Chrysler Museum of Art

The Chrysler Museum of Art, located in Norfolk, Virginia, is one of the leading cultural institutions in the Mid-Atlantic. Known for its remarkable breadth and depth, the museum houses more than 35,000 objects that span over 5,000 years of history, from ancient artifacts to contemporary works. With fifty galleries offering rotating and permanent exhibitions, the museum creates a dynamic experience where visitors can encounter masterpieces by European and American artists, world-renowned glasswork, and significant holdings of photography, sculpture, and decorative arts.

One of the museum’s most distinctive features is its celebrated glass collection, which is among the finest in the United States. To complement this collection, the Chrysler Museum also operates a state-of-the-art glass studio that serves as both an educational hub and a performance space. Here, artists demonstrate glassblowing and other techniques, offering audiences a rare opportunity to see the artistry of glassmaking unfold before their eyes. This unique facility has become a cornerstone of the museum’s identity and a major draw for visitors of all ages.

Equally important is the museum’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement. Admission to the Chrysler Museum is always free, ensuring that financial barriers never prevent anyone from experiencing art. The museum also offers an interactive family space, designed to inspire creativity and learning in younger audiences through hands-on activities and engaging programs.

Founded on the generosity of automotive heir Walter P. Chrysler Jr., who donated his vast collection in the 1970s, the museum has since grown into a vibrant institution that reflects both his vision and the community’s ongoing support. Today, the Chrysler Museum stands as a beacon of culture, creativity, and inclusivity, inviting visitors to explore art’s power to educate, inspire, and connect across generations.