A Walk in the Park at the NC Museum of Art

The North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) has one of the best collections of art in the United States that spans more than five millennia. From ancient Egypt to contemporary sculpture, the museum in Raleigh is a rapidly-expanding facility exhibiting art in an eclectic mixture of all forms. View Botticelli, Auguste Rodin, and Georgia O’Keeffe as well as ancient artifacts dating as far back as 6,000 BC. But besides the mind-blowing age of its collections, the NCMA also has dynamic temporary exhibits, an awe-inspiring park, and a restaurant so you can make a day out of it and enjoy a meal between sightseeing.

Visit the NCMA to view the photographic collection entitled You + Me. The You + Me exhibit is on display until September 3rd and reflects on the complexities of human relationships by the couple, from our most fundamental to the most mundane. Explore the complications of marriage as well as the companionship as you interpret these still life photographs. Take from it what you will, delving into this subject may be a good one for you and a loved one during your romantic getaway with us.

Daily free tours are open to the public Tuesdays-Friday at 1:30PM and Saturdays and Sundays 11:30 and 1:30 PM. Get a more in-depth introduction to the museum’s history, highlights of the collections and interesting facts in the half hour tour that starts at the West Building Information Desk. With a museum the size of NCMA, (with two buildings, 164-acres, an amphitheater, a park, and several gardens) there’s a lot to do and more to see. It may seem like there isn’t enough time in the day, but the Meet Your Museum Tour will give you a good grasp on our local, but world-class, art museum.

Make sure you visit the beautiful garden park, whether you take a guided tour on the second Saturday of the month or take a walk through the two-mile long route yourself. The stunning earthenware sculpture by Thomas Sayre soars 18 feet into the air in a gravity-devying loop. Inspired by W.B. Yeats contemplation on the universe, Gyre is a breathtaking sculpture and a can’t-miss attraction at NCMA.

Admission to the Museum’s permanent collection and beautiful park is free. Admission is charged to visit the West Building exhibits as well as special exhibitions and programs, such as concerts, films, classes, and performances. Visit the museum’s website for more information.

North Carolina Museum of Art

2110 Blue Ridge Road

Raleigh, NC 27607