I’m really into art and history, which is why there is nothing I like doing more on holiday than exploring the museums and galleries of the destination I’m visiting. Doing so, I feel, gives a real flavour of the place you’re in. Head to New York and you will be in the perfect location to have a culture-filled break.
You’ll discover great museums all across the Big Apple, though many of its most famous institutions are situated along a section of Fifth Avenue in Manhattan that is commonly referred to as Museum Mile. Once you’ve taken an airport transfer into New York (something that can be done by booking through companies like Holiday Taxis), here are a few of the galleries and museums that I suggest you visit.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
Whether you prefer looking at modern sculptures or medieval artefacts, I don’t think you’ll fail to be amazed by the Metropolitan Museum of Art (or the Met, as it’s often referred to).
In fact, it’s considered one of the greatest cultural centres in the entire world and has the most comprehensive collection of American sculptures, paintings and decorative arts anywhere on the planet.
Fans of ancient Egyptian art and culture are also well catered for, as you can see a statue of pharaoh Hatshepsut and jewellery that belonged to princess Sit-hathor-yunet and is believed to date back to 18th century BC. With the museum containing some 26,000 items from this civilisation – making it the largest collection of Egyptian art in the world outside of Cairo – you definitely won’t run out of things to see!
Museum of the City of New York
As you can probably guess from its name, the Museum of the City of New York is dedicated to the history of the Big Apple. This Fifth Avenue institution dates back to 1923 and puts on a captivating array of temporary exhibitions. Among the displays currently on show is Activist New York, which looks at the development of social activism in the city from the 17th century through to the modern day.
Alternatively, you may want to check out the A Beautiful Way to Go display. Opening on May 15th, this examines the history of Green-Wood Cemetery, analysing how it helped to develop the trend of rural cemeteries and public parks across the US. Once you’ve finished taking in the exhibits, make sure you head up to the museum’s terrace. In doing so, you can soak up great views overlooking Central Park.
Museum of Modern Art
As I mentioned before, many of New York’s most famous galleries are situated along Museum Mile but it’d be a mistake to think that all of the best museums are located in this area. In fact, if you’re looking to cast your net a little further afield I recommend a trip to the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).
Obviously, this 53rd Street establishment is devoted to contemporary art, with Andy Warhol, Vincent van Gogh and Tracey Emin just three of the most famous artists whose works you’ll find in the permanent collection. However, there are also plenty of exciting temporary exhibitions taking place at MoMA that I recommend you check out.
Many of these run concurrently, thus providing plenty to see, but if there’s something you’re particularly keen on taking in I suggest you visit the museum’s website in advance. If you come here in August, you can see the American Modern collection. Focusing on early 20th century American art, this exhibit features pieces from Georgia O’Keeffe and Charles Sheeler. In November, meanwhile, you can check out a retrospective of the work of Isa Genzken. Although the German artist is most famous for her sculptures, she also produced many paintings, films and collages, all of which can be seen in the display.
If you’re planning on taking a trip to New York, which museums are you looking forward to visiting the most? Leave a comment below and let us know!
