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Carnegie Visual Arts Center: A Decatur Gem

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Explore diverse art exhibits and educational programs at the Carnegie Visual Arts Center, a historic landmark in Decatur, Alabama's downtown.

Housed in a beautifully preserved historic Carnegie Library, the Carnegie Visual Arts Center in Decatur, Alabama, is a vibrant hub for arts and culture. Opened in 2003, the center offers diverse exhibitions, educational programs, and events for all ages.

A brief summary to Carnegie Visual Arts Center

  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-2 pm

Local tips

  • Admission to the Carnegie Visual Arts Center is free, though donations are welcome.
  • Check the Carnegie's website or call ahead for information on current exhibits, events, and workshops.
  • Visit during the annual Carnegie Carnival in late February or early March for a festive Mardi Gras-style celebration.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of 2nd Ave and Moulton St in downtown Decatur, walk north on 2nd Ave NE. Turn right onto Church St NE. The Carnegie Visual Arts Center will be on your right, a short walk from the intersection. This is a straightforward walk within the downtown area.

  • Driving

    If driving from elsewhere in Decatur, navigate towards the downtown area. From US-31, turn onto 6th Ave NE towards downtown. Turn left onto Moulton St NE, then turn right onto 2nd Ave NE. Turn right onto Church St NE. Limited street parking is available near the Carnegie Visual Arts Center. Free parking is also available in downtown Decatur. Monthly parking is available in the City Parking Deck for $56 per month.

  • Public Transport

    NARCOG Transit serves the City of Decatur. This service is available by scheduling a ride at least 24 hours in advance by calling (256) 580-2088. Each one-way trip is $2, payable in exact change upon boarding. Connect cards are available for $20.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Decatur. Taxi rates start at approximately $1.90 per mile. A 5-mile taxi ride would cost around $16. Voidz Transportation offers local rides starting at $10 for up to 2 miles, with $2.50 per mile thereafter. Johnny Cab offers flat rates of $13.

Discover more about Carnegie Visual Arts Center

The Carnegie Visual Arts Center, a cornerstone of Decatur's commitment to the arts, resides in the historic Carnegie Library building, constructed in 1904 with funding from Andrew Carnegie. For nearly seven decades, it served as Decatur's public library, later becoming a children's library and then a youth center for the First Baptist Church.In 1997, the Decatur Arts Council leased the building and transformed it into an arts center, opening in 2003. The center hosts local, regional, and national exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing various visual art mediums. Art classes, workshops, lectures, and camps are offered in the Daikin America Education Center. The Carnegie also has a strong children's art education program that fosters creativity.Past exhibits have included Anne Frank's life in words and photos, traditional Northwest Indian masks, and textile art. The annual Carnegie Carnival, a Mardi Gras-style celebration, is a highlight, drawing crowds and supporting the center's mission. The Carnival includes a children's parade, a Red Beans n' Rice Cookoff, and an evening parade with elaborate floats. The Carnegie Visual Arts Center is a welcoming destination for art enthusiasts and community members alike.

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