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Museum of Arts and Design (MAD)
Museum

Museum of Arts and Design (MAD)

New York City
4.5
(8,500 reviews)
2
Tours Available
$16
Adult Entry
3-4 hours
Recommended Duration
March-May, October-November
Best Time

Overview

The Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) is dedicated to contemporary and innovative art, craft, and design. It showcases works from emerging and established artists, designers, and artisans, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of art and craft.

MAD is a leading institution for contemporary art and design, providing a platform for artists and designers to explore and exhibit innovative works. It plays a crucial role in promoting the integration of art and craft in modern design.

Art Design Craft

Location

Address

2 Columbus Circle, New York City, New York

Neighborhood: Lincoln Square

Coordinates

40.767900, -73.983300

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
tuesday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
wednesday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
thursday 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
friday 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
saturday 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
sunday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults
$16
Children
Free (under 18)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, October-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, better lighting for photography

Duration Recommendations

Minimum
1.5 hours
Recommended
3-4 hours
Full Experience
half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

  • • spring exhibitions
  • • garden installations

summer

hot and humid

  • • extended summer hours
  • • outdoor concerts

autumn

cool and crisp

  • • fall exhibitions
  • • harvest displays

winter

cold and occasionally snowy

  • • holiday lights
  • • winter installations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

  • Book tickets in advance
  • Bring valid ID
  • Check weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

Valid ID Water bottle Printed or digital tickets

recommended

Camera Comfortable shoes Sunscreen

seasonal

Jacket or umbrella Scarf and gloves (winter) Hat and sunglasses (summer)

not allowed

Large bags or backpacks Drones Professional camera equipment without permit

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate (some walking and stairs)

  • • Stairs in some areas
  • • Crowded spaces during peak season

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Credit cards, Debit cards, Cash

Currency

US Dollars (USD)

Typical Costs

entry $16
parking $10
food $15-30
souvenirs $10-50

Dress Code

Casual, Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, Comfortable walking shoes, Inappropriate or revealing clothing, Hats in indoor exhibits

Booking Tips

  • • At least 2 weeks in advance for special exhibitions
  • • Official MAD website or authorized partners
  • • 48 hours in advance for refund
  • • Available for online bookings

Amenities

Restrooms
Gift shop
Atm
Wifi
Lockers
Wheelchair rental
Stroller rental
On site restaurant
Cafe
Picnic areas
Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

MAD Museum App

Size: 35 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Exhibition details, Ticket booking, Event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Public areas

Charging Stations: Rest areas, Cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

Distance: 10 km

Travel Time: 25-30 minutes

taxi
$30-40 25 min
public_transport
$3-5 40-50 min

From City Center

Distance: 3 km

metro
$2.75 10-15 min
bus
$2.75 15-20 min
taxi
$10-15 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: MAD offers a unique blend of contemporary art, design, and craft, often featuring local artists and designers. The museum's dynamic exhibitions and events make it a cultural hub in NYC.

Historical Significance: Established in 1956, MAD has played a significant role in promoting the integration of art and craft in modern design. It has hosted numerous influential exhibitions and artists over the years.

Insider Tips

  • Free entry early morning (before 10 AM)
  • Best food and coffee at the back entrance cafe
  • Weekday afternoons are less crowded than weekends

Local Recommendations

  • • Try the local cafes in the Lincoln Square area
  • • Ask for the guided tour with John (highly recommended)
  • • Visit the nearby Central Park for a relaxing walk

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello
thank_you Thank you
where_is Where is
how_much How much
beautiful Beautiful
ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French, Mandarin (select tours)

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance and staircase

Best Time: Golden hour (late afternoon)

Tips: Low angle shots for dramatic effect

Result: Great architectural shots

#MADMuseum #NYCArt #DesignLovers

Rooftop garden

Best Time: Sunset

Tips: Wide-angle shots for city skyline

Result: Stunning city views

#NYCSkyline #RooftopViews #GoldenHour

Interior exhibitions

Best Time: Midday with natural light

Tips: Use natural light for best results

Result: Clear, well-lit shots of artworks

#ArtLovers #MADExhibits #ContemporaryArt

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Public spaces, Designated photography zones
prohibited areas Special exhibitions (check signage), Private events
flash photography Not allowed in indoor exhibits
commercial photography Permit required for commercial use
drone policy Not permitted without special authorization
tripod policy Restricted, only with special permission
selfie sticks Allowed in outdoor areas only

Nearby Attractions

Central Park

Distance: 500m

Walking: 10 min

Type: Park

Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts

Distance: 800m

Walking: 15 min

Type: Theater

Time Warner Center

Distance: 300m

Walking: 5 min

Type: Shopping and Dining

Reviews

4.5

Based on 8,500 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

  • "Book online to skip the line"
  • "Visit early for a more peaceful experience"
  • "Don't miss the rooftop garden"

Contact Information

Related Tours & Activities (3)

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Quick Info

Available Tours

2

Rating

4.5 / 5.0

Reviews

8,500

Adult Entry

$16

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