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Yale University Art Gallery: A Treasure Trove of Art Through the Ages

Explore 300,000 art objects from around the world, spanning from ancient times to today, at Yale University's free art museum.

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The Yale University Art Gallery, established in 1832, stands as the oldest university art museum in the Western Hemisphere. With a collection of nearly 300,000 objects spanning ancient times to the present, the gallery offers an encyclopedic view of art from around the globe. Admission is free, making it accessible to all.

A brief summary to Yale University Art Gallery

  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-8 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Admission is free, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone.
  • Visit the museum's website to check for upcoming events, exhibitions, and programs.
  • Street parking is limited to 2 hours, consider parking in the Chapel-York Garage.
  • Large bags and backpacks are not permitted in the galleries; lockers are available.
  • Don't miss the Dura-Europos gallery, showcasing finds from a Roman-era Syrian fort.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Yale's Old Campus, walk east on Chapel Street. The Yale University Art Gallery is located at 1111 Chapel Street, on the corner of York Street. The main entrance is easily visible from the street.

  • Public Transport

    CT Transit buses serve the Yale University Art Gallery. Several bus routes stop near the gallery, including the 237, 238, 241, 243, 246, and 255. Check the CT Transit website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. A single ride fare is $1.75.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in New Haven. A short taxi ride from Union Station to the Yale University Art Gallery typically costs around $6-$10, depending on traffic. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or through the app before starting your trip.

  • Parking

    Limited metered street parking is available near the Yale University Art Gallery. However, parking garages offer a more convenient option. The Chapel-York Garage at 150 York Street is close by. Parking rates at garages typically range from $8 to $12 for a few hours. Metered street parking is in effect until 9pm, Monday through Saturday, with a 2-hour limit from 8am-5pm.

Unlock the Best of Yale University Art Gallery

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Discover more about Yale University Art Gallery

Founded in 1832, the Yale University Art Gallery holds the distinction of being the oldest university art museum in the Western Hemisphere. It began with a donation of over 100 paintings by John Trumbull, the patriot artist, to Yale College. Today, the gallery's encyclopedic collection has grown to encompass nearly 300,000 objects, representing diverse cultures and periods from ancient times to the present. The gallery's collection includes American paintings and decorative arts, Greek and Roman art (including artifacts from Dura-Europos), early Italian paintings, and European, Asian, and African art. Masterpieces by artists like Degas, van Gogh, Picasso, Monet and many more are showcased. The museum is housed in several interconnected buildings, including the Swartwout building, Street Hall, and the main building designed by Louis Kahn. Kahn's modernist building, completed in 1953, is considered his first major commission and a significant architectural achievement. The Yale University Art Gallery is not only a collecting institution but also an educational resource for Yale University, New Haven schools, and the general public. The Gallery offers various programs, including tours, lectures, and performances, all free and open to the public.

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