Museo de Arte y Diseño Contemporáneo (MADC)
Explore contemporary Central American art and design in a historic San José setting at the Museo de Arte y Diseño Contemporáneo (MADC).
The Museo de Arte y Diseño Contemporáneo (MADC) in San José, Costa Rica, is dedicated to showcasing contemporary art and design, with a focus on Central American works. Housed in a historic former liquor factory, the museum offers a dynamic space for innovative exhibitions and cultural engagement.
A brief summary to MADC
- Av. 3, Calle 15. Costado Oeste de la Biblioteca Nacional. Antigua Fanal San José CR, San José, El Carmen, San José Province, CR
- +50622577202
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-4:50 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:50 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:50 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:50 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:50 pm
Local tips
- Check the MADC's website for current exhibitions and events to make the most of your visit.
- Visit on a weekday for a more relaxed experience.
- Explore the outdoor spaces for unique installations and events.
Getting There
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Walking
From Parque Nacional, walk west along Avenida 3. The MADC is located on Calle 15, on the west side of the Biblioteca Nacional, approximately a 5-minute walk. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
Take any bus that stops near the Biblioteca Nacional. From there, walk west along Avenida 3 to Calle 15. The MADC is on the west side of the library. Bus fares in San José typically range from 200 to 400 colones (approximately $0.30 to $0.80 USD) for short trips.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in San José. Ask the driver to take you to the Museo de Arte y Diseño Contemporáneo (MADC) next to the Biblioteca Nacional on Avenida 3, Calle 15. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs between 580 and 2500 colones.
Discover more about MADC
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monge
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Discover the latest appliances and electronics at Monge, conveniently located near San José's beautiful Parque Morazán.
Monumento don José de San Martín
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A tribute to South American independence hero, General José de San Martín, in the heart of San José, Costa Rica.
Blue Castle - Legislature
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Discover the Blue Castle, Costa Rica's Legislative Assembly in San José, a symbol of democracy and political history. A must-see landmark!
Monumento a Carlos Gardel
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Explore the Monumento a Carlos Gardel in San José, a tribute to tango's legendary voice, capturing the heart and soul of Costa Rica's vibrant culture.
Galería Talentum
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Discover Costa Rican art and history in a beautifully restored mansion in San José's vibrant Otoya neighborhood.
Bulevar Ricardo Jiménez en San José, Costa Rica
0.4 km
Discover the historical beauty of Bulevar Ricardo Jiménez in San José, where cultural heritage meets modern vibrancy in the heart of Costa Rica.
Restaurante Nuestra Tierra
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Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine in the heart of San José, next to Plaza de la Democracia. A culinary landmark for over two decades.
Our Lady of Solitude Catholic Church
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Discover the serene beauty and spiritual significance of Our Lady of Solitude Catholic Church in San José, a must-visit destination for cultural explorers.
Teatro de la Aduana
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Experience Costa Rican culture at the historic Teatro de la Aduana in San José's vibrant Barrio Escalante.
Sendero Escalante
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A vibrant cultural center in San José's Barrio Escalante, fostering creativity, community, and environmental awareness.
El reloj de la fuente de la Avenida Central
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A historical landmark and meeting point on San José's bustling Avenida Central, featuring a sculpted fountain and clock tower.
SJ letrero
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Capture the spirit of San José at the vibrant SJ Letrero, a colorful landmark and must-see photo stop in Costa Rica's capital.
Alma De Cafe
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Experience Costa Rican coffee culture inside San José's iconic National Theatre. A perfect blend of history, art, and flavor.
La Casa Amón 1910
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Step back in time at La Casa Amón 1910, a beautifully preserved historical landmark in San José's charming Barrio Amón.
Centro de Investigación y Conservación del Patrimonio Cultural
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Explore Costa Rica's cultural roots at this San José landmark, dedicated to preserving the nation's heritage and traditions.
Unmissable attractions to see
Plaza de la Libertad Electoral
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Experience tranquility at Plaza de la Libertad Electoral - a serene park in the heart of San José, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Botánica Chocolate
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Discover the art of chocolate-making at Botánica Chocolate in San José, where every bite tells a story of Costa Rican flavor and tradition.
Parque Nacional
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Explore the enchanting Parque Nacional in San José, Costa Rica, where nature meets art in a serene urban escape.
Parque España
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Explore the lush greenery and cultural charm of Parque España, a serene urban oasis in the heart of San José, Costa Rica.
Museo del Jade
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Explore the rich archaeological heritage of Costa Rica at the Museo del Jade, home to the largest collection of jade artifacts in the Americas.
Costa Rica Tours
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Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Costa Rica through expertly guided tours in San José Province.
National Museum of Costa Rica
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Explore the vibrant history and culture of Costa Rica at the National Museum, a captivating gem in San José showcasing pre-Columbian artifacts and more.
City of Color Murals
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Discover the artistic soul of Costa Rica at the City of Color Murals, where every wall is a masterpiece reflecting local culture and creativity.
Plaza de la Democracia y de la Abolición del Ejército
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Discover San José's Plaza de la Democracia: a symbol of Costa Rica's commitment to peace, democracy, and cultural heritage.
Templo de la Música
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Discover the Templo de la Música in San José: a neoclassical landmark hosting vibrant cultural events in the heart of Morazán Park.
Av. Central
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Experience the vibrant culture and lively atmosphere of San José at Av. Central, the heart of Costa Rica's capital city.
Simón Bolívar Zoo and Botanical Garden
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Discover the vibrant wildlife and stunning botanical displays at Simón Bolívar Zoo and Botanical Garden in San José, Costa Rica.
Morazán Park
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Experience the tranquility and cultural richness of Morazán Park, a lush haven in the heart of San José, Costa Rica.
Galería Namú
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Discover contemporary Costa Rican art at Galería Namú, a vibrant gallery in San José showcasing local talent and cultural richness.
PrimercircuitoJudicialdeSan Jose
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Discover the Judicial Circuit Museum of San Jose, a captivating journey through Costa Rica's legal history and cultural heritage.
Essential places to dine
Café Otoya
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Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Café Otoya in San José—where local ingredients meet warm hospitality.
HOWM
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Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at HOWM in San José's vibrant Otoya district—where flavor meets tradition.
Marelis Kitchen Restaurante y Cafetería
0.2 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Marelis Kitchen Restaurante y Cafetería in San José's Otoya district - a brunch lover's paradise!
Café Mundo
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Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Café Mundo in San José - where delicious food meets vibrant ambiance.
La Esquinita de la Abuela
0.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at La Esquinita de la Abuela - where tradition meets taste in San José's vibrant Otoya neighborhood.
La Linea Restaurant and Bar
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Experience authentic Costa Rican grill cuisine at La Linea Restaurant and Bar in Otoya – where flavors meet tradition.
La Criollita
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October Six Café Bistró
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at October Six Café Bistró in San José, where local flavors meet international cuisine in a cozy setting.
Amor de Barrio
0.3 km
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Del Mar
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Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Del Mar, a must-visit restaurant in San José offering exquisite cuisine and a charming atmosphere.
Café de los Deseos
0.3 km
Discover Café de los Deseos: A charming gastropub in San José offering delightful cuisine and a cozy atmosphere for every traveler.
Sapore Trattoria San José
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Sapore Trattoria in San José—where every dish is crafted with passion and tradition.
Restaurante El Patio Del Balmoral
0.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante El Patio Del Balmoral in San José - a culinary gem offering delightful local dishes.
El Buen Comer
0.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at El Buen Comer in San José—where every meal is a taste of tradition.
Azotea Calle 7
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La Salamandra
0.1 km
Discover unique Costa Rican fashion at La Salamandra, a clothing store in San José's vibrant Otoya district, where quality meets local artistry.
El Taller CR
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Explore El Taller CR in San José for unique, locally crafted products that embody the spirit of Costa Rican culture.
Arteria
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Explore Arteria in San José for unique Costa Rican crafts and souvenirs that capture the essence of local culture and artistry.
Tienda Eñe
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Tienda Ropa Americana
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Discover unique American-style clothing at Tienda Ropa Americana in San José, Costa Rica, blending fashion and local culture seamlessly.
Artesanias y Souvenirs diduGO
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Flea Room
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Baula Souvenir Shop
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District Shop
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Chinese Center Articles
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Rosa Mater
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Souvenir la Fortuna del Arenal
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Pura Vida Souvenirs
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Asianshopcr
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Tienda Y Souvenirs Etnias
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Stiefel Pub Otoya
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Koktela
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Chubbs Bar
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El Social Morazán
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Butts Bar Metal
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House Pub La Cali
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Rafa's Bar
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Rafa's Bar in El Carmen, San José - where locals and tourists unite over delightful drinks and lively atmosphere.
Casa Félix
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La Concha de la Lora
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Mercado La California
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La Flota
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Flota in San José, where affordable drinks and a friendly atmosphere await every traveler.
INK Cactus
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Bahamas
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Area City Bar
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Bar La Cali
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Discover the vibrant nightlife of San José at Bar La Cali, a lively bar known for its extensive drinks menu and energetic atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Boiler
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Dive into the energetic nightlife of Boiler in San José, where vibrant music and dancing create unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
La Chicha
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Discover the vibrant nightlife of San José at La Chicha, where great music, affordable drinks, and an electric atmosphere await you.
Club Avalon
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Puchos
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Puchos, a lively night club in San José's Barrio Chino, offering an unforgettable blend of music, dance, and local culture.
El Sub
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Discover the pulse of San José's nightlife at El Sub, a vibrant night club in the heart of Amón, where music and fun never stop.
Fiesta Latina
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Discover the electrifying atmosphere of Fiesta Latina in San José, where vibrant music, dance, and culture create an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Vip´s
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Dive into the vibrant nightlife of San José at Vip's, a premier nightclub offering unforgettable music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere.
Bar Jet set
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Discover the vibrant nightlife at Bar Jet Set in San José, a premier night club offering electrifying music and unforgettable experiences.
Club Babylon
0.8 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of San José at Club Babylon, where energy, music, and dance come together for an unforgettable experience.
Club Miami
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Discover the vibrant nightlife of Club Miami in San José, where music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences await you in the heart of the city.
Club Alcazar
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of San José at Club Alcazar - the ultimate destination for dance, music, and fun.
Zona Rosa
0.9 km
Discover the heart of San José's nightlife at Zona Rosa, where craft cocktails and vibrant music create an unforgettable experience.
Josephine Nicole Night Club
1.0 km
Dive into the lively nightlife of San José at Josephine Nicole Night Club, where music and fun create unforgettable experiences.
Pink Panther Club
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Discover the electric nightlife of San José at Pink Panther Club - a vibrant destination for dancing and entertainment.
Spectro Club
1.0 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of San José at Spectro Club, where unforgettable dance experiences await every weekend.
