The museum's expositions are now located in ancient buildings, which themselves are monuments of Russian history and culture. In the ancient building of the city, a rare example of civil architecture of the XVII century, the Metropolitan Chambers represents the richest collection of ancient Russian art. Acquaintance with the works of the Russian Middle Ages is a rare opportunity to trace the history of Yaroslavl iconography from pre-Mongol Rus to modern times. In the Governor's House, built by the decree of Alexander I and served not only as the residence of Yaroslavl governors, but also as the traveling palace of Russian emperors, Russian art is represented from Peter's times to the present day. In the merchant's mansion, built in the first third of the XIX century, in 2014 the "Museum of Foreign Art" was opened, where collections of European and Oriental art of the 16th-20th centuries are presented.

Active exhibition policy distinguishes the activities of the museum, it is the initiator and participant of Russian and international projects. The professional activity of the museum is manifested in scientific research work, in the creation of original educational programs for different categories of viewers, in participation in international events. The works of the employees were repeatedly awarded with awards, grants from the President of Russia, grants from the Vladimir Potanin Charitable Foundation, and prizes of the Governor of the Yaroslavl Region. Yaroslavl Art Museum is the only Russian nominee of the prestigious international competition "European Museum of the Year - 2016".