I love this little local art museum. I've been here so many times but never reviewed it. From their website: "MAG offers free access to children age 5 and under, active University of Rochester students*, faculty, staff & retirees, and SNAP card holders (along with three guests)." They are also open late on Thursdays and second Friday, and admission is half price after 5pm on those days, which is nice for people who work a 9-5. They also have tours that are included in the price of admission. The last time that I visited, I was able to participate in one of the Thursday night MAG general collection tours. Everyone who worked there was very kind, and the tour included some interesting history about Rochester that I would have never otherwise known. For a local museum, the collections are very interesting and cover a broad range. There are also some big names in American art, so try to spot them! They also have a small but good impressionist collection. One of the coolest aspects of this museum is the baroque organ which is played on Sunday afternoons. read more

I can't believe that I haven't left a review here before. Ok, this is going to be short, this venue is one of the best places that Rochester can offer for locals and visitors. The MAG has a special place in my heart, and I have so many happy memories in this awesome place. If you haven't been here before, then you're missing out. Plan a visit ASAP. If you go on a Sunday, then don't forget to attend the organ concert either at 1pm or 3pm. Check out their calendar, you'll definitely find something you'd like to attend/see. Have fun! read more

See all

This is a solid museum. It's small enough to see all of the galleries in one day, but now too small. The staff is super friendly and helpful. They have some amazing pieces of art by names you will recognize, along with a few surprises. If you are visiting Rochester, NY, swing by this museum. The neighborhood is very cool, too. read more

This places definitely deserves well more then a 5 star review, in my opinion it reminded me of a mini Smithsonian with history and art all in one. The size of the gallery is remarkable, two floors, welcoming, and spacious. Its a hidden gem, the temporary exhibits that sparked interest that is currently on show through March 5, 2023 ( Striking Power, Iconoclasm in Ancient Egypt , lot of history, and they even give you a pamphlet to test your knowledge and let you learn something new. The other temporary exhibit was In Praise of Trees: Woodcuts by Naoko Matsubara, featuring a Japanese Canadian artist. This artists calligraphy and art work, was quite fascinating for any art lover. As many other YELPERS have pointed out the organ, on the second floor is a definite WOW factor, its history alone, and the fact that its still plays. Overall, if you live in Rochester, check it out or if you were visiting from Buffalo, like I was put MAG on your list of things to see. MAG even offers tours, special half pricing on certain days, classes, a modern lobby with breath taking open space, and a fountain, gift shop. MAG is perfect for everyone, loved, loved, adored coming here. read more

See all

This museum was beautiful! We loved seeing all the different art and furniture. We loved it so much we just wish there was more exhibits to explore! Hopefully they can expand. The employees at the front were amazingly kind and accommodating. We will absolutely be coming back. The small dining room in the front entrance was stunning also. Loved the fountain. read more

Beautiful art gallery/museum. The amount of time, detail and attention that goes into each display. Plenty of parking and easy access into the building. The grounds outside are kept immaculate- so gorgeous! Went the an event there that was held outside and it was really beautiful. read more

Attended "Sketch Night 2" with two kids (10 / 11). Wasn't sure what the kids would think. We ended up having a great time!! The 10 year old kept repeating that he "really enjoyed it." Hope to see more classes like this. It was awesome to be able to attend along with the kids. The sketchbook giveaway and the slide "view finder" made it even more fun for all. Lots of people attended, great turnout. read more

Memorial Art Gallery - Gourd sketches. - Art Galleries Near Me - Rochester, New York

Gorgeous venue for my husband's company Christmas party. Spacious with plenty of parking in the heart of downtown Rochester. Catering team was able to accentuate the space with tasty menu options and choices. The decor entices me to visit again in the future. read more

Memorial Art Gallery - Art Galleries Near Me - Rochester, New York

We visited this art museum for a special exhibit and I am so mad I didn't come earlier. The outside is deceiving, this is a very large museum with a variety of collections inside. The cafe was delightful and we grabbed some sandwiches and enjoyed a sunny spot after we toured, taking in some live music. Great place for locals and tourists alike. read more

Attended the Asian celebration with my grandson and daughter. I was so surprised that it was free! Because I would've gladly paid for this event! Not sure how the funding got there but I'm sure it opened up opportunities for a lot of people to learn about the Asian community in Rochester. One being myself who has been looking for a Filipino group and found a very friendly group here! I didn't of the Easter celebration here it was good but this freebie was even better! Will definitely attend more events here! read more

Memorial Art Gallery - Filipino display - Art Galleries Near Me - Rochester, New York

See all

Who would have known that hiding out in a gallery in Rochester, NY would be O'Keeffe, Kusama, Warhol, and Rockwell among others. When you enter the gallery, the light and the space is inviting and warm. There are two floors to the museum, and unfortunately, they claim there is a Monet on premises, but I think it was in the room closed for renovations, because we didn't see it, and we were disappointed. The last time I saw a Rockwell in person was at the Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, MA when I was 12 or so. I hadn't seen an O'Keeffe in person, so it was nice that they had one to view. I also liked that it was double sided. Their gift shop is great and instead of the usual museum trinkets, this museum is loaded with artist offerings including embroidered cards and wall art. I liked that touch and this would be a great place to purchase a unique gift for someone special. Tip: The Rembrandt stolen from the Eastman House is now displayed at this museum. I went to the Eastman House about 4 years ago, and it was nice coming full circle and seeing the real Rembrandt at the museum. They have a copy at the Eastman House. read more

See all

Hard to believe this isn't a review I've already written, but I love the Memorial Art Gallery SO much. They are currently requiring masks and doing timed ticketing for the COVID times, which I hear has been working out really well, putting safety at the top of their priority list. I've been the MAG for countless exhibitions, events, and photo shoots (that's not including trips to Brown Hound Downtown, the incredible eatery inside the museum proper.) The team here at the MAG is innovative in how they connect to the overall Rochester community. The Monet exhibit sticks out in my mind as being extra special, along with the fashion through time experience in their main viewing area. They ALSO did and incredible activation where murals of Rochester women were placed in the museum, then out in the community on buildings. A gorgeous experience inside the museum and out, and a direct support of local artists. During the normal times, they host amazing themed events and tours. From Harry Potter to halloween to Christmas, there is truly something for everyone. I am looking forward to buying my timed ticket for the Warhol exhibition, which is on through March of 2021. I am so grateful to the MAG for providing something to look forward to in the dreary, COVID winter, and feel lucky to have this community gem. Visiting ROC? A must-do, followed by lunch or brunch at Brown Hound! read more

Memorial Art Gallery - Art Galleries Near Me - Rochester, New York

Love the gallery, but this is just bad. The mugshot by itself, maybe kinda badass. But the inscription on the back? No. Unless you can tell me Abby endorses this, or that it's for charity or something. read more

Memorial Art Gallery - Art Galleries Near Me - Rochester, New York

See all

Very Nice! I enjoyed their eclectic collection. Should be something for everyone ... I certainly found plenty to enjoy. And as a bonus, I was able to visit during The Clothesline Art Festival. The entire perimeter of the building was chock full of artist's booths, entertainment and food and drink vendors. For about $9 I was able to see both. I had given myself a couple hours to see the museum, but we were there for more than three hours. If you go during the festival, you should really count on four hours. Well-worth your time, even if the festival isn't going on at that time. read more

See all

I'm a sucker for a good art gallery, so I was so excited when my friend suggested we go to the Memorial Art Gallery when I visited her in Rochester a few weeks ago. I was amazed at how big this place is. We went through in an hour or so but you could easily spend two roaming the halls and looking at all the fine details of the art. The collection they have is brilliant, too. They even have a few Monets on display! I was honestly impressed at the range of styles and periods showcased in the museum. The upper level organizes the rooms by time and place which allows for a history lesson too! I don't think the entrance fee was too bad for how much art there was to explore, either. I love a good deal and to be honest, the ability to see amazing art for only $15 is insane to me. If you ever need something to do in Rochester, I highly suggest visiting Memorial Art Gallery! read more

See all

As much as I love art, I do not know all art museum names. I was surprised didn't know of Rochester's since it is so close to WNY. This gallery was both bigger and smaller than I thought. It was in what looked like an enormous building, but only covered part of it. Still a lot more art than I expected when we entered. I loved how it had various different artworks - from portraits to landscapes to everything in-between. It also had sculptures to old time furniture/tools. The various displays showed how artistic thoughts and styles changed over the years. You could tell walking through that they take great care and pride in the artwork they display. Walking through all the rooms gave me chills and joy looking at all the work with a careful eye. I loved so many different paintings and wished I could afford art like these for my own home. I loved seeing an artwork by Georgia O'Keefe's canvas back as well. Usually when the artwork is framed you only get to see the one side, not any other thoughts or ideas an artist may have had with the art. Seeing pop art that only has one image by Andy Warhol was great to see as well. The Campbell Soup is amazing but loved seeing his other pieces. Seeing a Rembrandt was wonderful as well - as is the story behind its missing the signature (person I was with knew about the theft and loss of it). They had a current exhibit called The 613 by Archie Rand. It was pop art on multiple panels explaining the 613 commandments of the Torah. I loved how he brought to life his own interpretation of each commandment. My favorite type of art is impressionism (Monet is my favorite) and especially 19/20th century European art. That area was closed with rope keeping you out of the area and some paintings taken off the walls. I wished I would have still seen some from the openings to the rooms, but the angles didn't allow you to see it all. It was the only negative to this museum (can't control when things are open or closed when you visit). I would definitely return and loved that I was able to see some of these pieces up close since my family doesn't care as much as I do about art. read more

See all

Beautiful museum with tons to see and even more to love. I love love love this museum and they always have so much to see and enjoy. I'm from Buffalo where we have an absolutely stunning Modern Art Gallery. But I am a history lover, and the Memorial Art Gallery and it's history of art and different civilizations is everything I could want. Their exhibitions are exceptional and I really enjoyed the Andy Warhol exhibit during my visit. In their upstairs they have an absolutely beautiful huge pipe organ that still plays! I've spent many a Saturday looking at and marveling at the beautiful pieces throughout this museum. I can't recommend it enough and this is a place worth traveling to and treasuring as a resident of Rochester! read more

This is my third or fourth trip. I have never actually gone to this museum just for the sake of visiting the museum but I've been when other events have been scheduled there. Even the standing exhibits continue to be interesting, but I don't go frequently enough to feel bored. It's not immediately obvious that there is a second floor and I tend to like the pieces up there better. I have my favorites all over the building, tho. The staff is always nice. The museum does offer a range of art classes. I went to one event that provided some quick exposure to multiple mediums. I would definitely do something like that again. read more

See all

I was absolutely blown away by this museum. They have art from famous artists & ancient times. Their informative specialty exhibit on the AIDS pandemic during COVID nearly brought me to tears. read more

If you're looking for an encyclopedic art museum north of New York City, the Memorial Art Gallery is waiting for you. While the other major museums upstate focus on their specialties, this museum tries to offer something for everyone with just about every genre checked off like a shopping list. Famous artists from Rembrandt to Warhol are on display here, too, but few of their iconic works. No matter, after all, aren't a half-finished John Singleton Copley and a lesser-known Jackson Pollack still worth a peek? Sure, this isn't the condensed version of The Metropolitan Museum but I doubt you'll leave here dissatisfied. My only complaint is the dearth of natural light in the galleries. There is so much bad canned lighting and reflective plexiglass that it often felt more like a tanning salon than a museum. Casual visitors probably won't notice but if you stare at a number of the paintings it can impossible to appreciate the details because a round sphere of light is blazing on the canvas. Other track lights are positioned poorly so the top portions of paintings are in shadows. I came here again for my favorite painting: John Koch's 'Interlude'. A seated artist's model is turned away from the viewer and, during a break in the painting session, is handed a cup of coffee or tea by the artist's wife. It's a modern-day Ingres with the focus on the model's back as the simplicity of the scene surrounds her. The artist can be seen in the background slouched in his chair as he contemplates whether he has applied his final brushstroke. In NYC, you can physically visit a bunch of museums in no time for the price of the subway. Here, in upstate New York, it becomes a worthwhile road trip connecting a string of art museums: Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Utica. read more

See all

If it's raining in Rochester or your lady friend tells you to get lost for a few hours (both of these seem to happen to me quite often), this museum is an excellent place to kill some time. It's a gorgeous building, and there are several standing exhibits with a large amount of early American art that are worth checking out. I did enjoy the current exhibit on Matisse's lesser known print works as well. If solitude is your thing, you should know that the MAG might well be the quietest museum I've ever been to. I don't think it was a fluke, either, as there is a sign as you enter the upper galleries that warns you that the lights may in fact be off, but will automatically turn on when you enter. And evidently, Thursday nights are Tapas Night, so even if you have no appreciation for the arts, at least you can eat and drink. You boorish, uncultured lout. read more

Memorial Art Gallery - Yes. - Art Galleries Near Me - Rochester, New York

See all

We've been visiting the MAG for years and are always impressed with their collection as well as traveling exhibits. This visit was to experience the Andy Warhol exhibit. Let me be clear, we've been extremely careful to stay safe and only visit locations practicing Covid precautions. We knew we could count on the MAG to do the right thing. We ordered our timed tickets online, at the door we were greeted by staff and shown to the disinfectant. Staff were also positioned to open all doors for visitors and hand sanitizer stations were all over the place. Don't forget to visit the shop for some unique finds. This really was a splendid way to enjoy a Saturday morning quietly appreciating artful eye candy. read more

See all

The Art Gallery is small enough to enjoy on a visit. Although to really appreciate all it has to offer many visits are needed. The exhibirion is easily follow once you go through the doors. I visited on the occassion of their 100 Birthday celebration. A community outreach that gave many the opportunity to visit. They had cake for the visitors, dances(including a drum dance), face painting for the kids. I love it. read more

See all

I had a nice experience this weekend at the MAG. It's been quite a while since I'd last been there, and it is nice to see that some things have changed, and some of my favorite pieces are still there. A friend and I visited on a free day - there was a Latino Cultural Event going on. It was great to see so many people at the gallery! The organ concert was going on as well - and it was a treat to hear the Italian Baroque Organ. Really - it's a stunning piece of artwork all by itself! I love to slowly stroll through each room, discussing the paintings. I'm by no means an art critic, and I have no training in this realm except middle school art.... SO. I just like to enjoy the pieces I enjoy, and puzzle over some of the others. It's a lot of fun. And who can be disappointed with the gift shop? Yeah, yeah, there are some pricey items, but it's definitely a great place to look for a unique gift or trinket for your newly renovated room! read more

On and off over the years we have been members of the MAG so we usually go to their opening party for new exhibits. These events used to be super popular but have unfortunately been less well attended - not sure why (unless there is some blockbuster exhibit, but that has not happened in awhile). They do a good job of bringing in a wide range of exhibits and thus there should be a show that strikes a chord with you. Since we tend to just go to see the new exhibit it has been awhile since we toured the whole place but for a small museum it is quite nice and a real gem to have in our community. Also the ballroom space is great for other events - I think we've been to a wedding or two here. And of course their Clothesline Art Festival in September is the best art show in town with real art, not junkie "arts and crafts" like other so-called summer art festivals in town... read more

Memorial Art Gallery - Opening party tonight - Art Galleries Near Me - Rochester, New York

This is an update.I returned to Rochester and the splendid Memorial Art Gallery last week.I enjoy the atmosphere of this multifarious art museum.This review emphasizes its fine,but not encyclopedic collection of European Paintings and Art. Personal Old Master European favorites,during my day and half visit were Giovanni Dei Biondo's"Crucifixion With God The Father and Saints"(Italian Late Medieval,Trecento),Master of Urbino Coronation's"Annunciation To Zacharias"(Italian Late Medieval Trecento),Francesco Ubertini's"Conversion of Saint Paul"(Italian Renaissance),El Greco's"Apparition of Virgin To Saint Hyacinth"(Spanish Baroque),Rembrandt's"Portrait of Man By Armchair"(Dutch Master),Pieter Neefs'"Church Interior With Figures",Jan de Cappelle's"View of Dutch Coast",Bernardo Strozzi's"Musicians"(Italian Mannerism),Jean Le Prince's"Visit"(French Baroque),and Bernard Duvivier's"Cleopatra Captured by Romans"(French 18th Century). 19th and 20th Century European favorites that day were Gabriel Max'"2 Monkeys"(Naturalism),Frits Thaulow's"Stream"(Naturalism),Jean Leon Gerome's"Interior of Mosque"(Orientalism),Daniel Israel's"Harem Scene"(Orientalism),Claude Monet's"Rocks of Pourville"(French Impressionism),Claude Monet's"Waterloo Bridge"(French Impressionism),Paul Cezanne's"View of L'Estaque"(French Expressionism),Henri Matisse's"Girl With Tricorn"(French Post Impressionism)and Giorgio Di Chirico's"Florentine Stillife", It was a privilege being back in Rochester and enjoying the Memorial Art Gallery once more. read more

Have been to the gallery many times, at least once a year. Stopped in yesterday, what a great way to kill a couple of hours. The museum has a large display area, and quite an extensive collection. I appreciate the way they lay it out, it's very easy to follow and understand. The building itself is pretty cool to see, it's huge, massive and interesting to look at. The staff are helpful, free parking, and you can even take pictures (no flash though) which is great. If in the area, check it out, you won't be disappointed. read more

Memorial Art Gallery - Great day to take in a museum. - Art Galleries Near Me - Rochester, New York

See all

We switch family memberships to art institutions in Rochester pretty much annually. After several years of doing this, it's safe to sag we've used our MAG membership the most. Engaging regular exhibits, the frequent showing of new acquisitions, and stunning rotating exhibits keep us coming back for more. We'll often stop in and spend an hour in one room, then move on with our day. There's so much to read and understand, this museum keeps us coming back for more. Today is a family fun day. Free admission, with a recommended donation of $5. It warms my heart to see so many people, mostly families, wandering the halls of the exhibits. Kids who don't seem to spend a lot of time with art chatting with each other and their parents, making connections, learning history, and having deep experiences they might not get otherwise. The day is topped with music, crafts, and culturally themed performances. This is a great and affordable way for families to squeeze a lot of fun into one day. read more

See all

Happily renewed our membership and spent a lovely rainy afternoon enjoying the first floor art. Very good write ups. We are looking forward to more enjoyable afternoons read more

Always loved this museum. The gallery often has a lot of interesting exhibits visit throughout the years. U of R students get in for free. They also have several Saturday's throughout the year sponsored by the City of Rochester which are free and open to the public. Check their website for specific dates on when everyone is free. I love that MAG brings a variety of visiting exhibits which I think adds much needed aspect. Their permanent collections are nice and rotate occasionally over the years also. Beautiful atrium which is probably one of my favorite places in all of Rochester. They also offer several art classes and cultural events. Excellent Rochester staple. read more

See all

Beautiful museum that hosts a number of unique events including the Clothesline Festival. Regularly have live music in the atrium, creative workshops, kids create days and camps. Admission is FREE for Snap participants (and up to 4 additional guests) and have recently introduced MAGconnect, which offers free transportation to the gallery and free one-year memberships to residents of limited financial means. They are ALSO a Blue Star Museum offering free admission for active duty service members and up to 5 guests between Armed Forces Day and Sept. 2nd. read more

The past couple visits, I've gone during Tapas Night on Thursdays (5-8pm) and then take advantage of the half price admission ($6). Tapas night includes wine and snacks from Max at the Gallery for purchase. Last Tapas night, they featured a new brewery, Climbing Bines, which was an awesome treat. They should definitely consider featuring breweries/wineries or other nearby spots for future events. It added a super cool element to the evening. There's music, the wine is good, and there's a decent variety of snacks. Although, some stretched the "tapas" spectrum... like the chicken breast offered? Not something I'd snack on. But I did enjoy the butternut squash soup and cheese/charcuterie -- drunken goat cheese is always a win in my book. I visited MAG when the Memory Theatre exhibit was installed. It maybe brought a little tear to my eye. I have an affinity for old photos. I'm always scouring through boxes of them when I visit home. It's a nice connection to the past and moments that have faded from my memory so to see the exhibit surround memories of the past was special. They also had an interactive area where people wrote out past memories on post-its to stick to the wall. My favorite part was the photo series of a photographer's grandmother, mother, and herself -- it showed the contrast between past generations of large families and today's generation of families with few or no children. The whole exhibit was emotional as it connected you to others through similar moments of the past. It was a nice moment of reflection too. Kudos to MAG for putting that together -- one of my all time favorite museum exhibits. ------ If you're a Rochester native, you really should spend some quality time here. They have a nice mix of exhibits covering a global representation of art over time. It's pretty cool to know these paintings and sculptures are accessible in our city. I personally love the Egyptian, Buddhist, and Chinese art exhibits. It brings me back to my art history days. If you have friends/family coming in from out of town, this museum is a must! read more

Memorial Art Gallery - The MAG - Art Galleries Near Me - Rochester, New York

See all

The Memorial Art Gallery is a small art museum, but it has a good selection of artwork. They also have great guests, and provide space for special events and art classes. I recommend a visit, it's also a great place for a date since you're inside (in Rochester this is a plus) and you can have a conversation. Parking is usually available, and the new redesign makes it a great place to walk around on a warm day (when they happen) Going on Thursdays is especially nice, since they have a mini happy hour, with wine, beer, and snacks. Plus discounted tickets to see the artwork. read more

I've been here twice. Parking is plenty and a few good restaurants are nearby. Like another yelper said, the permanent collection is not as interesting as those temporary exhibitions but the organ is worth checking out. It is not big so it takes about an hour or so to check out all the rooms. read more

We visited the MAG many times when we lived in Rochester. For a city of that size, it's a good museum. The permanent collection has some nice pieces and there's always an interesting temporary exhibit. We particularly looked forward to the (bi-annual) Finger Lakes Invitational exhibit. We also attended many lovely functions at the museum and the atrium is very attractive. Two other nice aspects of the MAG: the restaurant (in an attractive setting, with good food & good service) and the gift shop (which always has lovely items made by local & regional artisans). The people who work in the gift shop are very friendly, too. read more

I don't go here enough! MAG members get 10% discount to Aunt Rosie's (lunch only), Char at the Strathallan, the Gate House, Max of Eastman Place (lunch only), Salenas Mexican Restaurant and Tastebuds at the Gallery (Summer Hours: Wednesday-Friday 11 am-3 pm). They have various events....exhibition preview parties (free); Thursday evenings from 5 to 8 pm for Tapas Night with live music; workshops. read more

Memorial Art Gallery - Art Galleries Near Me - Rochester, New York

Great galleries with a lot of interesting pieces and variety. I also appreciate that they have free audio tours - just dial a number and listen to the background of that piece. Also, very interesting temporary exhibitions: we were moved to tears by the emotions and sadness in the Fabric of Survival, a needlework display that detailed the life of Holocaust survivor, Esther Nisenthal Krinitz. The parking is great!! Coming from DC, I love that I can park in an actual lot - and it's free!! Very happy to have this museum in the area. read more

3.5ish. Check out Brown Hound Bistro! Towards the right back corner when you first walk in. Delicious baked goods and drinks. Owner is really nice, friendly, and his wife makes the desserts. (& that's not an innuendo.) As for the museum itself, there are two floors. I'm not much of an art history buff but its nice to have something like this in Rochester. Nothing comparable to bigger museums in larger cities, but again, nice to have a place like this in our small city. Recently read something that said "Rochester brings together small-town charm with world-class culture." The MAG fits right into that description. They apparently have a variety of other events here which I hope to come back for. It's a lovely space. read more

Nice Art Gallery! It flows fairy easy. Some cool pieces. Took about 2 hours too walk through. They also had a garage sale going on in the other side of the building so that was a nice surprise. read more

See all

Well, well... I've been here a few times to check out this small but well curated museum. They have all sorts of events here for adults, kids and etc. The few headlining shows I've been to have been pretty good. For the size of our fair city this is a lovely museum they have "known artists" you do know who Rembrandt is correct? Yup got it.. Also other well known classic and modern artists. They have a gift shop small but just enough things to peruse and a great social media presence. We all went to Valentines Schmalentines on 2-12-16 it was a whole lotta fun. Go check this gem out, they have parking and it's a lovely building. Enjoy. read more