Art
The five best paintings at the Guggenheim New York
Check out our list of beautiful paintings owned by the world-famous Guggenheim.
The Guggenheim Museum was originally called the Museum of Non-Objective Painting when it first opened in Midtown Manhattan in 1939. But the Gugg as it’s known today really got its start in 1959, when it moved into its now iconic, nautilus-shaped, Frank Lloyd Wright building on the corner of Fifth Avenue and East 89th Street.
Wright, one of the most famous architects of all time, essentially invented the idea of destination architecture for museums, and though his dramatic design—with its spiraling ramps moving past bays where the art is exhibited—threatened to overwhelm the art, he didn’t particularly care (and indeed, many critics feel the rotunda layout isn't entirely conducive to looking at work).
On the other hand, the building itself is an attraction for visitors, which is one of the things that sets the Guggenheim apart from other NYC art museums, like MoMA. (More conventional gallery space was included with the addition of a ten-story annex in 1992.) In any case, whether you come for the building or for the museum’s vaunted collection of masterpieces by Manet, Picasso, Chagall and Kandinsky, we’ve got everything you need to know to make your visit a memorable one.
Where is the Guggenheim New York?
The museum is at 1071 5th Ave, between E 88th and E 89th Streets.
How do I get tickets to the Guggenheim New York?
Tickets can be purchased online at the Guggenheim website or at the museum entrance.
How can I get in for free?
There's pay what you wish on Mondays and Saturdays from 4-5:30pm (note: the minimum is $1).
What’s the best way to get to the Guggenheim New York?
Take the 4, 5, 6 to 86th St.
Who designed the Guggenheim?
Famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed the building.
