The Sea Monster by Albrecht Dürer, depicting a mythical sea creature seizing two nude women

University Of Michigan Museum Of Art

University of Michigan Museum of Art Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide to Ann Arbor Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA) is a cornerstone of Ann Arbor’s cultural landscape, blending more than a century of history with a dynamic mission rooted in accessibility, diversity, and community engagement. As one of the nation’s premier university art museums, UMMA invites the public to explore a collection of over 20,000 works, participate in civic dialogues, and experience exhibitions that bridge the past and present. Whether you are an art lover, student, or first-time visitor, this comprehensive guide provides all the essential information for planning your visit, including museum hours, ticketing details, collection highlights, accessibility resources, and nearby attractions (UMMA Collection History) (Wikipedia).

Alumni Memorial Hall building at University of Michigan with historic architecture

University of Michigan Museum of Art Central Campus building exterior

Detail of Taima Temple Mandala showing Amida welcoming Chûjôhime to the Western Paradise in Japan

Flying Angels and Putti artwork by Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo

Solar effect in the clouds over the ocean by Gustave Le Gray

Illustration of a man signing a will in an old-fashioned room

Traditional Japanese artwork of a beauty under cherry blossoms

Krishna massaging the feet of Radha in a traditional Indian painting from Punjab Hills depicting a scene possibly from the Gita Govinda

Traditional Japanese artwork of a man hanging a poem on a cherry tree

Nocturne by James McNeill Whistler, 1878, lithotint with scraping on blue-grey paper

Portrait painting of Annie Haden by James McNeill Whistler

Painting of a misty sea with rain and a sailing ship

Painting of the River Thames by James McNeill Whistler

Painting of Saints Paul and Anthony in the Desert

Jan van Hemessen painting depicting the Parable of the Unmerciful Servant

University of Michigan painting by Jasper Cropsey

Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot Landscape Studies Italy painting with trees and hills

Engraving of Villa Madama with intricate architectural details

The Shepherdess painting by Jean-François Millet depicting a woman in rural attire tending sheep in a pastoral landscape

John James Audubon's White American Wolf illustration

Vintage painting of a serene riverside scene with sailboats and a distant town

St Corbinian of Freising with a bear depicted in brown ink and gray wash artwork

Peacock mosaic artwork by Louis Comfort Tiffany in Henry O. Havemeyer's New York house entrance hall

Processional Cross artwork by Neri di Bicci

St. Corbinian of Freising and the Bear depicted in brown ink and gray wash artwork

Illuminated chapter heading from the Ann Arbor Shahnama featuring Persian and Timurid schools of art

Ancient Chinese calligraphy poem by Shitao on a Wanli era imperial brush

Emancipation Group sculpture by Thomas Ball depicting Abraham Lincoln with a freed African American family

Thomas Ball's Emancipation Group sculpture depicting Abraham Lincoln with freed slaves

Thomas Ball's Emancipation Group sculpture depicting Abraham Lincoln with a freed African American family

Thomas Ball Emancipation Group sculpture showing Abraham Lincoln with a freed African American family

Statue of Thomas Ball's Emancipation Group showing a woman breaking chains with a man behind her and a small child

Painting of Salome holding the head of John the Baptist

Entrance to the Maxine and Stuart Frankel Family Wing at University of Michigan Museum of Art

University of Michigan Art Museum exterior view with clear sky

Origins and Early Development
Architectural Evolution and Expansion
Growth of the Collection
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets & Admission
Getting There: Travel Tips and Parking
Accessibility
Special Events, Guided Tours & Photo Opportunities
Nearby Attractions in Ann Arbor
FAQ
Explore More & Stay Connected
Notable Collection Highlights
Conclusion & Call to Action
References

Origins and Early Development

UMMA’s origins trace back to 1856, making it one of the oldest university art collections in the United States. Initially established as a teaching gallery, its early collection consisted of plaster casts and engravings, serving both educational and public enrichment purposes (UMMA Collection History). This foundational commitment to integrating the arts within academia distinguished the University of Michigan long before major civic art museums emerged in the Midwest.

Architectural Evolution and Expansion

The museum’s architectural heritage is rooted in the Alumni Memorial Hall, opened in 1910 and designed in the Beaux-Arts tradition as a tribute to Civil War alumni. In 2009, UMMA expanded with the Maxine and Stuart Frankel and the Frankel Family Wing, a modern addition by Allied Works Architecture that nearly doubled exhibition space and introduced new educational and community facilities (UMMA About). This harmonious blend of historic and contemporary design reflects UMMA’s mission to bridge tradition and innovation.

Growth of the Collection

UMMA’s permanent collection has grown to over 20,000 objects, representing global artistic traditions and historical periods:

European Art: Works from the Renaissance to the 19th century, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
Asian Art: Over 6,000 objects, with strengths in Chinese and Japanese painting, ceramics, and Buddhist sculptures (UMMA Asian Art).
African Art: Notable for Central and West African masks, textiles, and contemporary works.
Modern and Contemporary Art: Key pieces by Pablo Picasso, Joan Mitchell, Helen Frankenthaler, and more, highlighting movements such as Cubism, Abstract Expressionism, and contemporary practices (UMMA Modern Art).
Decorative Art & Design: American and European ceramics, glass, stained glass by Louis Comfort Tiffany, and furniture by Frank Lloyd Wright (UMMA Decorative Art).
Photography & Works on Paper: Prints, drawings, and rare books, including Rembrandt etchings and Japanese ukiyo-e prints.

UMMA was among the first U.S. museums to digitize its collections, greatly enhancing research and teaching opportunities (UMMA Digital Access).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets & Admission

Hours:
- Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Extended hours Thursday: open until 9:00 PM
- Closed Mondays and major holidays
- Always confirm on the UMMA Visit page for the latest updates.
Admission:
- Free for all visitors. Donations are encouraged.
Tickets:
- No tickets required for general admission. Special exhibitions or events may require separate tickets or advance registration.

Getting There: Travel Tips and Parking

Location: 525 South State Street, Ann Arbor, MI
Parking: Metered street parking and nearby public garages (Thompson Street, Maynard Street). Arrive early during university events.
Public Transit: Served by Ann Arbor’s TheRide bus system; stops are close to the museum.
Directions: Easy walk from downtown Ann Arbor; detailed directions on the UMMA website.

Accessibility

UMMA is committed to inclusivity and accessibility:

Wheelchair-accessible entrances and elevators
Accessible restrooms and seating
Assistive listening devices for tours and programs
Sensory kits available for visitors with sensitivities
Service animals welcome
Contact UMMA in advance for specific accommodation requests (UMMA Visitor Experience)

Special Events, Guided Tours & Photo Opportunities

Guided Tours: Free docent-led tours on select days; group tours by appointment
Special Events: Regular workshops, lectures, family activities, and collaborative projects with local schools
Art Engagement: Innovative participatory exhibitions, such as community-curated shows and civic engagement programs (Artnet News)
Photography: Non-flash photography is generally allowed except where noted; no tripods or selfie sticks

Nearby Attractions in Ann Arbor

Enhance your visit by exploring nearby sites:

Kelsey Museum of Archaeology (Kelsey Museum)
Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum (interactive science exhibits)
Nichols Arboretum (walking trails and gardens)
Kerrytown District (shops and cafes)
University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (UMMNH)
Matthaei Botanical Gardens (MBGNA)

See the Ann Arbor Visitor Guide for more ideas.

FAQ

Q: What are UMMA’s hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (Thursday until 9:00 PM). Closed Mondays.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, general admission is always free.

Q: Are tickets required?
A: No tickets for general entry; special events may require registration.

Q: Is UMMA wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, fully accessible.

Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Non-flash photography is allowed except where noted; restrictions may apply for special exhibitions.

Q: Where can I park?
A: Metered street parking and public garages nearby.

Explore More & Stay Connected

Browse the UMMA Online Collection for high-resolution images and object information.
Follow UMMA on social media for exhibition updates, event news, and digital content.
Download the Audiala app for audio tours, interactive maps, and enhanced visitor experiences.

Notable Collection Highlights

Claude Monet, “The Break-up of the Ice” – Impressionist masterpiece
Helen Frankenthaler, “Sunset Corner” – Abstract expressionism
Senufo Helmet Mask (Côte d’Ivoire) – Iconic West African ritual art
Japanese Ukiyo-e Prints by Hokusai and Hiroshige – Celebrated Edo period woodblock prints
Rembrandt Etchings – Dutch Golden Age
Mickalene Thomas, “Portrait of Mnonja” – Contemporary portraiture

Find more on the UMMA Collection page.

Conclusion & Call to Action

The University of Michigan Museum of Art offers a unique experience where history, creativity, and community converge. Engaging exhibitions, a commitment to inclusivity and social justice, and free access make UMMA a must-visit destination in Ann Arbor. Plan your visit today, explore the digital collection, and discover Ann Arbor’s vibrant cultural offerings alongside UMMA (UMMA official site). For the most current information on hours, events, and visitor tips, always check the official website.

Download the Audiala app for an enhanced visit and follow UMMA on social channels to keep up with the latest news and exhibitions.