The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
The visionary Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is located at 1071 Fifth Avenue. The entrance is at East 89th Street. This architectural marvel faces the green trees of Central Park.
Nearest subway station: 86 St (4, 5, 6), then walk or bus across. From Times Sq–42 St, ride the 4, 5, or 6 train to 86 St. Walk west to Fifth Avenue, then south along Fifth to East 89th Street and the Guggenheim. (MAP)
“The Gugg”
The building is a famous work of art itself that architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed it to look like a giant white shell. Inside, take the elevator to the top floor, then walk down a long, gentle ramp that circles the entire center of the building. You look at art while moving toward the glass ceiling. The museum is best known for its “non-objective” or abstract art. This means art that uses shapes and colors instead of people. It has the largest collection of works by Vasily Kandinsky. His paintings are full of wild lines and bright circles. You will also see many beautiful works by Piet Mondrian. He is famous for his grids of red, blue, and yellow. The museum owns many masterpieces by Pablo Picasso and Edouard Manet. You can find peaceful landscapes by Camille Pissarro. The Thannhauser Collection is a permanent highlight. It features several early paintings by Vincent van Gogh. There are also sculptures made of metal and wood. The museum often hosts big, temporary shows that fill the whole ramp. It is a very different experience than a normal museum. You never feel lost because there is only one path. The views from the top of the ramp are incredible.
Hours of Operation:
- Daily: 10:30 am – 5:30 pm
Entrance Fees:
- Adults: $30
- Seniors (65+), Students, and Visitors with Disabilities: $25
- Children (under 12): Free
- Saturday (4 pm – 5:30 pm): Pay-what-you-wish
Visit New York’s editors recommend the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum because the unique building is just as much a work of art as the paintings.