The Galleries at Moore Philadelphia

Painting and collage, sculpture and photography, clever installations that invite viewers to comment or interact. This space shows it all, with natural light pouring in the generous front windows. Just steps away from Logan Circle, the galleries at Moore are a secret escape.

Moore College of Art and Design is one of the best art schools in the city. You'll need to show a photo ID to enter the building, and the friendly security guards will give you a nametag to wear. But you may be alone here in the Galleries at Moore, where alumni shows share space with bigger, thematic contemporary art exhibits. Past exhibits have included photography of protests and racial integration in the south and the art of punk music.

These galleries feel like a secret escape, sandwiched in between the Academy of Natural Sciences and the Franklin Institute. I love escaping the heat and crowds by slipping into this cool clean space. And I have yet to see a show here that I don't love.

Check out the shop next door, where you will find gorgeous smaller art pieces by alumni and students. Some of the original pieces here are surprisingly affordable. I've been delighted to score smaller pieces from artists I admired in big shows next door.