El Museo del Barrio
1230 5th Ave, New York City, NY, 10029
El Museo del Barrio, often dubbed “El Museo,” is dedicated to the art of Puerto Rican, Caribbean, and Latin American cultures, and is the oldest museum in the US dedicated exclusively to Latino art. At the end of Fifth Avenue’s Museum Mile, it houses more than 6,500 pieces, ranging from Taíno artifacts to works by contemporary artists in NYC and beyond.
The basics
The idea for El Museo del Barrio started in a classroom in 1969, and by 1978, it became one of the founding members of New York City’s Museum Mile. It’s only grown and grown since then, attracting visitors seeking the best in Puerto Rican, Latin American, Caribbean, and Latino art and dialogue. The museum also doubles as a lively cultural hub, offering performances, concerts, and other events that spotlight New York artists and local neighborhood flavor.
Things to know before you go
Though walk-up tickets are available, it’s best to buy timed-entry tickets in advance—available on the museum’s website.
Tickets are “pay what you wish,” though there’s a suggested admission price.
Along with its galleries, the museum has a nice outdoor courtyard, with a café and performance space.
How to get there
The museum is right on 5th Avenue in East Harlem, directly across from Central Park. By subway, you can take the 6 train to 103rd Street and walk from there. Rideshares and taxis are good options, too.
When to get there
El Museo del Barrio is typically open Thursday to Sunday, and is closed on major holidays. Timed-entry tickets are suggested, and most visitors spend about 1.5–2 hours here. Check the calendar to see if any special events are coming up.
Welcome to the neighborhood
El Museo del Barrio is part of East Harlem, aka Spanish Harlem or El Barrio, on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. It’s one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in the city, so when you’re here visiting the museum, leave time to stroll around the surrounding blocks. Hop on a neighborhood tour for a full experience of this historic slice of NYC.
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