The Guggenheim Museum, right in the heart of New York City, is a must-see spot for everyone! Founded by Solomon R. Guggenheim back in 1939, this place was all about helping people appreciate and understand modern art better. One of the coolest things about the Guggenheim is its building, crafted by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The unique spiral design is super recognizable and features a smooth ramp that guides visitors on a fun, upward stroll through the galleries.
Recommended duration
2 to 3 hours
Ticket price
$30 for adults
Accessibility
Good
Key take-aways at a glance
- I recommend reserving 2 to 3 hours for your visit.
- The best time to visit is in the morning.
- Pay-What-You-Wish: Every Monday and Saturday, from 4 to 5:30 pm, you can pay what you wish for admission with a minimum of $1. Pay-What-You-Wish hours are available online only and released at 10 am the morning of the event. So if you plan your trip right, you might be able to get in for next to nothing. Check the ticket page for more info.
- Save money by using the City Pass. Check out the NY City Sightseeing Pass.
An Architectural Masterpiece
Frank Lloyd Wright’s design for the Guggenheim is as celebrated as the art it houses. Built between 1956 and 1959, the museum features a unique spiral ramp that allows visitors to view artworks as they ascend through the building. The innovative structure is topped with a stunning glass dome, flooding the interior with natural light and creating the perfect atmosphere for the art on display. In 2019, the Guggenheim was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its significant cultural and architectural value.
Did you know: You can find Guggenheim museums all around the world. Aside from the one in New york, you can find a sister-museum in Las Vegas, Bilbao, Venice, Abu Dhabi, and Berlin.
The Collection
The Guggenheim Museum has a diverse collection from various art movements, featuring works from Impressionists, Post-Impressionists, early Modern artists, and contemporary art. It showcases notable figures like Wassily Kandinsky, and Jackson Pollock. The museum also hosts global special exhibitions.
The Thannhauser Collection, part of the museum’s permanent exhibition , enriches the art experience with its remarkable pieces from Edgar Degas, Édouard Manet, Vincent van Gogh, and Picasso. This highlights late 19th and early 20th-century modernism, showcasing artists who embraced contemporary themes and new techniques
Recommended duration and best time to visit
I recommend taking at least 2 to 3 hours. This will give you enough time to explore, read and join the exhibitions.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit is in the morning. It can be crowded on Saturday’s especially at Pay what you wish times.
Admission ticket and price
The standard adult ticket costs $30. Seniors (65 and older), students, and visitors with disabilities pay $19 for a ticket. Free admission is available for children under 12, allowing families to enjoy the museum together.
Buy your tickets in advance on the official museum website.
Pay-What-You-Wish
Every Monday and Saturday, from 4 to 5:30 pm, you can pay what you wish for admission with a minimum of $1. Pay-What-You-Wish hours are available online only and released at 10 am the morning of the event. So if you plan your trip right, you might be able to get in for next to nothing. Check the ticket page for more info. The museum offers a Pay-What-You-Wish option on their website for Saturdays between 5 pm–8 pm.
Discount with City Pass
Tickets for this museum are offered as an option for the Sightseeing City Pass. Are you visiting more museums and attractions? Then you can save money when using the City Pass. Check out the NY City Sightseeing Pass.
How to get to The Guggenheim
The Guggenheim is located at Fifth Avenue (Between 88th and 89th Streets), next to Central Park. View the location of this museum on Google Maps.
Getting to the museum is pretty straightforward. Here’s how you can get there:
By Walking
If you’re in the area or staying at a nearby hotel, walking is the easiest option, especially on a nice day. The museum is just a short walk from Central Park, located along Museum Mile on Fifth Avenue.
By Subway
Are you not staying in the area? Then the subway is a convenient and affordable way to reach the Guggenheim.
- 4, 5, or 6 Lines: Take any of these lines to the 86th Street Station. Once there, walk west towards Fifth Avenue, then head north (right) to 89th Street. The museum is located at 1071 Fifth Avenue at the corner of East 89th Street.
- Q Line: Get off at the 86th Street Station and walk west towards Fifth Avenue and north to 89th Street.
General information
Some extra information you might find useful.
Opening hours
The museum is open Sunday–Friday between 11 am–6 pm and Saturday, 11 am–8 pm.
Members-only hours select Mondays, 6–8 pm
History of the museum
The Guggenheim Museum in New York City, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, opened on October 21, 1959. Founded in 1937 by Solomon R. Guggenheim and art advisor Hilla von Rebay, it originally focused on non-objective art. The museum’s distinctive spiral design allows for a continuous viewing experience. It has built its collection over the years and remains a leader in contemporary art, showcasing major exhibitions and works by acclaimed 20th and 21st-century artists.
