Bangkok’s Best Art Museums: From Buddhism to Batman
PUBLISHED September 24th, 2020 05:00 am | UPDATED October 1st, 2020 10:19 am
We all know and love Bangkok for its food culture, but this bustling city is home to so much more. Get to know a different side of Bangkok and visit some of its amazing museums. Whether you love history, contemporary art, or even superheroes, we have something for you.
Bangkok Art and Culture Centre
Undoubtedly one of the biggest players in Bangkok’s art scene, the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre is home to exhibitions and events across all artistic disciplines. Rotating curators bring different perspectives to the space, making sure there’s always something new and exciting to experience, from new Asian photography to Latin LGBTQ film.
Bangkok Art and Culture Centre is located at 939 Rama 1 Road, Wangmai, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330. Open Tues — Sun 10am — 9pm.
Museum of Contemporary Art
Bangkok’s Museum of Contemporary Art is home to one of the biggest collections of modern paintings and sculptures in Thailand, all curated by the museum’s founder, Boonchai Bencharongkul. Some 800 works in the building include art inspired by traditional Thai modes of expression and art influenced by Western styles and techniques, encapsulating the modern Thai sensibility.
Museum of Contemporary Art in Bangkok is located at 499 Kamphaengphet 6 Road, Ladyao, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900 Thailand. Open Tues — Sun 10am — 6pm.
Bangkok National Museum
The Bangkok National Museum houses the largest collection of local art and artefacts in Thailand. Founded by King Rama V and occupying the former 18th century Wang Na Palace, this museum is the perfect choice for those interested in historical art. Containing relics from the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya eras through to the modern Thai kingdom, it’s within walking distance of Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace, if you want to make a day out this trip to the Old Town.
Bangkok National Museum is located at Na Phra That Alley, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand. Open Wed — Sun 9am — 4pm.
Art in Paradise
The first 3D museum in Bangkok, Art in Paradise curates a one-of-a-kind experience. The space comprises six permanent exhibition zones with different concepts, themed by period or country and housing an eclectic mix of traditional and new art. All the art in the building was created by just 15 artists, who spent a whopping two and a half months painting the wall and floor by hand with technical precision. An interactive experience for the ‘gram.
Art in Paradise Bangkok is located at 99 Ratchadaphisek Rd, Din Daeng, Bangkok 10400, Thailand. Open daily 10am — 10pm.
Suan Pakkad Palace
Originally the home of Prince Chumbhotbongs Paribatra and his wife, Suan Pakkad Palace is one of the finest examples of traditional domestic architecture. A literal translation of “cabbage patch,” it was transported from Chiang Mai to Bangkok and converted into a museum in 1952. Suan Pakkad Palace displays a range of Thai antiques, including 4,000 year-old Ban Chiang pottery.
Suan Pakkad Palace is located at 352-354 Si Ayutthaya Road, Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand. Open daily 9am — 4pm.
Museum Siam
A juxtaposition of antique fixtures and technology combined with modern art Museum Siam aims to encapsulate the full range of Thailand’s history. One of the younger museums in Bangkok, expect an avant-garde learning environment that enhances creativity, resulting in its highly interactive nature. Step into rooms with themes like ‘New Ayutthaya,’ ‘Suvarnabhumi,’ and ‘Buddhism’.
Museum Siam is located at 4 Sanamchai Road, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand. Open Tues — Sun 10am — 6pm.
Batcat Museum & Toys
If you’re a superhero nerd, this place is a must-visit. As the name suggests, Batcat Museum & Toys is home to over 60,000 pieces of memorabilia primarily focused on Batman. Many of these are vintage toys, dating back to 1960. Expect to see some other heroes make an appearance; Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, and Wonder Woman, among others. Be sure to check out the collection of Batmobiles.
Batcat Museum & Toys is located at 32 Srinagarindra Rd, Hua Mak, Bang Kapi District, Bangkok 10240, Thailand. Open Tues — Sun 9am — 5pm.
Bangkok Science Museum and Planetarium
Looking for something a little different than the normal art and history exhibitions? The Bangkok Science Museum and Planetarium is a great option. This science and astronomy-focused complex also contains Thailand’s oldest planetarium, which since a recent revamp features a changing program with stunning 360-degree visuals, an in-built fish-eye lens, and surround sound. Great for adults or families.
Bangkok Science Museum and Planetarium is located at 928 Sukhumvit Rd, Phra Khanong Sub-district, Khlong Toei District, Bangkok 10110. Open Tues — Sun 9am — 4.30pm.
