New England Cities with a Thriving Art Scene

New England is known for more than its clam chowder—although that is one of the best things about the area. It also has an incredible thriving art scene, so if you’re in the region for a visit or looking for a new home in New England, get ready to experience some of the best art and cultural attractions the United States has to offer. Here are some of the best cities in New England for an abundance of culture and artistic expression that will take your breath away.

Boston

Boston, Massachusetts is a city of culture and history, with an art scene that rivals that of any major city in the country. Boston is home to tons of galleries and museums such as the Institute of Contemporary Art, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts. Boston also has a thriving music scene, with a variety of venues that cater to all different types of genres, as well as plenty of theaters that offer a wide range of plays and performances year round.

Providence

Providence, Rhode Island is a city of hidden gems and a vibrant art scene. The RISD Museum of Art is one of the most popular attractions in Providence, offering a variety of works from the 17th century to present day. This capital city is also home to the Providence Performing Arts Center, which showcases plays and performances as well as concerts. There are also plenty of art centers to explore, such as the Providence Art Club and the WaterFire Arts Center, which offer classes, events, and other artistic opportunities. 

New Haven

New Haven, Connecticut is an artsy city with plenty of options for art lovers. The Yale Center for British Art houses an extensive library of British art—the largest collection of its kind outside the United Kingdom. The Yale University Art Gallery, founded in 1832, features a variety of works from a variety of different cultures, and is the oldest university art museum in the Western Hemisphere. For  musicals, plays, and concerts, check out Shubert Theatre New Haven. 

Burlington

Burlington, Vermont is the perfect place for outdoorsy art lovers. The Church Street Marketplace is home to colorful murals and sculptures, as well as a variety of street performers. This spot is ideal for anyone looking to take in art, do a little shopping, or grab a bite to eat in a beautiful outdoor setting. There are also plenty of galleries and museums throughout the city, including Burlington City Arts at The BCA Center, a great spot to attend art classes or work independently with a studio membership. Burlington is also home to the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts, which offers an exciting array of shows and performances. Start packing your boxes and looking for Burlington houses for sale, because once you visit this area, you’ll want to spend the rest of your life here.

Portland

Portland, Maine is another great city for arts lovers. The Portland Museum of Art, the Institute of Contemporary Art, and the Portland Stage Company are just a few of the great venues in the city for all different types of artistic experiences. If you’re a music lover, Portland is also home to a variety of music venues, such as the State Theatre. For a more intimate musical experience, check out Blue, a bar that features jazz music in a cozy setting.