Top 10 Art Museums in Charlotte, North Carolina

Art Galleries
Written By Sarah Ransome

Charlotte, the Queen City, is known for its vibrant art and culture scene. This great city in North Carolina is a haven for art enthusiasts and is an excellent place to visit.

If you're seeking the best museums in Charlotte, you're in for a treat. This article will take you on a journey through the amazing museums that define this city as a center of artistic expression. From contemporary art galleries to museums showcasing the works of famous artists, Charlotte's art museums offer a diverse range of exhibits. So, join me as I unveil the top 10 art museums that make Charlotte a must-visit destination for art lovers.

While not all the museums featured on this list are solely dedicated to art, they each offer a remarkable collection of art exhibitions, artifacts, and immersive displays that showcase the beauty and diversity of artistic expression.

I have included opening times for each museum that are correct at the time of writing this article, but please check the latest information before your visit.

If you would like to read more about American artists or other places in the United States where you can view artwork, please click here.

Table of Contents

NoDa - Charlotte's Arts and Entertainment District

1. Bechtler Museum of Modern Art

2. The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture

3. Charlotte Museum of History

4. Mint Museum Uptown

5. Museum of Illusions Charlotte

6. The Levine Museum of the New South

7. Discovery Place Science

8. Elder Gallery of Contemporary Art

9. Anne Neilson Fine Art Gallery

10. Shain Gallery

Other Museums to Visit in Charlotte

NoDa - Charlotte’s Arts and Entertainment District

NoDa, short for “North Davidson”, is an arts and entertainment district that has become a prominent feature of Charlotte.

This lively neighborhood, centered along South Tryon Street, is known for its diverse community, talented artists, and vibrant cultural scene. Whether you are looking to explore art museums and galleries, after a craft beer refreshment, or a food lover seeking award-winning cuisine, NoDa has something to offer.

NoDa has a distinctive cultural character, known for its bohemian and eclectic vibe, the neighborhood embraces its artistic roots and celebrates local creativity. As visitors stroll through NoDa, they will encounter colorful murals, captivating street art, and unique shops, all contributing to the overall cultural experience.

Some of the notable art museums in NoDa include:

  • Bechtler Museum of Modern Art

  • Harvey B. Gantt Center

  • Levine Museum of the New South

  • Mint Museum

  • Discovery Place

These venues contribute to the rich artistic tapestry of Charlotte, offering diverse experiences and opportunities for both artists and art enthusiasts. I have provided more details on each of these museums in this article.

One of the most popular events in NoDa is the monthly “NoDa Gallery Crawl”. This highly anticipated event invites visitors to explore the neighborhood's art venues, enjoy live music, and immerse themselves in the local culture. The NoDa Gallery Crawl has become a hallmark of the area, providing a dynamic and engaging experience for art enthusiasts, locals, and tourists alike.

NoDa's culinary scene is also worth exploring. The area is home to numerous restaurants, bars, and breweries. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a sit-down meal, you will find a wide array of culinary delights and craft beverages to enjoy. The combination of art, music, and delectable food and drinks creates a truly immersive and unforgettable visit.

1. Bechtler Museum of Modern Art

CC Image courtesy of James Willamor, Flickr

The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art is a captivating museum located in Charlotte, North Carolina. Its primary focus lies in showcasing and delving into the remarkable aspects of mid-century modernism.

The museum building, an architectural masterpiece by Mario Botta, is situated within the new Levine Center for the Arts in Uptown.

It takes its name from the Bechtler family, specifically Andreas Bechtler, a Charlotte resident and Swiss native who curated and inherited a remarkable collection of over 1,400 artworks crafted by prominent figures of 20th-century modernism.

The collection at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art encompasses a diverse range of artists, with a special emphasis on the School of Paris, as well as European, British, and American artists. Among the notable artists featured in the collection are Alberto Giacometti, Joan Miró, Jean Tinguely, Max Ernst, Andy Warhol, and Pablo Picasso.

In addition to its extensive collection, the museum offers a variety of engaging programs for visitors to enjoy. These include Jazz at the Bechtler, Music and Museum, Modernism + Film, and Wednesday Night Live, providing unique experiences that combine art with different art forms and genres.

2. The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture

The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture is an inspiring museum located in downtown Charlotte.

The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture stands as a testament to the rich heritage, creativity, and significance of African American art, history, and culture. It provides a space for reflection, education, and appreciation, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the powerful narratives and artistic expressions of African Americans.

Founded in 1974, the center is named after Harvey Bernard Gantt, a former mayor of Charlotte and an advocate for equity, equal rights, and community initiatives. The center’s mission is to honor the invaluable contributions of African Americans to American culture, and it houses a remarkable permanent collection of works by African American artists.

This modern four-level cultural center was designed by architect Phil Freelon. The south elevation of the structure features perforated metal panels, reminiscent of the African-American artistic practices of weaving and quilt-making. On the north elevation, angular lines reflect the urban context of the site. The facility offers versatile spaces for exhibitions, presentations, receptions/events, and even retail opportunities.

The center serves as a vibrant community hub for various forms of arts and culture, including music, dance, theater, visual art, film, literature, and arts education programs.

Within the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture, visitors can explore a diverse range of artwork across different collections. Notably, the John and Vivian Hewitt Collection of African-American Art stands out, showcasing works by master artists such as Romare Bearden, Hale Woodruff, Jonathan Green, Ann Tanksley, Jacob Lawrence, Elizabeth Catlett, and Henry Ossawa Tanner. The collection was acquired by Bank of America in 1998 from John and Vivian Hewitt, who diligently built their collection over 50 years, forging close friendships with many of the artists whose works they acquired.

3. Charlotte Museum of History

The Charlotte Museum of History, situated in an eight-acre wooded campus in East Charlotte, is a captivating destination for history enthusiasts.

The museum holds a special place as the location of Mecklenburg County's oldest surviving house, the historic 1774 Alexander Rock House. Visitors have the opportunity to explore this remarkable structure, along with the accompanying springhouse and kitchen, as part of their admission. The museum also includes a large extension which is home to its archives and historical collection.

Within its seven galleries, the Charlotte Museum of History offers a wealth of informative exhibits, both permanent and temporary, covering more than 400 years of Charlotte's vibrant past. Visitors can delve into the city's history, gaining insights into its significant events, influential figures, and cultural transformations. Its exhibits span a wide range, from the Revolutionary War to the Civil Rights Movement, offering a comprehensive exploration of Charlotte's past.

The Charlotte Museum of History has a “Path of Portraits” exhibition that aims to honor the history of all members of the community and facilitate connections with people from the past. The Museum commissioned four portraits of historic figures, which were painted by four local artists. The portraits were created live at the 2021 African American Heritage Festival and subsequently installed in the Museum with accompanying biographical information. An additional portrait by Catawba Nation artist Alex Osborn has been added to the collection since the 2021 festival.

Other exhibits at the museum include “Charlotte: Signs of Home”, “Hive @ 35”, and “Captured in Cartoons”.

Another notable attraction within the museum is the American Freedom Bell, generously donated by the Belk Foundation in 2000. This symbol of freedom and liberty proudly stands on display, representing the ideals that the nation holds dear.

4. Mint Museum Uptown

CC Image courtesy of James Willamor, Flickr

The Mint Museum Uptown is located in the heart of Charlotte, within the thriving Levine Center for the Arts. The museum serves as a vibrant cultural institution that boasts an impressive collection of American art, and contemporary art.

At the core of the Mint Museum Uptown lies its Craft and Design collection. This collection showcases outstanding examples of fashionable attire spanning over 250 years, offering visitors a fascinating journey through the evolution of fashion and design.

Visitors can also immerse themselves in captivating displays such as “Picasso Landscapes: Out of Bounds”, “Bearden/Picasso: Rhythms and Reverberations”, and “Fashion Reimagined: Themes & Variations 1760 – Now”. These exhibitions showcase the brilliance of artistic expression and invite visitors to explore the intersections of history, culture, and creativity.

Architecturally, the Mint Museum Uptown is a marvel in itself. Designed by Machado and Silvetti Associates of Boston, the five-story, facility is a stunning fusion of inspiring design and cutting-edge exhibition spaces.

Mint Museum has a second space, referred to as Mint Museum Randolph. This part of the museum is in a separate building at 2730 Randolph Road. Mint Museum Randolph is located in what was the original branch of the United States Mint. It opened in 1936 as North Carolina’s first art museum. The Mint Museum Randolph’s intimate galleries display art of the ancient Americas, ceramics and decorative arts, and European and African art, among other collections.

5. Museum of Illusions Charlotte

Museum of Illusions Charlotte

Photo Credit: Museum of Illusions Charlotte

The Museum of Illusions Charlotte, is the latest museum to open in Uptown Charlotte.

This innovative museum introduces visitors to over 60 interactive exhibits that are both mind-boggling and awe-inspiring. With a focus on illusions rooted in math, science, and art, this unique museum promises a truly immersive and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

As soon as visitors step into the Museum of Illusions Charlotte, they are transported into a world where nothing is as it seems. The museum showcases a collection of exhibits featuring optical illusions, holograms, interactive rooms, and captivating images. One of the highlights includes the tilted room, where gravity appears to defy logic, making visitors question their own senses.

Visitors have the opportunity to explore perspective-changing rooms, where walls seem to bend and objects appear to defy gravity. These interactive exhibits encourage visitors to think critically, explore the principles behind illusions, and marvel at the wonders of perception.

6. The Levine Museum of the New South

The Levine Museum of the New South, is a historical museum with a focus on life in the North Carolina Piedmont after the American Civil War.

Through its art, photography and historical exhibitions, the Levine Museum explores the compelling history of the greater Charlotte region, shedding light on critical issues that shaped its development. This institution aims to tell the story of everyone, confronting difficult historical issues within their proper context. By doing so, the Levine Museum promotes inclusivity and a deeper understanding of the diverse perspectives that have shaped the region.

Visitors can explore interactive and immersive exhibits. For example:

  • The “Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers” exhibit takes visitors on a captivating journey, delving into the transformation of the southern economy, the Civil Rights Era, and the growth of Charlotte's urban landscape.

  • In the “Making Their Mark” exhibit, the spotlight shines on individuals who have significantly influenced Charlotte's communities, institutions, and physical spaces.

  • A profound exhibition is “Men of Change: Power.Triumph.Truth”, which profiles revolutionary men who have shaped the nation's history and culture. This exhibit invites visitors to reflect on the impact of these extraordinary figures and their enduring legacies.

  • Another thought-provoking exhibition, “Brooklyn: Once A City Within A City”, explores the rise and ultimate demise of Charlotte's historic Brooklyn neighborhood. By focusing on the African American experiences within this community, the museum sheds light on the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of its residents.

7. Discovery Place Science

The Discovery Place Science in Charlotte is a fascinating science museum that invites visitors of all ages to immerse themselves in the wonders of scientific exploration.

With its hands-on interactive exhibitions, educational programs, and a state-of-the-art IMAX Dome Theatre, the Discovery Place Science museum offers a truly immersive experience that sparks curiosity and enhances our understanding of the world around us.

At Discovery Place Science, science is not just a subject to be learned but an immersive art form to be experienced. Through its interactive exhibits, visitors are encouraged to touch, experiment, and engage with the fascinating concepts of science and technology. From exploring the mysteries of human anatomy in the “Being Me” exhibition to unleashing creativity and problem-solving skills in “Think It Up”, the museum presents a diverse range of captivating exhibitions.

One of the highlights of Discovery Place Science is its impressive IMAX Dome Theatre, where visitors can watch documentaries and films that offer a unique view of the world and universe.

8. Elder Gallery of Contemporary Art

The Elder Gallery of Contemporary Art displays a diverse range of contemporary artists, with a strong focus on fine glass art and paintings. The gallery offers a collection of works that are both visually stunning and intellectually challenging.

The Elder Gallery of Contemporary Art was named Best Art Gallery in Charlotte for the past five years by Charlotte Magazine. The gallery seeks to promote artworks that explore risk-taking and outside-the-box thinking, with an aim of taking this art to a wider audience, and make art accessible to communities across a wide spectrum.

9. Anne Neilson Fine Art Gallery

The Anne Neilson Fine Art Gallery was founded in 2014 by artist Anne Neilson. The gallery represents over 40 talented artists that cover a rich tapestry of styles and mediums, from paintings to sculptures. With each piece, the artists tell stories, evoke emotions, and invite viewers into their unique creative worlds.

The gallery goes beyond simply exhibiting art. They offer art consultation services, including interior design advice and corporate art consulting.

10. Shain Gallery

Shain Gallery has earned a prestigious reputation as one of the finest contemporary art providers in the Southeast. Located in Charlotte's Myers Park neighborhood, the gallery offers a vibrant space for art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in a world of creativity and inspiration. Shain Gallery proudly represents over forty nationally and regionally acclaimed artists. From vibrant paintings to mesmerising sculptures, each artwork in the gallery tells a unique story and evokes a multitude of emotions.

Throughout the year, Shain Gallery hosts a dynamic schedule of exhibitions that showcase the talent and creativity of their artists. These exhibitions provide a platform for both emerging and established artists to display their work, fostering a vibrant art community in Charlotte.

Other Museums to Visit in Charlotte

Here are other museums in Charlotte, North Carolina that you may want to consider visiting:

  • NASCAR Hall of Fame: Located in Uptown, the NASCAR Hall of Fame is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history of NASCAR. The museum showcases iconic race cars, memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and exhibits honoring the sport's legends.

  • Wing Haven Gardens and Bird Sanctuary: This museum is a beautiful garden and bird sanctuary located in the heart of Charlotte. It features stunning landscapes, diverse bird species, and educational programs that focus on the importance of environmental conservation.

  • The Light Factory: Situated in Plaza Midwood, The Light Factory is a contemporary photography and film center. It hosts exhibitions, screenings, workshops, and educational programs that explore the art of photography and filmmaking.

  • Charlotte Nature Museum: Nestled in Freedom Park, the Charlotte Nature Museum focuses on the natural history and ecology of the region. It offers interactive exhibits, live animal encounters, nature trails, and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

  • President James K. Polk State Historic Site: Situated in Pineville, just outside Charlotte, this museum commemorates the life and presidency of James K. Polk, the 11th President of the United States. Visitors can explore the historic site, including Polk's birthplace and the museum showcasing artifacts from his time in office.

  • Matthews Heritage Museum: Located in Matthews, a suburb of Charlotte, this museum chronicles the history and heritage of the town and the surrounding area. It features exhibits about local industries, community life, and notable individuals who have shaped the region.

  • Hendrick Motorsports Museum and Team Store: Situated in Concord, near Charlotte, this museum provides an inside look at one of NASCAR's most successful racing teams, Hendrick Motorsports. Visitors can see an array of race cars, trophies, and interactive displays showcasing the team's achievements.

  • Textile Museum at Gaston County Museum: Located in Dallas, just west of Charlotte, this museum focuses on the textile industry’s history and impact on the region. It houses collections of machinery, textiles, and artifacts, preserving the story of Gaston County's textile heritage.

  • Carolinas Aviation Museum: Located near Charlotte Douglas International Airport, this museum focuses on the history and significance of aviation in the Carolinas. It displays a collection of aircraft, including a notable exhibit on the famous “Miracle on the Hudson” flight.

These additional museums provide a diverse range of experiences, covering topics such as sports, nature, history, photography, and more, further enriching Charlotte’s cultural offerings.

I hope you have found my list of museums and galleries in Charlotte useful. If you have visited any of these places, I would love to hear your thoughts or if you feel one of your favourites is missing from the list, please email me and let me know at sarahransomeart@gmail.com.

Some of the links you’ll find in this blog post may earn me a small commission if you make a purchase. This doesn’t cost you anything extra and helps support the work I do in creating valuable content.

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Hi, I'm Sarah, I sell my artwork through my Art Store. I draw inspiration from my travels and personal experiences, and I believe in the healing power of art and its ability to bring people together.

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