The Whitney Museum of American Art is a unique destination in NYC, highlighting American Art at its finest. You can admire unique pieces, including contemporary and twentieth-century artwork. Not only do you get to view these special oeuvres, but you also get to understand American society, history, and identity. Get ready to experience interactive installations, dynamic workshops, artist performances, virtual tours, family fun days, and more. Over 3,600 artists have contributed to the over 25,000 works of art on display.
Background on the Whitney Museum of American Art
The museum owes its existence to Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, a sculptor who became a leading art patron from 1907 to 1942. Whitney was moved by the plight of creative American artists who found exhibiting or selling their work challenging. She started to purchase and exhibit their artwork, becoming the leading American art supporter. Check out these important dates in the history of the museum:
- 1914 – Whitney establishes the Whitney Studio in Greenwich Village to showcase the artists’ works
- 1929 – The studio has a collection of more than 500 pieces. Whitney offers the collection to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, but they decline to accept the gift
- 1930 – Whitney founds the Whitney Museum of American Art
- 1931 – The museum opens its doors at West Eighth Street
- 1954 – The museum moves to a more prominent location on West 54th Street
- 1963 – The museum moves to 75th Street
- 2015 – The art museum moves to its current location at 99 Gansevoort Street
Innovation has always been a driving force for the art museum. For instance, it was the first museum to celebrate living American artists and hold an exhibition by a video artist.
Where is the Whitney Museum of American Art, and how do you get there?
The Whitney Museum of American Art is located at 99 Gansevoort Street.
- Take A, C, E, or L lines by subway to 14th Street and 8th Avenue.
- If you would instead use the bus, take M14A-SBS, M14D-SBS, M7, M11, M12.
- Parking near the museum is quite convenient and readily available. Try out garages at 99 Jane Street, 385 West 15th Street, and 134–36 Jane Street.
What to expect when you visit the Whitney Museum of American Art
Manhattan’s Meatpacking District is a vibrant place that draws in locals and visitors. The Whitney Museum has grown in popularity, so there is a high expectation of plenty of visitors. Art enthusiasts come in great numbers, especially during significant exhibitions, weekends, and holidays.
If you visit on a Friday evening, you can benefit from the museum’s “Pay-What-You-Wish” hours from 5 pm to 10 pm. The museum is free for children 18 and under on Friday nights from 5 pm to 10 pm and on the second Sunday of every month. However, please note that capacity is limited due to the large volume of visitors, and you will still need a ticket.
You can expect to spend 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits spread across its 8 floors inside the museum. The venue also hosts social and corporate events. So, to avoid inconvenience, keep up with website updates when planning your visit. You may buy tickets on the ground, but buying them in advance is a good idea. Once you finish the exhibitions, check out the Frenchette Bakery for some excellent food. Alternatively, sit on outdoor terraces for a fantastic view of the Hudson River.
What else can you do when you visit the Whitney Museum of American Art?
As you step out of the museum, you will see a lot to explore at the High Line, along with some of the most gorgeous views of the city. You can grab drinks and food at the best-rated restaurants here, such as The Standard Biergarten, Le Bain, and Pastis. You can also grab a fancy bite at the Chelsea Market.
A full exploration of the venue will take about two hours. Afterward, take time to explore the nearby events and venues, including:
- Little House on the Ferry
- West Village Speakeasy Experience
- The Wilson
- The Edge Observatory Deck
- 526 6th Avenue
- Chelsea Industrial
- Gotham 40
- Museum of Ice Cream
FAQs
At what time does the Whitney Museum of American Art open?
The museum is open all week from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., except on Tuesday when it remains closed.
Are there guided tours?
There is a mobile guide that you can access on your device. There are also print guides for both adults and children.
Is the Whitney Museum of American Art wheelchair and stroller accessible?
Yes, and manual wheelchairs are available for free.
Can I take photos in the museum?
Yes, but only for non-commercial use. The Whitney Museum of American Art does not permit professional photography equipment like tripods or flash.
There aren’t many places that allow visitors to interact with American art and culture like the Whitney Museum of American Art does. The same can be said for institutions that celebrate and showcase the work of living art.
Beyond art, the museum is a space where creativity and artistic exploration thrive. Workshops, talks with artists, and numerous events will ignite your creative spark.
Explore the Whitney Museum of American Art for an unforgettable journey through the vibrant world of contemporary American art!