Even if you think contemporary art isn't for you, the ICA is a blast. The city's first new art museum in nearly a century is a work of art in its own right. The cantilevered building -- designed by the New York firm Diller Scofidio + Renfro, whose work on this landmark project helped boost its growing reputation -- juts out above the harbor, affording dizzying views of the water, the waterfront, and the airport. Besides being an irresistible draw, the architecture reflects the institution's curatorial philosophy that art is inseparable from everyday life, rather than a singular experience reserved for special occasions and field trips. The ICA showcases 20th- and 21st-century art in every imaginable medium, including film and video, music, literature, and dance. Opened in 2006, the 65,000-square-foot museum gives the institution the space it needs to create a permanent collection for the first time since its founding (under a different name) in 1936. Visitors have already enjoyed works by Louise Bourgeois and Anish Kapoor that wouldn't have fit in (literally or figuratively) elsewhere in Boston, and the schedule of events, concerts, films, and other activities seemingly can't expand quickly enough. Special exhibitions during the lifespan of this book include Tara Donovan (Oct 10, 2008-Jan 4, 2009) and Damián Ortega (May 22-Sept 7, 2009). The cafe overlooks the water and offers outdoor seating in fine weather, and the gift shop is spectacular.

Copyright: Excerpted from Frommer's Boston 2009, (c) 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.

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