Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
11 W 53rd Street, Manhattan, New York City, NY, 10019
One of the world’s leading art institutions, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is a showcase for some of the best works by the most respected artists of the modern era. A visit to this New York City landscape gives you a front-row seat to such masterpieces as Vincent Van Gogh’s The Starry Night, Andy Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Cans, and Frida Kahlo’s Self Portrait with Cropped Hair.
The basics
An essential stop on New York City’s cultural circuit, MoMA offers enough inspiration for an entire day. Admire masterworks like Monet’s Water Lilies, Vincent van Gogh’s Starry Night, and Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Cans, then escape the crowds with an avant-garde film in the downstairs theaters, or relax in the outdoor sculpture garden or terrace café.
The museum also offers free workshops and events in the interactive Paula and James Crown Creativity Lab and the Marie-Josée and Henry Kravis Studio, as well as VIP evening tours that let you enjoy the art in a quieter environment, after the museum closes to the general public.
Things to know before you go
Pre-book for skip-the-line admission tickets to make the most of your time, or use a New York City attractions pass.
MoMa offers a variety of free, themed audio guides, including one just for kids.
The museum offers free WiFi and charging stations.
MoMA is wheelchair accessible.
Touch tours and Art Insight visual descriptions are available for blind visitors, and MoMA audio devices and classrooms are T-coil compatible for visitors who are deaf and hard of hearing.
How to get there
MoMA’s primary location is in Midtown Manhattan, between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, on West 53rd Street. To reach the museum via public transportation, take the E or M subway lines to the 5th Ave/53rd St stop (located down the block) or the 1 or 2 to 50th Street/Broadway, a couple blocks away. Nearly all New York City hop-on hop-off bus tours also stop at the museum.
When to get there
MoMA is open seven days a week from late morning until early evening, with extended evening hours on Fridays and on the first Thursday of each month. The museum is open every day of the year except for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
MoMA PS1
After seeing the greats, get a different perspective on the city’s contemporary art scene at MoMA’s nonprofit arts campus, MoMA PS1, on Jackson Avenue in Queens. Founded in 1971, the center is devoted to thought-provoking contemporary and alternative art. Programs include artist residencies, special exhibits, presentations, and working studios. Admission is free for all New York City residents; visitors pay a relatively small fee.
Ways to explore
As one of New York City’s most beloved museums, the Museum of Modern Art attracts large crowds, so prebooking admission is recommended to avoid long ticket lines. Tickets grant you access to all galleries and exhibitions, including temporary shows, and include admission to the museum’s sister venue, MoMA PS1 in Queens, within 14 days. You can book a tour with an art historian or enjoy a more intimate (and crowd-free) experience on an after-hours tour.
You can also book a combination ticket that also includes admission to the Whitney Museum of American Art (The Whitney) or a hop-on hop-off bus to travel with ease.
Accessibility
The MoMA is wheelchair accessible, and service animals are welcome.
Age limits
Children age 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
What to pack
Student ID for discounted admission; pencil for notes/sketches (no pens allowed in the galleries)
What to wear
Comfortable shoes and a warm layer for air conditioning in summer
Not allowed
Selfie sticks, tripods, outside food and drink, touching the art
Amenities
Restrooms, Wi-Fi, dining and shopping, coat check, water fountains, benches to rest
Address
MoMA is located in Midtown, on West 53rd Street between Fifth and Sixth avenues.
Driving
While you could drive to the MoMA, navigating Midtown Manhattan’s gnarly traffic is not for the faint of heart, and parking fees eat into budgets. Hail a cab or book a rideshare service instead.
Public transportation
The closest subway station is the E, M at 5th Avenue/53rd Street, a 2-minute walk. The 47-50 Sts Rockefeller Station is a 4-minute walk and served by the B, D, F, and M. Buses M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, and M50 all stop nearby.
Best times to visit
The museum is quietest in the morning, soon after opening.
Best days to visit
On Friday evenings, New York State residents receive free admission (advanced tickets required).
Best months to visit
Crowds are thinner in NYC’s shoulder season months: March to May and September to November.
Special events
From classic movie screenings to artist talks, workshops, and music performances, the MoMA hosts a busy calendar of events.
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