The Whitney Museum is the epicenter of American modern art. Dive into its extensive collection, featuring iconic pieces like Edward Hopper’s Nighthawks and Alexander Calder’s sculptures. You’ll experience groundbreaking exhibitions like t...
Also Known As
Whitney Museum
Founded On
1931
Founded By
Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney
RECOMMENDED DURATION
3 hours
Timings
10:30–22:00
VISITORS PER YEAR
1150000
TICKETS
From $ 29
NUMBER OF ENTRANCES
2
EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD
0-30 mins (Peak), 30-60 mins (Off Peak)
Did you know?
Founder: The museum was founded by Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, a prominent sculptor and art patron, in 1931.
Collection size: The Whitney houses over 25,000 works, making it one of the most comprehensive collections of American art.
Biennial: The Whitney Biennial is a prestigious exhibition that has showcased the latest in American art since 1932.
The museum boasts a rich collection of over 25,000 works by more than 3,500 artists, spanning from the early 20th century to the present day, including Edward Hopper and Andy Warhol.
The Whitney’s Permanent Collection spans the 20th century to today, featuring landmark works such as Edward Hopper’s Nighthawks and Alexander Calder’s Lobster Trap and Fish Tail. This collection showcases the evolution of American art through significant pieces by Georgia O'Keeffe and Jasper Johns.
The Biennial is a highlight for contemporary art enthusiasts, offering a platform for emerging talents. Notable past works include Kehinde Wiley’s Portrait of a Young Gentleman and Njideka Akunyili Crosby’s The Beautyful Ones. This annual event provides insight into the latest trends and innovations in American art.
These focused exhibitions offer deep dives into the work of individual artists. Past shows have featured Jeff Koons’ Balloon Dog and Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms, providing an extensive look at their influential careers and artistic contributions.
Curated around specific themes, these exhibitions explore different aspects of American art. Examples include shows on abstract expressionism with works by Mark Rothko and Jackson Pollock, or social commentary featuring pieces by Cindy Sherman and Barbara Kruger.
The museum's outdoor spaces host large-scale works that engage with the environment. Recent installations include Richard Serra’s Torqued Ellipses and Louise Bourgeois’ Spider, offering a dramatic contrast to the museum’s indoor collections.
This collection highlights works on paper, including prints and drawings. Featured artists include James Turrell with his Roden Crater prints and Carrie Mae Weems’ Kitchen Table Series, showcasing the versatility of paper as a medium in American art.
Expect approximately 1,000 works that celebrate the origins of the Whitney Museum, all part of the founding collection. Curated by the longest serving curators of the museum, Barbara Haskell and Sasha Nicholas, it features iconic pieces by renowned artists such as Edward Hopper, Georgia O’Keeffe, and George Bellows, alongside works by lesser-known figures.
The Whitney Museum’s collection comprises over 25,000 works of art. This extensive collection includes masterpieces by influential American artists such as Edward Hopper, Alexander Calder, and Jeff Koons, reflecting a broad spectrum of contemporary artistic practices.
Among the must-see works at the Whitney is Edward Hopper’s New York Office and Nighthawks studies, which provide an intimate glimpse into the artist's vision of urban isolation. Another iconic piece is Lee Krasner’s The Seasons, a monumental painting that expresses raw emotion and energy. For fans of contemporary art, recent acquisitions like Dyani White Hawk’s Nourish and Rashid Johnson’s New Poetry offer compelling modern narratives.
Current exhibitions at the Whitney Museum include “American Voices: Highlights from the Collection,” which features key works from the museum’s collection, and “Recent Acquisitions: Contemporary Dialogues,” showcasing new additions to the museum’s holdings.
Yes, the Whitney Museum offers two dining options: Frenchette Bakery, located on the ground floor, featuring freshly baked goods, light meals, and drinks; and Studio Bar on the 8th floor, which provides snacks and beverages with access to the museum's terraces. Both venues offer a relaxing atmosphere to complement your museum visit.
Non-flash photography for personal use is generally permitted in the museum’s public spaces. However, specific exhibitions may have restrictions, so check for any signage or guidelines at the entrance of galleries.
Tickets for the Whitney Museum can be purchased online through the museum’s official website or at the museum’s ticket desk. To avoid long waits, especially during peak times, it is recommended to buy tickets in advance. The website also provides options for timed entry tickets.
Nearby attractions include the High Line, a popular elevated park, and Chelsea Market, known for its diverse food options. Other cultural institutions within walking distance include the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology, the Rubin Museum of Art, and the Chelsea Art Museum.
Yes, the Whitney Museum is committed to accessibility. The building is designed to be fully accessible, with features such as ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. The museum also offers assistive listening devices, guided tours for visitors with disabilities, and materials in various formats to accommodate different needs.
