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New Britain Museum of American Art: A Hub for American Art

Explore four centuries of American art at the nation's first museum dedicated solely to American artistic heritage in New Britain, CT.

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The New Britain Museum of American Art (NBMAA), established in 1903, stands as the first museum in the United States dedicated solely to American art. With a collection spanning four centuries, the museum showcases the evolution of American artistic identity.

A brief summary to New Britain Museum of American Art

  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-8 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website for information on free admission days for New Britain residents and monthly free admission days supported by the Art Bridges Foundation's Access for All program.
  • Take advantage of the free parking available in the lots behind and to the left of the museum, as well as street parking on Lexington Street and along Walnut Hill Park.
  • Visit the Stanley Black & Decker Makerspace and the Art & Book Nook for family-friendly activities included with museum admission.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The NBMAA is accessible via public transportation. From downtown New Britain, including the CTfastrak Downtown New Britain station, local CTTransit buses provide service to the area. Check CTTransit schedules for specific routes and times. A single-ride bus fare is typically around $1.75.

  • Walking

    From many points in downtown New Britain, the museum is accessible by foot. From Main Street, walk west and turn onto Lexington Street. The museum will be on your left, adjacent to Walnut Hill Park. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on your starting point.

  • Driving

    If driving, the museum is located at 56 Lexington Street, New Britain, CT 06052. From I-84, take Exit 35 onto Route 72E. Follow signs to New Britain and take the Columbus Blvd exit. Turn right onto Lake Street, then right onto West Main Street. Turn left onto Lexington Street before the Bank of America. The museum and free parking lot are on the left. Free parking is available in the museum lot and on nearby streets.

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Discover more about New Britain Museum of American Art

The New Britain Museum of American Art (NBMAA) holds the distinction of being the first museum in the United States dedicated exclusively to American art. Founded in 1903, its roots trace back to the New Britain Institute, established in 1853 to promote education and art within the community. The museum's creation was spurred by a bequest from John Butler Talcott, intended to acquire original, modern oil paintings. Today, the NBMAA's collection has grown to over 8,400 works, encompassing paintings, sculptures, illustrations and more. The museum's collection offers a comprehensive survey of American art history, featuring colonial and federal portraits, Hudson River School landscapes, and American Impressionist works. Noteworthy holdings include Thomas Hart Benton's mural series, "The Arts of Life in America," and the Sanford B.D. Low Memorial Illustration Collection, the first museum collection dedicated to American illustration. The museum also showcases contemporary art, including post-contemporary pieces centered around Graydon Parrish's "The Cycle of Terror and Tragedy," an allegorical tribute to the victims of the September 11 attacks. Visitors can explore the museum's galleries, participate in educational programs, and enjoy the surrounding Walnut Hill Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. The NBMAA also hosts special events, classes, and community outreach programs.

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