Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: a practical visitor guide
Quick answer
The Gardner Museum opens Monday, Wednesday and Friday 11am–5pm, Thursday 11am–9pm and weekends 10am–5pm; it is closed Tuesdays. Admission is $25, free under 18 and free on Thursdays 5–9pm. Allow about 2 hours for the palace and its famous flowering courtyard, and book a timed ticket in advance.
Hours and prices checked on · Official website
More Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum guides
- Gardner in 2 hoursA 2-hour route through the Gardner Museum in Boston: courtyard, Titian, Sargent, the Dutch Room and the empty frames from the theft, with timings and tips.
- Hours, tickets & free entryIsabella Stewart Gardner Museum hours, ticket prices, free Thursday nights, free entry if you're named Isabella and the best time to visit.
- Must-see artThe 10 key works and rooms at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston and why they matter: Titian, Sargent, Botticelli, Rembrandt and the 1990 theft.
- Gardner with kidsHow to visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum with kids: a 75-minute route, the theft mystery, free entry under 18 and the quietest times to go.
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Why the Gardner is a must
In the early 20th century, Isabella Stewart Gardner built a Venetian-style palace in Boston to display her personal collection: Titian, Rembrandt, Botticelli, Sargent, Whistler, furniture, tapestries and a garden courtyard. Her will requires the works to stay arranged as she left them. That is part of the charm, and part of the story of the 1990 theft, the largest art theft in US history.
The 1990 theft and the empty frames
On March 18, 1990, thirteen works were stolen, including three Rembrandts, Vermeer's The Concert, a Manet and several Degas. The museum keeps some empty frames in place as a reminder and in hope the works come back; it is one of the most powerful moments of the visit. A reward is offered for information leading to the recovery of the works.
How to plan your visit
- Buy a timed ticket online: they can sell out and may not be available at the door.
- Anyone named Isabella gets lifetime free admission, but you must reserve by phone (617 278 5156) at least 24 hours ahead and show ID.
- Thursdays from 5pm to 9pm are free.
- Enter through Renzo Piano's modern wing, which leads into the palace.
- Use the AnyArt app to hear the story behind any work without renting an audio guide.
Combine it with the MFA
The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston is a few minutes' walk away. A classic art day pairs the MFA in the morning with the Gardner in the afternoon. The Back Bay Fens, right next door, are a good place for a stroll between visits.
Frequently asked questions
How long do you need at the Gardner Museum?
Two hours covers the palace and courtyards at a relaxed pace. Add the modern wing's exhibitions and plan 3 hours.
Is it true you get in free if your name is Isabella?
Yes. The museum offers lifetime free admission to anyone named Isabella, with a reservation through the Box Office (617 278 5156) at least 24 hours ahead and valid ID.
When is the Gardner free?
Thursdays 5–9pm, for under 18s, members, U.S. military and families, certain holidays and Boston Family Days.
Can you see the empty frames from the theft?
Yes, the museum keeps the memory of the 1990 theft in the affected rooms, including the Dutch Room. The museum has more on its theft page.
Can you take photos at the Gardner?
Photography rules change; check the official website before you go, as the historic galleries have restrictions.