When you think of art destinations, what are the places that come to mind? Most would say Paris, Venice, London, and New York City. While those are great cities for art museums, galleries, and inspiration, there are other cities, right here in the U.S., with exceptional art scenes.

museums and galleries
Tomas Rodriguez

Whether you’re an artist, collector, or simply have a deep appreciation for art, here are under-the-radar destinations in the U.S. you should visit:

Related: Do You Love Art? Here Are Museums And Galleries Highlighting Art Across The African Diaspora

St. Petersburg, Florida

Miami is known for its art scene and Art Basel Miami, but St. Petersburg shouldn’t be slept on. From The Dali to street art, galleries, and the Chihuly Collection, St. Petersburg has a lot of art to look forward to. Stay at The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club to be within walking distance of the city’s art scene.

 

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Fort Worth, Texas

Spend the day exploring all Fort Worth’s art scene has to offer. Visit The Kimbell, Amon Carter Museum of American Art, and The Modern, just to name a few. There are many galleries featuring work from local and emerging artists such as Inspiration Alley, located in the Foundry District. 

Kinfolk House is a Black-owned art space that amplifies the city’s culture and talent through events and collaborative exhibits. 

 

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Grand Rapids, Michigan

When in Grand Rapids, you have to view works by Picasso and Andy Warhol at the Grand Rapids Art Museum. Stay at the Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilton, which was named one of the Historic Hotels of America’s top 25 most magnificent art collections of 2022. 

Each year, Grand Rapids hosts ArtPrize, an art competition celebrating artists globally. This year’s ArtPrize was held from September 15 to October 2.

 

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Reno, Nevada

Ditch the casinos for art. Head to the Nevada Museum of Art to get your visual art fix. The city’s Downtown and Midtown neighborhoods have over 100 murals. The sculpture garden in Bicentennial Park is the perfect place to walk around and explore. 

 

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Gatlinburg, Tennessee

This East Tennessee destination has a thriving arts community. Shop for and appreciate art at one of the galleries in the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, which spans eight miles. It is known as the United States’ largest independent organization of artisans. 

Related: São Paulo’s First Black-Owned Art Gallery Is Bringing The Art World To Brazil