Tips for Visiting

We want your visit to the BMA to be a great experience! Please read over this section to make the best of your visit and help us keep the artwork safe for all visitors to enjoy.


Look But Please Don’t Touch
The oils on our hands can actually break down materials (even sculpture and furniture!), so please don’t touch. Please stay an arm’s-length distance away from artworks.

Less Is More
You are welcome to carry bags smaller than 14.5” wide x 17” high x 8” deep in the Museum. Small backpacks must be carried on front to avoid accidentally bumping art. You can even check out a BMA tote for free at the entrances to carry belongings!

Travel Light
Use our coin-return lockers to keep your large bags and belongings safe as you explore the Museum. They are located at each entrance.

Capture The Moment
Please take lots of pictures! Just be sure to turn off your flash and note that photographic equipment, including selfie sticks, is not allowed in the galleries. To inquire about commercial photography or photography requiring equipment, please contact our Communications Department at [email protected].

Jot It Down
Pick up a free BMA pencil at the entrances! Pens are not allowed in the galleries because ink can stain and we want to keep our artwork safe.

Lunch Break
You are welcome to enjoy your snacks in the sculpture garden or lobby areas. Or, try out the delicious food in our cafe. Any food or drink must be sealed and remain in bags while enjoying the galleries.


Please note:

Tobacco products and vaping are not allowed in the Museum, including the sculpture garden.

We document many of our programs and visitor experiences. While visiting the BMA, you may be photographed or filmed by a museum staff member with a Museum Photographer badge. The footage may be used in promotional materials, including advertisements, brochures, social media, and on our website.


Visiting with Kids

The Birmingham Museum of Art has lots of fun things for kids and adults to enjoy together!

ArtVenture
Visit our hands-on gallery for kids! Please bring one adult for every four kids.

Scavenger Hunts
Scavenger hunts are available at both entrances. They take you on a search through the Museum’s galleries and are fun for both kids and adults!

Travel Light
You are welcome to carry bags smaller than 14.5” wide x 17” high x 8” deep in the Museum. Small backpacks must be carried on front to avoid accidentally bumping art. You can even check out a BMA tote for free at the entrances to carry belongings!  Use our coin-return locker to keep your large bags and belongings safe as you explore our galleries. Lockers are located at each entrance.

Hungry?
Bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy in the lobby areas or the sculpture garden. Any food or drink must be sealed and remain in bags while visiting the galleries.

Restrooms
Restrooms are located on each floor. Changing stations are located in both restrooms on the first floor off the Main Lobby.

Strollers and Wheelchairs
Feel free to use your own strollers or child carriers on the front, but please don’t carry children on your back or shoulders. Strollers and wheelchairs may be checked out from the Security Officer at the parking lot entrance.

Don’t Try Too Much!
There is lots to see and do at the Museum, but little legs and little eyes get tired easily. You can have a great time looking at just a few works of art or visiting Bart’s ArtVenture. Plan to spend about 30 minutes to an hour at the Museum with your child.