Best Art Museums in New York City

By Go City Expert

Every year the world celebrates International Museum Day on May 18th. Art and knowledge lovers gather all over the world to celebrate museums and their invaluable contribution to the betterment of society and the development of communities. In New York City, we enjoy the presence of some of the most amazing art museums in the world. When visiting the Big Apple a trip to a museum or two (or twelve) is an essential itinerary item.

Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Met

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is the largest art museum in the United States and one of the most visited museums in the entire world. The Met boasts with an impressive collection of art across all periods, ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to the most avante-garde contemporary pieces. The Met consists of three separate museum spaces, The Metropolitan Museum of Art on 5th Avenue, The Met Cloisters, a stunning space dedicated to medieval Euorpean art and architecture located in Fort Tryon Park in Harlem and the brand new Met Breuer, space dedicated to modern and contemporary art, located in the Marcel Breuer-designed building on Madison Avenue.

The Met Fifth Avenue: 1000 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10028 The Met Breuer: 945 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10021 The Met Cloisters: 99 Margaret Corbin Drive, Fort Tryon Park, New York, NY 10040
MoMA (photo by mikeoregon via Flickr)
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

This famous museum in Midtown Manhattan boasts with one of the most impressive collections of Modern Art in the world. The museum is full of recognizable pieces by artists such as Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, Paul Cezanne or Salvador Dali, as well as many pieces and exhibitions from lesser-known modern and contemporary artists. Visit the museum to see the current Edgar Degas: A Strange Beauty exhibit and explore the lesser-known print pieces by the French Impressionist artist known for his whimsical exploration of movement and perspective. Visit MoMA PS1 in Long Island City, Queens for a bigger dose of contemporary art.

MoMA: 11 West 53 Street, New York, NY 10019-5497 MoMA PS1: 22-25 Jackson Ave. at the intersection of 46th Ave.Long Island City, NY 11101
The Whitney by Timothy Schenck
Whitney Museum of American Art

Willem de Kooning, Jackson Pollock, Jasper Johns and many other American artists have found their home at the Whitney. This cool, Meatpacking District museum attracts visitors to its brand new, ultra-modern building, as well as its location in one of the hippest neighborhoods in Manhattan. The Whitney is located at the tail end of the High Line, one of the most popular and innovative urban parks in the world. The permanent collections is full of recognizable pieces by American artists, and the temporary exhibits are always fresh and though-provoking. The layout of the new building flows very well and the rooftop offers great views.

Address: 99 Gansevoort St, New York, NY 10014
Panorama of the City of New York
The Queens Museum

Located in the magnificent Flushing Meadows Park, Queens Museum is one of the most popular attractions in the borough. The museum is home to many famous pieces of art from a wide variety of artists, but perhaps the most notable is the Panorama of the City of New York (pictured above). Flushing Meadows Park has been a sight for many important events in New York City history, including the 1939 and 1964 World's Fair. The New York State Pavilion located in the park served as a setting in the 1997 film, Men in Black.

Address: New York City Building, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens, NY 11368
The Guggenheim (photo by F11 Photo)
The Guggenheim

Named the World's Most Photographed Attraction, The Solomon R Guggenheim Museum is truly one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. The Upper East Side staple was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and attracts millions of visitors annually. Its signature rotunda is a piece of art in an of itself and photographs beautifully from every angle. The museum hosts a permanent collection of modern and contemporary art as well as provocative temporary exhibits.

Address: 1071 5th Ave, New York, NY 10128
Brooklyn Museum (photo by Mark Lennihan/AP)
Brooklyn Museum

Brooklyn Museum is located in the heart of Brooklyn in the cross section of different residential neighborhoods in the borough, close to other Brooklyn attractions such as Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Prospect Park and Grand Army Plaza. The French-inspired Beaux-Arts building is majestic and impressive and hosts the third largest museum in New York City. The permanent collection is diverse, with works from classical Europe as well as contemporary America. The temporary exhibits celebrate the diversity of the borough.

Address: 200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11238 You can visit all of these (and many more) museums for free with your New York Pass.

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statue of liberty ferry
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Taking the Statue of Liberty Ferry

Exploring one of the most iconic landmarks in the world doesn't have to mean a long trip to Liberty Island. Whether you're looking for an up-close view of the Statue of Liberty or wish to explore Ellis Island, taking a ferry from either Manhattan, NY, or Liberty State Park in Jersey City is both easy and affordable. The cost of taking these ferries can vary depending on which route you choose; fares for adults range from $18-$27 with tickets inclusive of both stops at both islands. If visitors wish to access the Statue, additional tickets will need to be purchased - it’s recommended that these are bought in advance due to high demand during peak times. On-board visitors can expect friendly staff who are more than willing to answer any questions, restrooms, snacks/drinks kiosks and spectacular views. The ride itself typically takes between 20-30 minutes each way depending on which route you take, so if time is limited it’s important to plan ahead. Once at Liberty Island visitors can explore all that this historic landmark has to offer; various guided tours, food choices such as hot dogs or sandwiches at concession stands available onboard the ferry and even special events held seasonally such as live music performances which are free with ticket purchase! After exploring Ellis Island visitors will have more than enough time for iconic photos before heading back. Visiting New York City? Taking the ferry to the Statue of Liberty is an absolute must! Not only does it offer unparalleled views and incredible experiences - it's also a great opportunity for some iconic pictures with Lady Liberty herself! Don't forget your camera – this is an experience not soon forgotten! Don't worry; if you don't know what that is or where to get it from, we're going to tell you right now. Prepare yourself for the ultimate guide to taking the Statue of Liberty ferry, and what you'll find when you reach its historic shores! What is the Statue of Liberty Ferry? As you may have gathered, it's a ferry that takes people between New York's mainland and Liberty Island, where the Statue of Liberty stands tall. From where does the Statue of Liberty Ferry depart? If you're traveling from New York, the departure point is in Battery Park: Statue Cruises Kiosk, Battery Park New York, NY 10004 The closest bus stop is Stop 12, 13, or 14 on the Downtown route. The closest subway stop is Whitehall Street/South Ferry/Bowling Green. If you are traveling from New Jersey, the departure point is Liberty State Park: 1 Audrey Zapp Dr, Jersey City NJ 07305 The closest stop is Liberty State Park Station on the HBLR. How often does the ferry leave? It's worth checking the official timetable to ensure your timings are up to date, but on average, the ferry departs from either port every 25 minutes. How do I get a ticket? We've got you covered – Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Ferry tickets are available with the below money-saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that's right for you: 1. All-Inclusive Pass – All you can do. Your Attraction Pass includes admission to dozens of attractions. 2. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Your Explorer Pass includes admission to up to 10 attractions. It's worth noting that, whichever way you decide to go, booking is required to get the ferry, and early booking is highly recommended because, as you may have guessed, it is an incredibly popular tourist destination! The History of Ellis Island Standing tall as a symbol of liberty and justice, the Statue of Liberty is an important part of America's history. The island itself is named after Samual Ellis, who owned the landmass before it was opened to the public. Ellis Island served as the primary entry point for immigration into the United States, so much so that a third of all Americans can trace their family tree to someone who landed on the island! But its job as an immigration entry point ended nearly 100 years ago, and it wasn't actually opened to the public until 1976. Nowadays, it hosts countless tourists every year, who flock there from all over the world to explore one of the most iconic landmarks on the planet. What to expect on Ellis Island The Statue of Liberty This one's a no-brainer. You wouldn't even be reading this if not for Lady Liberty herself! Yes, the Statue of Liberty now stands tall on Ellis Island. Visitors can walk around the National Monument and see the big girl up close - at least if they look up! Then, when you've enjoyed the view, so to speak, you can enter the Statue of Liberty Museum, which contains tons of amazing artifacts that detail the statue, and the island's, history in much greater detail than we ever could. See the original torch up close, touch a copper rendition of Lady Liberty's face, and explore interactive exhibits like a reimagining of the studio where the statue was first conceived. Then, head across to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, where you can learn more about the island's importance in populating America. Through first-hand accounts, artifacts, and other exhibits, you'll piece together the island's rich history. Then, try tracing your family tree back to the island in one of the many databases you'll find. Then, when you've had your fill, simply hop back on the ferry and cross over to the mainland! From the views of the harbor and cityscape, to learning more about its history and standing in awe of this magnificent monument, a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty provides an unbeatable experience full of wonder and amazement. With the accessibility for all, the convenience of booking your tickets ahead of time, and spectacular views from the crown of Lady Liberty that you won't find anywhere else, taking a ferry ride to this iconic landmark is an adventure like no other. And that's our guide to taking the statue of liberty ferry, and what you'll find on Ellis Island! Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience - book your ferry ticket today! Looking for more fun-filled adventures in the Big Apple? Check out our guide to The RIDE, your one-stop shop for every other New York landmark on your bucket list! Want to know what other attractions are covered with your pass? Check out all of them here!
Dom Bewley
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Things to Do in NYC Under 21 on Vacation

For anyone that’s ever seen a movie or TV show based in New York City, one of the coolest things about “The City That Never Sleeps” seems to be the legendary nightlife, but don't be fooled; there's plenty of things to do under 21 in NYC. 10 Amazing Things to Do in NYC Under 21 on Vacation What are you supposed to do if you want to have the full NYC tourist experience but you’re under 21? Luckily, New York City is a culturally diverse and welcoming city with fun for tourists and visitors of all ages. So while it may seem like you have to miss out on some of the nightlife action, there’s plenty for you to see and do in the city, you won't even miss it! Free Entry with The New York Pass® Free entry to many of these popular New York attractions and activities are included on The New York Pass®. Used by over 3.5 million travelers, the New York Pass is the ultimate sightseeing pass, which includes admission to 90+ attractions, Fast Track Entry at select attractions, a free guidebook, & much more. Learn more about the New York Pass benefits & how to save up to 70% off attractions. 1. Big Bus New York   There are few better ways to get to know the city of New York than with the fully guided, comprehensive sightseeing Big Bus New York Hop-On Hop-Off Tour! This is the perfect start to any trip to The Big Apple because you’ll have access to all of the tops sights and iconic landmarks throughout the city. Your friendly and knowledgeable tour guide will be there to fill you in on all the rich history of NYC and make sure you’re ready to get out and explore. Getting in: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass. 2. Central Park Bike Tours   Central Park is one of the true jewels of NYC and home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the US. This expansive park has lakes, sculptures, food, live performers and more. So what’s the best way to explore it all? On a bike of course! Choose from a comprehensive guided bike tour or rent a bike for yourself and head out on your own little adventure. Either way, you’re sure to marvel at all the different sights and sounds. Getting in: Central Park Bike Tour tickets and rentals are included with The New York Pass. 3. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum   Visit one of the most recognizable and beloved landmarks in the US with a trip out to Ellis Island. The Statue of Liberty has represented freedom and hope for millions of Americans for decades and is one sight that shouldn't be missed on your trip to NYC. With breathtaking sights and a rich history that will leave you full of hope and awe, this iconic New York City tourist stop will be one to remember. Getting in: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum and ferry tickets are included on The New York Pass. Please note: tickets for access to the pedestal and crown levels in the Statue of Liberty are sold separately and require advanced reservations. You will not be granted admission with The New York Pass. 4. American Museum of Natural History This is one of the largest and most interesting natural history museums in the country, if not the world! With a gigantic collection of artifacts and exhibits that will transport you to new worlds, it’s easy to spend an entire day hanging out and learning at the American Museum of Natural History. Whether you’re into animals, plants or different time periods in human history –this museum has it all. Getting in: American Museum of Natural History tickets are included on The New York Pass. 5. New York Transit Museum   Have you ever wondered just how New York City’s famous underground mass transit system was developed? Take a trip to Brooklyn Heights to get a closer look at just how the NYC subway was planned and built. With a series of interactive exhibitions and installations, you can see just how the Metropolitan Transit Authority has grown over the years and get a first-hand look at how the trains work. Getting in: New York Transit Museum tickets are included on The New York Pass. 6. The Empire State Building   Take in one of the most breathtaking views of New York City from the observation deck of the iconic and historic Empire State Building. With 360 degree panoramic views of the city, you can get an up-close look at the most famous landmarks in the state and take plenty of snaps of the skyline too! Getting in: Empire State Building tickets are included on the New York Pass. 7. Madame Tussauds New York   Who doesn’t want to take a few selfies with their favorite Hollywood stars in NYC? While you may be able to spot a few famous faces in Manhattan, the best place to get a great snap with your favorite stars is at Madame Tussauds New York. This fun and interactive museum is located in the heart of Times Square and is a guaranteed good time for all. Getting in: Madame Tussauds New York tickets are included with The New York Pass. 8. Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum   If you’re interested in modern art, then the Guggenheim Museum is one stop that you have to make during your trip to NYC. Featuring some of the 20th century’s finest art pieces and collections, you’ll love spending an afternoon exploring here. In fact, this museum is beautiful inside and out, making it a great spot for a photo op! Getting in: Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum tickets are included with The New York Pass (plus Fast Track Entry!). 9. Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tour   While New York City has plenty of iconic landmarks, one of the most interesting and beautiful has to be the Brooklyn Bridge. With a rich history and gorgeous design, this tour is sure to keep you enthralled from beginning to end. Highlights of this tour include the Brooklyn Bridge, unique views of the Statue of Liberty, and the New York Stock Exchange. Getting in: Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass. 10. Rockefeller Center Tour Get to know the history behind one of the city’s most beloved landmarks and enjoy some insight into the mind of John D. Rockefeller Jr. with this fun and interesting guided tour. Get to know the historic Rockefeller Center as well as the surrounding streets to get a feel for one little piece about what life in NYC is all about. Getting in: Rockefeller Center Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass. Fall in Love with New York City at Any Age While you may not be able to head out to the city’s hottest nightclubs during your visit if you’re under 21, that doesn’t mean that you can’t have an amazing time getting to know The Big Apple a little better. With great museums, amazing food and so many wonderful landmarks to explore, there are tons of things to do in NYC under 21. Don’t let being underage keep you from enjoying a fabulous and memorable trip to New York City! Instead, take the city by storm and be sure to check out one or more of these fun activities. Remember To Save On Attraction Admission Lots of the fun things to do in NYC under 21 on vacation are included on The New York Pass. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing, taking a tour or enjoying art at a museum, an NYC sightseeing vacation is easy to plan with The New York Pass. If you plan on visiting multiple attractions, consider using the New York Pass which grants you free entry to over 90 attractions in New York City. That way you can do more when you sightsee and make the most of your time in New York City. For more information on the New York Pass, click here. To visit the above attractions all on one pass choose a New York Pass. The more you do, the more you save!
Casey Makovich
Blog

Things To Do In NYC For Families On Vacation

With so many attractions and activities, an NYC family vacation is bound to be a memorable trip. Seeing the Big Apple is an unforgettable experience that children of all ages can appreciate regardless of their interests. It's also an educational experience allowing sightseers to tour some of the most iconic landmarks in American history. NYC has something for everyone in the family. If you're planning a family vacation to New York, you'll make the most of your trip for you and your family if you put some research into which sights you'll see. We've put together a list of some of the best places in NYC to bring the whole family. Free Entry with The New York Pass® Free entry to many of these popular New York attractions and activities are included on The New York Pass®. Used by over 3.5 million travelers, the New York Pass is the ultimate sightseeing pass, which includes admission to 90+ attractions, Fast Track Entry at select attractions, a free guidebook, & much more. Learn more about the New York Pass benefits & how to save up to 70% off attractions. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum A New York City must for all visitors. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are located at the southern tip of Manhattan. This site is one of the most important historical sights that kids visiting New York for the first time will want to see to get a greater understanding of not only New York history, but American history as well. From Battery Park, sightseers can take a free ferry to Ellis Island. The ferry ride itself is an interesting experience that gives passengers panoramic views of New York harbor. Once at Ellis Island, visitors can learn about New York's long history as a hub of immigration and the 12 million immigrants who first arrived in New York via Ellis Island. Admission: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island tickets are included with the New York Pass. Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall Centrally located in Midtown Manhattan below Central Park, Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall offer history, art, culture, and entertainment. Rockefeller Center is an iconic landmark that was originally commissioned by the wealthy Rockefeller family in the 1930's. Nowadays, Rockefeller Center is a National Historic Landmark. It's also a significant building architecturally as it showcases the Art Deco style of the early 20th century at its peak. Inside the Rockefeller Center, there is shopping, dining, and the Top of the Rock which offers birds-eye views of Midtown. Outside Rockefeller Center, there is a skating rink that young visitors can take advantage of during the winter months for some exercise. Visitors during the holiday season can also catch a glimpse of the famous Christmas tree that is put up each year in Rockefeller Plaza. The Radio City Music Hall serves as a venue for concerts throughout the year and is home to the famous Rockettes. This dancing troupe puts on a Christmas Spectacular each year that never fails to put the audience in the holiday spirit. Admission: Rockefeller Center Tour tickets are included with the New York Pass. Admission: Radio City Music Hall Stage Door Tour tickets are included with the New York Pass. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum Although a newer addition to NYC's tourist offerings, this has quickly become one of the biggest attractions in the city. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum was constructed as a tribute to the victims of the World Trade Center attack in 2001. The museum details the history of the event and shows different types of artifacts related to the attack. Set some time aside to get the full experience from this unforgettable landmark. The museum itself contains more than 10,000 artifacts, and the memorial contains two reflecting pools for sightseers. Admission: 9/11 Memorial & Museum tickets are included with the New York Pass. Central Park With The Family Central Park is one of the most scenic destinations in New York and offers a variety of activities for families, making it the perfect NYC family vacation thing to do. Make unforgettable memories with your family on a group bicycle or walking tour that explores Central Park sights you'll recognize from some of your favorite films. Even New York natives can get lost in the extensive grounds of Central Park. Among the many family activities in the park are boat rides, touring Central Park zoo or exploring Belvedere Castle. A day in Central Park will tire out even the most energetic kids. The park also provides great photo opportunities thanks to some of the beautiful scenery. Admission: Central Park Sightseeing Bike Tour tickets are included with the New York Pass. Yankee Stadium For sports-loving families, Yankee Stadium is an interesting sight to visit both during and outside of the baseball season. Yankee Stadium is open for tours throughout the year, and the stadium has artifacts from baseball history on display. Yankee Stadium is a good destination for families wishing to get out of Manhattan and see some other boroughs. Located in the Concourse neighborhood of the Bronx, Yankee Stadium gives New York visitors a chance to ride the subway and experience everyday life for a typical New Yorker. Admission: Yankee Stadium Classic Tour tickets are included with the New York Pass. Remember To Save On Attraction Admission Many of the great attractions in New York City have something special in store for the entire family. Whether you're interested in sightseeing, taking a tour or enjoying art at a museum, an NYC family vacation is easy to plan with The New York Pass. If you plan on visiting multiple attractions, you'll be paying the admission price for your entire family at the door for each venue. Consider using the New York Pass which grants you free entry to over 90 attractions in New York City. That way you can save more and see more. For more information on the New York Pass, click here.
Casey Makovich

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