Captivating Museums/Exhibitions in New York City
These 7 museums are perfect for both tourists and NYC natives to enjoy stunning architecture and incredible history. All are magical places where you can spend either a couple of hours to a full day enriching yourself in historic wonders.
1.Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
The Guggenheim is a paradise for modern art lovers. It’s known for thoughtful exhibitions and incredible architecture, specifically the spiral ramp that guides patrons to each exhibit.
Pro Tip: They offer "Pay What You Wish" admission on Saturdays from 4 pm–6 pm. Beginning Saturday, April 2, the "Pay What You Wish" admission will be from 6 pm–8 pm.
Address: 1071 5th Ave, New York, NY 10128
Hours: Thursday-Monday 11 am-6 pm
Website: https://www.guggenheim.org/
2. The Morgan Library and Museum
Once the private library of financier J. Pierpont Morgan, The Morgan Library and Museum has an impressive history and an even better collection of literature. The incredible architecture was expanded in 2006, adding a restaurant, additional reading room, outdoor garden, shop, and more. Definitely, one of my favorite places to relax, grab some tea (from the café) and enjoy the captivating libraries.
Pro Tip: Reserve tickets anytime from 5-7, on Fridays, and get free admission! Tickets can be reserved up to 1 week in advance.
Address: 225 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10:30 pm-5 pm (Fridays closes at 7 pm)
Website: https://www.themorgan.org/
3. The Cloisters at the Met
The magical gardens and European medieval architecture will make you feel like you've escaped New York City. The Cloisters at the Met, constructed in 1933, showcases intriguing medieval art while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere. New York State residents and New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut students can get access to "Pay What You Wish Tickets" making access super affordable.
Pro Tip: Go during Apr-Oct to experience their seasonal outdoor garden café!
Address: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
Hours: Thursday-Tuesday 10 am-5 pm (Fridays and Saturdays closes at 9 pm)
Website: https://www.metmuseum.org/visit/plan-your-visit/met-cloisters
4. Rubin Museum of Art
The Rubin Museum of Art does an incredible job of preserving and sharing the art of the Himalayan Regions. They also feature several classes both online and in-person for people who want to delve deeper into mindful meditation.
Pro Tip: Museum admission is free with a ticket reservation every Friday night from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Address: 150 W 17th St, New York, NY 10011
Hours: Thursday-Sunday 11 am-5 pm (Friday closes at 10 pm)
Website: https://rubinmuseum.org/
5. The Frick Collection
Open Thursdays- Sundays, The Frick features masterpieces from the Renaissance to the early twentieth century. Browse their incredible collection of sculptures, paintings, textiles, clocks, and more in this easy-to-navigate museum.
Pro Tip: "Pay what you wish" admission is on Thursdays from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m
Address: 1 E 70th St, New York, NY 10021
Hours: Thursday-Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Website: https://www.frick.org/visit
6. The Brooklyn Museum
The Brooklyn Museum is one of the largest museums in the United States at over 500,000 square feet. The property is constantly introducing new works to the museum, including the very viral "Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams” exhibition. All of the exhibits are vastly different, so there is something for every patron to enjoy, but check out their website to stay updated on current works on display.
Address: 200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 11 am-6 pm (Friday & Saturday close at 8 pm)
Website: https://www.brooklynmuseum.org/
7. The Shed
The Shed is a cultural institution that constantly changes with time. They are known for frequently hosting interactive exhibits, and for starting conversations about societal social, and economic barriers through artwork. I’ve experienced some of my favorite installations here and they’re always changing so it’s a place you can enjoy time and time again.
Pro Tip: Review their website before booking your trip to ensure that you'll enjoy current exhibitions.
Address: 545 W 30th St, New York, NY 10001
Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 11 am-6 pm (Friday & Saturday close at 8 pm)
Website: https://theshed.org/
