Reviews of Whitney Museum of American Art (Tourist Attraction)

Tregg Frank

Great mix of contemporary art spanning from ultra recent to slightly historical. You may stumble into things that challenge you, that you don’t immediately click with, or that push the boundaries of what you expect from a museum. That’s a good thing. Mixed in with pieces posing questions and exploring tough subjects are more comfortable and traditional paintings across several different genres and mediums. The coffee was good too.

Jeffrey Myers

We did research that involved seeing sketches in their excellent study area. We were also able to see a painting that was warehoused off-site. The people we dealt with couldn't have been more friendly and helpful.

Greg Rosenberg

The Whitney Museum of American Art is a multi-floor museum filled with sculptures, paintings and video installations. Every staff member I interacted with was friendly and professional. I took my time and spent about three hours at the museum (one floor was closed as they were changing out the art). Definitely check out the art on the balconies and enjoy the views of New York City.

Ahmed Abdullah

Very nice located. The exhibits are fairly interesting. Worth to check

minLa ibizA

I went there for the biennale. Pay as you wish on friday nights (7-10pm). Great visit with some Edward Hopper artwork ! Good Coffee and pretty view from rooftops.

Rui Xiong

First time to waited on the Friday "Pay what you wish" line. The line gets really long so get ready to wait for at least 30 min if you want to do the same. The museum is currently running their biennial program, which offers tons of new works. I enjoyed my stay and loved the view from higher floor levels. I highly recommend this place.

Tiffany Lew

Travelling to NY for work, I had a day off so I decided to check out the Whitney Museum. Started on the 8th floor and worked my way down. The rooftop was very nice and I loved seeing some pieces by Edward hopper, Lichtenstein, jasper johns, and Warhol! Definitely worth a visit!

Garrett Nakamoto

Impressive collection of modern art in a classy setting. Don’t miss out on the many outdoor spaces to enjoy additional exhibits and views of the city and the Hudson.

Gil W

Every time I go to view their special exhibits & collections over the years, I leave feeling I’ve just become a better human being. Their staff and art is beyond compare. It truly is a museum not to be missed when visiting New York City!

Cliff Weng

Amazing exhibition space with a cafe with great view. Very relaxing if you go in the morning. Online audio guide is informative and doesn't need installation.

Michael Kwan

Excellent museum with some outstanding contemporary arts. The rooftops have exceptional views of the city and meatpacking district. That's why it's always crowded. Always popular

Stephanny Paz

Really loved it! The biennial collection is a must see and the view from the balcony is real nice. The gift shop could be better.

Marc Hill

My favourite view of meat packing district, the west village and the Hudson River. The building is beautifully constructed to feel like an artist loft studio echoing the glory days of NYC creative arts and painting. The building is also an engineering marvel with its unique flood walls that can be activated if a surge or tsunami hits New York. The permanent collection is varied and interesting. Def worth a visit, especially on free Friday nights.

Amalia Eliakim

Beautiful building and location. The exhibitions were also great, but this place is a must in sunny day! There is a lot of natural light and the structure itself is unique. Perfect to combine with a nice walk on the high line and Chelsea neighborhood

yougourthen Ayouni

The Whitney is a pretty remarkable place to begin. If you are in town and want a cool museum to go to, this is one to certainly consider. Things to let you know ahead of time is to purchase your tickets electronically ahead of time so you can skip a 30+ minute wait on the line. But in light of this, you should have a great time during whatever exhibit you choose to attend.

Alex Rod.

This Museum is really nice, modern art with outdoor sculptures with amazing views. They also have a outdoor Cafe with coffee, wine and other beverages with a nice view of the meat packing district. A hiding Gem for a museum Takecare ♡

Grant Harris

Beautiful museum with modern art. There are cool places to eat/drink nearby to visit as well

Andy Hasselwander

The Whitney is well worth the $25 price of admission. For those seeking a survey of modern art, you can’t do much better than starting at the top floor and heading down the elevator. This will give you (as of August 2019) a chronological tour of modern art. The Hopper collection is fantastic, as are all of the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s pieces. The contemporary stuff is more hit or miss, as expected. They do a good job highlighting the most interesting artists working today, and some will be a bit... challenging for some observers. In sum, you can’t visit Chelsea without a trip to the Whitney. You’ll be delighted, or, at worst, it will challenge your perceptions.

Micah McDonald

Such a cool museum. Structurally it is an amazing building with gorgeous views. They consistently change over the pieces so it’s a great museum to visit again and again. And it’s in such a great area of town with plenty of things to do before and after.

Brian King

Elegant building with spacious galleries. May wonderful paintings. Edward Hopper, Andy Warhol, Franz Klein among my favorites. The biennial of 2019 had many interesting new artists works. Cool gift shop.

Brianna Espinoza

There’s always new artwork at the Whitney which is fun to see. They offer student discount for $18, general admission is usually $22 and military tickets are free! They have multiple elevators but it still takes time to go up and down so if you can i suggest taking the stairs. They have outdoor artwork and a nice place to take pictures on the 8th floor.

Malte Zander

Good selection of modern and contemporary art, sometimes a bit more explanation would be beneficial. Great architecture too with fantastic views.

Andrea Bielli

Great museum for both the art inside and the architecture. The large windows on the Hudson and the meat packing district are on their own worth a visit. The permanent collection has great art from Hopper while the temporary exhibitions are always well organized.

Sandy Bolton

A NYC treasure of modern art. Give yourself plenty of time to browse.

Tracey G

Very nice museum of modern art and strangely enough, jazz. We visited when they held a live jazz concert in their cafe.

Jean Mumper

Thanks to Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, this huge collection of art is available to us in NYC. The Whitney Museum is an incredible structure -- lots of open space, a mix of small and large rooms, indoor and outdoor areas. One can get a meal in the restaurant on the ground floor, or a snack on the 6th floor. Gifts are also available on the museum store

Alan Hsu

A beautiful, airy space with lots of natural light, very different from the old space on Madison. The museum is 8 stories but one can see everything in a day. There are three outdoor balconies which offer nice views. The stairs are worth taking, for speed and for the view of the water. NYC residents should get a NYPL card for free admission. Friday evenings are "pay what you wish".

AF

Great photo opportunity on the roof. Good amount of art. Not too overwhelming or lengthy. The exhibits were quiet different from one another which was most interesting.

Toon Shader

So, let me tell you a little story. I like full stop. They are so cute, yet so word removed they would end you.

Andrew Moore

Missed the Biennial? In two more years the High Line will be one amazing jungle trek on your way to this thought provoking museum. I did expect a little more controversy but the art nevertheless delivered some gut punches.

Julia Gosztyla

Very upscale and classy place with friendly staff and a lovely view. However, anyone can afford to come in on Friday nights where you can pay what you want to go in. It's a small place but I think it was enough for me to get my fill of art viewing and wine sipping. The cafe reminded me of Europe, which was nice.

marc davis

This museum is a must-do while in N.Y.C. Great views of the city and the river. Cafe on upper floor has great Thai curry soup. Large open galleries. Doesn't feel cramped by throngs of tourists

Leigh Lehhman

Great museum with amazing views of the Hudson. It celebrates modern, 20th/21st century art with a wonderful Calder circus exhibit. Great for everyone in the family. There is an excellent cafe connected to it.

Anthony Detorfino

My favorite museum! Has usually the most poignant pieces around and all together a fun time

James Poulos

Love this museum. So smart. Very tall and narrow. Great exhibits, a huge freight elevator you can ride... and very smart.

Michael Lawlor

I’ve been loaning my collections for years and they always take such good care to place my pieces high on the wall to make sure the guests don’t touch them with their dirty fingers. Will continue to support this great institution for years to come.

Andrew Smith

Attended a lecture by the excellent Ayanna Dozier, always a treat. This one opened the Jason Moran exhibit and presaged the Jasper John's retrospective coming in 2020. A visit to the Whitney anytime is recommended.

Lucais Horsley

The location in the Meat Packing district is interesting, but the museum doesn’t have a lot to see for the steep admission fee. We were there when they had their biennial and they showed some interesting art there, I especially enjoyed Ilana Harris-Babou. The permanent exhibits didn’t do it for me though. The views outside on top of the museum was great though, and it is a great starting point to go there first and then walk the High Line.

Raquel Ramos- Rivera

Definitely a place that you need 4 hours for. Good modern museum, the audio tour helps bring a better understanding to the pieces as well as helps open up the understanding to the other around them. I went on a Sunday and it get packed. Definitely not a lazy day museum tour. I look forward to visiting it again with my family.

wwoods97

Only two floors of the museum were open during my visit. View from the terrace is good for photographs with the city in the background. Very close to the High Line to walk from or to. Only three elevators and they get cramped and filled quickly. Gift shop was alright, good for prints of the works and other various items. Be prepared for plenty of people and not much viewing room in some gallery spaces.

Agnes Terada

First time visit to the museum. We didn’t order the tickets online, but there was no line so we didn’t wait to get in. The 5th floor was close for renovation or preparation of a new exhibition. I’m glad I went there with my young child as some of the exhibitions with videos use profanity. We started from the lower floors and we went up. The higher floors have exhibitions outdoors and you can enjoy the view of the city. The top floor has a nice cafe with a seating area indoors and outdoors.

Dary Peterson

Not trying to be over cool. Just cool enough. You will see some amazing things here. And this place definitely bring a lot of respect to NYC as a city with beautiful museums. Not to miss, but can get packed on certain hours.

Syed Mahi

It’s breath taking place. There is some much to learn. I recommend everyone should go. Quick tip, for NYC,CT and NJ people you guys can pay a cent if you want. It’s a donation for us people.

Carlito Nati

Whitney Museum of American Art is located at the Meatpacking district on the southern most part of the High Line. This museum focuses on 20th- and 21st-century American art. Its permanent collection comprises more than 23,000 paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, photographs, films, videos, and artifacts of new media by more than 3,400 artists. It places particular emphasis on exhibiting the work of living artists as well as maintaining an extensive permanent collection of important pieces from the first half of the last century. The museum's Annual and Biennial exhibitions have long been a venue for younger and lesser-known artists whose work is showcased there. The atmosphere was relaxing and inviting. Staff were professional and friendly. Ticket prices were fair and competitive. If you're a student its much cheaper and/or free. Street parking available only. They have a cafeteria on the upper level with a great view of downtown. You can easily spend half a day on this museum. Overall, I had a wonderful experience and enjoyed the exhibits. I highly recommend this museum.

dayoung Lee

Nice place to check what's hot in the field of modern art! The branding of the museum itself was the most impressive experience for me though. The cafe on the top floor has great view seeing around chealsey area.

Claire Zen

It's on the pricier side of the big art museums in Manhattan, but they do a good job balancing contemporary work with 20th century work.

Phil C

Great place to spend a long period of time. There isn't a huge amount of work to view, however, it's a great place to relax while you enjoy one of the best curated art museums on the planet. Make sure to get a reservation before you go.

AlanaSophia

Amazing art, nice space, interesting exhibitions. Great views of NYC from the stairs outside. Would recommend!! Can get in for free with AGO membership.

Laurie Pitman

Way cool. The Jason Moran exhibit on the 8th floor was beautiful.

August Zeidman

One of the best art museums in NYC, and one of the best modern art museums I've ever been to. With a beautiful space and well displayed exhibitions, the Whitney truly brings some beautiful works of the past century to life, with informative descriptions and context provided for nearly every piece. I always enjoy coming here and looking forward to the next special exhibition. Whether you live here or are just visiting, make sure you make the Whitney a part of your agenda! (Plus its in a super cool neighborhood with a ton to do, great coffee, great food, great shopping, and close to whole lot else)

jerry laster

Definitely not a cabaret, as the NYC permit proves. Instead you will find art, mostly modern (depending on how you define modern, and art) but I overheard someone mentioning they liked the vintage art, so there is that too. Every two years they organize a very large exhibition that they pointedly call the biennial.

Brayden Mora

There's a lot to see at the Whitney. It's close to the High Line as well as the Chelsea Market so you could make a day of it on the West Side, meat packing location of Manhattan. We had a day to sight see & this was recommended to us. It did not disappoint especially since we had guest passes from our friend. There's lots to see including the Grant Wood American Gothic art exhibit. I knew about the famous pitchfork picture but didn't really know the story behind it. There are several provocative exhibits displayed here as well as some beautiful large terraces to step out to see this side of New York. Fortunately, we had a gorgeous day to take it all in combined with a walk on the High Line as well as lunch at the Chelsea Market.

Pognee Kim

Although this is a decent museum for contemporary art, this is not a kid-friendly museum. The staff members do not know how to talk to children, especially those with special needs. It is quite insulting to be talked down to or treated as if you were less intelligent. Perhaps they had good intentions and meant well, but I suggest the staff attend sensitivity training. And maybe don't advertise yourself as fun for kids on the autism spectrum.

Patrick Conlan

Amazing collection something for everyone - which also means "caution: some art may trigger people of drama"

Dardalie Brooks

Whitney Biennial going on now. The museum is free on Friday after 7. There are long line but they move fast. Good Friday night activity.

Anna Xxxx

The art can be hit and miss as usual with contemporary art. But the terrace offers very nice views of manhattan. It is open till late on Fr and Sat so can be a great date spot with a glass of wine or a cup of tea.

Rook K

Architecturally uninspiring inside and out! The exterior is big mistake....it just don’t work! Formalistic language at the end of high line and towards hudson river could have been something....

Cathy Bogaart

I enjoyed the Biennial, but I very much appreciated the free guided tours. I definitely would not have understood or appreciated the art as much without the help of the guides. Of course, the tours depend on the person who is giving them... I had one better than the other in terms of art interpretation. There are some outdoor exhibits as well and some good views of the Hudson is you take the stairs.

James Coombe

It's always entertaining at the whitney. Been a member for a little over a year now. Enjoying the benefits and perks. Lovely exhibits always popping up. Beautiful view at the top. Definitely a must go.

池端大輔

This museum features contemporary art, modern art. When I visited there, the museum held a special exhibition features Andy Warhol. The exhibition was great, but the other exhibit was interesting and worth watching, hearing, feeling. You have to take much time to enjoy all exhibits. There is open-air terrace at the floor located restaurant, you can see around the museum, of course the "high line". This museum is very crowded, so it takes time to use elevator.

Clovis Coffey

Great museum with very interesting exhibits. The only reason that I can't give 5 stars is due to the sheer volume of the crowds allowed into the museum. Unfortunately, the over crowded facility just takes too much away from viewing many exhibits & can put a damper on the enjoyment of the experience. The crowds make good money for the museum, but can drastically take away from the enjoyment.

Elaine Chou

Best and the only rooftop cafe in town with fantastic view. Beautiful architecture and space for a well curated selection of modern art. Always something inspirarional from biennial

Steve

Awesome art work. Great experience with staff. Group tours!

Gail Wisan Muren

Wonderful architecture and beautiful views of the city. Interesting sculpture on view . Iconic art on display. Long lines on Free evening (donation) but lines moved fast. Highly recommend.

ASG CAPCO CORP

Well worth a yearly or semi-annual visit. Beautiful building with beautiful terraces for views and even food and beverages. Exhibits are rotated nicely. Kudos to John Hess (Hess corp. Oil exploration) family for their contributions to the exhibit in their name.

Joon Kim

It’s breath taking place. There is some much to learn. I recommend everyone should go. Quick tip, for NYC,CT and NJ people you guys can pay a cent if you want. It’s a donation for us people.

alan blount

Super cool at museum at the end of the high line. Well work an afternoon. Be inspired, surprised, appalled, and informed.

joe harrigan jr

Loved the place. Monday the crowds were minimal. The permanent collection is tremendous. Great with explanation of each piece. If you need the explanation. There is a deck on each floor. 8 floors. With great views of the City. The cafe has a small variety but just enough selection. The Biennial Show was well curated. The staff was not on top of you to not stand close to the art pieces. Refreshing. A must visit in New York. On the edge of Meat Packing, adjacent to Greenwich Village. The end of the High Line is right there. You dont have to leave the area to spend a day visiting the Whitney. Lot's to do.

Karen Spies

Mind bending. I knew it would be good, but I had no idea HOW good. Gives me faith that even the public can see the value of museums. Clever, engaging, visually stunning exhibits. Totally worth a trip to the city just to spend an afternoon here!

Qianren Zhou

Good place to enjoy arts. Outdoor Balcony is also nice.

Noah Zimmermann

The 2019 Biennal has a wide range of different artists. Even the building itself is art, with the windows up to the Hudson River and the (art-filled) balconies towards the skyline. The permanent collection is very interesting too.

Morten Ejsing Jørgensen

A fine but limited collection of american art. Nice rooftop terrace with a beautiful view.

Alan Wales

The Warhol exhibit was delightful. My partner and I especially enjoyed the way the rooms reflected the style of Warhol even down to the paint chosen for the walls. We loved that his mother's work was included as well. We have been in the past as well for a Brazilian artist and every time the pieces are so thoughtfully arranged. We definitely appreciate how you don't force an interpretation of many art pieces on the viewer and just let us experience the art with our own thoughts and ideas. Thanks, Whitney! You're my favorite Manhattan museum

Allyn Young

I mostly go for their family open studio. They have amazing programs for children almost every weekend and the staff is excellent. During the open studio we get to make art based off of a piece in the museum. We never know if it's going to be painting or sculpture, etc and it's so much fun!

xo xo

I was really blown away by the "abstract expressionism" art! I love love love Joan Mitchell's especially. I was fortunate enough to make it there before the bicentennial ended. Looking back at how the museum honors its artists fills me with a sense of completeness. On an unrelated note, I left my phone accidentally at a video exhibit and the security so kindly had it for me! This was my first time visiting the Whitney after meaning to visit for such a long time and I wasn't disappointed. The way they bend and define the meaning of modern art in their selections fills me with joy. I do wish it could provide more breathtaking pieces. Still, even the elevators were so artistically designed in their interior. A very interesting gallery indeed. Also. The balconies gave a fantastic view of the city! I went at night and was instantly charmed.

Der müde Joe

The new museum building is worth a visit. From the roof terrace you also have a very nice view of some parts of Manhattan, especially the meat packing district. The exhibition is specifically tailored to American art and certainly holds some surprises in store for European visitors. Not everything that glitters is gold, but there are many beautiful things to discover.

Jason Hose

Premier museum dedicated to the exhibition of American Art in a Renzo Piano designed building. Located in the bustling meat packing district the museum features excellent dining and shopping opportunities. Their commitment to Accessibility and Access is unparalleled.

Randall Stempler

An extraordinary collection of modern and contemporary art at the end (or is it the beginning) of the High Line. There is always a special exhibition which is invariably worth a visit even if you have been there many times before. The new building has great exhibition space to see the permanent collection and the special exhibitions. Also, it is great to see the views of New Jersey and downtown Manhattan from the Museum.