What not to do in a museum? 9 rules that some people break

Visiting a museum should be a quiet, respectful journey through history, art, and science. But let’s be honest—many visitors forget the basics, risking damage or disrespect to the collections. And I find that interesting! Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do, especially if you want to preserve these treasures for future generations. Sure, some rules seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how often they get broken. With that in mind, let’s dive into the key mistakes most visitors should avoid.

Common Museum Etiquette Mistakes to Avoid

1. Do not eat or drink in gallery spaces.
Eating, drinking, or even having gum in the same space as artworks is a quick way to invite disaster. Spills, stains, and pests are the enemies here. Many museums have designated cafes for a reason—use them. I remember once seeing a visitor happily munching a bag of chips right in front of a Van Gogh replica… And let’s move on, because that’s how damage happens. Protecting art means respecting the environment.

2. Do not touch the artworks or exhibits.
Hands off, literally. Oils and dirt from our skin can irreversibly degrade paintings, textiles, and artifacts. I’ve seen visitors lean on or poke at fragile objects—what are they thinking? Touching may seem harmless, but it’s like playing with a ticking time bomb. And let’s be real, if an object is safe to touch, it’s probably designed for it—like interactive displays. Otherwise, keep your distance.

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3. Do not use flash photography or take unauthorized pictures.
Flash can bleach or weaken sensitive materials in artworks. Some museums outright ban photography altogether—often for cultural or ethical reasons. During recent visits, I’ve seen tourists flash their phones at priceless relics, not caring about the damage. Why risk that? Respect the rules—there’s usually a good reason. By the way, they also say that some museums restrict photography of certain items, like human remains or religious objects, to preserve dignity.

4. Do not bring large bags or backpacks into galleries without permission.
Large bags are hazards—either they bump into exhibits or are stolen. Most museums require you to store them in lockers. I’ve had students tell me they overlooked this and had to leave their gear behind. Always check the rules beforehand. Don’t be that person who causes a scene because of a forgotten bag.

5. Do not smoke or use tobacco products inside.
Smoke deposits can stain and damage artworks, especially paintings and paper items. This rule exists for a reason—so, no cigarettes, cigars, or vapes inside. I remember hearing about a museum that had to restore a series of old canvases after a smoker’s careless puff. It’s like when in chess, a small mistake can ruin the whole game—same with art preservation.

6. Do not bring pets (except service animals).
Animals can disturb or damage exhibits—trust me, I’ve seen a dog lick a glass case or bark at a sculpture. Service animals are permitted, but pets? No way. It’s about keeping the environment calm and safe for everyone. Plus, a pet’s curiosity can be destructive, and that’s not fair to the collection.

7. Do not make loud noises or disturb others.
Museums are places of quiet reflection. Shouting, loud talking, or disruptive behavior ruin the experience. I’ve been in galleries where someone’s loud phone call broke the concentration of everyone around. Remember, this isn’t a concert hall—it’s a space for thought and learning. Respect that.

8. Do not lean on walls, display cases, or artworks.
Leaning or touching fragile structures can cause accidents or damage. I’ve seen cases wobble dangerously because someone pressed on them for support. And let’s be honest, the art isn’t a place to rest your elbows. Keep your balance and respect the integrity of the exhibits.

9. Do not use markers, pens, or inappropriate drawing tools.
Sketching is fine, but only with pencils—no ink pens or markers. Many museums have strict policies on this. I’ve seen visitors try to sketch with a Sharpie and leave permanent marks. If you want to draw, do it properly and politely. Otherwise, you’re risking ruining the experience for others and damaging the collection.

Follow the Specific Rules of Each Museum about what not do in a museum

And finally, always adhere to the specific rules of each museum.
Each institution has its quirks, and some collections require special care. Checking guidelines beforehand shows respect and avoids embarrassing situations. Remember, these rules exist to keep the collections safe and meaningful.

By the way, they also say that following these simple guidelines helps ensure that art remains intact and accessible. It’s not just about rules; it’s about respecting the effort, the history, and the artists behind each piece. If you think about it, every rule is a safeguard for the stories that artworks tell. And let me tell you—these stories are worth protecting.

So, what do you think? Do you believe most visitors are aware of these “do not” rules? Or do they get overlooked in the excitement? Leave me a comment—I’d love to hear your thoughts. And if you’re interested, read more of my articles; I promise they’ll give you a deeper understanding of the art world, one detail at a time.

Marc Lefevre

Since I was a child I have been passionate about art, the painters of all my life, the classic works of art that bored all children. I have practically spent a lifetime surrounded by art, working from a very young age as a gallery owner and later as a teacher. I love to teach and to extract the most intimate part of the artists and their works. I also love discovering new artists.