aventuro Back to map A
Museums #4 in Norfolk, Virginia

Chrysler Museum of Art

4.8 · 2,999 reviews
Refined yet accessible and intellectually engaging.
Chrysler Museum of Art, 1 Memorial Pl, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States
Interesting facts
1

The museum holds more than 10,000 pieces of glass, making it one of the largest and most comprehensive collections in the world.

2

The collection includes a rare set of 74 photographs by Ansel Adams, donated by the photographer himself.

3

The building itself underwent a major architectural renovation in 2014 to improve gallery flow and increase natural lighting.

4

It houses the Moses Myers House, a historic federal-style home located just blocks away, which is managed as part of the museum campus.

5

The museum holds significant works by Bernini and other major Baroque masters, a rarity for a municipal-sized museum.

Overview

The Chrysler Museum of Art in Norfolk, Virginia, houses a diverse collection spanning from the Italian Renaissance to contemporary works by Mark Rothko. The institution is renowned for one of the most significant glass art collections in the United States. Walter P. Chrysler Jr. donated his extensive personal collection of over 5,000 objects to the museum in 1971. The building features 50 galleries, a glass studio for live demonstrations, and a dedicated library. The collection includes notable holdings in Tiffany glass, photography, and American neoclassical sculpture. The museum's Perry Glass Studio offers a specialized space for artists-in-residence and public workshops. Visitors can explore a comprehensive survey of art history ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern avant-garde pieces.

Photo spot

The dramatic, soaring glass-enclosed atrium that connects the main museum building to the Perry Glass Studio.

Insider tips

Check the schedule for live glassblowing demonstrations at the Perry Glass Studio before your visit.

Look for the rotating photography exhibitions in the main gallery spaces, which change frequently throughout the year.

Use the museum's digital archive stations to view pieces currently held in off-site storage.

What to avoid

Do not overlook the outdoor sculpture garden on the museum's grounds, which is frequently bypassed by visitors heading straight to the indoor exhibits.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays and major holidays.

Etiquette

Photography without flash is permitted for personal use, but sketching with ink pens is prohibited in the galleries.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings to experience the galleries with minimal crowds.
Address
Chrysler Museum of Art, 1 Memorial Pl, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States
36.856, -76.293
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsChrysler Glass Collection, Ansel Adams photographs, Bernini sculptures, and Tiffany glass

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings to experience the galleries with minimal crowds..

The dramatic, soaring glass-enclosed atrium that connects the main museum building to the Perry Glass Studio.

Close by you'll find USS Wisconsin BB-64, Norfolk Scope Arena, Chrysler Hall.