Essential Tips for Your Visit to the Guggenheim Museum in NYC

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York City attracts modern art enthusiasts with its striking architecture designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. While the building is a hallmark in itself, the museum also features an extensive permanent collection alongside a varying selection of exhibitions that are definitely worth exploring.

What You’ll See

The Guggenheim Museum features a vast permanent collection, showcasing influential artists from Picasso to Pollock. The majority of displayed artwork comes from current exhibitions. Before visiting, it is advisable to check their website for current exhibitions and verify the accessibility of the famous spiral ramp during your visit.

Avoid The Crowds

Interestingly, the Guggenheim is open on Mondays, while many other museums in New York City are closed, leading to a significant uptick in visitors. Therefore, if Monday works best for you, consider arriving early—preferably close to 10 a.m.—to enjoy the exhibitions before the rush.

On Saturday evenings, the “Pay What You Wish” option is available, which consequently attracts more crowds. To avoid the busiest times on Saturday, try to complete your visit before the discounted admissions begin at 5:45 p.m.

Save on Admission

If you plan to explore multiple museums in New York, consider investing in either the New York Pass or the New York CityPass. Both options offer unique benefits depending on your travel itinerary.

Opting for one of these passes allows you to bypass the regular admissions line at the Guggenheim, directing you to the Membership Desk for ticketing.

Additionally, Saturday nights feature a pay-what-you-wish admission policy post 5:45 p.m., which presents an ideal scenario for budget-conscious visitors willing to brave the crowds.

Creature Comforts and Time Savers

Make use of the Guggenheim Museum’s coatroom to lighten your load by checking in coats, bags, and umbrellas before exploring. Remember, you’ll need to present your ticket when using the coatroom. Furthermore, wheelchairs and baby carriers are available for visitors with small children.

It’s worth noting that the restrooms near the main lobby can become crowded; however, unisex restrooms are distributed throughout the museum, allowing you to avoid long lines by heading upstairs.

Take a Free Tour

Free guided tours are provided with museum admission, and it would be beneficial to take advantage of them. Self-guided audio tours can also be obtained in the lobby or downloaded on your iPhone for a personal exploration experience. Daily free guided tours at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. focus on the Guggenheim’s permanent collection and current exhibitions.

Additionally, on select Fridays at 2 p.m., curators lead tours of the current exhibitions. You’ll also find Gallery Guides available throughout the museum, offering engaging one-on-one discussions about the art and exhibits. Easily identifiable by their black attire with colorful scarves or ties and a button that reads “Ask Me About The Art,” they’re there to enhance your visit.

Start at the Top

A recommended approach to exploring the Guggenheim Museum is to take the elevator to the top floor and then make your way down the spiral while absorbing the various exhibitions and galleries along the route. This method effectively aids in escaping the crowd in the lobby, enhancing your experience as you navigate through the museum’s comprehensive offerings.

Visiting with Kids

Admission is free for children under 12 when accompanied by a paying adult at the Guggenheim Museum. Small strollers are permitted in the galleries, whereas jogging and double strollers are not allowed. Fortunately, the coatroom has backpack carriers available for parents visiting with small children.

Additionally, the Guggenheim provides valuable resources for families, including engaging workshops for children as young as three, along with special family-oriented events. Check the available programming, particularly on weekends, for educational and fun opportunities for families.

Catch a Peek for Free

The Guggenheim Museum is known for its participation in the annual Museum Mile Festival, offering visitors free admission on this special day in June. If you desire a brief glimpse inside, the Guggenheim Museum Cafe and gift shop are accessible without an admission fee, although entry into the lobby and rotunda now requires a ticket. Families should also note that children aged 12 and under can always enter for free!