Best Museums in NYC Right Now

New York City is home to some of the most dynamic museums in the world, from art to history and science, there is something for everyone. With so many museums to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to visit. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best museums in NYC right now. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these museums are worth a visit.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or “the Met,” is one of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the world. It boasts an extensive collection of art, including paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from ancient civilizations. Notable exhibits currently on display include “Making The Met, 1870-2020,” which chronicles the museum’s history and “African Art, New York, and the Avant-Garde,” which explores the impact of African art on modern art. The Met also features a beautiful rooftop garden, offering stunning views of Central Park and the city skyline.

Museum of Modern Art

The Museum of Modern Art, or “MoMA,” is home to some of the world’s most influential modern and contemporary art. Its collection includes over 200,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and films. MoMA is currently showcasing several exciting exhibitions, including “Reconstructions: Architecture and Blackness in America,” which explores how architecture has contributed to systemic racism in America, and “Degree Zero: Drawing at Midcentury,” which highlights the importance of drawing in midcentury art.

American Museum of Natural History

The American Museum of Natural History is a must-see for anyone interested in the natural world, with exhibits featuring everything from dinosaurs to outer space. Visitors can explore the halls of the museum to view lifelike dioramas of animals in their natural habitats and marvel at the massive dinosaur skeletons on display. The museum also features the Hayden Planetarium, where visitors can learn about the cosmos through immersive shows and exhibits.

The Whitney Museum of American Art

The Whitney Museum of American Art is devoted to contemporary American art, featuring works by both emerging and established artists. The museum’s current exhibitions include “Vida Americana: Mexican Muralists Remake American Art, 1925-1945,” which explores the impact of Mexican muralists on American art in the early 20th century, and “Around Day’s End: Downtown New York, 1970-1986,” which showcases the work of artists who captured the essence of New York City’s downtown scene in the 1970s and 80s.

The Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim Museum is a masterpiece of mid-20th-century architecture, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Its cylindrical interior features a continuous ramp that spirals to the top, allowing visitors to easily view the museum’s collection of contemporary and modern art. The Guggenheim is currently showing several exhibitions, including “Off the Record,” which features works by artists who subvert traditional modes of representation, and “Knotted, Torn, Scattered: Sculpture After Abstract Expressionism,” which explores the impact of abstract expressionism on sculpture.

The Morgan Library and Museum

The Morgan Library and Museum is a lesser-known gem in NYC’s museum scene. Its collection features rare books, manuscripts, drawings, prints, and ancient artifacts. Visitors can view original works by literary legends such as Charles Dickens and Mark Twain or marvel at the meticulously crafted medieval and Renaissance illuminated manuscripts. The museum also features a beautiful indoor courtyard and a wonderful cafe, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon.

The Best Museums in NYC Right Now: Frequently Asked Questions

New York City is a treasure trove of culture, history, and art. With so many museums to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to spend your time and money. To help make your decision easier, we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about the best museums in NYC right now.

1. What are the must-see museums in NYC?

There are countless museums in NYC, and which ones you consider “must-see” will depend on your personal interests. However, a few that are consistently ranked among the best include:

• The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)
• The American Museum of Natural History
• The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
• The Whitney Museum of American Art
• The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

2. Are there any new or recently renovated museums worth visiting?

Yes! NYC is always evolving, and museums are no exception. Some of the newest or recently renovated museums that are worth checking out include:

• The Shed: This innovative new space at Hudson Yards blends visual art, performance, and events.
• The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): After a major renovation, MoMA now boasts more exhibition space and larger galleries.
• Empire State Building Museum: This newly opened museum takes you on a journey through the history of one of NYC’s most iconic buildings.

3. Are there any museums with special exhibits or events right now?

Absolutely! Many museums have rotating exhibits that showcase new and exciting works. Some special exhibits or events to check out right now include:

• The Metropolitan Museum of Art: “The Costume Institute’s About Time: Fashion and Duration” explores fashion trends over time, with pieces dating back to the 1870s.
• The American Museum of Natural History: “The Nature of Color” is an immersive exhibit that explores the science behind color in the natural world.
• The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): “Félix Fénéon: The Anarchist and the Avant-Garde” explores the legacy of this influential critic and collector.

4. Are there any museums that are free or have “pay what you wish” admission?

Yes! Many museums in NYC offer free admission, but some only have “pay what you wish” admission on certain days or at certain times. Here are a few museums to consider if you’re on a budget:

• The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met): While the suggested admission is $25, visitors can pay what they wish.
• The American Museum of Natural History: While the suggested admission is $23, visitors can pay what they wish.
• The Museum of the City of New York: Pay what you wish on Sundays from 10am-noon.
• The Bronx Museum of the Arts: Free admission every day.

5. Are there any hidden gem museums that aren’t as well-known?

Absolutely! While the big-name museums are certainly worth a visit, there are plenty of smaller, lesser-known museums that offer a unique and fascinating experience. A few hidden gems to consider include:

• The Tenement Museum: This museum tells the story of immigrant families who lived in a tenement building on the Lower East Side in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
• The Museum at Eldridge Street: Housed in the restored Eldridge Street Synagogue, this museum tells the story of Jewish immigration to the United States.
• MoMA PS1: This contemporary art museum in Queens features cutting-edge work from emerging artists.
• The Rubin Museum of Art: This museum showcases art and artifacts from the Himalayas and surrounding regions.

How to Explore the Best Museums in NYC Right now

If you are an art lover, history buff, or just looking for something new to do in New York City, visiting museums is always a great option. The city has an extensive collection of museums, each with its unique exhibits and collections that offer the perfect combination of entertainment and education. However, with so many options, it can be overwhelming to decide which museum to visit. So, how do you explore the best museums in NYC right now? Here are some steps to guide you through the process.

Step One: Determine Your Interests

The first step in exploring the best museums in NYC is to determine your interests. With an array of museums in the city, every museum targets specific interests; hence, knowing your preferences will help you decide which museum to visit. Do you love art? History? Science? Or perhaps you would like to see dinosaur bones or space artifacts? Determining your interests can help you narrow down your search and identify the best museum to explore.

Step Two: Determine the Museum Type

Once you have established your interests, the next step is to decide on the museum type. Some of the common museum categories you will find in NYC include art museums, science museums, history museums, natural history museums, and children’s museums. Understanding the type of museum will give you an idea of what to expect and help you plan your visit effectively.

Step Three: Research the Current Exhibitions

After determining the type of museum and your interests, you need to research the ongoing exhibitions to find the best museums in NYC. Most museums have a blend of permanent and temporary exhibits. Checking out the museum’s website or social media pages can help you know the current exhibits, events, and programs. Additionally, some websites like Time Out and New York Magazine offer reviews and recommendations on the best current exhibitions to visit.

Step Four: Check for Discounts and Deals

Many museums in NYC have high entry fees, but you can save some money by checking for discounts and deals. Some museums have discount days where the entry fee is lower, while others offer discounts for students, seniors, military personnel, or NYC residents. You can also check for deals such as joint museum tickets, combo packages, or admission tickets that include additional exhibitions or attractions.

Step Five: Plan Your Visit

The final step is planning your visit. Once you have selected the museum, researched the current exhibits, and checked for discounts and deals, it’s time to plan your visit. Take note of the museum’s hours of operation, location, and directions. Most museums in NYC have a map and a guide that you can download from their websites. Make sure you plan for sufficient time to explore the exhibits thoroughly and attend any events or programs that interest you. It’s worth noting that some popular exhibits may draw a crowd, requiring you to book tickets in advance.

Conclusion

Exploring the best museums in NYC right now requires a bit of planning and research, but it’s a worthwhile experience. The city has several museums that represent different cultures, histories, and art forms. Whether you are a local or a tourist, following the steps outlined above can help you find the best museum to explore, learn, and appreciate the rich culture and history of Manhattan.