Portland Art Museum
About This Museum
You know, what's always struck me about the Portland Art Museum is how it feels like a grand old friend right in the heart of the city. It's not just one building but a bit of a rambling complex that's grown over the decades, holding everything from ancient Asian sculptures to works by our own Pacific Northwest artists. You can easily lose an afternoon wandering from a serene Japanese scroll into a room full of bold, modern American paintings. And just when you think you've seen it all, you discover they've got a fantastic film series or a buzzy touring exhibit that just opened.
Collection Highlights
You'll find their Native American gallery is truly special, with magnificent basketry and carvings from local tribes. Don't miss the European collection either, where you can stand face-to-face with a Monet water lily painting. And for something completely different, their center for Native Contemporary Art flips the script on what you might expect.
Visitor Information
It's right there on the South Park Blocks, so after your visit, you can take a lovely stroll. Check their calendar before you go—they often have late hours on weekends, and catching one of their documentary or indie film screenings feels like a real local's secret.
Architecture & Building
The main building is this beautiful Italianate palace with a grand, ornate facade, but then it connects to a much newer, sleek modern wing—it’s a real conversation between old and new Portland.
Contact & Location
Address: Portland Art Museum, 1219, Southwest Park Avenue, University District, Downtown, Portland, Multnomah County, Oregon, 97205, United States
Phone: +1 503-226-2811
Website: Visit Website
