Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, Ithaca

Perched atop the slope of Libe Slope on the Cornell University campus, the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art is a cultural gem in the heart of Ithaca, New York. This striking museum, designed by the renowned architect I.M. Pei, is impossible to miss with its bold, modernist façade that commands attention against the backdrop of the university's traditional collegiate Gothic architecture.

Since its opening in 1973, the Johnson Museum has served as an educational resource for both the university and the wider community. Its expansive collection of more than 35,000 works spans six millennia and includes pieces from diverse cultures and time periods. From ancient artifacts to contemporary art, the museum's holdings are both broad and deep, offering visitors a rich tapestry of human creativity.

The museum's Asian art collection is particularly noteworthy, encompassing a range of works from East, South, and Southeast Asia. Additionally, the museum boasts a strong assortment of prints, drawings, and photographs, alongside a growing collection of African and Indigenous North and South American art.

For those with an appreciation for the modern and contemporary, the museum does not disappoint. With works by artists such as Andy Warhol, Louise Bourgeois, and Jacob Lawrence, the Johnson Museum offers a compelling glimpse into the art movements that have shaped the current era.

Visitors to the museum can enjoy a variety of exhibitions, which are thoughtfully curated to inspire and educate. The museum's rotating exhibits ensure that there is always something new to discover, making it a place worth revisiting.

One of the museum's crowning features is its panoramic fifth-floor observation deck. Here, guests are treated to breathtaking views of Cayuga Lake and the surrounding Finger Lakes region, providing a scenic complement to the artistic experience within.

The Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art is open to the public and offers free admission, making it an accessible destination for art lovers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're an avid museum-goer or someone looking to immerse yourself in culture for an afternoon, the Johnson Museum is a must-visit when in Ithaca.