Taubman Museum of Art

Located in the heart of Roanoke is one of the most impressive architectural structures in the USA — the Taubman Museum of Art. It is the largest art center in Southwest Virginia, and its building is rightfully considered a masterpiece of modern deconstructivism. Designed by architect Randall Stout, the museum draws attention with its undulating steel forms and glass structures.

Inside the museum, guests will find a collection of over 2,200 works, the majority of which are American art. Here, you can see works by both recognized masters of the past and contemporary artists. A point of pride for the museum is its accessibility: admission to the permanent galleries is free for all visitors thanks to the support of generous donors.

The Taubman Museum of Art is not just an exhibition space, but a vital cultural hub hosting tens of thousands of guests annually. Its futuristic look, recognized by Architectural Digest as one of the best in the country, harmoniously combines with its rich internal content, making it a must-visit for every traveler.

For more information before your visit or to book special tours, you can use the museum's official contact details. The Taubman Museum of Art actively engages with visitors through its information resources.

A visit to the museum should begin with an inspection of its architectural details: the central 23-meter-high atrium is striking in its scale and play of light. Twelve galleries feature masterpieces of American painting, including works by masters such as John Singer Sargent, Thomas Eakins, and Norman Rockwell. The collection is regularly updated, offering up to 15 temporary exhibitions per year.

For families with children, the Art Venture interactive zone is a must-visit. Here, young explorers can get creative and learn about the world of art through play. For those who love unusual perspectives, notice how the building's architecture echoes the local nature—the roofline mimics the contours of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

You can conclude your visit in the museum store, which sells unique items inspired by current exhibitions, or simply relax in the atrium, enjoying the atmosphere of one of the most modern museums in the country.

The museum is located in the heart of downtown Roanoke at 110 Salem Ave SE. Thanks to its central position in the cultural district, the building is easily recognizable and accessible for tourists. For those using GPS, it is recommended to enter the exact coordinates: 37.27274, -79.93833.

If you plan to drive, several parking areas are available around the museum and throughout the city center. A taxi ride from anywhere in the downtown area takes only a few minutes. The cultural site is also accessible by public transport—most city bus routes pass through the central streets within walking distance of the museum.

The history of this cultural center began in 1947 as an initiative by the local chapter of the American Association of University Women. It received official status as an independent organization in 1951, changing names and locations several times over the decades—from public library halls to moving into the historic Cherry Hill residence in 1965.

The museum's modern chapter opened in 2008 with the construction of the avant-garde building designed by architect Randall Stout. The project, costing approximately $66 million, was made possible by the generous contribution of Nicholas F. Taubman, former US Ambassador to Romania, and his wife Jenny, after whom the museum is now named.

Interestingly, the architect drew inspiration from the Virginia landscape: the roof forms echo the silhouettes of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the glass peak of the atrium symbolizes the famous Roanoke Star. Despite initial debates over its futuristic appearance, the building quickly became an internationally recognized masterpiece of contemporary architecture.

For a quick overview of the museum's main exhibitions, 1.5–2 hours is usually sufficient. This time is enough to appreciate the architecture of the atrium and view the key works of American art in the permanent galleries.

If you are an art lover planning to visit temporary exhibitions, explore the interactive space, or browse the gift shop, it is better to set aside 3–4 hours. The museum boasts an extensive collection that deserves thoughtful contemplation.

When planning your visit, please note the schedule, as the museum is closed at the beginning of the week. The Taubman Museum of Art operates on the following schedule:

• Thursday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Monday – Wednesday: Closed

Pro tip: On the first Friday of every month, the museum often stays open for extended hours until 9:00 PM as part of special cultural events.

A stroll around the vicinity of the Taubman Museum of Art will allow you to dive deeper into the city's atmosphere and see unique urban artifacts. Its location in the cultural heart of the city makes it an excellent starting point for a walking tour.