Madison Museum of Contemporary Art

The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art (MMoCA) is an independent cultural venue located in the heart of Madison. It is a hub for anyone who appreciates contemporary art and modern architecture. The museum is housed in a striking building designed by renowned architect César Pelli, which is a work of art in itself thanks to its wedge-shaped glass facade.

Spanning over 4,700 square meters, the interior features spacious galleries, a lecture hall, a dedicated new media gallery, and a learning center. The museum in the USA aims not just to display objects, but to create a transformative experience for every visitor, inspiring a dialogue between the artist and the viewer.

The museum's collection is impressive in scale and diversity, featuring over 5,000 works. Here, you can see pieces by established modern masters as well as emerging young artists, making the exhibitions dynamic and ever-changing.

To find out more about current events and special projects, you can contact the museum administration using the details provided below.

Visitors can expect a rich visual program ranging from painting and photography to complex installations and sculptures. Be sure to climb the main staircase inside the glass wedge — it offers a panoramic view of bustling State Street. This is one of the most popular spots for photos in the building.

During the warmer months, the main attraction is the rooftop sculpture garden. This unique space of about 660 square meters is where contemporary art harmoniously coexists with the city skyline. Here, you can relax among the artworks and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere away from the street noise.

In addition to exploring the exhibitions, the museum offers educational programs, lectures, and film screenings. A key feature of the institution is its accessibility: for many years, the museum has maintained a free admission policy, inviting everyone to experience the world of high art without barriers.

The museum is located at 227 State Street, in the very heart of the city. Thanks to its central location next to the Overture Center for the Arts, it is easily accessible for tourists. If you are staying downtown, the walk from Capitol Square to the museum is very short.

For those who prefer public transport, city bus stops connecting all key districts are within walking distance. If you plan to arrive by car, there are several municipal parking lots nearby. It is also convenient to reach the museum entrance by taxi from anywhere in the city.

The history of this cultural institution began in 1901 when a group of enthusiasts founded the Madison Art Association. Surprisingly, for the first six decades, the organization did not have its own building, and exhibitions moved between various venues across the city. It wasn't until 1964 that the center found its first permanent home in the former Lincoln School building.

A landmark moment occurred in 1959 with the launch of the annual Art Fair on the Square, which has since grown into one of the city's most anticipated events. In 1980, the museum moved to the Madison Civic Center, and its current name — Madison Museum of Contemporary Art (MMoCA) — was officially adopted in 2003.

The museum's current look is thanks to the world-famous architect César Pelli. The futuristic building, which opened in 2006, was made possible by a major donation from philanthropist W. Jerome Frautschi. Today, this architectural masterpiece symbolizes over a century of artistic development in the region.

A thoughtful visit to the main collection and temporary exhibitions usually takes 1.5 to 3 hours. This is enough time to explore the galleries at a leisurely pace and enjoy the architectural features of the building.

If you plan to attend an educational lecture, a film screening, or spend time in the rooftop sculpture garden (during its seasonal opening), we recommend setting aside half a day for your visit. This will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the creative atmosphere without feeling rushed.

The museum follows a specific schedule: it is closed to visitors on Mondays and Tuesdays. On other days of the week, the exhibitions are open from noon. Pay special attention to Thursday, when opening hours are extended until 9:00 PM, making it perfect for evening cultural leisure.

Regular hours: Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday — 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM; Saturday — 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. As the schedule may change on holidays or during the installation of new exhibitions, we recommend checking the museum's official website before your visit.

The museum's location in the historical and cultural center allows tourists to combine a gallery visit with other iconic landmarks. A walk through the surrounding area will reveal the architectural grandeur of government buildings and the charm of old city streets.