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Contemporary Art Visits at The Aldrich Museum in Ridgefield - New York City

Contemporary Art Visits at The Aldrich Museum in Ridgefield

Ridgefieldeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–2 hours

Fitness Level

No physical exertion required; suitable for all ages and abilities.

Overview

Discover Ridgefield’s The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, a regional cornerstone for contemporary art lovers. With donation-based admission and engaging exhibits, it’s a fresh cultural stop just north of NYC.

Ridgefield, Connecticut

General Admission (Donation Based)

For all ages • Advance reservations encouraged

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About This Adventure

Museum Hours and Admission:

Sunday: 12 noon to 5 pm Monday: 12 noon to 5 pm Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 12 noon to 5 pm Thursday: 12 noon to 5 pm Friday: 12 noon to 5 pm Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm

(Last admission 4:40 pm)

The Museum is closed on the following holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day

Advanced ticket registration recommended.

  • Select the date you will be visiting the Museum and arrive any time during Museum Hours.
  • Please present your confirmation email either printed or on your phone to the Front Desk.
  • Please note: Aldrich members will be asked to show your membership card for verification upon arrival.

About The Aldrich:

The New York Times writes that our exhibitions are the kind you expect at a “big-guns urban institution, but [found] at The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum in leafy suburban Connecticut.”– September 2019

Founded by art collector and fashion designer Larry Aldrich in 1964, The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum is one of the oldest contemporary art museums in the United States. The Museum is one of the few independent, non-collecting institutions in the country and the only museum in Connecticut solely dedicated to the presentation of contemporary art.

The Aldrich is internationally recognized for its artist-centric programs and visionary exhibitions. We present first solo museum exhibitions by emerging artists, significant exhibitions of established artists, and thematic group exhibitions.

The Museum is located on Main Street in historic downtown Ridgefield, Connecticut an hour and a half north of New York City. Our campus includes a two-acre Sculpture Garden and is walking distance from a Revolutionary War battlefield, and many restaurants and shops in the Ridgefield Cultural District.

Explore! Monthly Free Studio Activities:

  • Explore the themes of our current exhibits by creating your own art, through a self-guided activity with materials and prompts shared in our Museum Studio!
  • All ages are welcome to participate!
  • Free with admission during Museum open hours on weekends.

Tips for Visiting:

  • The Shop features a selection of specially-commissioned limited edition works of art, publications, and artful small items, with all purchases supporting The Aldrich’s exhibitions and educational programs. Aldrich members receive 15% off Shop purchases and 10% off Aldrich Editions.
  • Noncommercial photography is allowed, except for any works marked with a no photography sign. Video and flash photography, and equipment such as tripods, are not permitted. Professional commissioned photography requires prior written permission from The Aldrich. Contact us to learn more. Sketching is permitted throughout the Museum—please use only pencils in the galleries.
  • Restrooms are located on the first floor and the handicapped stalls are equipped with changing stations
  • We have an elevator on site.
  • Free parking is available at the Museum.
  • Strollers are permitted throughout The Aldrich. Nursing mothers who would like quiet and privacy should inquire at the Front Desk.

Adventure Tips

Reserve Tickets in Advance

Advanced reservations are highly recommended to secure entry during busy times.

Plan for Museum Hours

The Aldrich is open Tuesday through Sunday, closing early at 5 pm—arrive with ample time to experience exhibits fully.

Photography Guidelines

Noncommercial photography is generally allowed but avoid flash and tripods; sketching with pencils is welcome.

Use On-Site Parking

Free parking is available, easing access for visitors arriving by car.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Songbirds in the Sculpture Garden
  • Squirrels common around the museum grounds

History

Founded in 1964 by Larry Aldrich, the museum uniquely serves as a non-collecting, artist-focused contemporary art center in suburban Connecticut.

Conservation

The Aldrich promotes sustainability through eco-conscious exhibit practices and educational programs that encourage environmental awareness.

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Adventure Hotspots in New York City

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Mild walking inside and around the Sculpture Garden requires sturdy footwear.

Weather-appropriate outerwear

Essential

Dress for the season to comfortably enjoy outdoor areas and walking nearby.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Camera or smartphone

Capture art and garden views, remembering photography guidelines.

Notebook and pencil

Ideal for sketching and jotting inspiration during your visit.