The largest concentration of commercial art galleries in the United States outside New York — more than sixty galleries clustered along West Superior Street, West Huron Street, and North Franklin Street. The galleries range from blue-chip contemporary spaces showing established names to newer venues focused on emerging artists. Most are free to enter.
The best time to visit is on the first Friday of each month, when galleries coordinate their opening receptions and the streets fill with collectors, artists, and the merely curious. On a regular weekday, the district is quiet and the galleries are easy to browse without crowds. The main concentration is between the river and Chicago Avenue, west of State Street. Red Line, Grand station.