Toledo Museum of Art, Toledo (must see)

Founded by Edward Drummond Libbey, a prominent Toledo glassmaker, the Toledo Museum of Art first opened its doors in 1901. It moved to its current location, a Greek Revival building designed by Edward B. Green and Harry W. Wachter, on January 17, 1912. Over the following decades, the museum was expanded twice in the 1920s and 1930s to accommodate its growing collection and increasing number of visitors.

The museum is celebrated for its diverse and comprehensive collections, particularly its glass art, which showcases pieces from the 19th and 20th centuries. Additionally, the museum houses significant European and American art, along with smaller, yet distinguished collections of Renaissance, Greek and Roman, and Japanese art. Among the notable individual works in its collection are Peter Paul Rubens's "The Crowning of Saint Catherine," and significant minor works by masters such as Rembrandt and El Greco. Modern art enthusiasts can appreciate pieces by Willem de Kooning, Henry Moore, and Sol LeWitt, as well as Fragonard's charming "Blind Man's Bluff."

In addition to its permanent collections, the museum hosts an extended exhibit titled "The Egypt Experience: Secrets of the Tomb." This exhibit offers visitors a captivating glimpse into ancient Egyptian culture and burial practices. In 2001, the museum added a sculpture garden along its Monroe Street facade, which primarily features postwar works, while earlier sculptures are displayed within the museum's interior.

The Toledo Museum of Art also features the Peristyle, a concert hall located in its east wing. Designed in a classical style to complement the museum's Greek Revival exterior, the Peristyle serves as the principal concert space for the Toledo Symphony Orchestra, enhancing the museum's role as a cultural hub in the city.

Why You Should Visit:
They have art for all tastes and beautiful displays. They have self-guided and guided tours. There are hidden niches in the classical wing. The outstanding Glass Pavilion is across the street in a different building. Kids area in the basement and lots of interactive displays for kids. Art classes and art appreciation classes available. Great speakers series as well as the movie series. There is a nice café for meals and drinks and a gift shop with unique artistic items. Staff is friendly and welcoming. All included, and free!

Tip:
Make sure you pop into the Peristyle auditorium. One of the coolest places to see any performance (you can see it from a doorway in the Egyptian wing).