Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), New York City - person walking up stairs in MoMA, new york
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Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

4.6
·56k reviews·New York, United States

Explore a world-class collection of modern and contemporary art, from Van Gogh to Warhol, with iconic masterpieces and innovative digital installation...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), New York City - person walking up stairs in MoMA, new york

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a world-class collection of modern and contemporary art, from Van Gogh to Warhol, with iconic masterpieces and innovative digital installations.

4.6
(56k reviews)

"A must-visit for art lovers, MoMA offers an unforgettable journey through the evolution of modern art."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Go Early to Avoid Crowds

Arrive right at opening to experience the galleries with fewer people.

🎟️ Free Fridays for NY Residents

Enjoy free admission on the first Friday of the month, 5:30-8:30 PM. Expect crowds!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Starry Night & Impressionist Masters

Starry Night & Impressionist Masters

Second Floor

Immerse yourself in iconic masterpieces like Van Gogh's 'The Starry Night' and Monet's 'Water Lilies.'

Andy Warhol's Pop Art

Andy Warhol's Pop Art

Second Floor

Explore the vibrant and provocative world of Andy Warhol's iconic pop art creations.

Unsupervised by Refik Anadol

Unsupervised by Refik Anadol

The Donald and Barbara Wexler Atrium

Witness a mesmerizing AI-generated art installation that dreams through modern art.

Sculpture Garden Oasis

Sculpture Garden Oasis

Ground Floor

Find a moment of tranquility amidst impressive sculptures in this open-air urban retreat.

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key

MoMA can get busy, especially during peak tourist seasons and on free admission days. Consider visiting early in the morning or on weekdays to enjoy a more relaxed experience. Weekends and holidays will be significantly more crowded, so plan accordingly if you prefer fewer people. Reddit

Free Fridays & Special Access

New York State residents can enjoy free admission on the first Friday of each month from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. While this is a great perk, expect larger crowds during these times. Check MoMA's official website for any other potential discounts or special access days. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Friday Evenings (Free Admission)
Why
Free entry, vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
High
When
Late Afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Artwork at the MoMA! By: @refikanadol #art #artist #exhibition #installation
@arts_help
211.3K likes • 4.9M views

🎯 Go Early to Avoid Crowds

Arrive right at opening to experience the galleries with fewer people. Reddit

🎟️ Free Fridays for NY Residents

Enjoy free admission on the first Friday of the month, 5:30-8:30 PM. Expect crowds! InstagramReddit

Unsupervised by Refik Anadol is on view at the MoMA through March 5th! #nycmuseum #moma #refikanadol #thingstodoinnyc #explorenyc
@anasdestinations
80.9K likes • 1M views
Free Fridays at MoMA 🎨✨ Every Friday from 5:30–8:30, New York State residents can explore the museum at no cost. Check out the exhibitions & galleries drop into the Creativity Lab for hands-on activit...
newyorklocals
1.1K likes • 33.7K views

👟 Comfortable Shoes Are a Must

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so wear your most comfortable footwear. Reddit

📱 Download the MoMA App

Enhance your visit with audio guides, maps, and exhibition information. TikTok

FIRST LOOK: MoMA Family Festival 🎨 The Museum of Modern Art is hosting a first-ever winter break festival for kids (and it’s epic!). Step into Another World this February break at MoMA’s Family Fest...
littlekidbigcity_newyork
19.5K likes • 522.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Go Early to Avoid Crowds

Arrive right at opening to experience the galleries with fewer people. Reddit

🎟️ Free Fridays for NY Residents

Enjoy free admission on the first Friday of the month, 5:30-8:30 PM. Expect crowds! InstagramReddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Are a Must

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so wear your most comfortable footwear. Reddit

📱 Download the MoMA App

Enhance your visit with audio guides, maps, and exhibition information. TikTok

☕ Grab a Coffee Break

There are cafes on-site for a quick refresh between galleries. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(56k reviews)

Reviews Summary

MoMA is widely praised for its world-class collection of modern and contemporary art, featuring iconic masterpieces that captivate visitors. The 'Unsupervised' AI installation and the Sculpture Garden are frequently highlighted as unique and engaging experiences. However, some visitors find the museum can get quite crowded, especially during free admission times, and suggest arriving early or on weekdays for a more relaxed visit.

"MoMA is always such an inspiring experience. There were many people tho.. thought it would be pretty empty given it was a weekday afternoon. guess there were many travelers since it's last week of August/Labor Day weekend. I always love seeing the works of Edward Hopper — his art captures quiet, everyday moments so beautifully. Standing in front of Monet’s Water Lilies felt almost meditative, and Picasso’s pieces reminded me of how revolutionary his vision was. One of my personal highlights was seeing Klimt’s work up close, the details and colors are breathtaking in person.

The museum itself is so thoughtfully curated, and I always leave feeling like I’ve discovered something new, even with the most famous masterpieces and even i visit multiple times a year. Truly a place where you can spend hours just soaking in the creativity and brilliance of so many iconic artists."

S P

"We loved our visit here! It was packed with gorgeous pieces and full of inspiration. I could have spent hours longer here, but I also felt like we saw a lot in the 2 hours we were there. Make sure to not step or lean over any of the lines by the priceless artwork. It is extremely well staffed and the employees will keep you on your toes - :) lots of rules so make sure you familiarize yourself with them.

The gift shop was full of unique and interesting items. They had a cafe and a seating area as well as a place outside to sit and enjoy the sculptures."

Nikki Wilson

"We bought tickets for adults at the box office, children are free. We spent about 4 hours in the museum, we were very tired of walking, but it was worth it! A must-see for all art lovers, very interesting and fascinating exhibitions and works. To admire the exhibits in person is an indescribable experience. And yes, the museum has a great souvenir shop, huge and with a very wide range, although the prices are high, but as souvenirs, the choice is simply excellent!"

Olesia Sushkeeva

What People Like

Iconic masterpieces
Diverse collections
Engaging installations

What People Dislike

Crowded during free hours
Can be overwhelming

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

MoMA is conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan. You can reach it via subway lines E, M to 5th Ave/53rd St, or B, D, F, M to 47-50 Sts-Rockefeller Ctr. Many bus routes also serve the area. TikTok

While there are several parking garages near MoMA, they can be expensive. Public transportation is generally recommended for ease and cost-effectiveness. Reddit

For tourists, the subway is often the most efficient and cost-effective way to reach MoMA. It connects you directly to the heart of Manhattan. TikTok

Yes, MoMA is a walkable distance from Times Square, approximately a 15-20 minute walk north. It's a pleasant stroll through Midtown. Reddit

The Museum of Modern Art is located at 11 West 53rd Street, New York, NY 10019. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission for adults is typically around $25. Seniors and students may receive discounted rates. Children under 16 are usually free. Check the official MoMA website for the most current pricing. Reddit

Yes, purchasing MoMA tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time and guarantee entry, especially during busy periods. Reddit

New York State residents can enjoy free admission on the first Friday of each month from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. InstagramReddit

MoMA is typically open seven days a week, with hours generally from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Extended hours are available on Fridays. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking a timed entry ticket online is strongly advised, especially for free admission days or during peak seasons, to ensure you can enter at your preferred time. Reddit

🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience

Don't miss Van Gogh's 'The Starry Night,' Picasso's 'Les Demoiselles d'Avignon,' Warhol's 'Campbell's Soup Cans,' and Monet's 'Water Lilies.' The 'Unsupervised' AI installation is also a popular draw. TikTokInstagramReddit

Most visitors spend 2-4 hours at MoMA to see the main collections. If you want to explore special exhibitions thoroughly, you might need more time. Reddit

The Sculpture Garden can offer a respite, especially when the weather is cooler. The 6th-floor terrace might also provide a quieter experience if open. Reddit

Yes, MoMA is generally stroller-friendly, and they often have family festivals with activities for children. Instagram

Photography is generally allowed in the permanent collection galleries for personal use, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Special exhibitions may have different restrictions. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, MoMA has several dining options, including The Modern (a Michelin-starred restaurant), Cafe 2, and Terrace Cafe, offering various culinary experiences. Reddit

There are many restaurants near MoMA catering to different budgets. Options range from food halls like Urbanspace Vanderbilt to various cafes and eateries within walking distance. Reddit

Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the museum galleries. It's best to utilize the on-site cafes or nearby restaurants. Reddit

The Modern is MoMA's fine-dining restaurant and is considered a high-end dining experience, so it can be quite expensive. Cafe 2 offers more casual and affordable options. Reddit

For a quick and delicious bite, consider Urban Hawker, a popular food hall just a few blocks away, or explore the numerous delis and cafes in the surrounding Midtown area. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Iconic artworks like 'The Starry Night' and 'Campbell's Soup Cans' are popular photo subjects. The 'Unsupervised' digital art installation offers dynamic visuals. The Sculpture Garden also provides unique shots. TikTokInstagram

Yes, you can generally use your phone camera for personal photos in the permanent collection galleries. However, flash and tripods are usually not allowed. TikTok

Flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are typically prohibited. Special exhibitions may have stricter rules, so always check signage. TikTok

Morning hours, especially on weekdays, offer softer light and fewer people, making for better photographic conditions. The Sculpture Garden is also lovely in natural light. Reddit

Look for dynamic installations like Refik Anadol's 'Unsupervised' for vibrant shots. The iconic artworks and the Sculpture Garden are also highly 'grammable.' TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

MoMA offers a surprisingly engaging experience for families. They frequently host family festivals and events, like the 'MoMA Family Festival,' designed to spark creativity in children. Instagram Look out for interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that make art accessible and fun for younger visitors. The museum is generally stroller-friendly, making it easier to navigate with little ones. Instagram

While the main collections can be vast, focus on specific galleries or artworks that might capture a child's imagination, such as the vibrant pop art or the dynamic digital installations. The Sculpture Garden can also be a great place for kids to explore and burn off some energy in a beautiful setting. Reddit Consider downloading the MoMA app for family-friendly audio tours or content that can make the visit more interactive.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, MoMA offers a fantastic opportunity for free admission. As a New York State resident, you can visit for free on the first Friday of each month from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. InstagramReddit While this is a great deal, be aware that these evenings are significantly more crowded. Reddit

If you're not a NY State resident or can't make it on a free Friday, consider purchasing tickets online in advance, as sometimes package deals or discounts are available. Reddit For dining, skip the on-site restaurants and explore the numerous affordable eateries and food halls in the surrounding Midtown area, such as Urbanspace Vanderbilt, to save money on meals. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & First-Timers

For those passionate about art or visiting MoMA for the first time, prioritize the iconic masterpieces on the second floor, including Van Gogh's 'The Starry Night' and Picasso's 'Les Demoiselles d'Avignon.' Reddit Allocate ample time, at least 2-4 hours, to truly absorb the collections. Reddit Don't miss the temporary exhibitions, which often feature cutting-edge contemporary art and can offer a unique perspective. TikTok

Consider utilizing the MoMA app for guided tours or in-depth information about specific artworks. TikTok If you're looking for a more profound experience, visiting during off-peak hours (weekday mornings) will allow for a more intimate engagement with the art. Reddit For a truly immersive experience, explore the digital art installations like 'Unsupervised' by Refik Anadol, which showcase the museum's forward-thinking approach to art. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring MoMA's Iconic Collections

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is a treasure trove of modern and contemporary art, housing an unparalleled collection that spans painting, sculpture, photography, design, and film. Visitors are consistently drawn to its iconic masterpieces, including Vincent van Gogh's 'The Starry Night,' Pablo Picasso's 'Les Demoiselles d'Avignon,' and Andy Warhol's 'Campbell's Soup Cans.' These works are not just famous; they represent pivotal moments in art history and offer a profound visual experience. Reddit

Beyond these celebrated pieces, MoMA's galleries are meticulously curated to showcase the evolution of artistic movements. You can wander through rooms dedicated to Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, marvel at Abstract Expressionism, and engage with the bold statements of Pop Art. The museum also boasts an impressive collection of photography and design, offering a comprehensive look at visual culture in the 20th and 21st centuries. TikTok

Recent additions like Refik Anadol's 'Unsupervised' highlight MoMA's commitment to embracing new technologies and artistic mediums. This digital art installation, powered by AI, transforms the museum's atrium into a dynamic, ever-changing canvas, demonstrating how art continues to evolve. TikTokInstagram+1 It's this blend of historical significance and contemporary innovation that makes MoMA a must-visit for art lovers.

Navigating MoMA: Tips for a Smooth Visit

Planning your visit to MoMA can significantly enhance your experience. While the museum is rarely 'overly busy' outside of special events, arriving early in the morning on a weekday is often recommended to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more contemplative atmosphere. Reddit+1 If you're a New York State resident, the first Friday of the month offers free admission from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, but be prepared for a significantly more crowded environment. InstagramReddit

Comfort is key when exploring MoMA, as you'll likely be on your feet for several hours. Wearing comfortable shoes is essential for navigating the multiple floors and extensive galleries. Reddit To make the most of your visit, consider downloading the MoMA app, which provides helpful maps, audio guides, and information about current exhibitions, enhancing your understanding and navigation of the vast collection. TikTok

For a moment of respite, the Sculpture Garden offers a peaceful escape with its impressive outdoor artworks. It can be a particularly serene spot when the weather is cooler, as fewer people tend to linger. Reddit Remember to check MoMA's official website for the most up-to-date information on hours, exhibitions, and any potential changes to their visitor policies before your trip.

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