Milwaukee Art Museum
A lakefront museum whose Calatrava pavilion opens a 66-metre moving sunscreen by day and folds it at night.
Updated 20 October 2026
Santiago Calatrava's Quadracci Pavilion opened in 2001 and gave the museum an object as well known as anything inside it: the Burke Brise Soleil, a movable sunscreen with a wingspan of about sixty-six metres, which opens during the day and folds at night or in bad weather - sensors close it when the wind stays above 37 km/h for three seconds. The collection behind it is substantial: a large Georgia O'Keeffe holding, since she was born in Wisconsin, strong American decorative arts and folk art, German Expressionism, and the Bradley collection of modern work. Eero Saarinen's 1957 War Memorial Center and a David Kahler wing form the rest of the complex.
Highlights
- The Burke Brise Soleil - a 66-metre wingspan, open by day.
- A large O'Keeffe collection - she was born in the state.
- German Expressionism and folk art - two strong holdings.
- Saarinen's 1957 War Memorial - part of the same complex.
When to go
Year round; time a visit for a wing movement. Three hours.
What to expect
The wings close in high wind, which is common on the lake - the schedule is not guaranteed. The pavilion is a lobby, not a gallery. Special exhibitions cost extra. Lakefront wind in winter is severe.
Nearby
The lakefront path runs both ways; downtown Milwaukee is west.
Key facts
Source: Wikidata, item Q325712, read on 18 October 2026.
What to pack for Milwaukee Art Museum
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
- A refillable water bottle - Many cities have public fountains; save money and plastic. Find on Amazon
- A light layer + compact umbrella - For museum air-con and a sudden shower. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
