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Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts: A Gadsden Gem

Discover art, music, and culture at the Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts in Gadsden, Alabama's downtown cultural destination.

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The Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts, located in downtown Gadsden, Alabama, is a cultural hub offering art exhibitions, performing arts, and educational programs. Opened in 1990, the center hosts over 100,000 visitors annually and features art galleries, a children's museum, and spaces for musical and theatrical performances.

A brief summary to Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts

Local tips

  • Check the Hardin Center's website for a calendar of events, including art exhibitions, live performances, and workshops.
  • Consider attending an opening reception for a new art exhibition to meet the artists and learn about their work firsthand.
  • Take advantage of the Hardin Center's educational programs, such as art classes and workshops, to explore your own creativity.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From anywhere in downtown Gadsden, the Hardin Center is easily accessible on foot. If you're near Gadsden City Hall, walk east along Broad Street. The Hardin Center will be on your right, occupying a prominent corner building. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The Gadsden Trolley System provides public transportation in Gadsden. Several routes serve the downtown area. Check the Gadsden Trolley System website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. Regular fares are $1.00. Discounted fares are available for seniors, people with disabilities, and those on Medicaid.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from anywhere in Gadsden to the Hardin Center is a convenient option. From the Gadsden Mall, a ride would typically cost between $8 and $12, depending on demand. Provide the driver with the address: 501 Broad Street, Gadsden, AL 35901.

  • Driving

    If driving from areas surrounding Gadsden, navigate towards Broad Street (US-431). The Hardin Center is located at 501 Broad Street. Parking is available on the street and in nearby lots. Metered street parking typically costs around $1 per hour, with a two-hour limit. Several public parking lots are within a block or two, with rates ranging from $3-5 for the day.

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Discover more about Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts

Located in the heart of downtown Gadsden, the Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts is a cornerstone of the city's artistic and cultural life. The center's unusual triangular shape and cylindrical structure have become iconic, symbolizing the educational opportunities and entertainment the arts bring to the community. The Hardin Center opened in 1990 under the direction of the Gadsden Cultural Arts Foundation. Today, it welcomes over 100,000 visitors each year to experience its diverse offerings. These include rotating national and local art exhibitions in its three galleries, musical performances, dinner theaters, and courtyard concerts. The Imagination Place Children's Museum, located adjacent to the Hardin Center, provides hands-on learning experiences for young visitors. The center also houses the Gadsden Community School for the Arts, and the Etowah Youth Orchestras. The building itself has a rich history. Originally constructed in the early 20th century, it served various purposes, including a department store and a government office, before being transformed into the cultural arts center. The renovation preserved many original architectural features, blending history with contemporary design. The Hardin Center is committed to artistic excellence, education, and community engagement.

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