Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum: Everything You Need to Know

If contemporary art is your jam, you’ve got to visit the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum in Ridgefield, Connecticut. Founded by Larry Aldrich in 1964, it’s one of the oldest contemporary art museums in the U.S. and the only museum for it in Connecticut. And this Connecticut museum has been a launchpad for artists on the rise for decades.

Ready to discover the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum? Let’s get into it:

A Brief History of Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum

Art collector and fashion designer Larry Aldrich opened the museum to boost emerging artists. Big shots like Jasper Johns, Robert Rauschenberg, and Frank Stella got their start here. The museum first called the landmark “Old Hundred” building, built in 1783, its home. Now, that building is used for administrative offices. And fun fact: In June 2022, Amy Smith-Steward became the museum’s first female chief curator.

Things to do at Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum

The Aldrich is famous for its artist-centric programs and visionary exhibitions. It doesn’t have a permanent collection, but the museum presents some pretty amazing exhibitions:

• First solo museum exhibitions for new artists

• Major shows for mid-career artists

• Significant exhibitions of established artists

• Thematic group exhibitions on contemporary issues

• New, commissioned pieces

The 25,000 sq ft of space in the new museum building includes 12 galleries, a screening room, a performance area, and a sound gallery. And don’t miss the 2-acre Sculpture Garden, which is always free and open to the public on the museum’s campus. It’s getting a facelift and will reopen in Fall 2024.

Events & Activities at Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum

The Aldrich hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year. They’ve got a $3.25 million expansion plan in the works, featuring a secret garden, a pollinator-friendly walkway, and an amphitheater. Construction kicks off in Fall 2024.

Directions to Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum from Greenwich, CT

Getting to the Aldrich from our Greenwich, Connecticut, bed and breakfast for a visit is a breeze:

• By Car:

  • Take I-95 N from Greenwich.

  • Merge onto I-684 N toward Brewster.

  • Take exit 2 for NY-35 W toward Katonah.

  • Follow NY-35 W to US-7 N in Ridgefield.

  • Continue on US-7 N to Main St in Ridgefield.

  • The drive usually takes 40 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Free parking is available.

Hotels, Inns, and Places to Stay near Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum

Or stick around Ridgefield, Connecticut, for a bit. Here are some great options just a short walk from the museum:

• West Lane Inn

  • Charming accommodations with a blend of historic and modern amenities.

• Fountain Inn

  • Cozy rooms and convenient location in downtown Ridgefield.

Discover more things to do in Ridgefield, CT, near Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum

Ridgefield, CT, is packed with things to do beyond this internationally recognized museum. Here’s a quick guide to help you explore the list of the best things to do in Ridgefield, Connecticut:

• Explore the Cultural District: Ridgefield’s downtown more than earns the “Cultural District” moniker.

• Other Connecticut Museums and Historic Sites worth your while:

  • Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center

  • Ridgefield Historical Society

  • Weir Farm National Historic Site (nearby in Wilton, CT)

  • The Philip Johnson Glass House (New Canaan, CT)

  • Katonah Museum of Art (Katonah, NY)