropolis, that proudly boasts some of the best art museums in the state and country. As you explore the city's top museums, you will encounter a fusion of contemporary art, captivating exhibitions, and a tribute to the civil rights movement, led by the iconic Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., that shaped the nation.

In this article, I will explore the 15 best art museums in Atlanta, where visitors can immerse themselves in fascinating exhibitions and discover the artistic treasures that define the city's identity. These museums not only offer a visual feast for art enthusiasts but also serve as educational platforms that bridge the gap between artistic expression and cultural significance.

I have included opening times for each museum that are correct at the time of writing this article, but please check the latest information before your visit.

If you would like to read more about American artists or other places in the United States where you can view artwork, please click here.

Table of Contents

1. High Museum of Art

2. The Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia (MOCA GA)

3. Michael C. Carlos Museum

4. Atlanta Contemporary Art Center

5. Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

6. The Oglethorpe University Museum of Art (OUMA)

7. Museum of Illusions Atlanta

8. Atlanta History Center

9. World of Coca-Cola

10. The National Center for Civil and Human Rights

11. Hammonds House Museum

12. The APEX Museum

13. Spelman College Museum of Fine Art

14. Trap Music Museum

15. SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion

16. Marietta Cobb Museum of Art

Other Art Galleries to visit in Atlanta

1. High Museum of Art

CC Image courtesy of Aka Hilge, Flickr

The High Museum of Art is the largest museum for visual arts in the Southeastern United States. The High Museum of Art is situated in Atlanta’s Midtown, in the city's vibrant arts district. The High Museum of Art offers a captivating experience for art enthusiasts and visitors alike.

Alongside The Alliance Theater and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the High Museum of Art forms part of the Woodruff Arts Center. This Woodruff Arts Center was originally named the Memorial Arts Center as a tribute to the 130 Atlanta arts patrons and crew who died at Orly Airfield in France while journeying home from an arts tour.

The High Museum of Art was founded in 1905 as the Atlanta Art Association, and has evolved over the years, showcasing an impressive collection that encompasses over 18,000 artworks. From American, European, and African art to decorative art, photography, folk art, and contemporary works, the museum offers a comprehensive exploration of artistic expressions from various cultures and periods, for example:

  • The African Art collection showcases the art and material culture of West and Central African makers, reflecting their cultural, social, and visual histories.

  • The American Art collection consists of over 1,200 paintings, sculptures, drawings, and prints made by artists working within the United States from 1780 to 1980, highlighting a distinct American point of view.

  • The European Art collection spans six centuries and includes paintings, sculptures, and works on paper.

  • The Photography collection, with over 8,500 prints, focuses on American modernist and documentary traditions from the mid-twentieth century to contemporary trends.

The High Museum of Art also presents an exciting schedule of special exhibitions, featuring both established and emerging artists. These exhibitions delve into specific art movements, themes, and creative perspectives, providing visitors with unique and thought-provoking experiences. In addition, the museum hosts an array of community-focused programs, including art conversations, workshops, and art-making activities for visitors of all ages.

Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Richard Meier, the museum's building is a captivating work of art in itself. With its iconic white facade and striking contemporary design, the architecture harmoniously blends with the surrounding urban landscape. In 1999, a new extension, designed by Renzo Piano, opened at the museum, almost doubling the floorspace.

2. The Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia (MOCA GA)

The Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia (MOCA GA) is a vibrant institution in Atlanta and is also a Smithsonian Institution Affiliate.

MOCA GA is dedicated to collecting and showcasing significant works by local artists. This has led to MOCA GA being a prominent contemporary art museum in the region.

MOCA GA’s permanent collection started with 250 works by 110 Georgia artists, but this has now grown to over 1,400 diverse pieces of art. This ever-expanding collection includes captivating mediums such as paintings, prints, sculptures, photography, and installations.

The Space at MOCA GA offers a dynamic and ever-changing gallery experience. This dedicated exhibition space showcases a variety of solo and group exhibitions featuring local Georgia artists. Visitors can immerse themselves in the works of Working Artist Project Fellows, retrospectives, and thought-provoking group shows. Additionally, The Space houses MOCA GA's permanent collection, allowing visitors to appreciate the diverse artistic journeys of Georgia artists within each exhibition.

3. Michael C. Carlos Museum

The Michael C. Carlos Museum is located on the historic quadrangle of Emory University.

The Michael C. Carlos Museum has a storied past that dates back to 1876 when a museum was established on Emory's original campus in Oxford, Georgia. Over time, the museum's collection evolved into a research-quality assemblage, focusing on areas such as Latin American, African, and classical art, as well as Middle Eastern Studies. With the generous support of philanthropist Michael C. Carlos, the museum moved to its current location in 1985.

The Michael C. Carlos Museum showcases a vast collection of artwork from ancient civilizations to the evocative art and architecture of the 20th century.

The permanent collection represents the art and history of world cultures. Specific galleries within the museum are dedicated to different regions and art forms, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience. These include: The Charles S. Ackerman Galleries of African Art, Art of the Americas Galleries, Asian Art Gallery, Galleries of Classical Art, Galleries of Ancient Egyptian and Nubian Art; Morgans West Foundation Galleries of Ancient Near Eastern Art; and John Howett Works on Paper Gallery.

In addition to its permanent collections, the Michael C. Carlos Museum offers temporary exhibitions in its special exhibition galleries and the John Howett Works on Paper Gallery. These exhibitions bring new perspectives, innovative interpretations, and exciting contemporary works to complement the museum's extensive collection.

4. Atlanta Contemporary Art Center

CC Image courtesy of The Contemporary, Wiki Commons

Located on a quiet side street near Georgia Tech, the Atlanta Contemporary Art Center stands as a leading contemporary art center in the southeastern United States. Atlanta Contemporary was first established in 1973 as Nexus, a grassroots artists' cooperative, and has grown to become a vibrant hub for artists, creatives, and art enthusiasts alike. With its diverse range of programs, exhibitions, and support for emerging artists, Atlanta Contemporary continues to shape the local art scene.

At its core, Atlanta Contemporary strives to engage the public through the creation, presentation, and advancement of contemporary art. Each year, the center showcases the works of over 200 artists and creatives, both locally and from around the world. Emphasising inclusivity, Atlanta Contemporary actively commissions new works, with a particular focus on artists who have not yet had significant exhibitions in the Southeast.

With a robust calendar of events, Atlanta Contemporary organises more than 125 programs annually. These include engaging initiatives like Contemporary Kids, which introduces young minds to the world of contemporary art, Contemporary Cocktails, providing social experiences for art enthusiasts, and Contemporary Talks, offering thought-provoking discussions with artists and curators.

Furthermore, Atlanta Contemporary supports artists through its Studio Artist Program, offering 13 subsidised on-site studio spaces. This program provides a nurturing environment for artists to create and collaborate, fostering a sense of community within the center.

In June 2024, Atlanta Contemporary will celebrate its Golden Anniversary, marking 50 years of artistic innovation and excellence. During this milestone year, the center plans to pay homage to the legacy of artists, curators, friends, and patrons who have supported its journey.

The center's exhibitions are typically temporary, offering visitors a fresh and ever-evolving artistic experience. During 2023, visitors can explore captivating exhibits such as "NEW WORLDS: Georgia Women to Watch" and "RAHELEH FILSOOFI: Diphtheria: Phase II”.

As a key takeaway, Atlanta Contemporary is a prominent contemporary art center that offers a rich artistic experience to its visitors.

5. Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)

CC Image courtesy of Thompson 200, Wiki Commons

The Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA), is a leading museum in Atlanta for things related to design. MODA is located in the vibrant Midtown area, and is conveniently located along Peachtree Street, just across from the esteemed High Museum of Art.

MODA has been captivating visitors since its inception in 1989 as the Atlanta International Museum of Art & Design, with its primary mission to explore the impact of design on our daily lives. MODA regularly features exhibitions on architecture, industrial and product design, interiors and furniture, graphics, fashion and more.

MODA is closed until 6th June 2023 for installation works, but reopens with an exhibition titled "Level Up: Pixels, Play, Progress", which will run until 22nd September 2023. This exhibition delves into the power of storytelling and the evolution of storytelling mediums, from ancient oral traditions to the written word, from traditional theater to the cutting-edge realm of virtual reality. With a particular focus on video games as a significant shift in storytelling.

6. The Oglethorpe University Museum of Art (OUMA)

The Oglethorpe University Museum of Art (OUMA) is the only liberal arts university museum. The small museum occupies the third floor of Lowry Hall, within the university campus.

OUMA contributes to the cultural landscape of Atlanta and supports the university's mission of offering a superior liberal arts education.

OUMA's permanent collection consists of over 1,000 objects spanning seven centuries. The collection includes drawings, prints, and paintings from the 19th and 20th century French art schools, with works by renowned artists like Eugène Boudin, Camille Pissarro, Eugène Delacroix, and Henri Matisse, among others. The museum also has a unique concentration of Japanese porcelain from the 17th to early 20th century.

The permanent exhibits displayed within the museum’s gallery spaces:

  • The Shelley and Donald Rubin Gallery

  • The Skylight Gallery; and

  • The Center Gallery.

These galleries provide the perfect setting to explore a wide range of artistic expressions and engage in thought-provoking conversations.

Students at the university are also encouraged to engage with the museum through gallery assistant internships, independent study programs, work-study opportunities, and a research center.

7. Museum of Illusions Atlanta

Museum of Illusions Atlanta

Photo Credit: Museum of Illusions Atlanta

The Museum of Illusions Atlanta is a cutting-edge experience that invites visitors to delve into a realm of visual wonder. This innovative museum showcases an impressive assortment of interactive exhibits, perplexing installations, and mind-teasing puzzles crafted to challenge the boundaries of perception and reality. From gravity-defying chambers to mesmerizing holograms and baffling illusions, it promises an unforgettable experience that seamlessly intertwines art, science, and entertainment.

8. Atlanta History Center

The Atlanta History Center is a history museum and research center located in the Buckhead district in Midtown Atlanta, Georgia.

The museum was founded in 1926 and currently consists of nine permanent and several temporary exhibitions. The museum offers exhibitions on the Civil War, African American heritage, and Southern folk art, with a wing dedicated to the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games.

The Atlanta History Center is set within 33 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, providing a serene environment for exploring the history of Atlanta and the South. The center consists of several historic buildings, including the Atlanta History Museum, the Swan House - a beautifully preserved mansion, the Smith Family Farm, and the Margaret Mitchell House, where the famed “Gone with the Wind” was written by Margaret Mitchell. Each of these sites offers a unique glimpse into different periods of Atlanta's history.

The museum traces the economic, social, and cultural development of Atlanta over the centuries. Through the personal stories, artifacts, photographs, artworks and multimedia presentations, visitors can engage with the people and events that shaped the city's identity.

9. World of Coca-Cola

The World of Coca-Cola is located near the Peachtree Center in Atlanta. This museum showcases the history of The Coca-Cola Company and its brands.

It opened to the public on 24th May 2007, and is the only place where you can explore the fascinating story of Coca-Cola. The museum offers interactive exhibits, learning about the storied history of the iconic beverage brand, and sampling more than 100 different beverages from around the world.

Check out the Pop Culture Gallery - The World of Coca-Cola's Pop Culture Gallery offers a range of immersive experiences, including:

  • The newly reimagined “Scent Discovery” exhibit.

  • The "Magic Mural" showcasing the work of talented female illustrators. The "Magic Mural" installation spans over 45 feet and features graphics from Rosa Viktoria Ahlers, Xaveria Altena, Claire Isaur, Caroline Laguerre, and Katie Smith.

  • The "Ghost Signs" installation pays homage to Coca-Cola's history, and various exhibits exploring the brand's global representation and iconic moments. It also honors two generations of painters, Andy Thompson and his granddaughter Amber Thompson. It also includes a hand-painted recreation of an original Coca-Cola advertisement.

  • "One Coke Away" exhibit provides a global perspective of the brand.

  • Over a dozen original Coca-Cola paintings by renowned artists, including Haddon Sundblom.

Additional attractions to explore at the World of Coca-Cola include: Taste it!, Coca-Cola Polar Bear, The Loft, The Coca-Cola Theater, Vault of the Secret Formula, Milestones of Refreshment, Bottle Works, and 3-D Theater.

10. The National Center for Civil and Human Rights

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is a museum located in downtown Atlanta and opened to the public in June 2014. .

The museum is dedicated to the achievements of the civil rights movement in the United States and the broader worldwide human rights movement. Through various exhibitions, the center highlights the U.S. Civil Rights Movement, the global human rights movement, the impact of LGBTQ+ individuals in Atlanta, and the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

The center features various thought-provoking exhibits and art galleries that connect civil rights history to the ongoing struggle for justice and equality. These permanent exhibits include:

  • "Rolls Down Like Water: U.S. Civil Rights Movement”, which presents the fight for civil rights in America from the era of Jim Crow segregation to the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1968.

  • "Spark of Conviction: Global Human Rights Movement”, which showcases the stories of courageous advocates who have worked to protect individual rights and dignity.

  • The first floor of the center focuses on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, featuring the "Voice to the Voiceless" gallery with items from the Morehouse College Martin Luther King, Jr. Collection and the art installation "FRAGMENTS" with King's distinctive handwriting.

  • The "Out Down South: Voices & Portraits of LGBTQ+ Atlanta" exhibition profiles oral histories of LGBTQ+ community members who have made significant contributions to the city's cultural and political landscape.

11. Hammonds House Museum

CC Image courtesy of HHMbusiness, Wiki Commons

The Hammonds House Museum is a museum for African American fine art located in the West End neighborhood of Atlanta, Georgia.

The museum was founded in 1988 and is the only one of Atlanta's fine arts museums that focuses on artists of African descent.

The Hammonds House Museum was established in 1988 by Dr. Otis Thrash Hammonds, a passionate art collector and advocate for African American art. Dr. Hammonds envisioned a space that would showcase the beauty, diversity, and historical significance of African art and culture. The museum is located in a 1857 Victorian historic house, the former residence of Dr. Otis Thrash Hammonds.

Numerous artists have exhibited at Hammonds House Museum, including well-known names like Romare Bearden, Elizabeth Catlett, Alfred Conteh, Thornton Dial, Lonnie Holley, Carrie Mae Weems, and many more.

The exhibitions span a wide range of themes and topics, such as spirituality, urban soil, women in mourning and outrage, applique works, protest photography, and recent paintings.

12. The APEX Museum

The APEX Museum is located in the historic Sweet Auburn district of Downtown Atlanta. It is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history, personal stories and achievements of African Americans.

APEX stands for African American Panoramic Experience, and this museum offers a panoramic view of African American history, culture, and contributions, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the African American experience.

The APEX Museum, founded in 1978 by Dan Moore Sr., is the oldest Black History Museum in Atlanta. The mission of the museum is to accurately interpret and present history from an African-American perspective in order to help all American and international visitors better understand and appreciate the contributions of African-Americans to America as well as the world.

The museum is nestled on a street once known as The Richest Negro Street in the World, across from a 107-year-old business started by a former slave and housed in a 100-year-old building erected by African-American masons.

The APEX Museum's permanent exhibits cover a range of topics, including:

  • “Sweet Auburn Street of Pride”: Showcasing the history of the Yates & Milton Drug Store, established by Moses Amos, the first Black Registered pharmacist in Georgia. It served as a meeting place for residents to share thoughts, ideas, and experiences.

  • “Africa: The Untold Story”: Dedicated to Professor Asa G. Hilliard, III, this exhibit highlights the rich history, contributions, and culture of Africa throughout the last 6,000 plus years, emphasizing the importance of not starting African history with slavery.

  • “The MAARA (The African Holocaust)”: Focusing on the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, or the MAAFA, this exhibit presents graphic details of the enslavement of African people, aiming to ensure that the struggle they faced to gain freedom is never forgotten.

  • “Women in Stem”: Showcasing African American women working in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). Visitors can learn about inspiring figures like Alice Ball, a groundbreaking chemist and pharmaceutical researcher.

13. Spelman College Museum of Fine Art

The Spelman College Museum of Fine Arts is a museum located on the Spelman College campus in Atlanta.

The Spelman College Museum of Fine Arts celebrates the artistic achievements of African American women and artists of the African Diaspora. Established in 1996, this museum is dedicated to providing a platform for the exploration and appreciation of visual arts within the context of African and African American culture.

The Spelman College Museum of Fine Arts holds a unique position as the only museum in the country solely dedicated to showcasing the works of women artists of African descent. Through its diverse exhibitions and programs, the museum aims to challenge traditional narratives, foster critical dialogue, and empower underrepresented voices in the art world. The collection not only highlights the artistic excellence of these women but also explores themes of identity, social justice, history, and spirituality.

The museum is housed in the Camille O. Hanks Cosby Academic Center named after philanthropist Camille Cosby, whose two daughters attended Spelman College.

14. Trap Music Museum

The Trap Music Museum is a museum and escape rooms located in the heart of West Atlanta. It provides an immersive and interactive experience that pays homage to the influential genre of trap music and offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore the cultural impact and artistic legacy of this groundbreaking musical genre.

The museum showcases the achievements and contributions of trap music artists through a range of exhibits. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the lives and careers of iconic trap musicians, from T.I. and Gucci Mane to Future and Migos.

Throughout the museum, visitors will find interactive exhibits that engage with the music and culture of trap, such as music trivia, recording booths or virtual reality experiences that transports the visitor into a trap music video.

15. SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion

The SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion is a museum located in Midtown Atlanta that celebrates the art of fashion by offering cutting-edge exhibitions, events, films, and forums. This museum is a haven for fashion enthusiasts, history lovers, and anyone fascinated by the transformative power of style.

The SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion is part of the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), a renowned institution that celebrates creativity and innovation in various artistic disciplines. This unique museum is an extension of SCAD's commitment to showcasing the intersection of art, design, and fashion.

The museum's exhibitions feature an exquisite collection of garments, accessories, and textiles that span across centuries and cultures. From iconic designs by legendary fashion houses to avant-garde creations by emerging designers, the museum offers a comprehensive exploration of fashion as an art form.

16. Marietta Cobb Museum of Art

CC Image courtesy of Tyler Lahti, Flickr

The Marietta Cobb Museum of Art is a fine art museum and visual arts center that focuses on American art. The museum is located in Marietta, to the north of Atlanta.

The museum's classical revival building was built in 1910 as the Marietta Post Office and became the main building of the Cobb County Public Library System in 1963. The museum was founded in 1990 and features a permanent collection of American art and hosts a variety of events, activities, and exhibitions. The Marietta Cobb Museum of Art is the only Metropolitan-Atlanta fine arts museum focusing on American Art.

The museum's permanent collection showcases works by renowned local, regional, and national artists, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of the area. From landscapes and portraits to abstract and conceptual art, the collection presents a comprehensive view of artistic genres and techniques.

Other Art Galleries to visit in Atlanta

There are various other art galleries in Atlanta that are worth exploring, including:

  • ZuCot Gallery, 100 Centennial Olympic Park Dr, Atlanta, GA 30313 - Located in the historic Castleberry Hill district of downtown Atlanta, this gallery is the largest African-American owned fine art gallery in the Southeast.

  • Besharat Gallery, 175 Peters St SW. 30313 Atlanta, GA - Also located in the Castleberry Hill district of downtown Atlanta, this gallery includes four gallery spaces, each with its own unique character and charm, displaying a variety of paintings, photography, and sculptures from around the world.

  • Future Gallery, 50 Upper Alabama St, Atlanta, GA 30303 - This gallery displays exhibitions by Contemporary Visual Artists. The Atlanta gallery’s program focuses on concepts such as representation, authorship, identity, and expression across a wide-range of media.

  • Ernest G. Welch School of Art + Design Gallery, 10 Peachtree Center Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30303 - This gallery is set within a dynamic visual arts space in downtown Atlanta. The gallery hosts exhibitions featuring works by national and international artists, local and regional artists, as well as by Georgia State students, faculty and alumni artists.

  • Cat Eye Creative Art Gallery, 186 Mitchell St SW, Atlanta, GA 30303 - This studio and gallery space represents over 100 unique artists and designers from across the world from contemporary fine art to street art and murals.

I hope you have found my list of museums and galleries in Atlanta useful. If you have visited any of these places, I would love to hear your thoughts or if you feel one of your favourites is missing from the list, please email me and let me know at [email protected].

Some of the links you’ll find in this blog post may earn me a small commission if you make a purchase. This doesn’t cost you anything extra and helps support the work I do in creating valuable content.

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