About Cleveland Museum of Art
Famous for its breadth and quality despite being free, the CMA holds 63,000 works from six millennia of cultures.
Founded in 1913, Cleveland Museum of Art has been welcoming visitors for over 113 years. Today it draws approximately 700,000 visitors annually, making it one of the most-visited art & encyclopedic museums in the world. Located in Cleveland, United States, the museum holds a rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 8,500 traveller reviews, reflecting its enduring appeal to both first-time visitors and returning enthusiasts.
Why Cleveland Museum of Art ranks #75
Our editorial ranking blends data from TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice awards, AECOM/TEA annual attendance figures, and coverage in leading travel publications including Condé Nast Traveler, Time Out, National Geographic and The Times. At #75 in our composite ranking, Cleveland Museum of Art represents the kind of institution that rewards a deliberate visit — less visited than the mega-museums, but no less rewarding in what it offers. Key recognitions include: Free entry.
Must-see highlights
With a recommended visit time of 2–3 hours, planning your route through Cleveland Museum of Art is essential. Here are the standout works and spaces that should be at the top of your list:
- ◆Asian art collection
- ◆Caravaggio's The Crucifixion of St Andrew
- ◆Atrium (Rafael Viñoly)
- ◆Armor Court
- ◆Free entry
Recognition & awards
Cleveland Museum of Art has received recognition from multiple authoritative sources in the museum and travel industry:
Planning your visit
Opening hours: Tue–Sun 10:00–17:00 (Wed & Fri until 21:00). Closed Mon. Free.
How long to spend: Most visitors recommend setting aside 2–3 hours for a thorough visit. If you are short on time, focus on the highlights listed above and consider purchasing a skip-the-line ticket to maximise your time inside.
Getting there: Cleveland Museum of Art is located in Cleveland, United States at coordinates 41.5093°N, -81.6122°E. View on Google Maps →
Visitor tips: The museum is manageable in a single visit, but arriving early helps you avoid peak crowds. Check the official website for any temporary closures, special exhibitions and advance booking requirements.
History of Cleveland Museum of Art
Cleveland Museum of Art was established in 1913, making it a well-established institution with over a century of history. Over the centuries, it has grown from its original collection to become a major cultural landmark in Cleveland. With 700,000 annual visitors, it plays a vital role in United States's cultural tourism economy and stands as one of the most important art & encyclopedic museums in the Americas region.
Other top art & encyclopedic museums
If you enjoy art & encyclopedic museums like Cleveland Museum of Art, you may also want to explore these highly-ranked institutions in the same category:
- #1Musée du LouvreParis, France
- #2The Metropolitan Museum of ArtNew York, United States
- #3Vatican MuseumsVatican City, Vatican City
- #4British MuseumLondon, United Kingdom
- #5State Hermitage MuseumSaint Petersburg, Russia
Frequently asked questions
What are the opening hours of Cleveland Museum of Art?
Tue–Sun 10:00–17:00 (Wed & Fri until 21:00). Closed Mon. Free. We recommend checking the official website before your visit as hours may change on public holidays or during special events.
How long should I spend at Cleveland Museum of Art?
Most visitors recommend spending 2–3 hours for a comprehensive visit. If you are short on time, prioritise the must-see highlights listed above.
Where is Cleveland Museum of Art located?
Cleveland Museum of Art is located in Cleveland, United States. The exact coordinates are 41.5093°, -81.6122°. You can find directions via Google Maps.
What is Cleveland Museum of Art known for?
America's most beautiful free art museum. Key highlights include Asian art collection, Caravaggio's The Crucifixion of St Andrew, Atrium (Rafael Viñoly). The museum holds a 4.8/5 rating from 8,500 reviews.
How many people visit Cleveland Museum of Art each year?
Cleveland Museum of Art receives approximately 700,000 visitors per year, making it one of the most-visited museums in United States.
When was Cleveland Museum of Art founded?
Cleveland Museum of Art was founded in 1913, making it 113 years old. It is categorised as a art & encyclopedic museum in our directory.
