— Best Art Museum
Speed Art Museum
The Basics
Opened: 1927
Neighborhood: U of L’s campus
Self-description: “We invite everyone to celebrate art, forever.”
Website: speedmuseum.org
Best of Louisville Stats
Total nominations: 11
Total wins: 5
First nomination: 1986, the inaugural Best of Louisville, Best Tourist Attraction
First win: 1993, Best Art Gallery
Also won: 2016, Best Gift to the City for free-admission Owsley Sundays
The Voting Academy Says
“The biggest fish of art destinations in the state.”
“As a 92-year-old African American, I feel welcomed when I walk in the building. Everyone is smiling, everyone speaks to me. I enjoy being in this environment.”
“Check out the Kentucky Gallery.”
“Cinema at the Speed is the only movie theater I attend because of the diversity of topics, nationalities. Louisville has had a serious showing of incredible films since the opening of the cinema. Dean Otto is an outstanding film curator.”
“The Speed is a place where I find hope in humanity.”
We asked the Speed to share something that says something essential about them…
“The Art Park, opening Oct. 1, 2025, is an open, welcoming space surrounding the museum where art, nature and community intersect. Free and accessible to all, it reflects our belief that the joy and power of creativity belong to everyone. The Art Park invites visitors to gather, explore, reflect and experience art in new ways — extending the Speed’s mission beyond museum walls to spark curiosity, foster connection and inspire personal growth.”
Scroll Credits
Speed Art Museum
Directors
The Speed Art Museum leadership team
Producers
Our dedicated employees and volunteers, past and present, whose passion and creativity bring the Speed to life every day
Cast and Crew
Our generous donors
Our loyal members
Our community partners across Louisville and beyond
Artists from near and far whose work broadens perspectives and inspires connection
The people of Louisville, whose curiosity, energy and stories fill our galleries and make the Speed a true community home
Special Thanks to Hattie Bishop Speed
Who in 1927 created Kentucky’s first major art institution — open to all, regardless of background — and whose vision of accessibility and belonging continues to guide us nearly a century later