A Tour of New York City's MoMA
Museum of Modern Art High on List of Things To Do in New York City
The Museum of Modern Art displays a vast collection of art including paintings, drawings, sculptures and film programmes - A New York experience for the whole family.
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City showcases some of the greatest works of paintings and sculptures, drawings, prints and illustrated books in the city, if not the world. For generations, artists and musicians have found a haven in New York City and a multitude of spaces to display their talents but rarely as prestigious as MoMA.
Located at 11 West 53 Street, between Fifth and Sixth avenues, the six-storey building, a work of modern art itself, offers a breezy and relaxed atmosphere through which to wander and gaze at the exquisite collections from such greats as Picasso, Matisse and Warhol.
The museum received a major renovation in the early part of the decade and since the 2004 grand reopening, MoMA has reclaimed its rightful place among the city’s must see attractions.
To discover the museum, take at least a half day, or prepare to return over several days. You simply cannot absorb the variety of exhibits in a flash visit. Take time to mingle among the pieces and read the accompanying texts that provide insight into the artists’ vision.
Terrace 5, Dali and Film Programmes
Tour the museum from the top floor downward. Many of the more famous works hang on the upper gallery walls. While at the top, stop for a coffee and dessert at the fabulous Terrace 5 (or the Carroll and Milton Petrie) Café– better still, dine on the outdoor terrace overlooking the simple yet refined sculpture garden filled with more works and several ponds. But be warned, prices are steep.
Along with brilliant pieces such as ‘The Little Theatre’ by Salvador Dali, paintings like ‘The Bather’ by Paul Cezanna, you’ll also discover the whimsical such as ‘Steel Wire’ by Alexander Calder, the shadow of a woman made of wire hanging from the ceiling.
Film lovers enjoy MoMA’s exciting film programmes. With rotating screenings of the museum’s 19,000 films, cinephiles can view modern classics as well as animated films every day of the week.
Admission to MoMA
A day at MoMA is a day well-spent but you’ll also notice the hefty price for admission and food. Prepare to pay the price for all this art under one roof. Admission costs $20 for adults, $16 for seniors over 65, $12 for students and $12 for children sixteen and under.
Visitors can leave bags and coats at the checkroom and while photography is allowed in many of the exhibits, turn off the flash. Leave your paints at home but feel free to bring pencils to re-create your masterpiece. Daily lectures on the collection begin at 11:30 and 1:30, but if you plan to tour around solo, try an audio tour available in multiple languages.
Hours of Operation and Family Programmes
MoMA hasn’t forgotten the kids. Family programmes offer free tours, lectures, films and workshops to introduce the young ones to the world of modern art. Call 212-708-9805 for more information.
Open Saturday to Thursday (with the exception of Tuesday) 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. and Friday 10:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. MoMA is closed on Tuesdays, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
