One of the world's great art museums, the MFA works nonstop to become even more accessible and interesting. It's also expanding; construction of the new East Wing, designed by Norman Foster, should begin in early 2004. Meanwhile, the museum is rearranging some collections and closing some exhibition space. Check ahead before visiting if you have your heart set on seeing one particular piece of art -- or just show up and see what catches your eye.

You're sure to find something entrancing in these magnificent collections. Every installation reflects a curatorial attitude that makes even those who go in with a feeling of obligation leave with a sense of discovery and wonder. That includes children, who can launch a scavenger hunt, admire the mummies, or participate in family-friendly programs scheduled year-round and the extra offerings presented during school vacations. The MFA is especially noted for its Impressionist paintings (including 43 Monets -- the largest collection outside of Paris), Asian and Old Kingdom Egyptian collections, classical art, Buddhist temple, and medieval sculpture and tapestries. It's also expanding its modern and contemporary art collections and rearranging some galleries to display paintings and sculpture along with related decorative objects and even furniture.

The works that you might find most familiar are paintings and sculpture by Americans and Europeans. Some favorites: Renoir's Dance at Bougival, van Gogh's Postman Joseph Roulin, Childe Hassam's Boston Common at Twilight, Gilbert Stuart's 1796 portrait of George Washington, John Singleton Copley's 1768 portrait of Paul Revere, a bronze casting of Edgar Degas's sculpture Little Dancer, John Singer Sargent's The Daughters of Edward Darley Boit, and Fitz Hugh Lane's Luminist masterpieces. There are also magnificent holdings of prints, photographs, furnishings, and decorative arts, including the finest collection of Paul Revere silver in the world.

None of this comes cheap: The MFA's adult admission fees (which covers 2 visits within 30 days) are among the highest in the country. A Boston CityPass is a great deal if you plan to visit enough of the other included attractions.

To begin, pick up a floor plan at the information desk, or take a free guided tour (weekdays except Mon holidays at 10:30am and 1:30pm, Wed at 6:15pm, Sat at 10:30am and 1pm). To date, the latest addition to the original 1909 structure was I. M. Pei's West Wing (1981). It contains the main entrance, an auditorium, and an atrium with a tree-lined "sidewalk" cafe. There are also a restaurant and a cafeteria. The excellent Museum Shop carries abundant souvenirs and a huge book selection.

Special exhibitions during the lifespan of this update include Thomas Gainsborough, 1727-1788 (June 15-Sept 14, 2003), Rembrandt's Journey: Painter, Draftsman, Etcher (Oct 26, 2003-Jan 18, 2004), and The Maker's Hand: American Studio Furniture (Nov 11, 2003-Feb 8, 2004).