The upcoming year of 2026 promises to be an exciting one for museum enthusiasts across the United States, with a lineup of remarkable exhibitions that explore both renowned and overlooked figures in art, history, and culture. From major retrospectives to fresh perspectives on familiar themes, these exhibitions will captivate audiences from coast to coast. Here, we highlight the top 19 must-see museum shows, spanning locations from New York to Atlanta, offering a diverse range of artistic experiences.
“Renaissance to Runway: The Enduring Italian Houses” at the Cleveland Museum of Art (November 9, 2025–February 1, 2026)
This exhibition bridges the worlds of high art and fashion, tracing the influence of Italian fashion houses from the Renaissance to modern times. The show highlights 80 ensembles and garments alongside 40 pieces of fine jewelry, showcasing the interplay between fashion and art history.
“The One-Two Punch: 100 Years of Robert Colescott” at the Tacoma Art Museum (December 5, 2025–May 2026)
Celebrating the centenary of Robert Colescott, this exhibition at the Tacoma Art Museum in Washington sheds light on his vibrant figurative painting and incisive take on race and identity in America.
“Containing Multitudes” at the Minneapolis Institute of Art (December 20, 2025–August 2, 2026)
Marking America’s 250th anniversary, this exhibition features 95 photographic works that depict the nation’s diversity and complexity. Inspired by Walt Whitman’s quote, “I contain multitudes,” the collection includes works by both historical and contemporary artists.
“Frida: The Making of an Icon” at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (January 19–May 17, 2026)
This exhibition delves into Frida Kahlo’s legacy, exploring how she became one of the most recognizable figures in art history. The show features 30 of her masterpieces alongside 120 works by artists influenced by her.
“Eugène Atget: The Making of a Reputation” at the International Center of Photography, New York (January 29–May 4, 2026)
Highlighting Eugène Atget’s pivotal role in modern photography, this exhibition examines how American photographer Berenice Abbott preserved and promoted his work, cementing his reputation in art history.
“Say It Loud: AAMARP, 1977 to Now” at the Institute of Contemporary Art, Boston (February 12–August 2, 2026)
Exploring the impact of the African American Master Artists-in-Residence Program, this exhibition showcases the diverse output of the collective, emphasizing themes of racial justice and activism.
“Village Square: Gifts of Modern Art from the Pearlman Collection” at Los Angeles County Museum of Art (February 22–July 5, 2026)
Featuring 50 artworks donated by the Pearlman Foundation, this exhibition provides insight into Los Angeles’ art collecting scene, with pieces by Cézanne, Degas, Manet, and others.
“Raphael: Sublime Poetry” at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (March 29–June 28, 2026)
This extensive exhibition presents over 200 works by Raphael, highlighting his mastery across various mediums including drawings, prints, paintings, and tapestries.
“Agnes Martin: Painting Is Not Making Paintings” at Dia Beacon, New York (April 4, 2026)
Focusing on Agnes Martin’s shift from watercolor landscapes to abstraction, this exhibition explores her development of iconic grid patterns and her philosophical approach to art.
“Isamu Noguchi: ‘I am not a designer'” at the High Museum of Art, Atlanta (April 10–August 2, 2026)
A comprehensive look at Isamu Noguchi’s interdisciplinary work, this exhibition features nearly 200 pieces that blur the lines between sculpture, architecture, and design.
“Marcel Duchamp” at the Museum of Modern Art, New York (April 12–August 22, 2026)
This major retrospective features 300 works by Marcel Duchamp, highlighting his significant influence on modern art. The show will also travel to Philadelphia and Paris.
“Timeless Mucha” at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, Kansas City (April 18–August 30, 2026)
This exhibition revisits Alphonse Mucha’s iconic works, exploring his impact on graphic art history and his lasting influence on modern visual culture.
“Matisse’s Femme au Chapeau: A Modern Scandal” at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (May 16–September 7, 2026)
Explore the history of Henri Matisse’s “Femme au Chapeau,” once a scandalous work that marked a shift in his artistic style and paved the way for Fauvism.
“Keith Haring in 3D” at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas (June 6, 2026–January 25, 2027)
This exhibition showcases Keith Haring’s lesser-known sculptural work, featuring a range of 3D pieces that expand his iconic imagery into new dimensions.
“Tarot! Renaissance Symbols, Modern Visions” at the Morgan Library and Museum, New York (June 26–October 4, 2026)
This comprehensive exhibition examines the history and cultural significance of Tarot, from its Renaissance origins to its modern reinterpretations by 20th-century artists.
“Georgia O’Keeffe: Architecture” at the Detroit Institute of Art (September 13, 2026–January 3, 2027)
Highlighting Georgia O’Keeffe’s architectural paintings, this exhibition offers a new perspective on her work, from skyscrapers to adobe houses.
“Haas Brothers: Uncanny Valley” at the Blanton Museum of Art (September 13, 2026–January 17, 2027)
Celebrating the Haas Brothers’ innovative blend of art, design, and technology, this mid-career survey presents their imaginative and otherworldly creations.
“Roy Lichtenstein” at the Whitney Museum of American Art, New York (October 14, 2026–April 2027)
The Whitney Museum will celebrate the centennial of Roy Lichtenstein, featuring his iconic Pop art works that redefined the art world.
“Suzanne Jackson: What Is Love” at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (2026)
Following its run at SFMOMA and the Walker Art Center, this retrospective of Suzanne Jackson highlights her diverse artistic career and contributions to the art community.
These exhibitions promise to offer enlightening experiences and fresh insights into some of the most influential artists and movements, making 2026 an unforgettable year for museum-goers across the U.S.
