Top 10 main museums to visit in New York
One of the main attractions of New York is its cultural side, which you can discover in the city's museums. Petit Futé presents here the most important exhibitions in the Big Apple and what you can find in each of them. If there is one thing that has distinguished New York since its beginnings, it is its influence on the culture and artistic creations of the United States. Today, much of the city's heritage can be found in its hundreds of museums, scattered throughout the Big Apple. From the traditional Metropolitan Museum of Art to the eclectic Museum of Modern Art, including the Intrepid Museum, the Museum of Sex and the American Museum of Natural History that JD. New York exhibitions are some of the best things to do in the city.
1. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, commonly known as The Met, is one of the most prestigious and visited art museums in the world. Located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan on the corner of Fifth Avenue and 82nd Street, the museum is housed in an iconic building that houses a large and diverse collection of artworks from cultures and various historical periods. A visit to the Met provides access to more than two million works of art,from Egyptian antiquities to Asian art, Renaissance paintings and modern art. Its impressive collection covers more than 5,000 years of history and offers visitors an unparalleled cultural experience. Approximate museum entrance fees vary depending on the rate chosen. Admission for adults is around 25 euros, but the museum offers reduced rates for students, seniors and minors. Additionally, the Met offers guided tours with a pay-what-you-wish option, which allows visitors to pay an amount of their choice as a contribution to the tour.
The museum is open every day, except on public holidays indicated in the calendar. Opening hours are generally 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, with extended hours on Fridays to allow visitors to enjoy the evening museum experience, which is one of the best nightlife activities in New York.
2. The Museum of Modern Art
The Museum of Modern Art in New York , known as MoMA, is one of the city's premier cultural destinations and a world leader in modern and contemporary art. Located in the heart of Manhattan at 11 West 53rd Street, between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, MoMA is renowned for its distinctive architecture and extensive collection of 20th and 21st century masterpieces .
MoMA is home to a variety of paintings, sculptures, photographs, films and drawings by iconic artists such as Picasso, Van Gogh, Warhol, Frida Kahlo and many other influential figures in the art world. It is a space that invites reflection and wonder, showing how art has evolved over time and how it has influenced culture and society. The approximate price of MoMA tickets may vary depending on the price chosen. For adults the price is around 20 euros per person, but the museum offers discounts for students, seniors and minors. Additionally, as part of its “Free Friday” initiative, entry is free for all visitors at specific times on Friday.
MoMA is open from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except Tuesday when it is closed. During certain seasons, museum opening hours may be extended to Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, allowing visitors more time to enjoy the exhibits. If you plan to visit New York over Christmas or Thanksgiving, these times may be subject to change.
3. The Intrepid Museum of Sea, Air and Space
The Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum, located in New York, is a historic site that honors innovation and bravery in the fields of sea, air and space. Located at Pier 86 on the west side of Manhattan, the museum is housed inside an aircraft carrier, the USS Intrepid, which served in World War II and the Vietnam War. This exciting museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a wide variety of interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences related to aviation, space and naval history. Visitors can walk the aircraft carrier's flight deck, admire historic planes and spacecraft and discover the heroes and heroines who have contributed to exploration and progress in these fields. Approximate ticket prices for the Intrepid Museum vary depending on age and ticket type. Adults should expect to pay around 25 euros , while children and the elderly benefit from reduced rates. Additionally, the museum offers combo tickets that provide access to other nearby sites, such as the United States Museum of the Sea and the New York Museum of Natural Science.
The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is generally open every day of the week, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., but hours may vary due to holidays and special events. With its flexible opening hours, the museum allows visitors to enjoy a fascinating experience while exploring historical achievements in the maritime, air and space fields.
4. The Ellis Island Immigration Museum
The Ellis Island Immigration Museum is a historic and moving site located on Ellis Island, across from the Statue of Liberty. This museum commemorates the experience of immigrants who arrived in the United States in the early 20th century in search of a new life and opportunity. If you plan to visit the Ellis Island Museum, you'll find yourself at the main entry point for millions of immigrants, and the museum today provides a window into their heritage and stories. The entrance fee to the museum is around 20 eurosper person, with children and the elderly benefiting from reduced rates. Admission also includes ferry transportation and a visit to the Statue of Liberty. The Ellis Island Immigration Museum is a site of great historical and emotional significance, providing visitors with a unique experience to explore the history of immigration to the United States. Located near the Statue of Liberty and accessible during opening hours, it is a must-see stop for anyone wanting to learn more about the immigrant experience and the cultural roots that have enriched the country.
The museum is open every day of the week. Opening hours are generally from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. However, opening times may vary, so it is advisable to check details before planning your visit.
5. The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, located at Fifth Avenue and 89th Street, is one of the most famous and iconic art museums in the world. Designed by famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the building itself is a work of art and a tourist attraction. Its distinctive spiral shape and open interior provide a unique experience for visitors exploring its extensive collection of modern and contemporary art. The approximate price of Guggenheim Museum tickets varies depending on the price chosen. For adults the price is around 18 eurosper person, but the museum offers discounts for students, seniors and children. In addition, the museum organizes special days where entry is free for all visitors. This museum is a must for lovers of modern and contemporary art. Its central location, iconic architecture, and cutting-edge art collection make this museum a unique experience in New York. A stroll along its famous spiral ramp will allow you to enjoy an unparalleled visual and artistic experience as you immerse yourself in the talent of international artists.
The museum is generally open every day, except Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday until 8 p.m.
6. The September 11 Museum
The 9/11 Museum, also known as the National September 11 Memorial and Museum, is a memorial located in lower Manhattan. Built on the site of the Twin Towers before the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the museum pays tribute to the victims of this tragic event and provides a space for reflection on its impact on history and society. The approximate ticket cost for the 9/11 Museum is 26 euros per person for adults, while children and seniors can benefit from reduced rates. Additionally, the museum offers free admission to victims' families, first responders and members of the military.
This museum is a place of great historical and emotional importance, which allows visitors to learn more about the events that marked a before and after in the history of the United States and the world. Its memorial location on the site of the attacks and its accessible opening hours make it an essential visit for those who wish to pay tribute to the victims and better understand the consequences of this tragic event.
The museum is open every day of the week, except Tuesday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It's also one of the attractions included in the New York CityPASS, making it one of the best 9/11 city tours.
7. The Tenement Museum
The Tenement Museum is a historic gem located on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. This museum 's mission is to preserve and tell the story of the immigrants who lived in the cramped and modest apartments of the building at 97 Orchard Street in the late 19th and early 20th centuries . This site evokes a powerful depiction of the immigrant experience and offers an authentic insight into working class life during this era. Approximate ticket prices for the Tenement Museum vary depending on the tour option chosen, but adults can expect to pay around 24 euros, while students, seniors and children can expect lower rates. It is important to note that the museum only offers guided tours and each tour offers a unique and moving insight into the experiences of the immigrants who lived in the building. The Tenement Museum is an engaging and educational venue that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the history of New York and the experiences of the immigrants who helped build the city as we know it today.
The museum is open every day of the week, except Wednesday, from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. However, as the tours are guided, times may vary. We therefore recommend that you reserve your place in advance to be sure of participating in the desired visit.
8. The American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History, located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, is one of the largest and most famous museums in the world. Known for its collection of fossils, minerals, stuffed animals and exhibits on the natural history of our planet, the museum offers a fascinating experience for visitors of all ages. The approximate price of admission to the American Museum of Natural History varies depending on the rate chosen. For adults the price is around 20 euros, while children, students and seniors benefit from free or reduced rates. The museum also offers additional rates for special exhibits and shows, such as the planetarium and IMAX films. This museum is an educational site that will take you on a journey through time and space, from the age of dinosaurs to the ends of the universe. Thanks to its prime location on Central Park West, it's also a great place to combine with the park's best activities.
The museum is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Hours of operation may vary due to holidays and special events. It is therefore advisable to check the details before planning your visit.
9. The Whitney Museum of American Art
The Whitney Museum of American Art, located in the picturesque Meatpacking District, is an iconic site that celebrates and exhibits contemporary and modern art by American artists. With an extensive collection of artworks spanning from the 1900s to the present day , the museum offers visitors an enriching and unique experience in the world of contemporary art. Approximate admission prices to the Whitney Museum vary depending on the rate chosen. For adults the price is around 17 euros, but the museum offers discounts for students, seniors and minors. Additionally, entry is free for all visitors on Friday afternoons.
This museum is a lively, contemporary space that showcases the diversity and creativity of American art in all its forms. Located in the heart of New York's arts district, it is a must-see for lovers of contemporary art and for those who want to discover the country's most innovative artistic expressions.
If you want to visit the Whitney Museum, know that it is open every day of the week, from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hours of operation may vary based on holidays and special events, such as Christmas or Thanksgiving.
10. The Sex Museum of New York
The Museum of Sex in New York, located in the heart of Manhattan, is a unique and daring venue that explores human sexuality through diverse exhibits and historical artifacts. With an intriguing collection covering topics from antiquity to the present day, the museum offers an informative and provocative look at sexuality and its role in culture and society. Entrance to the sex museum costs around 15 eurosand it is recommended to reserve your place in advance to avoid long queues and ensure a place in the museum. Located in the Flatiron district, this museum is an interesting visit for those who want to discover a modern and uninhibited look at human sexuality. A visit to the museum will allow you to reflect on the evolution of attitudes and taboos related to sex throughout history and appreciate the way sexuality has been represented in art and culture.
The museum is open every day of the week, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Opening hours may vary on holidays and special events, so it is advisable to check details before planning your visit.
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