Brooklyn Museum New York City
A Beaux-Arts landmark housing vast collections from ancient Egypt to contemporary art, famed for feminist masterpieces and lively events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Brooklyn Museum New York City
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Beaux-Arts landmark housing vast collections from ancient Egypt to contemporary art, famed for feminist masterpieces and lively events.
"A treasure trove of art with accessible admission, offering everything from ancient wonders to modern statements."
🎯 Pay-What-You-Wish Entry
General admission is pay-what-you-wish! Don't feel pressured to pay the suggested amount; even $1 grants entry .
🎉 First Saturday Crowds
First Saturdays are huge parties but get extremely crowded. Go early or be prepared for a lively, packed experience .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Dinner Party
Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art
Judy Chicago's iconic triangular table installation, a monumental work celebrating women in history.
Kehinde Wiley's Napoleon
Lobby
A striking contemporary portrait that recontextualizes classical art with modern subjects.
Butterfly Gate
Near the Children's Garden
A whimsical wrought-iron gate that delights visitors of all ages with its intricate design.
Egyptian Art Collection
Egyptian Galleries
Explore millennia of ancient Egyptian history through sarcophagi, mummies, and intricate artifacts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for First Saturdays
Pay-What-You-Wish Admission
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Pay-What-You-Wish Entry
General admission is pay-what-you-wish! Don't feel pressured to pay the suggested amount; even $1 grants entry.
🎉 First Saturday Crowds
First Saturdays are huge parties but get extremely crowded. Go early or be prepared for a lively, packed experience.
🦋 Butterfly Gate Delight
Don't miss the charming wrought-iron butterfly gate, a favorite for families and art lovers alike.
🏛️ Check for Ticketed Exhibits
Special exhibitions like Virgil Abloh's may require separate tickets, even with general admission.
What is your favorite thing in the Brooklyn museum and why?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Pay-What-You-Wish Entry
General admission is pay-what-you-wish! Don't feel pressured to pay the suggested amount; even $1 grants entry.
🎉 First Saturday Crowds
First Saturdays are huge parties but get extremely crowded. Go early or be prepared for a lively, packed experience.
🦋 Butterfly Gate Delight
Don't miss the charming wrought-iron butterfly gate, a favorite for families and art lovers alike.
🏛️ Check for Ticketed Exhibits
Special exhibitions like Virgil Abloh's may require separate tickets, even with general admission.
📚 Library Culture Pass
If you have a Brooklyn Public Library card, check for free museum entry through their Culture Pass program.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Brooklyn Museum for its diverse and significant collections, particularly the iconic 'The Dinner Party' and impressive Egyptian art. The pay-what-you-wish admission policy is a major draw, making it accessible for all. However, some find the 'First Saturday' events to be overwhelmingly crowded.
"I was here one months ago with my classmates from ESL (English second language) courses. And this is what I want to note. Our English was weak, but our guide explained everything clearly. And I lost my fear of attending different museums in the USA.
The museum itself was wonderful! And I have a desire to go back there again."
Norzen
"Fascinating exhibits about art of all sorts. The special exhibition about gold qua art was very impressive. The emphasis on "social justice" art, less so, but everyone plays to the base. Gorgeous landscaping out front."
Daniel Donnelly
"Good stuff. Many great shows here throughout the years. I recommend the Brooklyn museum!
We just attended a Soca concert for the West Indian carnival weekend. It was behind the museum. Kes the band and Bunji Garlin. There was barely any security besides a sign that read " no weapons or guns".
People were walking in with full bottles of liquor.
I will be adjusting my technique for next year."
JEFFERY JOHNSON
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Brooklyn Museum is easily accessible via public transportation. Take the 2 or 3 subway lines to Eastern Parkway-Brooklyn Museum station, or the B or Q lines to Prospect Park station. Several bus lines also stop nearby. Driving is an option, but parking can be challenging.
While street parking is available in the surrounding neighborhood, it can be competitive. There are also paid parking garages nearby, but using public transit is often the most convenient option for visiting the Brooklyn Museum.
Yes, the Brooklyn Museum is located adjacent to Prospect Park. It's a pleasant walk from many parts of the park, making it easy to combine a visit to both attractions.
The 2 and 3 subway lines stop directly at the Eastern Parkway-Brooklyn Museum station, offering the most direct access. The B and Q lines to Prospect Park are also a short walk away.
Yes, several bus routes serve the area around the Brooklyn Museum, including the B7, B9, B16, B41, B45, B48, B49, and B65. Check MTA schedules for specific routes and stops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to the Brooklyn Museum is pay-what-you-wish. While a suggested donation is around $20, you can contribute any amount you wish, even just $1, for entry. Special exhibitions may have separate ticket prices.
For general admission, advance purchase isn't strictly necessary due to the pay-what-you-wish policy. However, for popular ticketed exhibitions, booking online in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot.
The Brooklyn Museum offers pay-what-you-wish general admission every day. Additionally, their 'First Saturday' events (5-11 PM on the first Saturday of each month) offer free admission and programming, though they can be very crowded.
Yes, if you have a Brooklyn Public Library card, you may be eligible for free admission through their Culture Pass program. It's worth checking with your local library for details.
First Saturday is a monthly event featuring free museum admission, live music, performances, and other programming. It's a popular, lively event that attracts large crowds and transforms the museum into a social gathering space.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Highlights include Judy Chicago's 'The Dinner Party,' Kehinde Wiley's 'Napoleon Leading the Army over the Alps,' the Egyptian art collection, and the charming Butterfly Gate. The museum also features rotating special exhibitions.
Yes, the Brooklyn Museum is family-friendly. Children often enjoy the Butterfly Gate, the Egyptian galleries, and interactive elements. The museum also hosts family programs and events.
To see the main collections and a special exhibition, plan for at least 2-3 hours. If you want to explore more thoroughly or attend a special event, you could easily spend half a day or more.
Yes, the Brooklyn Museum has a gift shop offering a variety of art-related items, books, and souvenirs. It's a great place to find unique gifts inspired by the museum's collections.
The museum often offers guided tours, especially for special exhibitions. Check the museum's schedule upon arrival or on their website for availability and times.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Brooklyn Museum has a cafe and restaurant on-site, offering various dining options for visitors. These are convenient for a quick bite or a sit-down meal during your visit.
Several highly-rated restaurants are located near the Brooklyn Museum. Cafe Mado, known for its delicious food, is a popular choice right by the park. Evil Twin Brewery is also a fun option within walking distance.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the galleries. However, there may be designated areas where you can consume food, or you can enjoy a picnic in the adjacent Prospect Park.
The museum's cafe typically offers a selection of sandwiches, salads, pastries, and coffee, catering to a range of tastes for a convenient meal.
While menus can vary, most museum cafes and nearby restaurants offer a selection of vegetarian and often vegan-friendly dishes. It's always a good idea to check the current menu or ask staff.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal, non-commercial use is generally permitted in the permanent collection galleries. However, flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Always check signage for specific exhibit rules.
Yes, flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are typically not allowed to protect the artwork. Some special ticketed exhibitions may have stricter photography policies, so always look for posted signs.
The Beaux-Arts Court, the grand entrance, and areas with striking contemporary art like Kehinde Wiley's 'Napoleon' are popular photo spots. The diverse collections offer many visually interesting backdrops.
Yes, you can use your phone camera for personal photos in most areas, provided you adhere to the no-flash and no-tripod rules. It's a great way to capture your favorite pieces.
Photography policies for special exhibitions can vary. Some may allow it without flash, while others might prohibit it entirely. It's crucial to check the signage at the entrance of each special exhibition.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond specific exhibits, the museum frequently offers family-friendly programming and activities. Consider checking their schedule for workshops or tours designed for children. The adjacent Prospect Park also provides a great space for kids to run around before or after your museum visit, making it a perfect day out.
💰 Budget Travelers
Additionally, keep an eye out for First Saturday events, which offer free admission and programming. While these events can be crowded, they provide a lively cultural experience without an entry fee.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
The museum is also known for its significant holdings in feminist art and Egyptian art. Beyond the permanent collections, the museum consistently hosts thought-provoking temporary exhibitions that draw international attention, offering fresh perspectives and new discoveries for even the most seasoned art aficionado.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Brooklyn Museum's Collections
Beyond ancient history, the museum is renowned for its feminist art holdings, most notably Judy Chicago's monumental 'The Dinner Party.' This iconic installation is a powerful tribute to women's contributions throughout history. Contemporary art also shines, with pieces like Kehinde Wiley's 'Napoleon Leading the Army over the Alps' making a bold statement in the lobby.
Other notable collections include American art, European paintings, African art, and decorative arts. The museum actively acquires and displays works that reflect a broad spectrum of artistic expression and cultural narratives, ensuring a rich and varied experience for all.
The Buzz of First Saturdays
While the energy is infectious, it's important to note that First Saturdays can get extremely crowded. Many attendees come to socialize and enjoy the party vibe as much as to view the art. The music areas can be particularly packed, and sound quality might be affected by the large crowds and echoing spaces.
If you're looking for a more intimate art viewing experience, First Saturdays might not be ideal. However, if you enjoy a dynamic, communal atmosphere and want to experience the museum as a lively cultural event, it's an unmissable Brooklyn tradition. Be prepared for queues and a bustling environment.
Budget-Friendly Visits: Pay-What-You-Wish
It's worth noting that this 'pay-what-you-wish' aspect isn't always heavily advertised, leading some visitors to assume a fixed ticket price. While the museum suggests a donation amount (often around $20), there's no obligation to meet it. This is a fantastic way to experience a world-class institution without a significant financial commitment.
Keep in mind that this policy typically applies to general admission. Special ticketed exhibitions, such as major temporary shows like the Virgil Abloh or Thierry Mugler retrospectives, usually require a separate, fixed admission fee. Always check the museum's website or signage for the most current pricing information for specific exhibits.
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