Pulitzer Arts Foundation

Art museum · Covenant Blu

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Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null
Pulitzer Arts Foundation by null

Highlights

Free admission, rotating exhibits, Tadao Ando architecture

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3716 Washington Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108 Get directions

$

Free to visit, this Tadao Ando‑designed jewel presents thoughtful exhibitions and site‑specific works by artists like Richard Serra and Ellsworth Kelly. Regularly cited by architecture and arts writers for its serene spaces and ambitious programming.

Things to Do in St. Louis (2025)
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Kingsley Anyaso

Google
One of the best museums in STL. Been here multiple times and there's always new exhibitions on display and it's located right next to another great museum.

Claire G

Google
Small but intriguing gallery. Unfortunately the two different exhibits were not for us, but the architecture is gorgeous. Plenty of friendly and attentive staff! Really cool accessibility features, wave door assistants instead of push buttons. Restrooms are gender affirming!

Leeza Carty

Google
no tickets needed, no wait time. my only complaint is that there is nlt much to the exhibitions. i would recommend if you go to check out the contemporary art museum next door and pther museums in the grand arts district since this is a half hour to hour visit. gorgeous patio view.

R Cusick

Google
Four stars because I wasn't asked to remove my backpack but certain other folks in comments were. That's not cool. Small gallery. Enjoyed the Confluence piece and the medieval art. There was a tour group in the furthest room downstairs and we went upstairs to wait for them to leave, but they must have snuck out a side entrance because they were outside when we left! 😅 I appreciate the gender-neutral and accessible restrooms, but might suggest "menstrual hygiene products" or just "hygiene products" instead of "feminine hygiene." And please make one policy across the board for backpacks. Thank you.

I-Cheng Lee

Google
Pulitzer arts foundation is one of my top 5 museums in the states. This museum reminds me of Dia:Beacon. The architecture is simple and modern. Love the art selection there. It’s a free museum but the quality is amazing. Their artists introduction card printing is super high quality and you can take it home if you want. Also, not sure if this is always a thing but you can also write a postcard there and they will send it to the address you put for free as well. They are holding their first “interactive” exhibit there and it was very fun! A lot of arts you can play around and it’s very inspiring!

Nicole Bach

Google
Put the Pulitzer Arts Foundation on your list of places to visit in St. Louis. The curatorial tours are excellent and the building is sublime.

Vikas Kumar

Google
A crown jewel of STL midtown Grand Art Center. The building itself is a exceptional craftsmanship by Japanese architect Tadao Ando with unpolished exterior and interior walls, natural light coming from the roof and a serene bamboo garden and the peaceful water court. The Blue-Black art by Elssworth Kelly is the center point of the expansive main floor. The mammoth spiral weathered steel work by Richard Serra is one of a kind! With regular changing exhibits, public lectures and other events this place can always be something to look forward to visit again and again! The view of some of the surrounding old buildings can be appreciated from the courtyard. Across the street from the main building is a small Park-like urban green space.

Todd Cyrulik

Google
Food for the soul! A very special place... Ando’s Work is so moving and the foundations work and exhibits are a rare opportunity to see in person. A free museum worthy of your visit and a must see for any lover of modern or minimalist architecture.
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Lydia C.

Yelp
I've known about CAM for years, but I didn't realize this was just around the corner and also free. I took my parents while they were in town, and we were really impressed! While we were there, they had an... ambient? Noise? Concert in the large sunken gallery, which was really perfect and atmospheric. Definitely not what I'd normally listen to, but it matched the space. I liked that they have a coat room by the restrooms, and they have some postcards set out that they will mail for you (I only know a couple of addresses off the top of my head, so bring your address book if you want to take advantage).
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Sandra K.

Yelp
This place was great too! Had little nooks and crannies of exhibits everywhere. Easy to get around with a stroller except the front area. It was a little tight
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Brian B.

Yelp
As I'm a recent transplant to St Louis, I had assumed this museum had to do with writing awards, that is, Pulitzer Prizes. Wrong This museum has an interesting, changing assortment of contemporary and historic art on display, rotating thru its marvelous beautiful modern building. For example, today they had an exhibition of works by Yoko Ono (yes, John Lennon's Yoko Ono), with works that were collected as part of her book Grapefruit. In a separate gallery, The Chess Hall of Fame was setting up some type of chess tournament. There were only about a half dozen galleries to be enjoyed, but it was interesting throughout and made for a very pleasant visit. Don't miss the Joe installation in the back courtyard, the calming reflective water pool, or the park-like installation across the street. Admission is free, and they have a small, free parking lot.
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Ralphie S.

Yelp
With a name like Pulitzer Arts Foundation, I never assumed that it was an art gallery. I'm glad that the docents at the neighboring Contemporary Arts Museum straightened me out and sent me across the shared courtyard. The Pulitzer is a striking building. Built with just concrete and glass, it uses space, water and natural lighting to cast shadows, add ambiance and acoustics and provide for great sight lines, grand staircases and small niches to enjoy visual and sound art. A sound installation of Susan Philipsz blew me away with about 5 pieces that she had created. Two were outside, others featured film, paintings, or working turntables. Stunning building, great art, free admission and extremely knowledgeable and friendly volunteers. A gallery that will be at the top of my list for all repeat St. Louis visits.

Susan L.

Yelp
I've been wanting to come to this museum for a while. Finally, I made it on Friday. Museum is designed by Tadao Ando, and it is a fabulous building just like the one he designed in Wrightwood Chicago. Pulitzer Museum was exhibition was for the works by Faye HeavyShield and The Nature of Things: Medieval Art and Ecology. The entrance is free, and the parking is close by and free as well. Would recommend a visit if you are in the area.
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Max R.

Yelp
Speechless at the beauty of the Pulitzer, y'all. Recently, a friend of mine who lives in Pasadena recommended I check out an installation that is currently on display: Ruth Asawa: Life's Work. Additionally, the Washington Post asked in an article headline, "Is this the most beautiful show of the year?" Asawa's work is well known in California because she was born there. Many on this side of the States may not realize how lucky we are to have this exhibition in our backyard. It will remain at the Pulitzer through February 16th, 2019. Needless to say, I had to check it out. Julia and I went for lunch today and it was even more brilliant than we expected. When we first arrived, Emily at the front desk informed us of the show, gave us educational pamphlets about the exhibit, and told us a little but about the Pulitzer. Something she said, which I loved was the reason they hand out information about the pieces (as opposed to it being on the wall) in order to leave folks to experience the art without any interference or influence. Once you've spent time with certain pieces, you can then look through the booklet to see any relevant information. Loved that. Ruth Asawa's work is incredible. She had several mediums represented, most distinguished are her wire sculptures. There is so much to say about her incredible story and life, but this exhibit represents her work in such an encompassing way. Certainly, check it out. Even if you miss it, check out the Pulitzer. What an amazingly educational haven of art and life.
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Alexis B.

Yelp
My friend and I were visiting STL over a First Friday weekend, so we took in the Pulitzer Arts Foundation when it was open late on a Friday night (first Friday of the month). The building is stunning, and it did have some interesting pieces to look at. (When we were there, there was also a dance piece being performed, and the Foundation was quite crowded). Definitely worth stopping in if you're around on a First Friday - even just for the architecture of the building alone!
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Joan G.

Yelp
My husband heard someone talking about the Pulitzer Arts Foundation and decided we needed to go there. It is right behind the Contemporary Art building. After we got there and pulled into their parking lot, we realized we had been there before. Their exhibit was Living Proof - drawing in 19th century Japan. The exhibit ends March 3rd. There was no admission fee. We stopped at the desk and if we gave them our driver's license, we could get an iPod with headphones that would tell us about the exhibit. We decided to do that so that we could hear about the drawings. The only problem was that there were no numbers near the drawings to steer you to the right one. We were able to find the first two, but could never find the next one. Unfortunately the people who were there to assist you had no idea about the drawings either. We left very disappointed. How much trouble would it be to put number stickers on the wall next to the drawings. Would I come back here? If there was an exhibit that I really wanted to see, yes. I'll see you in the funny papers.
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Zen D.

Yelp
An excellent gallery that was showcasing an ancient egyptian collection of defaced artifacts that I found simply intriguing. I actually found the lack of Museum wall labels refreshing. I felt the museums manuals with maps and descriptions of each section kept me more engaged than I would be at a more muddled and busy display. I found the minimalistic aspect of it helped me focus more on each piece. It's age, it's material, it's proposed meaning etc... I have a history of egyptology and rediscovered my love of this mysterious culture all over again in this exhibition!

Terri T.

Yelp
Completely unaccomodating to neurodivergent people. An old white man starting yelling in German when an child with autism touched the water. Very upsetting to witness.
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Rebecca C.

Yelp
St. Louis is quite privileged to have so many wonderful free museums, the Pulitzer Arts Foundation being one of them. The Pulitzer Arts Foundation is located right between the Contemporary Art Museum (CAM) and the Sheldon Concert Hall and Art Galleries on Washington Boulevard downtown. The Pulitzer has its own private parking lot, and there is also ample street parking when their lot is full. When you first visit the Pulitzer Arts Foundation be sure to stop in at the front desk to speak to a friendly staffer about current exhibits or upcoming events. The Pulitzer hosts a variety of events from family days, to wellness events like Tai Chi, and field trips around St. Louis. Never a dull moment here! The building itself is beautiful. The Pulitzer boasts a clean, minimalistic space that fills itself with gorgeous natural light and is fascinating to watch as the light transitions throughout the day. If you have yet to go to the Pulitzer, give it visit during the next First Friday and have fun walking around Grand Center Arts District taking in all the amazing art!
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Amber D.

Yelp
The exhibit is very beautiful! We enjoyed looking around. Very nice space and great way to spend a cold Saturday in STL.

C G.

Yelp
We came from Chicago specifically to see this museum - we were not let down by the architecture! The Egyptian exhibition in such a contemplative and sparse space felt so intentional, and the conversation between the building and the artifacts allowed a new take and perspective on objects I normally would overlook in a museum setting. The plinths' interesting angles and design played with scale and allowed for interesting juxtapositions. It disrupted some tired museum traditions of right angles, and grouping similar sized objects together. They create an open space for the objects, managed the space for the viewer, without being restrictive. We were not disappointed by our high expectations for the space! STL is fortunate to have such a museum!

Tammy O.

Yelp
Viewed the Egyptian exhibit while waiting for the concert, FARFETCHED PRESENTS: KATARRA PARSON AND TONINA,to perform. WOW! What a glorious evening. This was truly a fine evening with the perfect juxtaposition of various art forms occupying one space. Architecture, antiquity, music made for an amazing summer evening. One must experience the Pulitizer!
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Cherie O.

Yelp
I like anything that promotes the art and cultural scene in St. Louis. That being said, I don't like the Pulitzer as much as I thought I would. The big thing about the Pulitzer is the architecture. And if I was rating the architecture alone, it definitely gets five stars. Created by Tadao Ando, the structure is as precise as it is symbolic to providing a blank slate to encourage discussion of the artwork that it holds within its walls. Connected to the CAM by a courtyard, it's easy to see that in both places, the architecture itself speaks volume of the art it is trying to portray. I think the infinity pool itself is the best part of the Pulitzer, worth the trip alone. Whenever I enter, it's very hushed, and I always feel like I have to speak in a whisper, especially once in the galleries because everything echoes. But it's not a good kind of quiet ...it almost has a pompous feel to it. Everything feels transient in the galleries as they have explanations and guides to the exhibits printed on laminated brochures instead of on the walls. There is plenty of room between exhibits, which gives it almost an empty and desolate feeling to the area. Which detracts from the entire experience, as I think the atmosphere supersedes the art, while it should be the opposite. If you're an architectural buff or just need some time to sit somewhere and reflect, this is the place to go. Otherwise, there are other better artsy places in St. Louis to hit up.
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Tori W.

Yelp
As far as buildings go, this one is a real gem! I've seen a handful of Ando buildings and this one pretty much holds up next to the others. I would imagine, for non-architects, it may be hard to see the beauty in a concrete structure. But I would encourage those people to take the time and learn about the building itself. The exhibit I saw was an interesting one, but I was disappointed that the collection of art was not bigger and that the exhibit itself stayed in the building for many months before a new one comes along! If I actually lived in St Louis, that will be really disappointing! Also, the museum does something unique in not putting explanatory signage next to the art. Instead they give you a program, "take-away", that describes the art. Not sure if I like this method because those are usually the kinds of things I put in my "to-do" pile and then after months of not doing them they land in the trash!
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Christal V.

Yelp
Taking in the Buddha Exhibit with the South City Girls! I adore this space! The staff was very helpful & knowledgeable. If you ever have the chance to stop by and take in an exhibit you should not pass it up! There are indoor and outdoor exhibit pieces. The architecture is phenomenal! For this exhibit they had a glossy full color book to take along with you while you examined the pieces, very nice touch, as you could tell they spent a pretty penny on their creation....but it was free! I've paid $20.00 or more at other exhibits for the same type of souvenir. Parking is pretty good and there are tons of wonderful restaurants (my personal fave is Kota) within walking distance to grab a bite after you tour the exhibit.
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Tom J.

Yelp
The Pulitzer is a very nice museum. The building itself is noteworthy for its architectural originality. There is truly no other place like it in St. Louis. I visited it on the same day as the Kemper and CAM. Those are nice museums, but this one kind of stands out. It probably didn't hurt that the items on exhibit were priceless. If you go, be sure and take a walk into the Serra sculpture "Joe" outside. If you're a sketchy character like me, one of the attendants might follow you in, which is kind of weird but understandable. The museum is always free, so there is no reason not to stop by every once in a while if you're any kind of art lover. Every exhibit might not be your cup of tea, but take a chance and maybe expand your horizons just a bit. I'm not really that sketchy, by the way.
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Jennifer B.

Yelp
The Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts is a fantastic gem that St. Louis is lucky to have. I was so excited to visit and to learn more about Pulitzer. He was a Hungarian who settled in St. Louis in the 1800s and started work on a newspaper, which became our St. Louis Post Dispatch. Down the line came the Pulitzer Prize. The building itself is a marvel, and is the work of a famous Japanese architect. There are many installations here that draw you in, and one that does this literally [check it out and you'll find it]. It feels good just being here, as this artistic space was created with a great sense of peace. There are wide spaces and small areas, and there is even a pond that you can stop to look at. Admission is free, which I really like. I just caught the Dan Flavin exhibit and thoroughly enjoyed it. If you are into art, this is definitely a place that you'll want to check out. I'll be back.....a lot. I think it took me so long to find them because of their strange hours.
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Allison B.

Yelp
I'm not sure how I feel about the Pulitzer Foundation for the Arts in general, but the building is fascinating. The museum is a cement slab next to the Contemporary. From the outset, you can tell that anything within will be modern. Inside, there's someone to talk to you about the featured exhibit and offer you maps and guides. In my case, the exhibit was devoted to Donald Judd, an artist who put metal "boxes" together in different sizes and color combinations. As my friend and I wound through each room of the building, docents were around to answer questions and make sure nobody touched the exhibit materials, even suggesting that we slip outside to a "secret" (ok, not a secret, but it felt special) patio where we could stand above a water featre and see Midtown's gorgeous buildings. The building is not very big, and it only has three floors (I think): the main floor, a lower exhibit space, and a top floor. The lower floor had several rooms for art installations and a long hall that led to elevators, restrooms and the artist's original notes from decades ago. The top floor had a couple of metal chairs, a green roof and a patio. The inside of the building mostly was smooth slab concrete just like the outside. As we were leaving, the person at the front table suggested that we take a couple of thick paperbacks on Judd's work with us. We had initially thought that these were for purchase only, but they were free, so we each took one. Glad we did! Inside, there's all kinds of information about the exhibit, plus many photos of Judd's art. This easily is a coffeetable book. The person also gave us some pins and the museum newsletter. Looking forward to the breakdancing contest in January! Wow! What a way to marry art forms! Not bad for a free museum! I'll have to return to see how the space holds up for another exhibit.
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Brett B.

Yelp
This is a wonderful cultural resource for the City of St. Louis. This is not a museum, but on the days that it is open to the public, it functions like one. My favorite part (as an architect) is the building itself. This is a fine work by a master architect, Mr. Tadao Ando. We're lucky to have a great work by such a great artist open to the public. The space is very modern, minimalist, introspective, and quintessentially Japanese. The building is not very large so there tend to be a small number of works on display. But, coupled with the great space and outdoor sculpture courtyard (shared with the Contemporary Art Musuem) it is a great place to experience world-class art & architecture.
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Adam T.

Yelp
So I would give this place a higher rating because I really did enjoy the exhibit and most of the employees there who were very informative and clearly enjoyed their job. However it was one very rude employee that sort of ruined the experience for me and my family. Literally as soon as we walked in the building, my niece overly excited did a quick move near one of the Ancient Egyptian pieces. Before we could even discipline her, one of the employees immediately yells at our group and even throws extra unnecessary comments about children being left unattended in the building. I completely understand that these ancient pieces of work should be highly respected and to not be treated as a playground. However there's a way to get your point across without being disrespectful. That response took the joy right out of the young ones who could have learn a thing or two about Ancient Egypt. I understand the employee was doing his job however tone and execution is everything. We didn't feel welcomed after that. All in all we still were able to enjoy the exhibit and the overall building which is a beautiful piece of art in itself! Truly a marvel! I would still recommend this place just be extra extra cautious when it comes to bringing kids along.
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Kat V.

Yelp
Came here today to see an exhibition on break-ups upon invitation from a friend. Having recently gone through one (I did it through calling), this exhibition provided a little comic relief. At one point, I had to use the bathroom. Quite stark & clean. And only 1 toilet! Seriously, seriously! I have a GI disorder where sometimes I have to use the bathroom at a moment's notice. Sometimes, you don't know what's real in an art place like this. There is a gorgeous outdoor endless pool that looked like there was water bubbling. Only, it was raining. Quite an illusion. You don't realize it's really raining until you look outside the entrance.
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Shannon E. T.

Yelp
adjacent to the contemporary art museum of saint louis, the pulitzer foundation for the arts has consistently well-curated rotating exhibitions. the space is well designed, and the pieces are given plenty of room for viewing [unlike many more traditional museums and galleries]. it's worth visiting during the day to fully appreciate the building's interior and exterior design, while the nighttime events are perfect for socialising with artists, art lovers, and curious passersby.
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Michelle B.

Yelp
the space is incredible. great shows. free reception, free drinks. very kind and friendly staff. the best place for people watching in STL. what else could one want? I love it.
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Brad G.

Yelp
I'll keep this simple: it's an amazing building that would be infinitely better if it were left totally empty. Outside of a few exhibitions in the past 8-10 years, there's been little to remember about this place outside of the amazing architecture. Three stars because it's among the finest buildings I've seen anywhere in the world, but only three because it's intended to be more than that.
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Dena G.

Yelp
The shows are really awesome but the staff make it unpleasant to be there because of their snobby attitudes. I'm an art historian who goes to museums and galleries a lot so I don't appreciate visiting somewhere with such a negative vibe.

Miriam C.

Yelp
This is one of the first art spaces I visited upon relocating to St. Louis six years ago. I am always amazed at the unique manner in which the space is used for art (building parts, jumping beans, Richard Serra sculpture) and music. I have visited Ann Hamilton's Stylus installation a couple of times and participated in last weekend's Knit with Stylus event. What a thoughtful way to incorporate people into the art! It was a joy to watch everyone create among the art that already existed. Noticing Pulitzer visitors observe what was happening was a treat as well. I am a huge fan of Tadao Ando and have thoroughly enjoyed experiencing all the shows that come to the Pulitzer in the space he created. Great space day or night, though daylight gives the space a magical feel.

John B.

Yelp
A must see in St. Louis. Thoughtfully curated exhibit, exceptionally friendly and helpful staff, and stunning modern architecture. oh, and it's free.

J L.

Yelp
A hidden sanctuary in the city. I love the architecture and of course Richard Serra's sculpture. I am looking forward to coming back on the rainy days and snowy days. It must have different ambiance to the space.

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