The Cleveland Museum of Art in 2 hours
Quick answer
In 2 hours you can see the best of the Cleveland Museum of Art: start in the atrium, continue with Caravaggio, Van Gogh and Monet, pass Picasso and Turner and finish in the Armor Court and the Guelph Treasure. Admission is free and the museum opens 10am-5pm.
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The route: 8 stops in 2 hours
Works change galleries. We do not give room numbers: pick up the day's floor plan at the entrance. Timings include walking.
- 1
0:00 · Ground floor · atrium
The atrium and first orientation
Enter through the north entrance, grab a map and walk through the glass atrium, the heart of the building.
- 2
0:10 · European art
The Crucifixion of St Andrew — Caravaggio (c. 1607)
A dramatic chiaroscuro scene, with the saint gazing at his cross.
- 3
0:30 · European art
The Large Plane Trees — Vincent van Gogh (1889)
Painted during his stay in Saint-Rémy, with vibrant brushwork and roadworkers.
- 4
0:45 · Impressionists
Water Lilies — Claude Monet
A view of his Giverny pond; watch how the light changes as you step closer.
- 5
1:05 · 20th-century art
La Vie — Pablo Picasso (1903)
A key Blue Period work, rich with symbolism.
- 6
1:20 · European art
The Burning of the Houses of Lords and Commons — J. M. W. Turner (1835)
Turner captured the violence of fire above the Thames.
- 7
1:35 · Armor galleries
The Armor Court
Knights and armoured horses: one of the museum's favourite rooms.
- 8
1:50 · Medieval art
The Guelph Treasure
Medieval reliquaries of gold and enamel, one of the most important medieval collections outside Europe.
Tips to make the most of it
- Enter at 10am on a Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday.
- Wednesday and Friday evenings draw more local visitors.
- Point the AnyArt camera at any work not on this list to hear its story.
- If you have time, pop into Ancient Egypt, which often goes unseen.
Frequently asked questions
Can you see it in 2 hours?
Yes, if you focus on the most famous works. For a relaxed visit allow half a day.
Where is the Caravaggio?
In the European art galleries. Ask for the day's floor plan.
Do I pay for this route?
No: the permanent collection is free.
What about the Guelph Treasure?
In the medieval galleries; it is a must-see.