The Frick Collection, New York City - a green bench sitting in front of a window
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The Frick Collection

4.6
·4k reviews·New York, United States

A Gilded Age mansion housing masterpieces by European masters, offering an intimate art experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wednesdays

Pay what you wish hours

CrowdMedium
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The Frick Collection, New York City - a green bench sitting in front of a window

The Frick Collection

Best Time

Wednesdays

Pay what you wish hours

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A Gilded Age mansion housing masterpieces by European masters, offering an intimate art experience.

4.6
(4k reviews)

"The Frick Collection offers an unparalleled intimate art experience within a stunning Gilded Age mansion."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Ahead for Entry

Tickets sell out fast! Book online in advance to secure your spot and avoid long queues.

🗣️ Chat with Docents

The docents are incredibly knowledgeable and engaging. Ask them questions for a richer art experience!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vermeer's 'Officer and Laughing Girl'

Vermeer's 'Officer and Laughing Girl'

Second Floor

A captivating Vermeer masterpiece, renowned for its exquisite detail and enigmatic charm. A must-see for art lovers.

Holbein's Portraits

Holbein's Portraits

Second Floor

Stunning portraits by Hans Holbein the Younger, offering a glimpse into the lives of Tudor nobility with remarkable realism.

Gilded Age Mansion Interior

Gilded Age Mansion Interior

Throughout the museum

Experience the opulent grandeur of a Gilded Age mansion, where art and architecture blend seamlessly for a luxurious visit.

Bellini's 'St. Francis in the Desert'

Bellini's 'St. Francis in the Desert'

Second Floor

Giovanni Bellini's serene and detailed depiction of St. Francis, a masterpiece of Renaissance art that draws you into its tranquil scene.

Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

The Frick Collection is incredibly popular, especially after its renovation. Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to avoid long waits, as walk-in lines can be substantial. Consider 'pay what you wish' Wednesdays if you're on a budget, but be prepared for potential queues.

Embrace the Intimate Experience

While the Frick Collection is renowned for its masterpieces, its charm lies in its intimate setting within a Gilded Age mansion. Don't rush; take your time to absorb the art and the opulent surroundings. Engaging with the knowledgeable docents can significantly enhance your visit.

Best Times

When
Wednesdays
Why
Pay what you wish hours
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The one trick to make sure you have an elite art experience #arthistory
@thedanrosen
196.3K likes • 945.4K views

🎯 Book Ahead for Entry

Tickets sell out fast! Book online in advance to secure your spot and avoid long queues. Reddit+1

🗣️ Chat with Docents

The docents are incredibly knowledgeable and engaging. Ask them questions for a richer art experience! Reddit

reddit.com

Visited the re-opened Frick Museum

reddit.com

Frick Collection

🚶‍♀️ Allow Ample Time

Don't rush! Give yourself at least 1.5-2 hours to truly appreciate the art and the mansion's ambiance. Reddit

♿ Accessibility Check

Inquire about accessibility for those with walkers or mobility aids, as renovations may impact access. Reddit

reddit.com

Should I do the Met Cloisters or the Frick Museum? Only have time to choose one for an upcoming weekend trip where my cousin (19F) is visiting me and I want to show her around. Which do you recommend and why?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Ahead for Entry

Tickets sell out fast! Book online in advance to secure your spot and avoid long queues. Reddit+1

🗣️ Chat with Docents

The docents are incredibly knowledgeable and engaging. Ask them questions for a richer art experience! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Allow Ample Time

Don't rush! Give yourself at least 1.5-2 hours to truly appreciate the art and the mansion's ambiance. Reddit

♿ Accessibility Check

Inquire about accessibility for those with walkers or mobility aids, as renovations may impact access. Reddit

🛍️ Gift Shop Queues

Be prepared for lines at the gift shop, even for members, as it's located upstairs. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise The Frick Collection for its stunning masterpieces and the unique, intimate experience of viewing art within a Gilded Age mansion. The knowledgeable docents are frequently highlighted as a major asset, enhancing the appreciation of the collection. However, some find the museum can get crowded, and the lack of on-site dining facilities is a minor inconvenience.

"To avoid waiting in line with a timed entrance ticket, become a member. Dual membership is $150. The benefit - no reservations required; unlimited admission for a year; 25% discount for 2 additional guests; and fully tax-deductible.

Rule of the museum: no photography anywhere inside the museum or exhibitions. The only place allowed taking pictures is courtyard. Security guards in every room and hallway to enforce the no photograph rule.

Grand and beautiful mansion with gorgeous interior designs and woodwork.

My favorite is the porcelain flowers by Vladimir Kanevsky. Gorgeous, delicate and brilliant art works! Some are so detailed. The porcelain flowers are stationed throughout the entire house.

Since the museum just reopened after an extensive renovation, it was really crowded. Have patience. Get a membership to avoid lines with short visits. The temporary exhibit - currently the porcelain flowers, well worth it!"

teadrinker

"A must-visit experience for anyone traveling to New York City!
It impresses every time you visit the museum.

The stunning Porcelain Garden flower exhibition fits beautifully within the museum's rooms.

I highly recommend checking it out!"

Natalia Ilina

"I will always love this museum because it’s a very special type of place with curated art from someone who wanted it to be appreciated by the public. I think the art and the rooms are absolutely breathtaking. The staff is also very friendly. However, that being said. I hate the policy of not being able to take pictures and don’t understand it. I also don’t like how strict it’s become to go to certain parts of the house or the grounds outside. But it was still a wonderful experience"

Neha Luthra

What People Like

Masterpiece collection
Intimate mansion setting
Knowledgeable docents

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
No on-site cafe

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Frick Collection is located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. It's easily accessible by subway, with the 77th Street station (4, 5, 6 trains) being a short walk away. Several bus lines also stop nearby. TikTok

While there is no dedicated parking for The Frick Collection, street parking can be found in the surrounding residential areas, though it's often metered and competitive. Several parking garages are also available within a few blocks. TikTok

Absolutely! The Frick Collection is conveniently located near Central Park. You can easily combine your visit with a stroll through the park, as it's just a short walk away. Reddit

The 6 train to the 77th Street station is a popular choice, offering a direct route. The 4 and 5 trains also stop at 86th Street, which is a slightly longer but manageable walk. TikTok

Yes, taxis and rideshare services can drop you off directly at the museum's entrance. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to navigate public transport. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission tickets are typically around $22. However, The Frick offers 'pay what you wish' hours on Wednesdays, making it more accessible for budget-conscious visitors. Reddit

Yes, it is highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance online, especially since the museum reopened after renovations. This helps avoid long wait times and guarantees entry. Reddit+1

The Frick Collection typically opens its doors from 10 AM to 5 PM, with extended hours on some days. It's always best to check their official website for the most current operating hours and any special closures. Reddit

While walk-in tickets may be available, there's a dedicated line for those without advance reservations. Be prepared for a wait, which can range from 10 minutes to over 40 minutes depending on the day and time. Reddit

The Frick Collection offers 'pay what you wish' hours on Wednesdays, allowing visitors to contribute what they can afford. Check their website for specific times. Reddit

🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience

Most visitors spend between 1.5 to 2 hours exploring The Frick Collection to fully appreciate the art and the historic mansion. Some may linger longer if they are deeply engaged with the collection. Reddit

The museum is working on accessibility improvements. It's advisable to contact The Frick Collection directly to inquire about specific accommodations for visitors with walkers or other mobility aids. Reddit

Photography is generally not permitted inside The Frick Collection to protect the artworks. Please adhere to the museum's guidelines and look for designated areas if photography is allowed for specific exhibitions. TikTok

Yes, The Frick Collection has knowledgeable docents stationed in each room who are happy to share insights about the artworks. Engaging with them is highly recommended for a deeper understanding. Reddit

There is no strict dress code for The Frick Collection. However, it's a place of art and history, so dressing comfortably and respectfully is advised. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Currently, The Frick Collection does not have an on-site cafe or restaurant. Visitors are encouraged to explore the many dining options available in the surrounding Upper East Side neighborhood. TikTok

Yes, the Upper East Side is brimming with diverse dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. You can easily find a place to eat before or after your visit. Reddit

Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the museum galleries to protect the artworks. There are no designated areas for picnicking within the museum itself. TikTok

You'll find a variety of cuisines near The Frick, including American, Italian, French, and more. Many offer a more casual dining experience suitable for a post-museum meal. Reddit

It depends on your schedule! Many visitors prefer to dine after their visit to fully immerse themselves in the art. However, if you have an early ticket, grabbing a bite beforehand can ensure you have energy. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

No, photography is generally prohibited inside The Frick Collection to preserve the artworks. Please respect the museum's policy and refrain from taking pictures. TikTok

Yes, you are welcome to take photos of the beautiful exterior of The Frick Collection building. It's a stunning example of Gilded Age architecture. TikTok

While general photography is not allowed, there might be specific exhibitions that permit it. Always check the signage in each gallery or ask a museum staff member for clarification. TikTok

The grand facade of the mansion, the surrounding gardens (if accessible), and the street views offer excellent opportunities for exterior photography. TikTok

The flash from cameras can damage delicate artworks over time, and the presence of people taking photos can disrupt the viewing experience for others. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While The Frick Collection is a treasure trove of art, it's best suited for families with older children or teens who can appreciate the quiet atmosphere and the historical context. The intimate setting and the emphasis on quiet contemplation might not be ideal for very young children who need more space to move. However, if your children have an interest in art history or grand architecture, it can be a rewarding experience.

Consider focusing on a few key pieces, like Vermeer's 'Officer and Laughing Girl,' and discussing the stories behind them. Engaging with the docents can also make the visit more interactive for curious young minds. Remember that photography is not allowed, so encourage kids to sketch or write about what they see instead. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

The Frick Collection offers a fantastic opportunity for budget-conscious art lovers through its 'pay what you wish' Wednesday hours. This allows you to experience world-class art without the standard admission fee, though you should be prepared for potentially longer queues during these times. Reddit

To further save money, plan to bring your own snacks and water, as there are no dining facilities on-site, and nearby restaurants can be pricey. Utilize public transportation like the subway or buses to reach the museum, which is significantly cheaper than taxis or parking. TikTok

🏛️ Art History Enthusiasts

For those with a deep appreciation for art history, The Frick Collection is an unparalleled destination. The curated selection of masterpieces, from Renaissance to Impressionist periods, offers a concentrated study of artistic genius. The intimate setting allows for close examination of techniques and styles, making it an ideal place for in-depth appreciation. TikTok

Don't miss the opportunity to interact with the knowledgeable docents, who can provide expert commentary on the provenance, artistic significance, and historical context of each piece. The museum's focus on its original collection, rather than rotating exhibitions, means you can delve deeply into the core works and their creators. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Frick Collection: A Gilded Age Gem

The Frick Collection is more than just a museum; it's a journey back to the Gilded Age, housed within the former mansion of industrialist Henry Clay Frick. This intimate setting allows visitors to experience masterpieces by European masters like Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Bellini not in a sterile gallery, but within the context of a lavish private residence. The collection is renowned for its quality over quantity, with each piece carefully selected and displayed to create a harmonious and luxurious atmosphere. TikTok

Visitors often remark on the spectacular ceilings and the overall opulence of the building itself, which complements the art beautifully. The recent renovations have aimed to enhance this experience, preserving the historic charm while improving visitor flow and accessibility. It's a place where you can truly linger and absorb the beauty, feeling like a guest in a bygone era. Reddit

Key Features of the Frick Experience



* Intimate Setting: Art displayed in a mansion, not a typical museum hall.
* Masterpieces: World-class works by European masters.
* Architectural Grandeur: The building itself is a work of art.
* Knowledgeable Docents: Enhance your understanding with expert insights. Reddit

Navigating The Frick: Tips for a Smooth Visit

Planning your visit to The Frick Collection is key to maximizing your experience. As highlighted by many visitors, booking tickets in advance is crucial, especially since the museum's reopening after extensive renovations. Lines for walk-in tickets can be significant, so securing your timed entry online will save you considerable waiting time. Reddit+1

Once inside, the museum's layout, while grand, can feel a bit intricate. Take your time to explore each room, and don't hesitate to engage with the docents. These individuals are a treasure trove of information, offering fascinating details about the artworks and the history of the collection that you might otherwise miss. Their insights can transform a casual viewing into a deeply enriching experience. Reddit

Consider visiting during 'pay what you wish' Wednesdays if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, but be prepared for potentially larger crowds. Also, be aware that while the museum is stunning, some areas might have specific accessibility considerations post-renovation, so it's wise to check ahead if you have mobility concerns. Reddit

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