North Carolina Museum of Art, Raleigh (must see)

The North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) in Raleigh is a renowned art museum established in 1956 through state legislation and funding, making it the first major museum collection of its kind in the United States. It offers free admission to its extensive permanent collection, which spans over 5,000 years of art from antiquity to contemporary works. The museum's 164-acre park showcases over a dozen major art installations and serves as a backdrop for outdoor performances.

The NCMA recently underwent an acclaimed expansion that focused on energy-efficient design. The museum's history dates back to 1924, and it has since acquired a remarkable collection, including European, Egyptian, Greek, Roman, American, and international contemporary art, as well as African, ancient American, pre-Columbian, Oceanic art, and Jewish ceremonial objects.

The East Building, renovated in 2010, hosts rotating exhibitions, including displays dedicated to North Carolina artists, photography, education, and traveling/temporary exhibitions. The NCMA represents North Carolina's dedication to artistic appreciation, offering public access to art and providing inspiration and education to visitors.