Minnesota Museum of American Art

The Walker Art Center in Minneapolis is a contemporary art museum, and by art, that means all kinds of mediums--painting, photography, sculpture, film, live performance, and media. Its building was designed by Herzog & de Meuron and is itself worthy of a visit. The Walker's permanent exhibits includes works by Edward Hopper, Cindy Sherman, Alec Soth, and Chuck Close, among many others. Part of the museum's holdings is the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, an outdoor space adjacent to the museum.Best and worst time to go to the Walker Art CenterWeekdays, especially early afternoon, are the best time to go to the Walker, as it's less crowded. Weekends and Thursday nights (the one night the museum is open past 5 p.m.) tend to be much busier.Must see/do at the Walker Art CenterThe Walker has a robust lineup of visiting exhibitions that are always worth a visit. But also look through the museum's performance and live event calendar--to the Walker, art isn't just something hung on a wall. And don't miss the gift shop; it's got an extensive collection of books about art, but also fantastic jewelry and accessories, gifts for kids, and even cooking items.Admission to the Walker Art CenterAdmission ranges from $9-14, with museum members and youth under age 18 admitted free. Note that the galleries are open with free admission every Thursday after 5 p.m., and on the first Saturday of each month. There's no fee to visit the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden.Parking and public transportation to the Walker Art CenterThe museum has a fee-based parking ramp attached to it, and there is metered parking on the adjacent streets. Metro Transit lines 4, 6, 12, and 25 all have stops nearby.Food at the Walker Art CenterThe museum does have a restaurant, Gather by D'Amico, but it's only open Thursday evenings from 5-9 p.m. However, there are many restaurants in the vicinity, including La Belle Vie, Cafe and Bar Lurcat, and The Kenwood.Insider tip for visitors to the Walker Art CenterIf you're visiting in the summer, check out the museum's mini golf. Each hole is designed by an artist, and each one is unique. But go early--this is a popular summer attraction, and lines can form as the day goes on.Author's bio: Amy C. Rea is the author of Minnesota, Land of 10,000 Lakes: an Explorer's Guide, and Backroads & Byways of Minnesota. Her third book, Camping Minnesota, will be published in 2016.