The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum

One of the first museums dedicated to contemporary art in the country was established in 1964 by art collector and fashion designer Larry Aldrich. The Museum is the only museum in Connecticut completely committed to the presentation of contemporary art, making it one of the few independent, non-collecting institutions in the nation.

The most popular time of year to visit Ridgefield, Connecticut is during the autumn leaf-peeping season, but the summer is just as beautiful and is worthwhile for visiting this museum of modern art, one of the first of its kind in the nation. It was established in 1964 by fashion designer Larry Aldrich (1906-2001), who acquired the property-a former church and general store dating to the 18th century-by selling works by Picasso, Miró, Chagall, and Paul Klee, among other artists. In 2004, an expansive reconstruction and renovation opened. The highlight of this season's schedule at the museum is "52 Artists: A Feminist Milestone," which debuts in June.

The historic "Old Hundred" building, which was constructed in 1783 and now serves as the Museum's administrative offices, was the site of the Museum's original residence. Olafur Eliasson, Huma Bhabha, KAWS, Michelle Lopez, B. Wurtz, Ruth Root, and Hayal Pozanti are just a few of the artists whose debut solo museum shows have regularly been held at the Museum.

Hours: 12 pm to 5 pm everyday (except on Tuesdays)

Address: 258 Main St, Ridgefield, CT

Phone: 203-438-4519

Website: http://www.aldrichart.org/

Rating: 4.4 (171 Google reviews)