Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA), Atlanta

First opened in 1989 as the Atlanta International Museum of Art & Design, it is the only museum in the Southeast devoted exclusively to the study, recognition, and celebration of design. In this respect, MODA stands apart from traditional art museums, focusing on how design shapes everyday life through exhibitions, educational outreach, and adult-focused programming.

The museum offers approximately 6,500 square feet of exhibition space spread across two main galleries. Both are defined by clean, industrial lines and durable concrete floors that allow for flexible installations. Exhibitions regularly explore architecture, industrial and product design, interiors and furniture, graphic design, fashion, and related fields. The front desk area doubles as a reception space, while the rear gallery features a vaulted ceiling with two-story windows that bring in natural light. Behind the scenes, the museum is equipped with a built-in audiovisual system, ceiling-mounted digital projectors, responsive track lighting, and integrated security infrastructure—features that support a wide range of exhibition formats.

For visitors who appreciate the objects and systems that shape the built environment, MODA offers a focused and engaging experience. It works particularly well as a complement to a visit to the High Museum of Art, located directly across the street, but it also stands on its own as a compact, thoughtful stop while exploring Midtown Atlanta. Visitors can explore exhibitions independently, join guided programs when available, or browse the museum shop, which offers a curated selection of design-focused merchandise.