Museum of Fine Arts
Museum of Fine Arts
5
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
Boston's oldest, largest and best-known art institution, the MFA houses one of the world's most comprehensive art collections and is renowned for its Impressionist paintings, Asian and Egyptian collections and early American art.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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The area
Address
Neighbourhood: Fenway / Kenmore
The Curse of the Bambino may have ended years ago, but loyal Red Sox fans will continue to infiltrate this home to historic Fenway Park, where you can find victory banners, people yelling in stereotypical Boston accents, and lots of sports bars. Located within Kenmore Square, the old gas station Citgo sign is another Boston skyline classic seen throughout the city. In addition to a hectic and diehard sports mentality, this neighborhood is also home to some of Boston’s many universities. Move from Boston University territory to that of Northeastern, and spend time at the famous Museum of Fine Arts. For more culture, check out the smaller but equally beautiful Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Continue off the beaten path and check out the green space in the Back Bay Fens, a pretty community garden. This diverse neighborhood has a mix of universities, sports, culture, and more residential green space.
How to get there
- Museum of Fine Arts • 3 min walk
- Northeastern University • 5 min walk
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611 within 10 kms
See what travellers are saying
- Corneliu AMontreal, Canada358 contributionsUnmatched and exquisite collection of exhibitsIf you love museums, you'll find treasures of Egypt and the ancient world as well as American art from the colonial era to the modern era. Known as one of the greatest art museums in the world, the Museum of Fine Arts Boston is home to more Monets than any museum outside of Paris and an unrivaled collection of Japanese art, as well as priceless exhibits covering many periods. There is so much to see and explore, that you might spend a lot more time than originally planned. The parking lot is across the street from the museum and there are great food options at the MFA. You may want to purchase tickets online to skip the line at the venue. Admission is $27 for adults. It was a breathtaking experience, highly recommended.Visited July 2022Written 11 December 2022
- Lee LValhalla, New York1,920 contributionsGreat MuseumAn excellent museum, especially if you like Egyptian antiquities. I spent a full day here with about 3 hours in the Egyptian exhibits, the 4th dynasty stuff mostly of Menkaure from a dig the museum did in Egypt is phenomenal. The rest of the day I wandered thru the rest of the museum. The American section with paintings of the founders by John Singer Sargent and other American painters is another section not to be missed. They have a lot of European paintings as well if that is what you like along with Greek, Roman and Asian artifacts.Visited November 2022Written 2 January 2023
- Linda SGreenville, Rhode Island122 contributionsWe’ll worth multiple visits!Fabulous collection of Egyptian art. Went for special exhibit of Life Magazine photography. Several favorites there. Great collection of Greek and Roman as well as Mesa American. Only got through part of museum on 2 days of visits. Bought membership after 1st. Only complaint is the extremely high cost of parking $26 for about 3 hours!Visited January 2023Travelled soloWritten 12 January 2023
- Morgan M11 contributionsA must visit!My boyfriend and I went here on a date that easily could have lasted all day. You definitely need at least multiple hours to view everything, possibly even multiple days. I love the Boston exhibit they have, really connects the museum to the city. Also love their acknowledgements of intersectional issues, as it’s not something I see many art museums doing currently. I definitely want to go back the next time I’m in Boston to catch everything I missed!Visited March 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 7 March 2023
- operalover939Toronto, Canada2,977 contributionsGreat collectionsA handsome building crammed with great collections. We were particularly drawn by the Michaelina Wauthier and 'The Five Senses' exhibition, but the Dutch and Flemish galleries are generally marvellous. The Hokusai exhibition is also splendid, and the Black Potters of Old Edgefield, SC, exhibition in the Torf Gallery offered lots of food for thought. The MFA is highly recommended.Visited April 2023Written 12 April 2023
- andyh67186334Coalville, United Kingdom6,814 contributionsImpressive MuseumI visited the MFA as the weather was chilly and cloudy. I do object to having to pay £22 to enter a museum where they are all free in the UK, but needs must. There were multiple exhibits of different countries that represented their history and culture. So many artefacts including, sculpture, paintings, ceramics, glass, jewellery, furniture, clocks, coins and even rooms taken from an original building. The layout of the museum was vast and had impressive exhibition halls and staircases. There are plenty of toilet facilities, a room to store large bags for free and numerous dining facilities. I recommend a visit to this museum.Visited April 2023Travelled soloWritten 15 April 2023
- M MUnited States381 contributionsOutstanding MuseumOur family spent over six hours here, and the adults as well as the teens enjoyed it very much so. Elementary aged children were having fun locating items on their hunt list, as the docents were especially enticing. Wonderful!Visited June 2023Written 7 June 2023
- dfb260Staunton, Virginia456 contributionsVer nice!Large, sprawling museum with a nice collection, including a large collection of Egyptian art and artifacts. Multiple places to eat here. Current admission: $27 for adults ( no senior citizen discount). Great for a day with inclement weather.Visited July 2023Written 14 July 2023
- KayenneLondon, United Kingdom226 contributionsAn excellent museumAn excellent museum. We travelled there by public transport. No discount for non-local students, which was a shame for our young adult offspring and made the outing quite costly. Check opening days before you visit.Visited July 2023Written 23 July 2023
- allthegirls2014Naples, Florida108 contributionsBeautiful museum with incredible collectionWe had a lovely time. There is a lot to see as this museum collection is quite extensive. Highlights: * Be sure to spend time in the American collection, with Copley paintings of many of the earliest American patriots as well as a Gilbert Stuart painting of George Washington. Actual silver created by Paul Revere is also quite meaningful. * The ancient Egypt collection is one of the finest in the world because the museum received permission to cooperate with the Egyptian government to do some early excavations at the pyramids. * There is a Monet room! * Eat in the cafe. It's a lovely atrium with a giant Chihuly sculpture.Visited July 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 24 July 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Popular mentions
5.0
8,301 reviews
Excellent
6,600
Very good
1,438
Average
204
Poor
38
Terrible
24
oldmayor
Portland, ME233 contributions
Dec 2023 • Couples
We had timed admission for the special John Singer Sargent show. The show itself was fabulous, but the timed admission was very unsatisfactory. Way too many admitted in each half hour block. As we jockeyed around to see the paintings and read the explanations, many people commented that it was claustrophobic and too hard to really see and enjoy the art. Please, please reform your timed admissions so that only those in that time block are admitted or plan to admit far fewer people in each block, so the experience yields positive, not frustrating, memories.
Written 6 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Adventure Diva
Manchester, CT2,125 contributions
Nov 2023 • Solo
I'm never disappointed when I visit the museum. Layout of the rooms is well done and you can enjoy viewing an exhibit while others walk by.
Went to specifically see the "Strong Women in Renaissance Italy" exhibit where there were over 100 works from the 14-17th century. Learned how they overcame setbacks while making a difference in their society.
Went to specifically see the "Strong Women in Renaissance Italy" exhibit where there were over 100 works from the 14-17th century. Learned how they overcame setbacks while making a difference in their society.
Written 1 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Penelope M
3 contributions
Aug 2023 • Solo
So, I finally checked out this Museum, and let me tell you, it's like an art lover's paradise. First off, the place is massive - you might need a map. The variety of art is mind-blowing. The museum vibes are pretty chill too. I saw people of all ages, from families with kids to hipster art enthusiasts. There's something for everyone. Oh, and they've got this cute café where you can grab a coffee and contemplate the meaning of life after staring at a Picasso for too long.
Written 17 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Parissa H
California3 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Impressed by the wonderful and extensive collections. We were particularly enchanted by the Ancient Greek and Roman sculptures downstairs and the European art collection especially the expressionists on the second floor. Also had a pleasant lunch at the Museum Restaurant.
Written 3 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Greg D
1 contribution
Oct 2023 • Couples
When we attempted to pay for our tickets they swiped my wife's Discover card and then told us they don't take Discover. Next, I used my credit card to pay for both tickets totalling $68. Next, we both got our credt card statements they did charge my wife's Discover card $68 after the ticket agent lied and stole our money. Never trust this organization.
Written 27 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jheals
Rumson, NJ224 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
Came for the Sargent exhibit while visiting family in Boston but loved the whole museum. Lovely building, nicely curated collection of European & American art as well as a classical and Egyptian section. The Sargent exhibit was beautiful. A superior city museum.
Written 27 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cindy S
Ashland, OH11 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
Easy ticketing, very helpful staff, and excellent lunch choices. We would recommend getting there at opening hour to be able to enjoy everything this museum has to offer.
Written 23 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
PC71985
Belfast, UK129 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
The price of entry is scandalous. This might be because I'm European and get into far superior museums for free or a small fee. The exhibits aren't bad. I get this is the US, so they can only really obtain European cast offs, and therefore are poor imitations of far superior collections in Europe...so why not do more to make American art more prominent, and try to justify the entry fee.
The Egyptian exhibit was quite good, some very interesting pieces obtained from excavations in Giza.
The Egyptian exhibit was quite good, some very interesting pieces obtained from excavations in Giza.
Written 21 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mioule06
Cannes, France55 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
We decided to visit the museum today Friday as the web site says it closes at 10:00pm. But at 5:00, staff told us to exit because they have a special event. This was completely unexpected, no signs anywhere eg at ticketing or cafes. Even the museum shop was closed as they wanted everyone to get out, while it is close to the entrance and could easily have been left open for an additional 30mn or so. This is a really very impolite behavior to your visitors and ruined our visit today ! FYI visiting the MFA had been our main motivation to go to Boston from overseas….
Written 20 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mak
Windsor, Canada22 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
Refreshingly organized and curated. I’ve been to so many dense fine art museums that literally give me headaches because of how small the galleries are and the tightness of the pieces.
Written 16 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John_Jay808
San Diego3 contributions
Is this area safe to walk around at night? Going to the Wednesday night activities, but I read these area is bad at night...
The_Coach55
Ruislip, UK938 contributions
I visited during the day and it seemed fine. If you use the ‘T’ it is less than that five minutes away from Museum of Fine Arts station on foot.
If I am a member may I bypass the line?
Thanks for your input.
William Cronin
Springfield, VT67 contributions
There is a members entrance around the left hand side of the building.
adsceptic
United Kingdom54 contributions
Do we need to pre book to get into the Ansel Adams? We'd rather be flexible and just turn up, but don't want to miss out. Are there generally enough tickets? Here in London if you don't prebook you'd never get in.
William Cronin
Springfield, VT67 contributions
Mid week you should be OK...but I’d book for a weekend day.
Parking available?
Denise B
Leominster, MA28 contributions
Yes but pricey $25. Better to take public transportation or I recommend getting the Parkwhiz app and finding something reasonable within walking distance. Great app have parked throughout Boston for as little as $5 and as much as $11 from 4-8 hrs!
pkjlewis
Hollis, NH
What is the least busy week day to visit? Thank you.
Trainman334
Marlborough, MA529 contributions
We were there on a Thursday early afternoon and it was busy but manageable. I think it depends, to some degree, on what exhibits on currently showing. Also, the day we were there, the museum was closing early to stage for some kind of event (lots of cable, lights, sound boards and such); so school trips may have been blacked out that day. But if you can get there when the school children have had to depart to board their buses, the atmosphere might be a little more conducive to art appreciation.
Gayla A
St. Petersburg, FL3 contributions
Can anyone tell me the style/maker of the green fabric and metal chairs in the lobby behind the gift shop? They were very comfortable and interesting looking. I’d like to know where to get them.
Thanks!
JBtravel66
Key Largo, FL526 contributions
hi, if you check the MFA website for contact information you might be able to ask them directly
MosleyL
57 contributions
Is there a lot to see in the Ancient Egypt gallery? Please tell me some things that you impressed you.
LauraMontgomeryUSA
Boston, MA39 contributions
Hi --The Boston MFA Egyptian collection is excellent with artifacts and examples from pre-dynastic through the Egyptian Greco-Roman era. Of particular note are the unusually realistic "Reserve Heads" and the "Red Sculpture" or Bust of Prince Ankhha, from the Old Kindgom 4th Dynasty, as well as several schist sculptures of King Menakura, aka Mycerinus, and his Queen, as well as, his large-scale representation in alabaster. Reproductions of tomb furniture, a reconstructed faiance bead dress, hieroglyphic carved sandstone tomb walls & columns and a black granite seated Sekhmet statue--scarabs, shwabties, gold jewelry, numerous red granite and painted wood sarcophagi are a few treasures on view. 2nd fl. galleries contain monumental temple sculptural elements and artifacts from the Tel Armana city center and capitol of the new monotheistic religion of Ra implemented by Akhanaten, Tutakhamun (King Tut's) Dad. Many Mummies to see, early pottery, Old and Middle Kingdom treasures abound...one of the best collections outside of Cairo & Europe.
Make a visit and tip your hat to early Egyptologist
Dows Dunham.....
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Claim your listingMUSEUM OF FINE ARTS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Museum of Fine Arts
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Museum of Fine Arts:
- Go City: Boston All-Inclusive Pass with 45+ Attractions and Tours (From S$105.40)
- Go City: Boston Explorer Pass - Choose 2, 3, 4 or 5 Attractions (From S$78.72)
- Boston City View Bicycle Tour by Urban AdvenTours (From S$90.73)
- Boston Private City Tour (From S$665.76)
- Boston's Emerald Necklace Guided Bicycle Tour (From S$118.74)
- Hotels near Museum of Fine Arts:
- (0.66 km) The Verb Hotel
- (0.81 km) Sonder at Pierce Boston
- (1.03 km) The Inn At Longwood Medical
- (1.11 km) The Eliot Hotel
- (1.03 km) Hotel Commonwealth
- Restaurants near Museum of Fine Arts:
- (0.02 km) New American Cafe
- (0.04 km) Garden Cafeteria at the Museum of Fine Arts Boston
- (0.14 km) University House of Pizza
- (0.07 km) 465 Bar and Restaurant
- (0.26 km) QDOBA Mexican Eats
- Attractions near Museum of Fine Arts:
- (0.41 km) Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
- (0.82 km) Fenway Park
- (0.27 km) Emerald Necklace Conservancy
- (0.31 km) Emerald Necklace
- (0.82 km) Walking Boston - Tours