Mystic Museum of Art

Quaint little museum. Three gallery spaces and a gift shop. $3 suggested donation to enter. Lovely atmosphere. There is a paid parking lot right out front of the museum.

The Mystic Museum of Art, nestled along the scenic banks of the Mystic River, is a cultural gem that offers a delightful experience for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Its charming location in downtown Mystic makes it easily accessible, and the museum’s commitment to showcasing both historical and contemporary art is evident throughout its well-curated galleries. One of the standout features of the museum is its diverse collection, which includes works by renowned artists such as Robert Brackman, Yngve Edward Soderberg, and J. Alden Weir. The rotating exhibitions ensure that there’s always something new to discover, reflecting the museum’s dedication to celebrating American art in its many forms.  Beyond the exhibitions, the Mystic Museum of Art serves as a vibrant community hub. It offers a range of educational programs, including art classes and workshops for both children and adults, fostering creativity and engagement among visitors. Events like the “Artini Hour” and “Art After Dark” provide unique opportunities to experience art in a lively, social setting.    Visitors often praise the museum for its welcoming atmosphere and the quality of its displays. One reviewer noted, “The Mystic Museum of Art is a real find: located in the heart of Mystic… it contains several small halls of extraordinary art that are extremely well-maintained.” The museum’s free admission policy, with donations encouraged, makes it an accessible destination for all.  In summary, the Mystic Museum of Art offers a rich and engaging experience that combines impressive art collections with community-oriented programs. Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or simply exploring Mystic, this museum is a must-visit destination that captures the essence of the region’s artistic spirit. 

Its a small sometimes free museum. There is a ticket price depending on certain exhibits. Right now its free at least until April 20th. The museum is pretty cool and worth the visit. Parking is 10 bucks but the parking lot is a two minute walk into downtown Mistic so definitely worth it. Also a two minute walk to the popular sift bakery!

Nestled charmingly along the Mystic River, the Mystic Museum of Art is a delightful and accessible cultural stop in downtown Mystic. Far from being overwhelming, its intimate galleries offer a thoughtfully curated collection, focusing on American Impressionism and continually rotating contemporary exhibits that keep the experience fresh. Visitors consistently praise the welcoming atmosphere, the opportunity for a relaxing moment of contemplation, and the stunning views of the Bascule Bridge right outside. Whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast or just looking for a lovely, quiet detour from the bustling main street, this community-focused museum is a must-visit gem that genuinely embodies the region's artistic spirit.

First, scale: This is a pint-sized museum; think less the Louvre and more your aunt's house ... if your aunt had a gorgeous ocean-front property and filled it with tasteful, thoughtfully curated art. When I visited, the whole place was given over to a special exhibit with the Mashantucket Pequot Nation highlighting Indigenous history and artwork including wampum, a dugout canoe, a display of old maps, and more. I found it fascinating and the staff person friendly and welcoming.

“Mystic Museum of Art” - this place is wonderful. Just further up from Sift Bakery store. Online it says it’s free, it’s not you have to pay $10 to enter (admission fee). I’d say it’s worth it. I had a wonderful time when I visited here. There is outdoor parking, the parking monitor person very chatty. I walked in. You have the beautiful river views of Mystic River and the Mystic River Bascule Bridge from the outside. I sat there outdoors in the sun sketching. The museum doesn’t open till 11:00am. (Don’t come too early, like I did.) If you’re an art enthusiast, you will love this. I was so excited to see cubism and fauvism paintings by famous artists in the flesh. It’s nice and quiet, you can admire the stories behind the paintings. Many floors. I loved the red, yellow, blue room where you can add your own paper sculpture. It’s just so cool. If you haven’t been, just go! 💚🎨🖌️🖼️

This is such a pretty art gallery that is free to the public, unless you park your car in the parking area, then you have to pay a small fee. It doesn't really have a feel of a "museum" since a lot of the pieces are for sale. There are however several pieces that are permanent (NFS) and some that are on loan. A staff member who was very friendly and helpful said that the gallery changes the exhibit every six months. My favorite piece was the polar bear sculpture and that unfortunately is one of the permanent pieces in the gallery. I would come here again in the future to see what other kind of art is put on display.

Very nice museum that offers a good collection of art from various artists. I enjoyed the room in the back that allowed you to create art of your own (and the view from the window was great). The gift shop has some cool things for you to grab as souvenirs. I wish there was more to look at though. Also the staff was very much huddled in the office most of the time, would've been nice if they could've come out to engage, but maybe that's just me. Definitely recommend and would be open to going back.

Had free day and chance to utilize MPMRC membership for a wampum history and bracelet making event. Event was great to see the Gifts of the Ocean exhibit, discuss wampum history with Matthew Pina and then also make a bracelet within the art room at KTJ. Overall great experience and would recommend some of the classes for anyone interested to have a little artistic fun while here in Mystic!

Admission was free, and it was a great space to see pieces from both local artists and ones they had in residence. The gift shop was also a good place to purchase locally made items!

Small, but lovely museum in Mystic, CT. I got to see the "Printmaking and the Unconventional Pathways of African American Artists" exhibit which was awesome. Highly recommended. Admission is only $10.

I wish I could give a better review but this is a very tiny museum with limited art. They did have a couple Matisse drawings and several Miro paintings, which were cool to see. I was able to see the entire museum in about 15 minutes. For the price of admission, $10, I can't really be disappointed in my visit. I would say if they have an exhibit that interests you then definitely visit but if you're a casual art lover, this may not be the best way to spend your time.

My rating might change depending on the exhibits. I went with my wife and my little sister, and none of us were thoroughly impressed. Thrilled that it was free though, that will definitely keep me coming back. Honestly, I think I appreciated the original pieces by local artists for sale in the store in the back more than I appreciated the current exhibit. It's a tranquil place, and probably kid friendly in the sense that there's not much in reach that they could damage (even though the kids wouldn't necessarily enjoy it).

Nice museum with many local artists paintings. Great parking and on the river. The visit was relaxing and we learned about the local area from the bridge exhibits.

What a really rather pleasant spot in the middle of Mystic Village, CT, featuring modern art. A quick chance to get a taste of culture while getting so wrapped up in the eating, the shopping all around, and admiring of the lovely town that it is. Free entrance, too. The receptionist was friendly and helpful. I looked at the line up of events they have and I can say they have no shortage of ensuring art enthusiasts and patrons of all ages and walks of life get something good. Wine and painting. Educational events. Art skills development. The place is airy and bright. I just got a really good feeling from here. I envy the residents of this area! What a gem. I look forward to coming back.

Absolutely fantastic art museum in Mystic. Admission is free, and the interior is beautiful. The exhibit I saw was of local artists from the turn of the century. The artwork is beautiful and the captions are well written and interesting. It reminded me of the Morgan Library in NYC. Definitely stop by if you're in the area!

Drove a group to this museum and arrived early.... Cara saw us waiting and said she'd open a little early to accommodate us (14 ppl).... She was very helpful with our questions. We spent a couple of hours there and said we would like to return for a future presentation...