About the Tampa Museum of Art
The Tampa Museum of Art (TMA) is a cultural institution in downtown Tampa, Florida, located in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. It presents historical and contemporary art and offers educational and community programs. The museum has contributed to downtown Tampa’s revitalization, attracting locals and visitors, and has hosted major cultural events such as the annual Gasparilla Festival of the Arts.
History
Founding and architecture
Established in 1979 through the efforts of local art enthusiasts and civic leaders, the museum began in a modest downtown building that provided space for exhibitions and community programs.
In 2010, the museum opened a new building designed by architect Stanley Saitowitz. The modernist structure features an aluminum exterior and expansive glass walls. Located in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, it was designed to emphasize transparency and openness and to accommodate larger and more diverse exhibitions (Tampa Museum of Art).
Collection development and future plans
The collection includes ancient Greek and Roman antiquities, described as among the finest in the southeastern United States, as well as 20th-century and contemporary art. Artists represented include Roy Lichtenstein, Robert Rauschenberg, and Cindy Sherman (Tampa Museum of Art Collection).
An expansion plan was slated for completion in 2025. It includes new gallery spaces, a state-of-the-art education center, and enhanced visitor amenities, with the aim of increasing the museum’s capacity for major exhibitions and educational programs (TMA Expansion Plans; Tampa Museum of Art Expansion Plans).
What to see and do
The museum has presented exhibitions including “The American Impressionists in the Garden,” featuring American artists influenced by French Impressionism, and “Vapor and Vibration: The Art of Larry Bell and Jesús Rafael Soto,” exploring light and space in contemporary art (Exhibitions at TMA).
Educational offerings include art classes, workshops, and lectures for all age groups. The museum also works with local schools and organizations to provide arts education to underserved populations. Its “Art on the House” initiative offers free admission on Thursday evenings (TMA Education Programs).
Practical visiting information
Visiting hours
- Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM–8:00 PM; free admission from 4:00 PM–8:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Sunday: 1:00 PM–5:00 PM
Ticket prices
- Adults: $15
- Seniors (65 and over): $7.50
- Military (with ID): $7.50
- Students (with ID): $5
- Children (6 and under): Free
Membership options are available and include additional benefits.
Accessibility and tours
The museum is fully accessible, with wheelchair access, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Wheelchairs and other accommodations are available. Guided tours are often included with admission and offer insights into the collections and exhibitions.
Tips
The museum is accessible by car, public transit, and on foot. Parking is available at nearby lots and garages.
Nearby places
Nearby attractions include Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, the Tampa Riverwalk, the Glazer Children’s Museum, the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts, and the Tampa Bay History Center.
The museum received the “Best Museum” title from Creative Loafing Tampa Bay in 2013. Its architectural design has also received American Institute of Architects (AIA) awards (Creative Loafing Tampa Bay).
FAQ
What are the visiting hours for the Tampa Museum of Art?
See the visiting hours above. Thursday hours include free admission from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
How much are tickets to the Tampa Museum of Art?
See the ticket prices above.
Is the museum accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes. The museum is fully accessible, and wheelchairs and other accommodations are available.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Guided tours are often included with admission.
What other attractions are nearby?
See the nearby places listed above.
