The Detroit Institute of Arts is one of the largest and richest collections of art in the US. Big and beautiful, the DIA is a must-see, holding over 65,000 pieces in its nearly 700,000 square foot buildings. Its size is matched by its diversity with a multicultural, multinational survey of the visual arts, ranging from prehistory all the way through the 21st century. Some of the most noteworthy holdings include Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry fresco cycle and van Gogh’s “Self Portrait”, which was his first piece to enter a US museum.
The museum’s more than 100 galleries, 1,105 seat auditorium, 380-seat lecture/recital hall, and art reference library all speak to the size and breadth of the museum and its resources. An all-around powerhouse, the DIA has everything from mummies to Monet’s, African masks to modern art. For anyone with any kind of passion in art, this museum will not only stimulate your area of interest, but will satisfy it thoroughly.
Detroit Institute of Arts (The DIA) Information
- Public Transportation: Good (Smart Bus The 450, 460, or 495 Smart Bus will drop you off right in front of the building; from the Detroit Greyhound Bus Station; the Detroit Institute of Arts is located 2.7 miles north of the station)
- Handicapped Accessibility: Yes (the museum and its facilities are wheelchair and stroller-accessible via the Farnsworth entrance; for more information call; 313-833-7940.
- Hours: Wednesday & Thursday 10am – 5pm, Friday 10am – 10pm, Saturday & Sunday 10am – 6pm, closed Monday & Tuesday
- Admission: $8, Seniors $6, Youth (6-17) $4, Members are free
- Tours: Free guided tours are available Wednesdays & Thursdays at 1pm, Fridays at 1pm, 6pm, and 7:30pm, and Saturdays & Sundays at 1pm and 3pm.
- Performances/Programs: Concerts every Friday night and Sunday afternoon at the museum (Sundays are family concerts). Free with museum admission.
- Audio Tours: Director’s Choice and Youth Audio Tours are available for $2 at the Farnsworth Entrance, and are available in Spanish and Japanese. The Riviera Court Multimedia Tour is available for $3 at the information desk in Riviera Court, and is available in Spanish.
- Basic Membership: Individual membership is $65 and includes unlimited free admission to the museum, free admission to special exhibitions, preview exhibitions prior to public openings, an invitation to a “New Member Welcome Tour” and reception, as well as special rates for lectures and classes. Senior discounted membership is $60. Companion and family plans are also available.
- Other Benefits: Reciprocal membership with 34 other museums is available at the Affiliate level ($180) and above.
