The United States is home to one of the world’s most vibrant and diverse arts and culture landscapes. A recent Brand USA study reveals that over 70% of international travelers across 15 key markets view the U.S. as a destination rich in culture, history, and distinctive neighborhoods, complemented by world-class museums and galleries.
As the nation’s official destination marketing organization, Brand USA is encouraging global travelers to experience the full spectrum of American arts and culture—ranging from iconic institutions to hidden gems scattered across every corner of the country.
“From blockbuster museums to dynamic street festivals and immersive public art, the cultural offerings of the U.S. are unparalleled,” says Fred Dixon, President and CEO of Brand USA. “With new exhibitions, museums, and cultural celebrations opening regularly, there’s always a fresh story to discover and a deeper connection to the spirit of America.”
Arts Highlights
Upcoming Events
- Untitled Art, Houston, Texas (September 2025): Making its Texas debut, Untitled Art brings a signature mix of contemporary works, experimental galleries, and immersive installations to Houston’s burgeoning art scene.
- Chicago Architecture Biennial (Sept 2025–Feb 2026): North America’s largest architecture exhibition returns to Chicago with talks, films, performances, and exhibitions—free to the public. Visitors can also explore Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie-style homes or enjoy a river cruise through the city’s iconic skyline.
- Trolls: A Field Study, Asheville, North Carolina (Nov 15, 2025–Feb 17, 2026): Danish artist Thomas Dambo’s whimsical sculptures, crafted from reclaimed materials, invite visitors to explore the North Carolina Arboretum in a playful celebration of art and nature.
- Art Basel Miami Beach (Dec 5–7, 2025): This premier contemporary art fair will welcome over 250 galleries from nearly 50 countries, transforming Miami into a global art hub.
- Charles M. Schulz Museum, Santa Rosa, California: Celebrating 75 years of Peanuts, the museum honors the timeless charm of Schulz’s beloved characters.
- Portland Art Museum, Portland, Oregon (Late 2025): A $111 million renovation will add over 95,000 square feet of new gallery space, a connecting pavilion, and a dedicated gallery for Black art.
Coming in 2026
- Whitney Biennial, New York City (March 2026): The 82nd edition promises a diverse showcase of contemporary American art across multiple mediums.
- Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C. (May 2026): Photographic Memory: Fifty Years of Photography at the National Portrait Gallery traces the evolution of portrait photography from the daguerreian era to the present.
- Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, Los Angeles (2026): Opening on an 11-acre campus in Exposition Park, the museum will highlight storytelling through art.
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art (April 2026): The newly redeveloped David Geffen Galleries will span Wilshire Boulevard, expanding LACMA’s cultural footprint.
- Frieze Los Angeles (Feb 26–Mar 1, 2026): Returning to Santa Monica Airport, the fair celebrates the city’s dynamic cultural scene and global contributions to contemporary art.
- Center for Arts & Innovation, Boca Raton, Florida (2026): A state-of-the-art hub featuring performance spaces, galleries, and studios designed for creativity and community engagement.
- Hip Hop Museum at Bronx Point, New York (2026): A 55,000-square-foot tribute to the genre’s cultural impact and roots.
Iconic and Must-Visit Cultural Destinations
- Los Angeles, California: The Getty Center and Getty Villa showcase European and American art amid breathtaking hilltop gardens. The Arts District pulses with cutting-edge galleries such as Hauser & Wirth.
- New York City: Museums like The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Frick Collection, and MoMA offer world-class exhibitions year-round.
- Dallas Arts District, Texas: Home to the Dallas Museum of Art, Nasher Sculpture Center, and a variety of performance venues.
- River North Art District (RiNo), Denver: Industrial charm meets street art, craft breweries, and avant-garde installations.
- Other Notable Arts Neighborhoods: Station North in Baltimore; East Market District (NuLu) in Louisville, Kentucky; and Knoxville’s Old City, all celebrating vibrant local arts communities.
Architectural Landmarks
- St. Louis, Missouri: The Gateway Arch, the tallest monument in the U.S., offers sweeping views of the Mississippi River.
- San Francisco, California: The Golden Gate Bridge remains an iconic landmark, perfect for walking, biking, or guided tours.
- Washington, D.C.: The National Mall hosts monumental landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Jefferson Memorial.
- Santa Barbara, California: Architect Jeff Shelton’s whimsical reinterpretation of Spanish Colonial Revival style offers a colorful, sculptural, and playful experience for visitors on self-guided walking tours.
From world-renowned museums and galleries to dynamic street art and architectural marvels, the United States offers a cultural journey like no other. Brand USA is inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the creativity, history, and community that define the nation’s arts and culture scene—ensuring that every visit tells a story.
