I went to an exhibition opening at the Susquehanna Art Museum in May and it was fantastic! The staff was welcoming and informative, and the exhibition was beautiful. SAM doesn't have a permanent collection so the exhibitions rotate throughout the year.

On my first visit to the historic former bank home to the Susquehanna Art Museum at this location, I attended a fundraiser: the Seventh Annual A Taste of Jazz concert sponsored by St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Uptown Harrisburg.Performances included Shades of Blue (Vocal Ensemble from Messiah University), Mike Alexander's saxophone, Cliff Starkey's piano, and the Eric Byrd Trio.It was a delightful, energetic evening with Jazz music, a silent auction, light bites, cocktails, and many familiar, friendly faces.It was also an opportunity to see and learn about Patricia A. Montgomery’s current exhibit, Tribute to the Civil Rights Movement: Quilted Swing Coats. The exhibit celebrates hidden African American women who contributed to the Civil Rights Movement. The exhibit runs until July 6, 2025.The Susquehanna Art Museum is a true Harrisburg gem, a must-visit museum.

This is a great museum for the community, and our family loves the opportunities available for children to learn art. We have visited on numerous occasions, and for various exhibits. The only drawback is the executive director. My daughter, who is autistic, had an art project to do, and we requested to interview her, which was my daughter's assignment. Several points of outreach were made in advance of the assignment, and we presented the short three questions required for her project in an email to the executive director, because her time was very much respected (email, phone call, in-person visit). The man at the front desk was kind and did his best to accommodate us, but he directed us to his boss, because he did not have the information. The executive director was non-responsive, for the most part. When she did, finally reach out to my daughter, she was rude, stated that she was pressed for time, had a lot of work to do at the museum, and then accused my daughter of not sending her an email. As the call went on, she found my daughter's email (2X sent it) but did not apologize for her error. She then, stated that she would get back to my daughter with the 3 short-question information requested, but she never did. Eventually, my daughter interviewed an excited director at the State Museum, David Bohanick--his enthusiasm to be interviewed was mind-blowing. You could tell that he enjoyed what he did. He provided more than what was necessary, and it was much appreciated! Perhaps, he could take over the Susquehanna Museum, and exude the educational enthusiasm necessary to be in a community museum --which he clearly, possesses. In summary: Harrisburg, remove directors who are burned out and do not want to participate in raising up a culturally aware, new generation. More, there is no tolerance for individuals differently abled to be treated in such a harsh manner. Get of of the profession.

As the displays are always changing, I will return. The building and art are thought-provoking. Take-the time to check out the mural outside. The length of time spent here depends upon your level of interest. I spent about 90 minutes here because I enjoy viewing the artworks of regional artists. The free parking lot is available behind the building. The entrance fee is very fair. The bathrooms are immaculate. A gift shop is available. The employees are friendly and helpful. This museum is a hidden gem.

Stopped here with my husband as part of an overnight getaway. We found the art in the museum to be very interesting. Many pieces spoke to us. The highlight was a man losing Moonlight Sonata on the Grand Piano. Staff incredibly friendly and helpful. We would definitely come back in the future.