Chrysler Museum of Art: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Norfolk Historical Sites Guide
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction
The Chrysler Museum of Art, located in the heart of Norfolk, Virginia, is a celebrated institution that weaves together 5,000 years of global artistic achievement. Since its founding in 1933 and the transformative donation by Walter P. Chrysler Jr. in 1971, the museum has grown into one of America’s foremost art destinations, with more than 30,000 objects in its collection. Visitors to the Chrysler Museum encounter a rich tapestry of European and American masterpieces, an internationally acclaimed glass collection, and artifacts representing cultures from around the world.
The museum’s free admission policy, inclusive programming, and engaging adjunct sites—such as the Perry Glass Studio and the Moses Myers House—underscore its commitment to accessibility and education. Whether you are an art connoisseur, a family seeking an interactive day out, or a traveler exploring Norfolk’s historical sites, this comprehensive guide will provide everything you need to plan your visit, including up-to-date hours, ticketing, exhibitions, accessibility, travel tips, and nearby attractions. For the latest updates, consult the official Chrysler Museum of Art website. (source 1, source 2, source 3)
Contents
- Introduction
- Founding and Historical Development
- Significance in the Art World
- European and American Masterpieces
- World-Class Glass Collection
- Global and Diverse Collections
- Academic and Cultural Resource
- Visiting Hours and Tickets
- Visiting Hours
- Admission and Tickets
- Special Events and Exhibitions
- Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
- Accessibility
- Facilities
- Planning Your Visit: Tips and Nearby Attractions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Cultural and Community Impact
- Conclusion and Call to Action
- Sources
Founding and Historical Development
The Chrysler Museum of Art began as the Norfolk Museum of Arts and Sciences in 1933, reflecting the city’s early commitment to public access to the arts. In 1971, Walter P. Chrysler Jr., an avid art collector and heir to the Chrysler automotive fortune, donated his personal collection, prompting the museum’s renaming and rapid expansion. Over the decades, the institution has grown both in collection size and physical footprint, with a major renovation in 2014 modernizing its galleries and amenities (chrysler.org, virginia.org).
Significance in the Art World
European and American Masterpieces
The Chrysler Museum houses one of the nation’s most distinguished collections of European art, with works spanning the 13th century to the modern era. Notable artists include Bernini, Rubens, van Dyck, Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Cassatt. The American art holdings feature Hudson River School landscapes, works by Thomas Cole, Winslow Homer, and American Impressionists (norfolkvisitor.com).
World-Class Glass Collection
The museum’s glass collection is internationally recognized, encompassing ancient Roman glass, Steuben vases, Tiffany Studios stained glass, and contemporary works by Dale Chihuly and William Morris. The adjacent Perry Glass Studio provides daily demonstrations and workshops for visitors of all skill levels (chrysler.org).
Global and Diverse Collections
Beyond European and American art, the Chrysler Museum presents significant collections from Africa, Asia, Egypt, India, and pre-Columbian America, offering a comprehensive narrative of world artistic traditions (whichmuseum.com).
Academic and Cultural Resource
The Jean Outland Chrysler Art Library is among the South’s premier research libraries, with over 106,000 volumes. The museum regularly hosts lectures, workshops, and educational programs for all ages (chrysler.org).
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Visiting Hours
- Tuesday–Saturday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Sunday: Noon–5 p.m.
- Monday: Closed
- Perry Glass Studio: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Always verify hours and any holiday exceptions on the official website.
Admission and Tickets
- General Admission: Free for all visitors (whichmuseum.com).
- Special Exhibitions/Events: Some may require advance tickets or registration; check the museum’s event calendar.
Special Events and Exhibitions
The museum regularly features special exhibitions, such as “The Quilts of Gee’s Bend,” “Photography Speaks,” and traveling collections. Consult the museum’s current exhibitions page before your visit.
Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
Accessibility
The Chrysler Museum is fully accessible, providing wheelchair ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and complimentary wheelchairs. Service animals are welcome.
Facilities
- Glass Studio: Free daily glassmaking demonstrations at noon, plus classes and workshops (chrysler.org).
- Jean Outland Chrysler Art Library: Open to the public Wednesday–Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., or by appointment.
- Museum Shop: Offers art-inspired gifts, jewelry, books, and exhibition catalogues.
- Zinnia Café: Serves light refreshments and lunch, Tuesday–Saturday 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Sunday noon–2 p.m.
- Parking: Free in museum lots; additional parking nearby.
Wi-Fi is available throughout the museum and grounds.
Planning Your Visit: Tips and Nearby Attractions
- Guided Tours: Free daily tours at 11 a.m. (Tuesday–Saturday) and 2 p.m. (Sunday). No advance booking required.
- Photography: Non-flash photography allowed in most permanent galleries; restrictions may apply for special exhibitions.
- Family-Friendly: Stroller access, family restrooms, and interactive programs for children.
- Sketching: Permitted in galleries with dry media; wet media requires advance approval.
- Travel and Transit: Accessible by public transportation (York Street/Freemason light rail, HRT bus routes).
Adjunct Sites
- Moses Myers House: Historic Federal-style home open weekends, offering insight into early 19th-century Jewish-American life (chrysler.org).
- Goode Works on Paper Center: Rotating exhibitions of prints, drawings, and photographs.
Nearby Norfolk Historical Sites
- Nauticus Maritime Museum & Battleship Wisconsin: Interactive maritime exhibits and a historic battleship.
- Freemason District: Norfolk’s oldest neighborhood with cobblestone streets and 19th-century architecture.
- Ghent District: Vibrant arts scene, boutiques, and cafes.
- MacArthur Center: Urban mall with retail and dining options.
- Norfolk Botanical Garden: Expansive gardens and seasonal events.
- Slover Library: Modern public library with digital resources and cultural programming.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the Chrysler Museum of Art visiting hours?
Tuesday–Saturday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sunday: noon–5 p.m.; closed Mondays.
Is admission free?
Yes. General admission is always free; some special events may require tickets.
Are guided tours available?
Yes, daily at 11 a.m. (Tuesday–Saturday) and 2 p.m. (Sunday).
Is the museum accessible?
Yes, fully wheelchair accessible with elevators and accessible restrooms.
Is parking available?
Yes, free parking is provided on-site and nearby.
Are children welcome?
Absolutely. The museum offers interactive exhibits and family programs.
Can I take photographs?
Non-flash photography is allowed in most galleries; restrictions may apply for special exhibits.
Are there dining options?
Yes, the Zinnia Café offers lunch and snacks.
What’s the address and contact information?
One Memorial Place, Norfolk, VA 23510. Phone: 757-333-6299.
Cultural and Community Impact
The Chrysler Museum of Art is a vital cultural anchor for Norfolk and the Hampton Roads region, fostering creativity, education, and engagement through its exhibitions, outreach, and innovative glass programs. Stewardship of historic sites like the Moses Myers House, as well as dynamic partnerships with local organizations, amplify its community presence and support the preservation of regional heritage (chrysler.org).
Conclusion and Call to Action
The Chrysler Museum of Art stands as a beacon for art lovers and cultural explorers, providing free and welcoming access to world-class collections, live glassmaking, and enriching programs. Its central location, robust visitor services, and proximity to other Norfolk historical sites make it a must-visit destination for all.
To plan your visit and stay updated on exhibitions and events, check the official Chrysler Museum of Art website. For enhanced experiences, download the Audiala app for audio guides, virtual tours, and exclusive content. Follow the museum and Audiala on social media for the latest news, event updates, and cultural guides.
Embrace the opportunity to discover Norfolk’s vibrant art and history—make the Chrysler Museum of Art your gateway to the city’s rich cultural landscape.
Sources
- Chrysler Museum of Art official website, 2025, Chrysler Museum of Art (https://chrysler.org/)
- Norfolk Visitor Guide to Chrysler Museum of Art, 2025, Norfolk Visitor (https://norfolkvisitor.com/chryslermuseum.html)
- Virginia Travel Tips on Norfolk Attractions, 2025, Virginia Travel Tips (https://virginiatraveltips.com/things-to-do-in-norfolk-va/)
- Chrysler Museum Visitor Guide and FAQs, 2025, Chrysler Museum of Art (https://chrysler.org/visit/)
- WhichMuseum.com Chrysler Museum Profile, 2025, WhichMuseum (https://whichmuseum.com/museum/chrysler-museum-of-art-norfolk-10112)
