Whether you’re on the hunt for a new activity to do with your loved ones or opt to fly solo, visiting the best museums in Manila should be on your must-try list! Museums are the perfect place to acquire new knowledge about our history, admire the different artworks that artists have invested in for years, or take a quick weekend visit with your friends and families. Metro Manila is filled with some of the best museums that deserve a visit! Read on to discover which museums you should explore at least once in your life.
From contemporary to native art pieces, the Pinto Art Museum boasts masterpieces that are centered on Filipino culture and history that dates back to the Spanish colonial occupation. Aside from being a museum, it’s also an exhibition space that showcases artworks of contemporary Filipino artists. Bridging the past and the present through jaw-dropping masterpieces, taking a trip to the Pinto Art Museum is definitely a must. Plus, the museum’s architecture and lush gardens are masterpieces themselves.
With 29 galleries and hallway exhibitions, the National Museum of Fine Arts exhibits artworks from 19th century Filipino masters, National Artists, and famous modern painters, printmakers, and sculptors. You can also find other loaned artworks from individuals, institutions, and organizations! If you’re going in a big group of 20 to 30 people, you can book a tour for the ultimate experience.
Ever since its three-year renovation, the National Museum of Natural History has been the talk of the town. Aside from its stunning architecture (like the popular Tree of Life structure), get ready to be stunned by the 12 permanent galleries that showcase the magnificent geological and biological diversity of the Philippines! Be it botanical, zoological, or botanical – the National Museum of Natural History will show you just how rich and beautiful the Philippine ecosystems are.
Discover the pre-history and history of the Philippines while viewing interesting ethnological and archaeological artifacts in the National Museum of Anthropology! Aside from ancient artifacts, it also houses the maritime and underwater division, the zoology division, and the wreck of San Diego. With a visit to one of the best museums in Manila, you’ll find a greater appreciation for our cultural heritage!
Historical, archaeological, ethnographic, fine arts, ecclesiastical, and numismatics exhibits – the Ayala Museum has it all! The Ayala Museum has seven permanent exhibitions like the “Gold of Ancestors: Pre-colonial Treasures in the Philippines” and limited-time exhibitions such as the “Landscape into Painting: Fernando Zobel Serie Blanca”. You can also find collections of Philippine art and culture, dating back to World War II. The Ayala Museum draws in art and history lovers alike, and even those who are driven by their curiosity!
Experience 250 hands-on and interactive informational exhibits created by renowned Filipino scientists and designers in the first world-class science museum in the country. The Mind Museum is one of the most recognized science museums in the metro as it introduces a modern take on science and art. The museum’s goal is to let the visitors appreciate the importance of science through the use of art as a medium. As you travel through the five galleries with different themes, you will have a unique experience that you will genuinely cherish even after you exit the museum.
Three-hour visits
All-day pass
Considered one of the major museums in the country, located along Roxas Boulevard, the Metropolitan Museum of Manila is an excellent avenue for those who want to admire and get inspired by the evolution of Modern Filipino Art. The museum currently showcases different modern and contemporary artworks from local artists, as well as some pre-colonial items. You can also avail of their guided tours for a more detailed discussion regarding the showcased artworks.
Opened in 2005, the Yuchengco Museum was built by Alfonso Yuchengco, one of the most prominent businessmen around the world, as an avenue to showcase his art collection and to create a place where people can celebrate the diversity of art and culture. The museum currently showcases art and design works from different local and international artists such as Juan Luna and Fernando Amorsolo. You can also spot some of Jose Rizal’s memorabilia, like his love letters, in the museum. Guided tours and unique workshops are also offered by the museum.
Are you craving a fun and exciting adventure with delicious desserts? Worry no more, as the makers of the famous Inflatable Island bring you, the Dessert Museum. As the name suggests, the museum is full of modern art exhibits in the form of world-famous desserts. You are in for a ride as you go through 8 fun-filled rooms with different themes, such as the Donut Room and the Marshmallow Room. Visitors should also expect to get mouth-watering desserts from the staff and more information about the dessert artworks.
A trip to the best museums in Manila is always a good idea, especially if you’re looking for a fun activity to do with your family, friends, or even by yourself! You can also book a staycation in the metro if you’re longing for that much-deserved break. If taking a trip outside the city piques your interest, check out these beaches near Manila and other local tourist spots in the Philippines that will please the adventurer in you!
And goodbye to dark pits!
The touch of love that every sensitive skin deserves!
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Here's to settling the debate on which is best
We hear number 4 is a fan favorite!