The Best Museums to See in Florida

Florida is a state full of culture and history. From the Everglades to the coral reefs in the Keys, there’s something to explore in every corner. But the best way to really dig into all the culture is to visit the state’s many museums. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or science, there’s something for everyone.

From the hustle and bustle of Miami to the small towns tucked away in the panhandle, here are the best museums to see in Florida.

1. The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum

Located at Florida International University in Miami, the Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum is one of the largest galleries in the state. The museum is home to over 7,000 works of art, ranging from ancient artifacts to modern works. From sculptures to photographs and interactive exhibits, you’ll find something to explore in every room.

The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum also features traveling exhibitions, so there’s always something new to see. The museum is also home to the FIU Art Museum Library, which is open to the public and features a variety of books and resources on the art and culture of South Florida.

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday and admission is free.

2. The Salvador Dali Museum

Located in St. Petersburg, the Salvador Dali Museum is a must-see for art lovers. The museum is home to the world’s largest collection of works by the surrealist master, Salvador Dali. From his iconic “The Persistence of Memory” painting to his lesser known work, you’ll find something to appreciate in every room.

The Salvador Dali Museum also features interactive exhibits, lectures, and special events throughout the year. The museum is open Wednesday to Monday and admission is free.

If you’re looking to learn more about the artist, the museum also has a library and research center that’s open to the public.

3. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

Located in Sarasota, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is one of the most popular museums in the state. The museum is home to a vast collection of European art, including works by Rembrandt, Rubens and Gainsborough. The museum also features a variety of American art, as well as Asian and African art.

The museum is open Monday to Saturday and admission is free. The museum also features a variety of special events and educational programs throughout the year.

4. The Lowe Art Museum

The Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami is one of the oldest art museums in the state. The museum is home to a vast collection of art, ranging from ancient artifacts to modern works. From paintings to sculptures and photographs, there’s something to explore in every room.

The museum also features a variety of educational programs and special events throughout the year, as well as a library and research center. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday and admission is free.

5. The Naples Museum of Art

Located in downtown Naples, the Naples Museum of Art is one of the most popular museums in the state. The museum is home to a vast collection of modern and contemporary art, ranging from paintings to sculptures and photographs. The museum also features a variety of traveling exhibitions, so there’s always something new to see.

The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday and admission is free. The museum also features a variety of educational programs and special events throughout the year.

6. The Museum of Florida History

The Museum of Florida History in Tallahassee is the perfect place to learn about the history of the Sunshine State. The museum is home to a variety of artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the story of Florida’s past. From the Seminole Wars to the Civil War and beyond, you’ll get a comprehensive look at the state’s history.