Adventure Collective
Discover Contemporary Art at The Aldrich in Ridgefield - New York City

Discover Contemporary Art at The Aldrich in Ridgefield

Ridgefieldeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly walking on paved paths and inside climate-controlled galleries.

Overview

Explore cutting-edge exhibitions and a captivating Sculpture Garden at The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum in Ridgefield, CT. Discover unique contemporary art with family-friendly activities and exclusive shopping.

Ridgefield, Connecticut

General Admission

For all ages • Advance reservations encouraged

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About This Adventure

Discover The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, a unique gem in Ridgefield, Connecticut, showcasing cutting-edge exhibitions and artist-centric programs. Enjoy self-guided art activities for all ages, explore a beautiful Sculpture Garden, and shop for exclusive art pieces. Experience contemporary art like never before in a vibrant cultural setting.

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

Plan Ahead for Exhibitions

Check the museum’s current and upcoming exhibitions online to maximize your visit and catch featured artists.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You’ll be walking through both indoor galleries and outdoor Sculpture Garden paths, so comfy footwear is a must.

Photography Rules

Photography is allowed in most areas but avoid using flash to protect the artworks.

Plan for Parking

Parking is available on site but can fill up on weekends; consider arriving early or carpooling.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Eastern bluebirds frequent the Sculpture Garden in spring and summer.
  • White-tailed deer can occasionally be spotted in surrounding wooded areas.

History

The Aldrich was the first museum in the U.S. dedicated solely to contemporary art when it opened in 1964.

Conservation

The museum prioritizes sustainable practices, including energy-efficient lighting and native plantings in the Sculpture Garden to support local biodiversity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential

Necessary for navigating indoor galleries and outdoor Sculpture Garden paths comfortably.

Portable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated during summer visits, especially when spending time outdoors.

summer specific

Light Jacket

Essential

Provides warmth during cool spring days while exploring the Sculpture Garden.

spring specific

Camera or Smartphone

Capture special moments and favorite installations (respecting photography guidelines).