Established as a result of a vibrant local art scene in the 1920s, the Orlando Museum of Art has been documenting Florida’s art and cultural life for almost 90 years. A community-based venue, the museum offers a cultural contrast to Orlando’s theme parks and busy entertainment venues. There is a broad range of work covering many strands of American and international art, as well as lots of eye-catching exhibits that kids will enjoy.
Permanent collections include classic American works that date from the 18th century, contemporary pop art and a colorful assortment of African textiles, masks and beadwork. The Art of the Ancient Americas collection is a fascinating step back in time. View priceless pre-colonial Aztec masks, spectacular Mayan figurines and gold, silver and jade artifacts.
Before you visit the museum, check out the schedule of upcoming temporary exhibitions on the website. The gallery regularly hosts well-known and up-and-coming American artists, covering a range of disciplines: glass sculpture, fine art antiques, ceramics and photography. Take your learning experience to the next level with the one of the museum’s customized “Art Getaway” itineraries. Museum staff will arrange for visits to local theaters, festivals, art schools and historic landmarks to get a real taste of Orlando’s cultural scene.
Kids can get more interested and involved in art at the museum’s spring and summer art camps. There’s a variety of activities for all ages, including cartoon drawing, pottery, puppet making, landscape painting and even interior design.
The Orlando Museum of Art is open daily except Monday and major holidays. It’s housed in an impressive art deco–style building at North Mills Avenue within Loch Haven Park, about 10 minutes by car north of downtown Orlando. Free parking is available on-site and buses from downtown stop nearby. Also located in Loch Haven Park is the Orlando Science Center. A Loch Haven Cultural Pass allows entry to both venues.
