Godwin-Ternbach Museum
Queens' only comprehensive art and artifact museum, offering free admission and diverse, rotating exhibitions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate viewing
Godwin-Ternbach Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Queens' only comprehensive art and artifact museum, offering free admission and diverse, rotating exhibitions.
"A hidden gem of NYC, offering a surprisingly diverse collection for free."
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the museum's diverse collections without any cost. A true hidden gem!
📅 Check Exhibition Schedule
Exhibits rotate frequently, so see what's new before you visit!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Diverse Rotating Exhibitions
Main Galleries
From Picasso to contemporary Chinese art, discover a surprising range of exhibits that change frequently.
Quinceañera: Dress & Memory
Special Exhibition Space
Explore the cultural significance of Quinceañera dresses and personal stories from Latine women in Queens.
The Psychology of Portraiture
Main Galleries
See works by masters like Picasso alongside ancient artifacts, offering a unique perspective on portraiture.
The Virgin Annunciate Sculpture
Collection Room
Admire a stunning 15th-century sculpture depicting a pivotal moment in religious art history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Queens' Artful Oasis
Free Admission, Priceless Art
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the museum's diverse collections without any cost. A true hidden gem!
📅 Check Exhibition Schedule
Exhibits rotate frequently, so see what's new before you visit!
⏰ Flexible Hours for Groups
Teachers can arrange adjusted hours with advance notice.
📸 Photography Allowed (Check Rules)
Capture the art, but be mindful of any restrictions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy the museum's diverse collections without any cost. A true hidden gem!
📅 Check Exhibition Schedule
Exhibits rotate frequently, so see what's new before you visit!
⏰ Flexible Hours for Groups
Teachers can arrange adjusted hours with advance notice.
📸 Photography Allowed (Check Rules)
Capture the art, but be mindful of any restrictions.
📍 Located on Queens College Campus
Easily accessible via public transport, especially the 7 train to Flushing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Godwin-Ternbach Museum as a 'hidden gem' in NYC, highlighting its free admission, surprisingly diverse exhibitions, and intimate size. The staff are noted for being helpful and accommodating, especially for school groups. While some find the art 'boring' or repetitive, most appreciate the unique and ever-changing displays.
"Godwin-Ternbach Museum is a hidden gem of NYC. It is, certainly, the best museum within the City University of New York system of colleges.
What makes it so appealing are its: size--tiny, variety of exhibitions---it's always surprising, and price of admission--free! You can go and spend uninterrupted quality time with each piece.
As a teacher, I brought my classes there many times. If you give them notice, they will even adjust their hours to fit your schedule. Unlike at the Met, MoMA, Whitney, Godwin-Ternbach Museum never imposed any unrealistic class size restrictions.
Their exhibitions range from the expected (age of Rembrandt, Warchol), to modern (contemporary Chinese Art), to traditional (textile patterns), to historical (1960's protest posters), to interactive (immigrant experience in Queens)."
Rafal Olechowski
"Godwin-Ternbach Museum is a hidden gem of NYC. It is, certainly, the best museum within the City University of New York system of colleges."
xue han
"Very interesting collection! I was happy to see some Picasso pieces and though it was small it’s worth it!"
Kiara Yasmilet
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located on the Queens College campus. The easiest way to reach it is by taking the 7 train to Flushing, then transferring to a bus or taxi to the college.
Yes, Queens College offers parking facilities. Check the college's official website for current rates and availability.
Absolutely! Queens College is well-served by public transportation, making the museum accessible for visitors without a car.
From Manhattan, take the 7 train towards Flushing. You can then take a bus or a short taxi ride to the Queens College campus.
Yes, Flushing is known for its vibrant Asian markets and diverse food scene, offering plenty to explore before or after your museum visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Godwin-Ternbach Museum is completely free! It's a fantastic way to experience art without any cost.
The museum is typically open Monday through Thursday from 10 AM to 4 PM, and Saturdays from 11 AM to 4 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially around holidays.
No, advance booking is not required as admission is free. However, for group visits or special events, it's recommended to contact the museum in advance.
Yes, the museum is very accommodating to school groups. They have even adjusted their hours for classes in the past and do not impose unrealistic size restrictions.
The museum is generally closed on Fridays, Sundays, and major holidays. Always verify their schedule before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum boasts a surprisingly diverse collection, featuring everything from ancient artifacts and Renaissance sculptures to modern and contemporary art, including pieces by Picasso and Warhol.
It's a relatively small museum, which is part of its charm. This allows for a more intimate and focused experience with each piece, making it easy to see everything in a single visit.
Yes, the museum has featured interactive exhibits, such as those exploring the immigrant experience in Queens, offering engaging ways to connect with the art and history.
Absolutely! The museum often hosts family days and has exhibits that can appeal to younger visitors. Its manageable size also makes it less overwhelming for families.
Generally, photography is permitted for personal use, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions on certain exhibits or artworks.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is usually permitted, but it's wise to confirm any specific rules upon arrival, as some exhibits might have restrictions.
The diverse exhibitions offer many unique photo opportunities, from striking sculptures to vibrant textiles. Look for pieces that catch your eye and fit your aesthetic.
Flash photography is typically discouraged in museums to protect the artworks. Please be mindful and avoid using flash.
Yes, the 'Quinceañera: Dress & Memory in Latine Culture' exhibition is a visually rich experience, and photos are generally allowed for personal memories.
A camera with good low-light performance is ideal, as museum lighting can be subdued. A prime lens can also be useful for capturing detail in tighter spaces.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The museum's willingness to accommodate school groups also translates to a welcoming atmosphere for families. Consider visiting during weekday mornings to enjoy a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds.📚 Educators and Students
🎨 Art Enthusiasts on a Budget
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Treasure Trove of Art and Artifacts
This distinction makes it a significant cultural hub within the borough. Its strength lies in its remarkable variety, showcasing a broad spectrum of artistic expression and historical periods. Visitors can expect to encounter everything from ancient Roman masks dating back to the 5th century BC to works by renowned artists like Picasso and Warhol. This eclectic mix ensures that there's always something new and surprising to discover, making each visit a unique experience.The museum's collection is not static; it thrives on dynamic and rotating exhibitions. These exhibitions delve into diverse themes, ranging from contemporary Chinese art and traditional textile patterns to historical protest posters from the 1960s and interactive explorations of the immigrant experience in Queens.
+1 demonstrating the museum's dedication to reflecting the community's rich heritage.Beyond its impressive collection, the Godwin-Ternbach Museum is lauded for its accessibility and community focus. As a free-admission museum, it removes financial barriers, inviting everyone to explore its treasures.
+1 For educators, the museum is particularly valuable, offering flexibility in scheduling and accommodating school groups without the stringent restrictions found in larger institutions.Navigating the Queens College Campus
This location offers a unique setting for the museum, blending cultural exploration with the energy of a university. For those arriving by public transportation, the 7 train is your primary gateway to Flushing.Parking is available on the Queens College campus for visitors who prefer to drive. It's advisable to check the Queens College website for the most current information regarding parking rates, locations, and any specific regulations. This ensures a smooth arrival and avoids any last-minute surprises. The museum's presence on campus also means it benefits from the college's infrastructure, contributing to a well-organized and accessible visitor experience.
Being situated within a college campus often means that the museum's hours might align with academic schedules. While typically open Monday through Thursday and on Saturdays, it's always best to verify the museum's operating hours on their official website or social media channels before your visit, especially around academic breaks or holidays.
This proactive step will help you make the most of your visit to this cultural gem.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit