Founded in 1963 at one of the most productive and exciting periods in American visual arts, the Institute of Contemporary Art has earned a reputation for identifying future talents early in their professional careers and giving them the support they need to develop their work. Andy Warhol had his first museum show here, for instance. For over half a century, the museum has been an essential part of Philadelphia’s cultural and artistic life, and it’s still going strong. The Museum hosts no permanent collection, but it presents a dozen new exhibitions each year. The ICA also offers a wide variety of educational programs and lectures on a diverse assortment of topics. Best of all, admission is absolutely free! The comforting, minimal space is a great place to take a date or just spend an afternoon lost in thought. The first Wednesday of every month is a great time to visit, as the Museum hosts music, participatory activities and more.

Institute of Contemporary Art
118 S. 36th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
(215) 898-7108
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