393 West Broadway
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The Broken Kilometer

4.6
·74 reviews·New York, United States

A minimalist masterpiece by Walter De Maria, featuring 1600 brass rods that subtly transform over time through oxidation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mid-October

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
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393 West Broadway

The Broken Kilometer

Best Time

Mid-October

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A minimalist masterpiece by Walter De Maria, featuring 1600 brass rods that subtly transform over time through oxidation.

4.6
(74 reviews)

"It's beautiful and mysterious, quiet and quite brilliant."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Hours Before You Go

Hours can be unpredictable. Always verify opening times online before making the trip. :clock1:

Embrace the Stillness

This is a place for quiet contemplation. Photography is not permitted, encouraging a social media-free experience. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 74 reviews

Type

Art Gallery

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Brass Rods

The Brass Rods

Main installation space

1600 precisely cut brass rods, meticulously arranged. Witness their subtle oxidation over years.

The Oxidation Process

The Oxidation Process

Main installation space

Observe the gradual change in the brass's patina, a testament to time and NYC's environment.

The Caretaker's Insights

The Caretaker's Insights

Main installation space

Engage with the knowledgeable caretaker for a deeper understanding of the artwork's creation and maintenance.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Slow Art Experience

The Broken Kilometer is a unique, static art installation. Its beauty lies in subtle changes over time. Visit with patience and an open mind; it's a space for contemplation, not quick selfies.

Plan Around Quirky Hours

This art space has notoriously 'quirky' hours. Always check their schedule before visiting to avoid disappointment. Entry is free, making it an accessible art experience.

Best Times

When
Mid-October
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium
When
During opening hours
Why
Essential for viewing the art
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Recommendation for art places in New York city

Can I get some recommendation for contemporary art spaces or exciting venues such as WSA? I am going to visit the city in mid October. It can also expand to jazz clubs or artsy experiences. bar recommendations are also welcome!

Check Hours Before You Go

Hours can be unpredictable. Always verify opening times online before making the trip. :clock1:

Embrace the Stillness

This is a place for quiet contemplation. Photography is not permitted, encouraging a social media-free experience. :camerawithflash:

Talk to the Caretaker

The staff is very knowledgeable and happy to share details about the artwork's history and maintenance. :man_teacher:

Visit with an Open Mind

Appreciate the subtle beauty and concept. It's not for everyone, but deeply rewarding for those who connect with it. ✨

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Hours Before You Go

Hours can be unpredictable. Always verify opening times online before making the trip. :clock1:

Embrace the Stillness

This is a place for quiet contemplation. Photography is not permitted, encouraging a social media-free experience. :camerawithflash:

Talk to the Caretaker

The staff is very knowledgeable and happy to share details about the artwork's history and maintenance. :man_teacher:

Visit with an Open Mind

Appreciate the subtle beauty and concept. It's not for everyone, but deeply rewarding for those who connect with it. ✨

Combine with Earth Room

Consider visiting Walter De Maria's 'Earth Room' nearby for a double dose of his unique installations. :earth_americas:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(74 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise The Broken Kilometer for its unique, contemplative nature and the subtle beauty of the oxidizing brass rods. The free entry and knowledgeable staff are also highlighted as positives. Some find the static nature and 'quirky' hours challenging, suggesting it's best for those with an open mind towards conceptual art.

"One of the most moving works of art that never moves except when the brass rods are polished every two years. I recommend visiting several times over the course of two years so that you can see how the installation changes as the brass oxidizes from the harsh NYC environment. It's beautiful and mysterious, quiet and quite brilliant."

Faran Riley Peterson

"One of the best non-commercial museum spaces in NYC of postwar art. Very friendly staff who will answer questions. Photography not permitted — social media free space. Free entry."

Stefan Hildebrandt

"The caretaker is very knowledgeable and is prepare to answer all your questions. You can learn a lot about how their price was made and maintained."

Stanley Gagner

What People Like

Peaceful and contemplative atmosphere
Subtle beauty of brass oxidation
Free entry and knowledgeable staff

What People Dislike

Static nature of the art
Unpredictable opening hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Broken Kilometer is located in Soho, New York City. The closest subway stations are Prince Street (N, R, W trains) and Spring Street (A, C, E trains). From there, it's a short walk. Check a map app for the most direct route from your starting point. Reddit

Yes, it is easily accessible by subway. Several lines stop within walking distance, making it convenient to reach via public transport. Reddit

Street parking in Soho can be very challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation or a ride-sharing service to reach the venue. Reddit

Use a reliable map application on your smartphone and search for 'The Broken Kilometer' or its address. It's a distinct space, so navigation should be straightforward. Reddit

The Broken Kilometer is situated in the heart of Soho, an area known for its art galleries and boutiques. It's a distinct art space, so look for its specific entrance. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to The Broken Kilometer is completely free. This makes it a wonderful, accessible art experience for everyone. Reddit

The opening hours for The Broken Kilometer are often described as 'quirky' and can vary. It's essential to check their official schedule or reliable listings before your visit. Reddit

Weekend hours can be limited or different from weekdays. Always confirm the specific hours for the day you plan to visit. Reddit

Since it's a static installation, any time during its open hours is suitable. However, visiting during less busy periods might offer a more contemplative experience. Reddit

A visit can be as short as 15 minutes or longer if you wish to spend time contemplating the piece. It's a space designed for reflection. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

No, photography is strictly prohibited inside The Broken Kilometer. This is to encourage visitors to engage with the art directly and without distraction. Reddit

The rule against photography is intended to create a 'social media-free space,' allowing for a more personal and immersive experience with the artwork. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to respect the spirit of the 'no photography' rule and refrain from taking pictures of the exterior as well, especially if it could be seen as capturing the essence of the installation. Reddit

There are typically no exceptions to the photography rule. It's a core aspect of the experience designed by the artist. Reddit

Focus on experiencing the artwork with your senses and mind. You can sketch in a notebook if you wish, or simply absorb the visual and conceptual elements. Reddit

🎫 💡 Onsite Experience

The Broken Kilometer is an art installation by Walter De Maria, featuring 1600 precisely cut brass rods arranged in a grid. It's known for its minimalist aesthetic and the subtle changes it undergoes due to oxidation. Reddit

Its uniqueness lies in its static nature yet dynamic evolution. The slow oxidation of the brass rods over years creates a subtle, ongoing transformation that visitors can observe. Reddit

It is generally advised not to touch the brass rods to preserve their condition and the artist's intent. The caretaker can provide guidance on this. Reddit

The caretaker is knowledgeable about the artwork and its history. They are available to answer visitor questions and ensure the installation is maintained. Reddit

If you approach it with an open mind and appreciate minimalist spectacle, it can be very impressive. It's a space that encourages thought and personal interpretation. Reddit

The Broken Kilometer (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide