- Type: Museums
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NileGuide Expert Says:
The Smart Museum is one of several lesser known gems of the south side, provided by U of C. The museum is small and quaint, but has a surprisingly wide ranging collection that will be of interest for curious art seekers.
NileGuide Expert tip:
On a nice day, the outdoor seating area is a peaceful place to rest. Be prepared to walk about 1 mile from the Garfield Green line. Free street parking is available for drivers.
Description:
The University of Chicago's fine-arts museum looks rather modest, but it packs a lot of talent into a compact space. Its permanent collection of more than 7,000 paintings and sculptures spans Western and Eastern civilizations, ranging from classical antiquity to the present day. Bona fide treasures include ancient Greek vases, Chinese bronzes, and Old Master paintings; Frank Lloyd Wright furniture; Tiffany glass; sculptures by Degas, Matisse, and Rodin; and 20th-century paintings and sculptures by Mark Rothko, Arthur Dove, Diego Rivera, Henry Moore, and Chicago sculptor Richard Hunt. Built in 1974, the contemporary building doesn't really fit in with the campus's Gothic architecture, but its sculpture garden and outdoor seating area make a nice place for quiet contemplation. The museum also has a gift shop and cafe. Allow 1 hour.
- © Frommer's 2013
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Ask a local about The Smart Museum of Art
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Ask Chicago Locals about The Smart Museum of Art
Awards:
Frommer's
- Recommended 2010
- Details
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Contact:
- visit website
- tel: 773/702-0200
- fax: +1 773 702 3121
Address:
- 5550 S. Greenwood Ave
- At E. 55th St
- Chicago, IL 60615
Neighborhood:
Hyde ParkHours:
- Tues-Fri 10am-4pm (Thurs until 8pm); Sat-Sun 11am-5pm
Strenuousness:
- No Sweat
- User Rating
