Ruby City

Art museum · Southtown ·

Ruby City

Art museum · Southtown ·

Free contemporary art campus designed by David Adjaye

Information

150 Camp St, San Antonio, TX 78204 Get directions

@cntraveler

42,481 Postcards · 5,683 Cities

7 Museums Worth Planning Trips Around in 2019

"The wunderkind behind San Antonio’s $16-million-dollar, 14,000-square-foot Ruby City is British architect Sir David Adjaye, whose design credits include the Nobel Peace Centre in Oslo and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Denver. Opening October 13, the contemporary art center will house 900 paintings, sculptures, installations, and video works, many of them culled from the collection of late arts patron Linda Pace. Its first exhibition, Waking Dream, includes landmark pieces by international artists Do Ho Suh, Wangechi Mutu, and Cornelia Parker, as well as works by SATX-based artists Ethel Shipton and Cruz Ortiz."

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/museums-worth-planning-trips-around

Ruby City

@postcardnews

22,027 Postcards · 1,950 Cities

Linda Pace’s contemporary art campus—designed by Sir David Adjaye—offers free admission Thursday to Sunday and rotating exhibitions drawn from a globally regarded collection. Recognized by national magazines for its architecture and vision. ([rubycity.org](https://rubycity.org/visit/?utm_source=openai), [sanantonio.culturemap.com](https://sanantonio.culturemap.com/news/city-life/08-22-19-time-magazine-san-antonio-worlds-greatest-places-ruby-city/?utm_source=openai))

https://rubycity.org/visit/

Free Attractions in San Antonio (2025)

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Ruby City

@postcardnews

22,027 Postcards · 1,950 Cities

A free contemporary art campus envisioned by Linda Pace and designed by David Adjaye. Frequently recommended by national magazines and local culture writers for rotating exhibitions.

https://rubycity.org/plan-your-visit/

Things to Do in San Antonio (2025)

View this post on Instagram

Ruby City

@silverkris

10,054 Postcards · 2,273 Cities

5 key numbers to know about these new museums - SilverKris

"A David Adjaye–designed museum in San Antonio that took 12 years to complete and opens this month, presenting around 900 contemporary works drawn from the Linda Pace Foundation’s permanent collection." - Delle Chan

https://silverkris.singaporeair.com/inspiration/arts-culture/galleries-museums/key-numbers-to-know-new-museums/

Ruby City

maria F.

Google

I came in blind since i had never heard of the place until i saw it on tiktok. I love the fact that it's free admission and there's a park right around the corner. The gallery itself is very nice, I really resonated with the "bedroom paintings" exhibitions, I think its awesome. Ps. They only allow photos with the phone camera, no digital!

Matt D.

Google

Came to this museum off of a walk on the new river expansion. It was free to enter which is amazing and was able to see some really cool art pieces. 10/10!!

Norah D.

Google

Absolutely loved this art museum. The pieces were amazing and thought provoking. There were all different types of contemporary art: collages, paintings, sculptures and more. I loved the artists’ use of unconventional materials as well as the sociopolitical messages portrayed in their work. The staff was very warm and helpful. You could tell they cared about patrons having a good experience as well as preserving the art and keeping it in its best condition. There was a very relaxed atmosphere. If you have time, also check out the garden and studio across the street. Those were worth the visit as well! Best part, it was all completely free. :)

David K.

Google

Cool free museum. I found one of the two exhibits to be underwhelming but the larger exhibit was so cool, and the overall museum grounds are quite interesting. Would definitely return!

sandra R.

Google

First time here. I took my daughter on a mommy daughter date and this was definitely a jewel! We super loved it very clean, beautiful, mesmerizing, great place to take pics. And we super loved their elevator even that was cool. 100% recommend.

Kirsten E.

Google

I was genuinely impressed by the museum's curation. I gained new appreciation of contemporary art. The museum building and its surroundings also deepened my experience.

Reuben R.

Google

As you approach the red building you notice the amazing architecture. The backyard has a small garden and sculpture. The garden is loaded with butterflies. The sculpture is of scraped aircraft parts and looks like it is floating in space. Inside the staff are friendly, informative, and helpful. Exhibits are wonderful and thought provoking. Place is clean and very well maintained. The experience was super. Note to visit is always free.

Mariana M.

Google

Great hidden place with great staff! Visited during a weekday and only saw a handful of people, i wish more people knew about this place. Will come back to visit Chris Park just across the street, they do a fantastic job at maintaining both places.

Tom W.

Yelp

What can I say about an art museum with intriguing creations on display in two buildings, a main building that is a sculpture in its own right, includes one of the prettiest and most quieting little parks on San Antonio, has wonderful volunteers and staff - and has FREE admission? I'll tell you: Ruby City is a delight! If you love art, particularly modern art, get yourself over there right away because you are missing out on a delightful art experience that would be 5 stars anywhere - like New York, L.A., Chicago, Amsterdam, Florence, Paris... I can say that because I love art and have been to art museums in all of those places and more. So get on over there and to see the great art and enjoy a lively peaceful afternoon in their Studio park!

Jonny C.

Yelp

I'm not an art connoisseur, but I enjoyed my time here. I came for an event introducing their new exhibit. They had a DJ, drinks from Lalo and Idle brewing and food from Sijang. There are 3-4 exhibits and it doesn't take very long, but it's free admission and worth checking out.

Jean-sophie W.

Yelp

Very interesting modern art exhibits and a lovely sculpture garden. I also appreciated the available parking and the attentive staff.

Jasmine L.

Yelp

This museum is really nice and eclectic! There were various exhibitions both indoors and outdoors! It was not that busy on a weekday evening, and very easy to get around. The workers at the front desk were super helpful in explaining the exhibit. The parking is free on the street right outside the entrance and exit. The art itself was very interesting- lots of different medium from canvases to sculptures. Would recommend giving this place a visit, especially since it's free of cost- the best value!

Cheryl M.

Yelp

Beautiful museum. Bonus points for free entry! Really enjoyed the exhibits and the grounds and especially the architecture.

Alan H.

Yelp

What a nice new gem of a museum in San Antonio and to open to the public for free! The staff was very welcoming and were available for any questions that you may have. The art pieces were interesting pop modern art and are worth the stop. There's also an outdoor sculpture garden which were filled with butterflies!

Sara M.

Yelp

Sometimes San Antonio can surprise you in interesting ways. In looking for unknown places to visit in the city, I discovered Ruby City, a contemporary art gallery that is free to the public. It is based on the vision of Linda Pace and has a fun collection of contemporary art. On the day we visited, we had the place to ourselves and it was ideal for admiring the art pieces. It is also close to Chris Park, so in addition to looking at the collection, there is an opportunity to cross the street and relax in the park. I really enjoyed my visit to Ruby City and saw that they offer quite a few events through the year. This is a place where I plan on returning. Absolutely worth a visit.

Nicolle M.

Yelp

It's free...so how disappointed can anyone really be with this wonderful public museum! The architecture alone is worth seeing, built in 2019 by a well known architect in the industry the details are top notch. Use the bathroom and notice the door knobs! Even those are art. Love the building, love how it gives artists a showcase, and love the gardens. If you are visiting 100% add this to your must see list!

Patricia L.

Yelp

Really enjoyed visiting this contemporary art center. My play niece is very artistic and loves art so I was so happy to expose her to different kinds of art. Free art spaces like this are so necessary for children and I'm grateful we have the art center in SATX. The arts ape is every changing so I recommend looking at the website for display information. I also made reservations which I believe made our entrance quick and easy. They also have a nice grounds area for fun outside pics with sculptures. I think the building is also a great piece of art to admire. There is a designated parking lot as well. So what are you waiting for?! Go enjoy some art!

Amie N.

Yelp

I loved this art museum! It's the best one I've been to so far here in San Antonio and it's also free! It's a lot of modern art, and the staff were super nice. It felt like we had tour guides because they would explain the art pieces to us and give us so much background and context for the pieces, which made them that much more interesting and enjoyable. The staff here have a lot of art knowledge, so don't be afraid to come up to them and ask questions about the pieces. I like how they also have a garden and other attractions nearby that you can visit. I highly recommend this museum!

Gabriela R.

Yelp

How lucky are we to have a free to the public chic art studio in San Antonio, TX?! Obviously the best place for this studio WOULD be in SoFlo! I am always on the hunt for local spots and San Antonio gems and Ruby City delivered. The staff was very friendly and they were able to provide me with a mask since I left mine in the car. Thank you, Ruby City, for featuring local artists and giving the public access to it for free. Follow me on IG, Twitter, and TikTok: @KrisPBacon210

Carmen M.

Yelp

What a great museum this is. I love some of the pieces they have here, especially the alphabet one. Simple yet inspiring. The staff that works here are very friendly and willing to answer any questions you may have. I made reservations online and it was super easy. I definitely recommend coming to Ruby City!!

Ashley W.

Yelp

This is hands down my favorite art museum in San Antonio! The employees who work here are so knowledgeable and provided a lot of insight on the works. I really enjoyed the painting that used a Parisian subway station as a pattern. There is also a garden and separate exhibit a few minutes walk away from the main red building.

Zack H.

Yelp

Because it's adjacent to the San Pedro Creek project, the most grand entrance is not visible when driving by (2/11/23), but just as awe inspiring once you find it. Appointments only. Even if, like me, when you show up no one is there, the receptionist will still make a reservation for the current time when you walk in. They are keeping track and taking names. The Main Gallery can be found either left or right up a symmetrical set of staircases. Whichever way you choose you'll end up in a space with high ceilings and lots of guards. I like Ruby City because it's small. You are compelled to linger over each artwork a tad longer knowing just how few items are on display. Works seem to range from 60 years old to nearly brand new.

Ivan J.

Yelp

Free!!! Yet amazing!! I've paid way more for way less....beautiful building, great staff, beautiful little park, amazing studio. We love art, make sure you do too. Not overcrowded, just make sure you go online and make an appointment to attend. The only bad thing...construction site right next to it. Not really a kids thing, more of a couple museum.

Angelina G.

Yelp

beautiful artwork! kind and knowledgeable staff and FREE ADMISSION, recommending this to everyone i know!

Suzee Q.

Yelp

Today was a disappointment. I was excited to interact with a building designed by renown architect Sir David Adjaye (until later in the day when I read about the sexual assaults lodged against him) but the visit was a complete bust. Upon entering, I had to submit personal information to secure a reservation despite me being a "walk in" and not making a purchase--admission is free. Or is it? My data for admission? Next, I was surprised by the number and proximity of the security/docents. Easily, there were more Ruby City staff watching me than patrons viewing art. Third, the building was confounding. There is only a low wall embossed with "Ruby City" to identify the space. If there's a car parked in front of it, the sign is effectively gone. Street parking only. Art is on the second floor accessible by a long stair or elevator. Several short "hallways" led to nowhere and had just a few pieces of art hanging there. Lastly, the art work itself was a MAJOR disappointment. One was a piece of scrap wood with a stripe of blue astroturf-like fabric on it. Another piece included a large rectangle of garbage arranged on the floor as well as several drawings by Linda Pace... Even one of my favs, Jenny Holzer, had a meh piece of work here. Labels were askew. The sculpture garden had one sculpture in it. I could go on and I was a little steamed after I exited the building, I was so dispirited! Luckily, the curator's comments and introductions to exhibits were mercifully free of nonsense...

Alice Y.

Yelp

Ruby City is a second very cool enchilada red building to grace downtown SA! The museum consists of the main building plus a gallery located within Chris Park, located less than one block away. It's currently open Thurs-Sun from 10-6 and always FREE admission. Definitely make the short walk to the Chris Park gallery! You can expect to spend around 2 hours here perusing interesting pieces of multimedia sculpture, film, and interactive art. The pieces are labeled with the title and artist's name without any further description which leaves you free to interpret its meaning- a depiction of society's hierarchy, domestic violence, or even just your future instagram post. This is a judgement free zone! The staff were knowledgable, helpful, and will even give you advice on the best angles to snap a photo! I'm excited already to come back already for future exhibition.

Giselle C.

Yelp

Beautiful contemporary art space in the Southtown(ish) area. I've been missing the contemporary art scene so much and was so happy that this place opened. The art was gorgeous and included pieces from some of my favorites like Leonardo Drew, Doh Ho Suh, Teresita Fernandez and Marina Abramovich. THe sculpture garden is beautiful and relaxing. My favorite part was Chris Garden. Linda Pace (the visionary behind Ruby City) named the park after her son. The park is a beautiful green space, with sculpture benches, rolling hills and art incorporated into every element. There is a studio space that spotlights some great pieces, including one of the best video installation pieces I've ever seen. All in all, Ruby City is one of my new favorite places in SA and I can't wait until the next exhibit!

Traci R.

Yelp

Wonderful art, friendly staff, free parking, and admission is free! Prepare to spend close to two hours to see everything, including Chris Park, the studio across the street, and the sequence of videos upstairs (probably half an hour to see all of them), one of which features James Franco (whatever happened to that guy?). Ruby City reminds me of The Broad in Los Angeles in the sense that it is very modern with lots of art that lends itself to taking selfies. There isn't a gift shop but you can pick up a free booklet at the front desk that details the art currently on display. There isn't a cafe either but there are some eateries and a coffee shop within walking distance.

Stacy E.

Yelp

This museum is new and I was glad I got to go the opening day! It's close to southtown and downtown and next to HEB so flo pizza so if you want pizza after touring the museum with family. I toured this place about three weeks ago with one of my best friends. Their art is different all around the building, no art is the same. There's a wall of all red items, that is great for selfies, instagram, etc. There is also a large movie theater with artistic videos playing.

Marcos M.

Yelp

This hidden gem in Southtown is a must see for everyone local in San Antonio, the lovely lady up front was super informative and highly helpful as well as the gentleman Ed whom I got to chat with for a little. The art pieces are something you would see out of Brooklyn etc. I enjoyed my experience

Marisa P.

Yelp

When Time Magazine featured Ruby City as being one of the best architecture projects of 2019 I was eager to see the inside. It just recently became open to the public, and will offer rotating exhibits. Admission is free. The first floor is more of an entrance space, while the second floor houses most of the works. The architecture is different from anything else seen in the city. Outdoors resides a sculpture that has bits of an airplane and other metal parts. If visiting Ruby City definitely take the short walk up to Chris Park, which is an outdoor extension.

Brandon A.

Yelp

Ruby City is a contemporary arts museum conveniently located south of down town. If you are familiar with the area, it is right off Camp street close by the blue star arts complex. This art space has three areas total both indoor and out. The main space is in a huge reddish orange building that has two floors of art work displayed and has an outdoor area attached. The other art space is located across the street in Chris Park. In this park, the "studio" is located in the back. It is really nice to walk between the main building and the park across the street. A nice thing about this place is that it is free all year long, just check the website for the specific times they are open to public. If your in the mood for a chill day then I'd definitely recommend coming here and walking around for the afternoon.

Isaac G.

Yelp

Very cute and small! Lots of great art! The staff was friendly and ready to answer questions! They had a cute film room and it's free, so what much more could you ask for?

Angel D.

Yelp

For being a free gallery it didn't disappoint! Very nice and modern design with excellent art displayed.

Tosha W.

Yelp

The staff was sweet and made us feel welcome! We also enjoyed the beautiful exhibits!

B R.

Yelp

This museum is wonderful. The art docent Angela was very helpful, she answered alot of questions and discussed the artist and art work with us. Chris Park is a beautiful sanctuary and a must see at night with the lights just a minute walk from museum.

Caroline F.

Yelp

I had the opportunity to visit this wonderful museum; however, disliked one of the workers who was very unprofessional and rude... she runs by the name of Robyn O' Neil. Never coming back.

@cntraveler

42,481 Postcards · 5,683 Cities

7 Museums Worth Planning Trips Around in 2019

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/museums-worth-planning-trips-around

Ruby City

@postcardnews

22,027 Postcards · 1,950 Cities

https://rubycity.org/visit/

Free Attractions in San Antonio (2025)

View this post on Instagram

Ruby City

@postcardnews

22,027 Postcards · 1,950 Cities

A free contemporary art campus envisioned by Linda Pace and designed by David Adjaye. Frequently recommended by national magazines and local culture writers for rotating exhibitions.

https://rubycity.org/plan-your-visit/

Things to Do in San Antonio (2025)

View this post on Instagram

Ruby City

@silverkris

10,054 Postcards · 2,273 Cities

5 key numbers to know about these new museums - SilverKris

https://silverkris.singaporeair.com/inspiration/arts-culture/galleries-museums/key-numbers-to-know-new-museums/

Ruby City

maria F.

Google

Matt D.

Google

Came to this museum off of a walk on the new river expansion. It was free to enter which is amazing and was able to see some really cool art pieces. 10/10!!

Norah D.

Google

David K.

Google

Cool free museum. I found one of the two exhibits to be underwhelming but the larger exhibit was so cool, and the overall museum grounds are quite interesting. Would definitely return!

sandra R.

Google

Kirsten E.

Google

I was genuinely impressed by the museum's curation. I gained new appreciation of contemporary art. The museum building and its surroundings also deepened my experience.

Reuben R.

Google

Mariana M.

Google

Tom W.

Yelp

Jonny C.

Yelp

Jean-sophie W.

Yelp

Very interesting modern art exhibits and a lovely sculpture garden. I also appreciated the available parking and the attentive staff.

Jasmine L.

Yelp

Cheryl M.

Yelp

Beautiful museum. Bonus points for free entry! Really enjoyed the exhibits and the grounds and especially the architecture.

Alan H.

Yelp

Sara M.

Yelp

Nicolle M.

Yelp

Patricia L.

Yelp

Amie N.

Yelp

Gabriela R.

Yelp

Carmen M.

Yelp

Ashley W.

Yelp

Zack H.

Yelp

Ivan J.

Yelp

Angelina G.

Yelp

beautiful artwork! kind and knowledgeable staff and FREE ADMISSION, recommending this to everyone i know!

Suzee Q.

Yelp

Alice Y.

Yelp

Giselle C.

Yelp

Traci R.

Yelp

Stacy E.

Yelp

Marcos M.

Yelp

Marisa P.

Yelp

Brandon A.

Yelp

Isaac G.

Yelp

Very cute and small! Lots of great art! The staff was friendly and ready to answer questions! They had a cute film room and it's free, so what much more could you ask for?

Angel D.

Yelp

For being a free gallery it didn't disappoint! Very nice and modern design with excellent art displayed.

Tosha W.

Yelp

The staff was sweet and made us feel welcome! We also enjoyed the beautiful exhibits!

B R.

Yelp

Caroline F.

Yelp

I had the opportunity to visit this wonderful museum; however, disliked one of the workers who was very unprofessional and rude... she runs by the name of Robyn O' Neil. Never coming back.

Ruby City

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7 Museums Worth Planning Trips Around in 2019

5 key numbers to know about these new museums - SilverKris

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7 Museums Worth Planning Trips Around in 2019

5 key numbers to know about these new museums - SilverKris