Salvador Dali is one of the most iconic artists to have ever walked the earth. As one of the proponents of surrealism and avant-garde art, his works have shocked, confused, and amazed those who have been lucky enough to see his work in person.
The Salvador Dali Museum (also known as The Dali Museum) in Downtown St. Petersburg, Florida has the largest collection of Dali’s works outside of Spain. Dali’s friends and patrons, Reynolds and Eleanor Morse, have been collecting and sharing their collection to the public for decades. As believers of his vision and talent, they aimed to pay tribute to Dali’s life and works.
An Architectural Wonder
The building itself was inspired by the art movement that Salvador Dali was at the forefront of—surrealism. Upon walking in, visitors will notice the spiral staircase that seems to lead to the glass ceiling.
The museum was designed by Yann Weymouth. It used to be an arena (Bayfront Center). When the new building opened in 2011, it drew in artists and art enthusiasts from around the world. This museum, along with other art museums and galleries in the area have helped establish Florida as a hub for the arts.
Since the Tampa Bay area is often hit by hurricanes, the building had to be sturdy enough to withstand natural calamities. Not only is the building aesthetically pleasing, it also serves an important purpose as it protects Dali’s works inside. Take a quick break from the overwhelmingly surreal images and artworks by taking in a view of the bay and the gardens.
The Salvador Dali Museum in Florida should not be confused with the Dali Theater and Museum in Catalonia, Spain. The Dali museum is only one of the many museums and galleries that pay tribute to such a prolific and talented artist.
Salvador Dali, An Icon
Salvador Dali is known for his surreal artworks, most notably one that features melting clocks (The Persistence of Memory) and his upturned mustache. His appearance and flamboyant mannerisms made him famous. People tend to overlook the fact that he was very prolific until his old age. Apart from the hundreds of Dali’s works in this museum, his other artworks are displayed at galleries around the world.
A Surreal Experience
The museum holds a fixed collection of Dali’s artworks: oil painting, watercolors, drawing, photographs, and an archival library which are all related to his life and work. Aside from the permanent displays, the museum also hosts workshops, lectures, performances, and Dali-themed activities. The museum pays tribute to an artistic genius by providing insight into the surreal style and avant-garde life of Salvador Dali.
Notable artworks at the museum:
- The Hallucinogenic Toreador
- The Persistence of Memory
- The Ecumenical Council
- The Discovery of America by Christopher Columbus
Nearby Attractions And Activities
After spending a couple of hours at the Dali Museum, you may want to explore nearby sites and attractions. While there is no shortage of art galleries and museums in the area, there are parks and nature preserves that should not be missed.
Sunken Gardens
- Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am to 4:30 pm | Sunday: 12:00 pm to 4:30 pm
- Tickets: Adults: $15 | Seniors (62 and above): $12 | Children (2-17 years old): $6
Chihuly Collection
- Daily: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Tickets: Adults: $20 | Seniors (65 and above): $18Military: $18 | Students (6-18 and college students with valid ID): $13 | Children (5 and below): Free
James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art
- Daily: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm | Tuesday: 10:00 am to 8:00 pmTickets: General: $20 | Seniors (65 and above): $15Military: $15 | Students and teachers: $15 | Youth (7-18): $10 | Children (6 and below): Free
Duncan McClellan Gallery
- Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm | Sunday: 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm
- Admission: Free
Imagine Museum
- Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm | Sunday: 12:00 pm to 8:00 pmTickets: Adults: $15 | Seniors (65 and above): $13 | Military (with ID): $13| Students(with ID): $10 | Youth (7-17): $10 | Children (6 and below): Free
Vinoy Park
- Open daily, 30 minutes before sunrise to 11:00 pm
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
- November 1 to February 29: Tuesday to Saturday - 9:00 am to 6:00 pm | Saturday - 7:00 am to 6:00 pm | Sunday - 9:00 am to 6:00 pm | Monday- Closed
- March 1 to October 31: Tuesday to Saturday - 9:00 am to 7:00 pm | Saturday - 7:00 am to 7:00 pm | Sunday - 9:00 am to 7:00 pm | Monday - Closed
- Tickets: Adults: $3 | Seniors (65 and above): $13 | Children ( 3 to 16 years old): $1.50
Access
- Fees: General Admission: (18-64 years old): $29 | Seniors, educators, military, police and fire: $27 | Students: $20 | Youth (6-12 years old): $12 | Children (5 years old and below): free | Members: free
- Membership fee: $70
- Schedule: Open daily, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (until 8:00 pm on Thursdays)
Where To Stay
Downtown St. Petersburg is a bustling locale with a lot of hip galleries and restaurants. Likewise, the hotels in the area are chic yet reasonably priced. Here are some of the best:
- Hampton Inn and Suites St. Petersburg: From $149 per night
- The Inn on Third: From $104 per night
- Hyatt Place St. Petersburg: From $186 per night
- Hollander Hotel Downtown St. Petersburg: From $129 per night
- The Birchwood: From $279 per night
Why You Should Visit
Salvador Dali captivates the imagination and interest of everyone from amateur art enthusiasts to serious collectors. The Dali Museum is home to the most comprehensive collection of Dali’s works outside of Spain. It is the best place to learn about Salvador Dali as well as the art movement which he represented.