AI suggested I come here after some research with a day off gap and it was kinda a life changing experience for me. It is next level poshness. For I felt like the first time, art spoke to me in a way where it was interesting and I didn't feel confined to refined boundaries. Truly nouveau, some of it shiny, some of it interactive. While I didn't like all of it, I loved like 97% of it and would come back just for this but maybe with a concert thrown in too. I couldn't take pics but there was an exhibit you had to reserve and one was an all illuminated white world as if I was in some weird imaginary futuristic TV show with expensive production. To complement the light show was a dark show that I didn't care for and that one was a lot more popular apparently. I am probably the only one who went to the spaceship on this particular Wednesday, which was at the boiler house that not everyone realizes you can look at , no AC with 90ish degrees weather, and 2 flights of older industrial metal stairs lol. Not for the super fragile physically. I could not recognize any of the nouveau artists but I could understand why they were on display in all their visual unspoken statements and documentation. They were certainly artists of a very nature I could get used to and eventually groove to, in a nerdy sorta avant garde way that is, dare I say, a modern nod to Andy Warhol. It's not only a museum for modern patrons, but also the groundwork that has propelled North Adams to the inclusive community it has become. The art and the nice atmosphere to live in make for picturesque western Massachusetts expensive to live in and some surprising food variety for the size of the communities. There was also a tea experience this day where you did a calming practice and expressed an emotion thought anonymously via red leaves dropped on a box and a red ball was dropped in for a tree sculpture. I overheard the staff from there toward the end of the day it was attended so so. I think because you had to go all the way to the end of the building to experience it, maybe not everyone wanted to walk that far. Mass Moca truly is "Mass-I've". read more

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Probably the most interesting art museum in Mass. If you're in the Boston area, it is a bit of a drive--we turned it into a weekend getaway, and it was worth it. The museum is massive, with tons of exhibits. You'll find a mix of contemporary art, immersive installations, plus regular live performances. We spent hours exploring/wandering. Some exhibits lean abstract or experimental, so it helps to go in with an open mind, but that's part of the appeal. Overall, it's a must-visit, and I hope to come back to catch their dusk/dawn exhibit, which seems to be a staple. read more

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Great if you appreciate modern art. Lots of walking! Unusual items in gift shop. Mostly the kind of art I know as "installations."

MASS MoCA is a vast multi-building museum in the Berkshires in a beautifully refurbished old factory site. One can wander throughout wide open industrial brick corridors and various rooms of contemporary Artist installations. Each artist has a unique room experience to behold. There is much to explore. Best to expect to take 3 - 4 hours as a good estimate for a visit. There are plenty of outdoor areas and bridges connecting the buildings. Building 6 holds the most installations. The museum is very open and airy, and never feels crowded. There's a café (Tunnel City cafe), a couple of restaurants (Casita and Big Daddy's Steakhouse) and micro brewery (Big Ideas Brewery) on site. Many wide open outdoor spaces for events and live performances. This summer they host 'Le Chalet' (created by Artist Dean Baldwin) every Thursday night with live performances - July 3rd thru Sept 4th beginning at 5PM in a beer garden atmosphere. MASS MoCA is definitely worth a visit in the bucolic Berkshire town of North Adams, Massachusetts. Thanks for reading. read more

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The weather wasn't going to cooperate by being a nice enough day to be outside & go to Tanglewood, so my cousins suggested a trip to Mass MoCA. We had never been there (we live in Connecticut). We met my cousins in Northampton & drove on the most gorgeous back roads to North Adams. The parking lot was full on a Sunday afternoon. There were some EV stations in the lot that my cousin could use to charge his car. The museum is a large former manufacturing plant (most recently Sprague Electric). A river encased in concrete goes by. What a fabulous interesting venue! The museum has so many nooks & crannies to explore. High ceilings, industrial, cool corridors, many windows, multiple buildings attached, stairs/elevators to get to the 3 floors of the space. A kid would have so much fun there. Going through 1 corridor, looking out the windows to the left - industrial courtyard. To the right, birch trees grow almost abutting the side of the buildings and the river encased with concrete sides in the middle. An art installation made by nature & humans. There are some new and also some longer standing exhibits. A few are political, all are interesting. My cousins have a membership there which I understand, as you could return several times in a year & still discover something new. read more

Mass Moca - Performing Arts Near Me - North Adams, Massachusetts

My mom and I were members for a year. I do wish there were more new and frequently changing exhibits. We have always enjoyed our time there but prefer to go a bit less often so we don't keep seeing the same things. The buildings are so cool but it is large and a little confusing to navigate. As with any art, there's been certain exhibits we've loved and others that weren't as interesting to us. It would be cool to have some more info about what the building used to be and how it used to look. I think the price could be prohibitive for a lot of people or for families. I am not knowledgeable about contemporary art but I like browsing here. We have done one of the free tours before as well. There are some times exhibits and those require advance booking online (the cost in included). This means many times, there were no slots available during the days and times we'd planned to visit. That felt like some people were getting "more for their money" and like we'd missed out. There was a roller coaster that ran once per hour and so I think members got first choice of spots so there was no availability for months (we never did get to experience the ride). There are a few James Turrell experiences that also require pre-registration. This makes it impossible to see them if you do a spontaneous visit. read more

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I fell in love with this museum with every exhibit I laid my eyes on. Art is truly a remarkable thing. There were so many exhibits around artists. Their focus may be different but they all had such an impact. This museum is HUGE. Multiple floors with multiple rooms that took you to something different with every turn of a corner. You can definitely spend HOURS here getting lost in it all. I highly recommend this place when visiting the Berkshires area. read more

Mass Moca - Performing Arts Near Me - North Adams, Massachusetts

Art lost me around 1980. I don't know when we moved from painting still life to duct taping bananas to walls, but I'm not really a fan of contemporary art. That's why Mass MoCA is such a wonderful surprise. It takes contemporary art and elevates it back to the masses. The museum is built in an old electric factory maintaining the industrial exterior while shaping the interior to represent the expansiveness of the art world. There are exhibits that bend light to create eye catching colors, spaces decorated with string lights, walls painted with geometric shapes and colors perfect for your social media posts, and multimedia works that stimulate the mind, eyes, ears,and heart simultaneously. My favorite exhibits were the James Turrell light exhibits and Amy Yoes' hot colors furniture space, which reminded me of a fantasy kids game room set. I also loved the nostalgia of the New York State of Mind photo wall. The cafe is also decent, but could probably take their food game a little higher. But, overall, this is the best contemporary art museum I've experienced. read more

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My second visit, and it didn't disappoint. Spent 4 hours and would have been happy to stay longer to see everything. The permanent exhibits are better than the rotating special exhibits ( in my opinion). Don't miss Turrell's video for which you reserve a time and his light show in a former water tank. Laurie Anderson's stuff is both thoughtful and beautiful. Dewitt is fun and dreamy. Great print shop, lots of food options, and even the bathrooms are interesting. read more

This review is five years overdue! Every day trip to MM is enjoyable regardless of the season. The curators bring you along an experience as you navigate the vast campus . The gift shop is continually updated in my experience. The Sol Dewitt exhibit is always transforming and always a go to for my friends and I. The summer months provide the opportunity to order fresh food from the Cafe and dine outdoors. There is also a brewery and BBQ on site. One of my favorite memories is attending The Roots for a summer concert series. Please become a member and explore MM. read more

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Big. Really big. We went for just a couple of hours. Definitely worth doing a tour, we did and the guide was just fabulous. She asked if there was anything we really wanted to see and she added that to the tour. Our tour went much longer than usual. Everyone was really into it. We were able to go outside, walk around and really experience the atmosphere. So cool. I know nothing about art, but I really enjoyed it. There is an art vending machine outside that we used. So cool right? The art here is so different than the art at MFA in Boston. So young and fresh somehow. There is one piece that was a bunch of red bowls in a room and the story behind it, about student debt, was fascinating. Loved that. The gift shop is wonderful. People who work at the museum are all knowledgeable and helpful. read more

Mass Moca - Art vending machine - Performing Arts Near Me - North Adams, Massachusetts

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First of all the drive through the Berkshire Mountains is breathtaking. Especially in Spring or Fall. The museum itself is a huge campus set in an old mill building. The architecture is fascinating. You'll find lots of contemporary artists and large scale exhibits and installations. Don't miss Stephen Vitiello's immersive exhibition All those Vanished Engines in the Boiler Room. read more

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I'm not a huge modern art fan, but I did enjoy my time here quite a bit. If I only had gone to the first exhibition room, I would have had a much more negative opinion. The very first display I saw was a platform with two overturned paint buckets. That was it. But if you continue through the museum, you'll find it more interesting. The layout of the museum isn't as organized as others, but I'm guess that was the intent. I like the usage of old industrial buildings. You'll see a diverse amount of art and definitely pretty cool exhibits laid out in an interesting way. The staff was a little bit overbearing at times, as they sternly told people not to film/take pictures in certain areas, even though I wasn't taking pictures anywhere near those areas. This feels like the "younger cousin" of the Clark, and it's worth a look as well. read more

This place is huge. If you love modern art, you'll love this place. You can spend the whole day here. read more

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Dropped by with a group of friends while vacationing in the Berkshires - and MASS MoCA was one of the highlights! Really amazing contemporary art museum - the building in and of itself is quite beautiful just walking the halls and the grounds. There were really cool interactive exhibits (which you need to remember to make reservations online because slots can fill up), which included use of VR, light rooms, and when we were there could even ride a rollercoaster that was part of an art installation. There's a large parking lot, and even an adjacent brewery next door where you can enjoy a beer and debrief with your friends and discuss all the art you just experienced. read more

Mass Moca - Performing Arts Near Me - North Adams, Massachusetts

This museum was built into some huge complex of old brick industrial buildings. We arrived around 2 p.m. on a Monday; admission was $20 apiece to get in and we had to check our bag into a locker. These were in a dungeon-like basement along with the main restrooms, where heavy bass notes played on some sort of loop, adding to the creepy ambience. I'm not sure what this is about, but it makes you want to not linger there. You can explore the 3 floors of interconnected buildings in whatever route you choose. There were a lot of individual exhibits spread across them. One huge room contained what purported to be a mini roller coaster that you could ride, but it was down for maintenance. There were various 'modern art' works including video, painting, mixed media, suspended lights, sculptures, etc. There are also some works outdoors (a dome with an oculus in the top, a series of cement vertical tubes, etc.). This was a good break in our afternoon drive, with ample exercise in wandering the large spaces. Some of the exhibits made for interesting photos. However, I think that your level of interest here will roughly correlate to the number of tattoos and piercings you have. I myself have few, so... read more

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It's a must visit and a great place to visit. It's one of the main reason why people visit Massachusetts.

Saw the Vincent Valdez exhibit and that alone was well worth the drive. This artist is incredibly talented in multiple mediums, but his subject matter is deeply moving. Love this museum for the contemporary art they showcase. Always amazing. read more

This is a must if you're in the area! First off, it's huge! They have the largest Turrell exhibit I've been to. We came for the 'to see oneself at a distance' exhibit, which is incredibly interesting and not to be missed! You can easily spend an entire afternoon here. Make sure to make reservations in advance for the 2 Turrel exhibits and the VR exeriemce!!!! read more

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Run and don't walk to this unique and fabulous museum. They have gift shops, cafe and miles of wide open spaces for galleries. It's an old mill building once used Sprague Electric. The reuse has been brilliant and the exhibits were stunning. We especially loved the Sol Lewitt building. From early middle and late career. Quite amazing exhibit. Plenty of free parking. And the staff are insanely helpful. Nothing not to adore. It's a drive from Boston but make a day of it. read more

I was at MASS MoCA from open to close and still think I missed things. It is a very confusing museum to navigate, with lots of walking. The exhibitions are well planned and diverse and with no permanent collection you can keep coming back and seeing new things. read more

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I used to live in North Adams back in 2000-2001, which was not long after Mass MoCA opened. I love visiting this place - their exhibitions are thrilling, interesting, unique, engaging, and often times interactive. My most recent visit came with quite a unique experience, which was to take a ride on EJ Hill's Brake Run Helix. It's a rollercoaster, and they do 1 ride per hour. I got to do the first ride of the day (on a Sunday), so it was just my husband and the staff who saw me ride. It felt so personal and elite - such an incredible experience. My ride was free with the cost of admission, but I did book it weeks in advance. The other exhibitions were awesome as well. I go to this place every chance I get, because the experience is ALWAYS worth the time and money. read more

One of the coolest museums we've ever been to! We were staying at Porches Inn, directly across the street from MASS MoCA, and decided to go over to check it out. We were stunned by some of the amazing artwork and exhibitions; we could have spent all day there! Definitely worth the trip from anywhere in New England. read more

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Spectacular destination in North Adams that is well-worth a stop. My wife, two teenage sons, and I stopped here for lunch. The courtyard area has an excellent cafe, sandwich shop, and brewpub. We did not have enough time to see the modern art exhibits - but it was great to be able to eat here without having to pay for museum admission. Mass MOCA also seems to host top-notch performing artists - so it's not only a modern art museum, but also a dining destination (for lunch) and performing arts mecca. Pro tip: If the main parking lot is full, head over to the metered spaces across the street. One quarter ($0.25) will give you 2.5 hours of parking - which is an incredibly reasonable price. read more

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MASS MoCA has the most James Terrell exhibits that I have ever seen in one place. We were able to visit all but two of them, because the other two required reservations. All of the art displays were breathtaking, and the complex itself is very large. There are three different levels, at least, as well as an outdoor area, we were surprised to find such an extensive collection of artwork outside of the more populated Boston area. Because of the remote location, we were able to visit all of the exhibits we wanted without being rushed or crowded. The gift shop also has a nice collection of functional design pieces, prints of art on display, and fun souvenir gifts. There is a small ice cream and coffee shop near the gift store as well. Mass MoCA is a true hidden gem. read more

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What a fantastic museum. Great staff. Very handicap accessible. Lovely museum store.

This is my 5th time here. I typically enjoy it. This time not so much. The new James Turrell sky space is a complete bust! You have to make an appointment for the limited tours2-3 times a week. You are told to show up 45 minutes early. Then you are held at reception until the new "appointed" time dictated by the artist. I'd call bs on that having been to 2 other sky spaces. But I'll look into that. So after an hour of waiting before being led to the space the thing is not turned on. Another 15 minutes. I hope they get things ironed out. What a waste of time for something that is so cool. For those requiring ADA, wheel chair, it's a fair distance from the entrance. And the ADA restrooms are locked so those are not available for use but the rest are available. read more

MASSMoCA is a world-class museum of contemporary art nestled in the Berkshires. My family loves this place! It's more than your average art museum. MASSMoCA is a converted series of connected factory buildings in North Adams, Massachusetts, which it turns out is the perfect setting for a contemporary art museum. The museum is a labyrinthine maze of galleries and passageways either empty or filled with visual art and/or sound installations. There is provocative visual art and innovative multimedia installations. I don't think it's possible to leave this museum unchanged...or at least without coffee, ice cream, beer or barbecue and tacos from the adjacent small businesses. Because after walking through the circuitous paths in the museum you're going to be tired and need sustenance. PS make advanced reservations during COVID times and be prepared to show proof of vaccination if visiting from out of state. read more

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Really awesome museum with lots of installations to check out. Easily feels like a place you can go again and again and not be bored. The old building makes for fun installations as well. read more

I really enjoyed my trip to Mass MoCA. There is so much to see and many different styles of contemporary art. I especially enjoyed Laurie Anderson's exhibit. It was so haunting and made me think a lot about it after I left. read more

Traumatized. Do not come here if you have kids. was going to an exhibit and the staff directed me upstairs, I went in the room and saw this furry slowly turn over and before I knew it, I had gotten flashbanged. I will be bleaching my eyes every day religiously from now on. read more

Huge collection of modern art nestled in the Berkshires. Easy drive from Albany, but worth the longer drive from Boston. Contemporary art is not always my cup of tea (discussion for another day), but MASS MoCA has such a large and diverse collection that I enjoyed the visit regardless. I think the general public, modern art lovers or not, will be able to find interesting and thought-provoking pieces here. Their in-house artist program means that pieces are often made for the museum and lends to a more cohesive experience. Definitely check out their James Turrell exhibit (requires separate tickets) and show up on time for your reservation. There are a few experiential installations inside the exhibit that restrict entry (like max 2 or max 4 for a 20 or 40 min light show) and you want to sign up for them exactly when your reservation time starts. You may have to choose between them. This was the highlight of our museum trip and unlike anything I've ever seen before. COVID is taken seriously here -- masks required everywhere, capacity caps, and social distancing enforced. If traveling from out of state, bring proof of negative COVID test or your vaccination card. Exceptionally friendly staff made the visit even more wonderful. There's a variety of food options including an in-house cafe with sandwiches/coffee and a beer garden outside. Definitely visit if you have a chance! read more

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Even if modern art is not to your taste, you will always find something new that stretches your imagination. A regional leader in the performing arts , make sure to check out their schedule of performances for something to engage your mind, heart, and soul. read more

It ok. It's something to do when nothing else is happening. They do a great job keeping place clean. read more

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Interesting venue for new art. In old factories so be prepared to walk a lot (elevators to handle going upstairs). Plus cafe, coffee shop just outside building (you can re-enter with sticker). Has become more focused, interesting than in prior years. read more

Mass Moca - Entrance lobby - Performing Arts Near Me - North Adams, Massachusetts

Do Not Miss!!! A gem of an experience for all ages - a feast for the senses! The museum is located on an old factory campus ... acres and acres and many buildings house the most engaging exhibits... great maker space for kids, good food and drink offerings as well. We came for three days and could have spent three more! read more

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I'd recommend this for the old factory buildings strung together as they are quite old and unique. Plus, the courtyard has an excellent Brewery and BBQ restaurant with lots of outdoor seating. As for the musuem itself be prepared to do alot of walking as it's HUGE and a bit confusing if you are trying to find exhibits by reading the map they hand out. Modern art isn't my cup of tea -- which some real head scratchers such as the broken lightbulb on the floor (is is art or did someone just drop a lightbulb?) Still not sure. Anyway, come for the building, stay for the food and brew -- you'll get your exercise and have some interesting conversations with those in your group. read more

I've been here at least a dozen times now, and still love it. It's grown in size, and has several more installations. Lots of new hotels in the area as well, Tourists and Porches. Highlight of the Berkshires. Schoendeck Music room is great for kids, as is the Laurie Anderson virtual reality (sign up months ahead of time), and the kids area. read more

A unique setting, a former warehouse with interesting and eclectic work and showings. It's a perfect compliment to the Clark and the Norman Rockwell museums (more traditional). The work here is whimsical, thought-provoking, funny and puzzling too. read more

The exhibits are not interesting or artistic Hardly anything to see. I go to many art museums and this is the absolute worst I have ever seen. Very disappointing!! read more