Walking Tour: 100 Years of High Museum History
October 29, 2026 | 1:30–3 p.m.
Location: High Museum of Art
Not a member? Join today!
Travel back in time with Julia Forbes, Associate Director of Institutional Research at the High Museum of Art.
In commemoration of the museum’s 100th anniversary, this walking tour will introduce you to the architects who designed the buildings that have housed the High throughout its history. From Walter T. Downing (who designed the home of Harriet “Hattie” High) to Richard Meier and Renzo Piano (who designed the current campus), enjoy walking the grounds, and encounter some long-hidden surprises.
For more information, please email culturecollective@high.org or call 404-733-5034.
Please note that in the event of this walk being canceled, Thursday, November 5 is reserved as a makeup date.
About Your Guide
Julia Forbes is the High Museum of Art’s Associate Director of Institutional Research. She is responsible for designing, implementing, and reporting on quantitative and qualitative research studies regarding the High’s impact. Prior to her current position, Forbes served for over eighteen years at the Shannon Landing Amos Head of Museum Interpretation and is a founding member of the Association for Art Museum Interpretation. She holds degrees in Art History and Cultural Anthropology from the University of California at Santa Barbara and a master’s degree from the George Washington University in Art History/Museum Training.
Know Before You Go
This tour will commence in Taylor Lobby, the museum’s main entrance. It will cover approximately one mile of walking distance. Assistive-listening devices will be provided, and lightweight collapsible stools may be requested in advance.
About Walking Tours
Engage Atlanta through art! Walk alongside local creatives, historians, and other community members in tours that focus on topics including public art, street art, architecture, and cultural histories. Walking Tours take place throughout the year in different Atlanta neighborhoods and each includes walking between 1 to 2 miles. Assistive-listening devices are provided, and folding stools are available upon request.
Related Events
Join the High Museum of Art and the Atlanta History Center, both marking their 100th anniversary this year, to explore the process of telling stories about Black history and representation in Atlanta.
Engage Atlanta through art! Walk alongside local creatives, historians, and other community members in tours that focus on topics including public art, street art, architecture, and cultural histories. Art and About Walking Tours take place throughout the year in different Atlanta neighborhoods; each tour includes a walking distance of one to two miles. Assistive listening devices are provided, and folding stools are available upon request.
Engage Atlanta through art! Walk alongside local creatives, historians, and other community members in tours that focus on topics including public art, street art, architecture, and cultural histories. Art and About Walking Tours take place throughout the year in different Atlanta neighborhoods; each tour includes a walking distance of one to two miles. Assistive listening devices are provided, and folding stools are available upon request.
Join us for a special evening exploring The Recipe Collection, a cookbook published by The Member’s Guild of the High in 1981.
The High is taking over Peachtree Street to throw a 100th birthday bash you won’t forget. Join us for a free Block Party featuring live music, DJs, art-making, food vendors and special surprises.
Join fellow members on this exclusive thematic tour. Inspired by Halloween, take a deep dive into the High’s permanent collection to discover spooky imagery. This tour offers a new perspective on new pieces and old favorites.
Join us as we celebrate our Centennial year with an exclusive tour just for members! With the help of a High Museum of Art docent, we will dive into the American Art collection in the recently re-installed galleries and explore what it means to be an American artist. Including many new acquisitions and old favorites, there is something for everyone to enjoy!