MIDTOWN. Known to locals as "The Contemporary," this internationally renowned facility is the culmination of decades of effort to bring the most groundbreaking local, regional and national art to the Atlanta community. Six different shows are offered each year, with some of the works available for sale. In addition to showcasing intriguing, experimental works from contemporary artists in a variety of media, this non-profit establishment has a very strong educational emphasis, offering classes, events and outreach programs designed to bring art into the lives of as many people as possible.

DOWNTOWN. The High Museum's downtown branch is dedicated to folk art and photography. Located in the Georgia-Pacific Building, visitors are greeted with three floors of attractive, well-planned exhibition space. Modern, winding ramps take you from one floor to the next, meandering past a total of 5,000 square feet of exhibition space. The gift shop is an excellent place to pick up postcards or books on folk art and photography. MARTA: Peachtree Center

MIDTOWN. This popular museum, in its striking contemporary building, features four floors of European and American paintings, decorative items, photography, graphics and African art. The permanent collection showcases works by renowned artists such as Claude Monet, Andy Warhol and Georgia O'Keeffe. Touring exhibits are also popular and highlight artists like Norman Rockwell, Edgar Degas and Andrew Wyeth. NB Friday Jazz is the third Friday of every month, 5pm-10pm. MARTA: Arts Center Station

EMORY. Founded in 1919, the Carlos is Atlanta's oldest art museum. Its permanent collection features awe-inspiring holdings; many prized items, in fact, were discovered by Emory faculty members. Inside a modern interior designed by Michael Graves, you'll find archeological gems from ancient Europe, South America and sub-Saharan Africa. Must-see collections feature Egyptian art and Bronze Age artifacts. The gallery's Greek and Roman art section includes an exceptional portrait of Emperor Tiberius.