Portland Museum of Art

The Portland Museum of Art (PMA) is the oldest and largest art institution in the state of Maine. Located in the city of South Portland, this museum is rightfully ranked among the twenty-five major art venues that the USA takes pride in. It is not just a gallery, but a true cultural hub of New England, bringing together history, architecture, and contemporary creativity.

The museum occupies a unique architectural complex where historic buildings sit harmoniously alongside modern exhibition pavilions. With official accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, the PMA serves as a key resource for education and inspiration, attracting thousands of tourists and art researchers from around the world with its rich holdings and significant regional collections.

A visit to this site allows you to touch the centuries-old heritage of American and European art while experiencing the unique character of Maine, which has inspired great masters of the brush and chisel for centuries.

To plan your visit or check for current events, you can use the museum's official contact information.

Visitors can expect a fascinating journey through the centuries: the museum's collection includes more than 17,000 items of fine and decorative art. A special place in the exhibition is held by the legendary collection of paintings by Winslow Homer, which is considered one of the most significant in the country and allows for a detailed look at the creative path of this great American artist.

In addition to the permanent collection, the museum regularly hosts rotating exhibitions covering a wide range of styles — from 18th-century classics to the bold experiments of contemporary artists. Every year, the museum welcomes about 160,000 guests, offering them not only visual enjoyment but also participation in interactive educational programs, lectures, and special cultural events for the whole family.

For those seeking a deeper immersion, themed guided tours are available. As you wander through the halls, you will appreciate the mastery of the interior design and how the curators bridge classical canvases with modern design objects, creating a unique dialogue of eras.

Located in the heart of the city, the Portland Museum of Art is situated at 7 Congress Square. Thanks to its central location, it is one of the region's most accessible cultural sites, easily reachable by both private and public transport.

For those preferring public transport, major city bus routes pass nearby. If you are arriving by car, several paid parking lots and parking zones are available around Congress Square. The museum is also conveniently accessible on foot if you are already in the historic center or strolling through the pedestrian areas.

If you are coming from more distant areas, the most comfortable way is to order a taxi or use a ridesharing service, which will take you directly to the main entrance of this temple of art.

The history of this cultural institution began back in 1882, when it was founded in the area now known as The Arts District. A major boost to the museum's development came from the generous bequest of Margaret Jane Mussey Sweat in 1908. She bequeathed her magnificent three-story mansion, the McLellan House, to the museum to honor the memory of her late husband, Lorenzo de Medici Sweat.

The architectural character of the complex was formed over decades. In 1911, the L. D. M. Sweat Memorial Galleries, designed by John Calvin Stevens, were opened. Later, in 1976, local philanthropist Charles Payson not only gifted the museum a priceless collection of works by Winslow Homer but also donated an impressive $8 million for a large-scale reconstruction.

The modern Charles Shipman Payson Building, which greets visitors today with its striking facade, was designed by the renowned architect Henry Nichols Cobb. Construction was completed in 1983, turning the museum into an architectural landmark of the city and a modern space capable of hosting world-class exhibitions.

When planning a visit to the Portland Museum of Art, you should consider your personal preferences for exploring collections. A standard tour of the main galleries and temporary exhibitions usually takes about 2–3 hours. This is typically enough time to walk through the halls at a leisurely pace and see the main masterpieces.

If you are a true art enthusiast, plan to study the works of Winslow Homer in detail, or intend to attend one of the lectures or educational programs, we recommend allocating 4 to 5 hours for your visit. The museum maintains a peaceful atmosphere conducive to long contemplation and thoughtful study of the exhibits on display.

The museum welcomes visitors six days a week, with Monday being the day off. On Fridays, the institution stays open later than usual, allowing you to enjoy the art in an evening atmosphere.

Current operating hours:

• Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

After immersing yourself in the world of fine art at the museum, we recommend continuing your exploration of the region's cultural heritage. Within a short walk, you will find historic mansions and picturesque waterfront views that will help complete your impression of the local atmosphere.