Paço Das Artes

Paço das Artes: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to São Paulo’s Historical and Contemporary Art Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Paço das Artes, located in the lively Higienópolis neighborhood of São Paulo, is a pillar of contemporary art and a dynamic hub for creative experimentation in Brazil. Founded in 1970, the institution has played a significant role in nurturing emerging artists and promoting experimental practices, both locally and internationally. Housed in the historic Nhonhô Magalhães mansion, Paço das Artes offers visitors an immersive blend of heritage architecture and cutting-edge exhibitions—making it an essential destination for art lovers and cultural travelers.

This comprehensive guide provides all you need to plan your visit, including current exhibitions, opening hours, free admission details, accessibility information, travel tips, and recommendations for exploring nearby cultural and historical sites. (Paço das Artes Official Website, My Art Guides, Viajante Sem Fim)

History and Cultural Significance
Institutional Mission and Core Values
Visitor Information

Visiting Hours
Free Admission and Ticketing
How to Get There
Accessibility
Facilities and Amenities
Group Visits

2025 Exhibition Highlights
Educational and Multidisciplinary Programs
Community Engagement and Partnerships
Nearby Attractions and Cultural Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
Visitor Tips
References

History and Cultural Significance

Since its establishment in 1970, Paço das Artes has been dedicated to showcasing and supporting contemporary art in São Paulo. Initially operating from various locations—including the Pinacoteca do Estado and the Museu da Imagem e do Som (MIS)—the institution eventually found a permanent home in the historic Nhonhô Magalhães mansion in 2020. This move marked a new era, providing a stable venue for exhibitions, educational programs, and public events.

Throughout its history, Paço das Artes has maintained a strong focus on experimental art and emerging voices, launching pivotal initiatives such as the Temporada de Projetos, which has significantly influenced the trajectory of Brazilian contemporary art. The institution’s multidisciplinary approach and openness to innovation have made it a reference point in the city’s vibrant cultural landscape. (My Art Guides)

Institutional Mission and Core Values

Paço das Artes is committed to:

Supporting Experimental Art: Providing platforms for artists who challenge traditional boundaries and innovate new forms of expression.
Championing Emerging Artists and Curators: Through open calls and flagship programs like Temporada de Projetos, it offers vital exposure, financial support, and professional development opportunities. (Contemporary And América Latina)
Accessibility and Inclusion: Ensuring all visitors can participate through adapted facilities, free programming, educational outreach, and partnerships with schools and NGOs. (USP Notícias)
Critical Engagement: Addressing contemporary social and environmental issues, and fostering dialogue through exhibitions, talks, and publications.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Tuesday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sundays and Holidays: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Closed on Mondays

(Paço das Artes Official Website)

Free Admission and Ticketing

Paço das Artes offers free admission to all exhibitions and most public programs. Occasionally, special events may require prior registration, so it’s advisable to check the official website for updates.

How to Get There

Address: Rua Albuquerque Lins, 1345, Higienópolis, São Paulo, SP, CEP 01230-001
By Metro: Near Marechal Deodoro station (Line 3-Red) and Higienópolis-Mackenzie station (Line 4-Yellow), both within walking distance.
By Bus: Multiple bus lines serve the Higienópolis area.
By Car: No on-site parking, but several paid parking lots are available nearby. The adjacent Shopping Pátio Higienópolis also offers parking.

(Paço das Artes Directions)

Accessibility

Fully wheelchair accessible: ramps, elevators, and adapted restrooms.
Staff trained to assist visitors with disabilities.
Information available in Portuguese and English.
Free group visits (in-person or virtual) can be scheduled in advance.

Facilities and Amenities

Cloakroom: Complimentary service for bags and small items.
Rest Areas: Comfortable seating throughout the space.
No on-site café: Numerous dining options are available in the neighborhood.

2025 Exhibition Highlights

“Ainda não é o fim do mundo” (31 January – 11 May 2025)

Curated by Renato De Cara, this landmark group exhibition brings together 58 works by 18 artists to examine the human impact on the environment. The show explores climate change, ecological crises, and possible futures through immersive and speculative art. (ABC do ABC, São Paulo Secreto)

Temporada de Projetos 2025 (from 31 May 2025)

A cornerstone initiative since 1996, Temporada de Projetos supports new artistic and curatorial voices. The 2025 edition features projects by Lina Cruvinel, Renan Soares, Thix, and curator Tálisson Melo. This program remains a vital platform for launching the careers of emerging talents. (Contemporary And América Latina)

Educational and Multidisciplinary Programs

Paço das Artes offers a robust suite of educational activities, including:

Workshops for all ages
Lectures and artist talks
Video screenings and performances
Thematic courses and creative process labs

The MaPA digital platform documents the institution’s history and showcases the work of Temporada de Projetos participants: http://mapa.pacodasartes.org.br

Special outreach programs such as Paço Educativo offer free transportation and tailored visits for schools and NGOs, furthering the institution’s mission to democratize access to art. (USP Notícias)

Community Engagement and Partnerships

Paço das Artes maintains close ties with the University of São Paulo and other academic institutions, facilitating exhibitions by students and collaborations with faculty. The institution’s integration into the local community is also evidenced by its partnerships with NGOs and cultural organizations, strengthening São Paulo’s cultural fabric. (Viajante Sem Fim)

Nearby Attractions and Cultural Sites

MASP (Museu de Arte de São Paulo): Renowned for its architecture and Western art collection (MASP).
Pinacoteca de São Paulo: Brazil’s oldest art museum specializing in 19th–21st century Brazilian art (Pinacoteca de São Paulo).
Shopping Pátio Higienópolis: Upscale mall with dining and shopping (Shopping Pátio Higienópolis).
Casa das Rosas, Galeria Nara Roesler, MAC USP, IMS Paulista: Other key cultural sites within easy reach.
Buenos Aires Park: Green space for relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are Paço das Artes visiting hours?
A: Tuesday to Saturday, 11:00–19:00; Sundays and holidays, 12:00–18:00. Closed Mondays.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, admission is free for all exhibitions and most programs.

Q: Is Paço das Artes wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Q: How do I get there by public transport?
A: Walkable from Marechal Deodoro (Line 3) and Higienópolis-Mackenzie (Line 4) metro stations.

Q: Can I take photographs inside?
A: Policies vary by exhibition; check at the entrance.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, check the website for scheduling information.

Visitor Tips

Check the official website before your visit for exhibition updates, special events, or any changes to opening hours. (Paço das Artes Official Website)
Plan to arrive early to fully enjoy exhibitions, talks, and workshops.
Combine your visit with nearby museums and dining options in Higienópolis.
Stay connected by subscribing to the Paço das Artes newsletter and following their social media for the latest news.

References

Summary and Recommendations

Paço das Artes seamlessly integrates São Paulo’s historical heritage with a forward-thinking vision for contemporary art. Its commitment to accessibility, diversity, and critical engagement makes it an inclusive and dynamic environment for visitors of all backgrounds. Whether you are interested in innovative exhibitions, educational programming, or simply exploring São Paulo’s cultural highlights, Paço das Artes offers an essential and enriching experience.

For up-to-date information on exhibitions, activities, and visitor services, always refer to the official website and subscribe to their channels. Download the Audiala app for curated itineraries and cultural updates. Plan your visit to experience the best of São Paulo’s vibrant art scene.