Chiang Mai—Thailand’s epicentre for artisanal craftsmanship for hundreds of years and a Unesco Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art. From galleries and museums to art villages and cafes, Chiang Mai boasts an incredible art scene where tradition and modernity come together, offering a diverse creative landscape that is at once inspiring, rich, and entirely unique.
Here are ten creative spaces to get your creative juices flowing.
1. Dream Space Gallery
Dream Space is a contemporary art museum set in a large area surrounded by large trees. The gallery is organised into three zones that can be walked through continuously, within which are bright, fun, and larger-than-life murals by famous artists like Alex Face and Muebon, as well as temporary exhibitions. Visit the coffee shop, where you can get a map of the gallery. Admission is free.
Address: 98 ซอย 1 Tambon Hai Ya, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
Contact: +66 83 623 2057
2. La Luna Gallery
Situated in a beautiful colonial house in one of the most artistic areas of Chiang Mai, La Luna Gallery is the perfect place to discover the talents of contemporary Asian artists. Exhibiting over 15 artists from six countries, you’ll be inspired by a variety of styles, inspirations, and techniques.
Address: 193 Thanon Charoenrajd, Wat Ket, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
Contact: +66 85 695 0047
3. Chiang Mai House of Photography
Situated in a picturesque, restored building in the heart of the Old City, Chiang Mai House of Photography collects and preserves photographs for the documentation, understanding, and celebration of northern Thai culture. Through the collection, you’ll learn about the living heritage and legacy of the Lanna Kingdom. Admission is free.
Address: Phrapokklao Road, T. Siphum, A. Mueang, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Contact: +66 52 000 393
4. Chiangmai Art Museum
A small, beautiful museum surrounded by breathtaking scenery in the rural area of Mae On, Chiangmai Art Museum is a peaceful sanctuary where you can appreciate interesting contemporary art from Northern Thailand. There is a small gift shop and a cute cafe on the premises. The entrance fee is 100 Baht and worth a visit if you find yourself in the area.
Address: Ban Sa Ha Khon, Mae On District, Chiang Mai 50130, Thailand
Contact: +66 61 270 4559
5. Kalm Village
An arts, crafts, and culture centre in the heart of Old Town Chiang Mai that celebrates and explores diverse artistic, cultural, and historical subjects where heritage and innovation converse. Their programs, events, and happenings are thoughtfully curated to educate, engage, inspire, and empower.
Address: 14 Phra Pok Klao Rd Soi 4, Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Contact: +66 93 320 9809
6. MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum
MAIIAM is a stunning private museum of contemporary art in the Sankamphaeng district. The museum mounts long-term and temporary exhibitions of visual art, design, and fashion alongside performances, film screenings, special education programs, lectures, and workshops to engage a wide spectrum of audiences. The entrance fee is 200 Baht.
Address: 122, Moo 7 Tonpao San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai 50130, Thailand
Contact: +66 52 081 737
7. Paw made Cafe and Painting.CNX
A charming art studio slash cafe where the atmosphere is abuzz with crafty activities. For a fee of 499 baht, unleash your inner artist and indulge in a painting session while you enjoy your coffee and cake! Materials are provided, and you’ll have the guidance of warm and helpful instructors.
Address: 40 Charoen Muang Rd, Tambon Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
Contact: +66 91 140 2241
8. Gallery Seescape
Established in 2008, Gallery Seescape is a contemporary art community and creative space comprising a gallery and exhibition space, designer shops, a cafe, and an artists’ residency. It’s a great place to relax, work from, and get inspired.
Address: 22, 1 Nimmanahaeminda Road, Tambon Su Thep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Contact: +66 93 831 9394
9. Woo Cafe Art Gallery
Get inspired at this colourful brunch spot filled from top to toe with art and lifestyle products. Overflowing with creativity, it’s a unique, eclectic cafe concept that serves excellent food and is, of course, totally Insta-worthy. Don’t miss the art gallery upstairs!
Address: 80 Charoenrat Road Wat Gate, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand
Contact: +66 52 003 717
10. Baan Kang Wat
A lovely artists’ village and creative space for local independent artists situated at the base of Doi Suthep. The complex has charming little shops and studios selling local artisanal, handcrafted products and art. Some of the artists even offer workshops and classes!
Address: 191-197 ซอย วัดอุโมงค์ Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Contact: +66 93 423 2308
