Washington County Museum of Fine Arts

Located in the heart of Hagerstown's picturesque City Park, by the tranquil waters of the lake, the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts is considered one of the cultural gems the USA is proud of. This venue harmoniously blends Neo-Georgian architectural elegance with a rich collection of art spanning centuries of creative exploration.

The museum was founded in 1929 as a generous gift from local patrons and has since maintained its status as one of the country's most significant small art museums. Its holdings include more than 6,000 objects, featuring outstanding works by 19th-century American artists, Old Master paintings, as well as unique collections of sculpture, textiles, and Oriental decorative arts.

The building's details add a special charm: the red brick facade is decorated with exquisite rosettes, and the roof balustrade features a panel depicting an artist's palette. Thanks to its free admission and high quality of exhibitions, the museum serves as an important educational and inspiring hub for all lovers of beauty.

To find out the latest information about special exhibitions or to book a group tour, you can contact the museum administration directly. The staff are always ready to help visitors navigate the cultural program and current events. Below are the primary contact details for planning your visit.

A visit to the museum offers guests a deep dive into the world of beauty: here you can spend hours examining paintings by American Impressionists, studying the fine craftsmanship of European masters, or discovering exotic objects of Oriental art. In addition to the permanent collection, the galleries regularly host rotating exhibitions featuring both the work of emerging talents and rare ethnic collections.

The museum's cultural program goes far beyond simple observation. It frequently hosts Sunday chamber concerts, art history lectures, and creative workshops for adults and children. In the summer, family festivals and outdoor film screenings take place on the grounds, making a visit to the museum a true treat for the whole family.

Don't forget to stop by the cozy gift shop, where you can purchase original souvenirs and art books. The peaceful atmosphere of the galleries and the magnificent park views from the windows make a visit the perfect way to escape the city bustle and recharge with creative energy.

The museum is located in the heart of the picturesque City Park at 401 Museum Dr. If you are arriving by private car, the drive from downtown Hagerstown will take no more than 5–10 minutes. Free and spacious parking is provided for visitors right on the park grounds, making the visit very convenient.

For those who prefer public transport, Hagerstown city buses stop within walking distance of the park. You can also always use local taxi services or ride-sharing apps, which will quickly take you to the museum's main entrance from anywhere in the city.

If you are planning a trip from other regions of the USA, such as Washington, D.C. or Baltimore, it is most convenient to take the I-70 highway (the journey takes about an hour and a half). The nearest regional airport is just 5 kilometers away, while Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI) is a 90-minute drive.

The history of this remarkable place began in 1929 when William Henry Singer Jr. and his wife Anna Brugh Singer decided to give a gift to Anna's hometown. William, a talented landscape painter, and his wife were passionate collectors who had amassed a unique collection of American and European art.

The first stone in the foundation of the building, designed by architects Hyde & Shepherd in an elegant Neo-Georgian style, was laid in the summer of 1930. The doors officially opened to the public on September 16, 1931. The facade of red brick and local limestone, adorned with decorative rosettes, is still considered one of the city's architectural treasures.

In subsequent decades, the museum continued to develop thanks to the generosity of the Singer family. In 1949, two additional wings were completed in memory of William, and in 1994, a cozy interior courtyard was added to the ensemble. Today, the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts is recognized as one of the best "small" museums in the country, maintaining the atmosphere of a private collection gifted to the public.

To leisurely browse the main collection and see the temporary exhibitions, most visitors need between 1.5 to 2.5 hours. This is enough time to appreciate both the classical masterpieces and the contemporary works displayed in the galleries.

If your visit coincides with one of the Sunday concerts or educational lectures, it is worth setting aside about 3 hours. Families with children also often stay longer, combining the cultural program with a stroll through the surrounding park and a visit to the museum gift shop.

The museum welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday. Standard operating hours are from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Please note that the galleries are closed to the public on Mondays.

Before your visit, we recommend checking the museum's official website, as the schedule may change slightly during special events, holidays, or private functions.

The museum's location in the central park makes it an ideal starting point for further exploration of the region's historical and cultural heritage. A stroll through the surrounding area will allow you to see architectural landmarks from different eras and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the old city.

Many interesting locations are within walking distance or a short drive away, allowing you to create a full day's itinerary. Be sure to check out the following sites: