South Boston
Institute of Contemporary Art
The first art museum to be built in Boston in nearly 100 years, the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) opened its new waterfront home on Fan Pier in December, 2006. Its new location in South Boston will draw visitors to the HarborWalk year-round.
Designed by celebrated architects Diller Scofidio + Renfro, the ICA’s architecture weaves together interior and exterior space, producing shifting perspectives of the waterfront throughout its galleries and public spaces. As you ride in the glass elevator you can enjoy the views of Boston Harbor.
The ICA has showcased cutting edge art in Boston for over 70 years. The building creates new ways for visitors to view and experience art.
Wolfgang Puck’s Water Café, located on the first floor, features sliding doors that face the harbor. The Putman Investments Plaza adjacent to the café merges with the HarborWalk. Open to the general public, you can enjoy views of the Boston Harbor and rest on the bleacher-like steps located under the cantilevered media center. Public restrooms and a gift shop are open to all on the ground floor. Special thanks to Target for sponsoring free admission after 5 p.m. Thursday evenings. For more information on ICA exhibits, performances, and events, please go to ICA website.
Site Photos:
Getting There:
- Subway:
Take the Red Line to South Station. Walk on Summer Street towards the Fort Point Channel. Make the first left (just before the water) and then make a right onto the Congress Street Bridge. Follow the HarborWalk sign in front of the Children's Museum to the Fan Pier (7 minute walk).Alternatively, transfer to MBTA Silver Line 1 or 2/3 to the Waterfront (free transfer from Red Line) and take to the first stop, Courthouse station.
- Bus:
Take MBTA Bus Route 4 or7.
