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Boston's Best Attractions For Art Lovers

The Boston art scene has something for everyone. Whether you prefer classical techniques or contemporary art, you can find it here. Art lovers will be inspired at the following attractions.
isabella stewart gardner museum
(Photo Credit: Facebook/Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum)

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
280 The Fenway
Boston, MA 02115
(617) 566-1401
www.gardnermuseum.org

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum houses an intimate collection of both decorative and fine art. The three-story Venetian-style palace provides a stunning backdrop in which to view the many sculptures, tapestries, paintings, manuscripts, furniture, decorative arts and rare books. Public tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Spotlight talks are also offered on the weekends to take a closer look at a single work of art. Tickets to the museum can be purchased at the front desk or in advance here.

Institute of Contemporary Art Boston
(Photo Credit: Institute of Contemporary Art Boston/Facebook)

Institute of Contemporary Art
100 Northern Ave.
Boston, MA 02210
(617) 478-3100
www.icaboston.org

The Institute of Contemporary Art is a unique space to contemplate and experience contemporary art. The building sits on the waterfront, and the exterior and interior spaces are weaved together in a way that provides new perspectives as you navigate the galleries. Groups of 10 or more can independently tour the gallery if reservations are made in advance here. Interactive guided tours are also available. Choose from the Focus Tour, featuring one exhibit, or the introduction to the Art and Architecture of the ICA Tour. Reservations are required for guided tours and can be made here.

mfa outside
Photo credit: Facebook/Museum of Fine Arts

Museum of Fine Arts
465 Huntington Ave.
Boston, MA 02115
(617) 267-9300
www.mfa.org

The Museum of Fine Arts Boston, one of the world's most comprehensive museums, features almost 450,000 works of art. American art covers four levels in the Americas wing, while contemporary art is housed in the west wing. New galleries also feature African, Asian and European art. Free gallery talks and guided tours are offered at the museum. Advanced tickets can be purchased here. Download the Museum of Fine Arts guide in advance here to prepare for your visit.

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SOWA Artists Guild
(Photo from SOWA Artists Guild/Facebook)

SOWA Artists Guild
450 Harrison Ave.
Boston, MA 02118
(978) 337-4191
www.netsolhost.com

The SOWA Artists Guild is made up of professional artists looking to promote the individuality and diversity of artists in the space. On the first Friday of every month, the guild opens its space to visitors. This gives people an up-close look at contemporary art that is deeper than the gallery experience. You are also able to meet the artists and view their latest works. View the events calendar here to plan ahead for your visit.

Vose Galleries LLC
(Photo from Vose Galleries LLC/Facebook)

Vose Galleries
238 Newbury St.
Boston, MA 02116
(617) 536-6176
www.vosegalleries.com

Vose Galleries specializes in American realist paintings and works on paper of the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries. The gallery is America's oldest family-owned gallery, and offers New England the largest inventory of American realist paintings. Vose promotes only top-tier realist artists who can apply century-old techniques in new, unique ways. View upcoming exhibits here before planning your visit.

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Kim Vareika is the owner of Vareika Personal Training and Yoga in Plainville. She has been in the fitness industry for over ten years, and believes that wellness is about more than just physical health. When she is not teaching, practicing, or writing, she resides in Bridgewater where she enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her nephew Caesar. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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