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Rubin Museum of Art
150 W 17th St, New York, NY 10011, United States
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Fr
Review №1

Limited works of art but grateful to be able to go on free Friday nights. Beautiful ancient artifacts..

Ki
Review №2

Friday nights are lovely. Its beautiful inside, and the art is intriguing.

Er
Review №3

A great museum, well worth the visit, from the architecture of the building which was tastefully designed with subtle majesty to the collection of Art which is truly extraordinary. In many traditional cultures, circumambulating a sacred site is part of the religious experience and I deeply suspect that the spiral staircase in the center of the building, winding up the floors was a truly inspired touch that compels the participant to walk around the building and around the beautifully displayed Art.

Bo
Review №4

So yesterday i came to museum of illusions with jax for is 2nd bday (they gave him a bag with some stuff from the museum, so nice) and the art was fun to capture and pose with him. The fantastic thing about place is no timing on how long to take with each art, charlie and staff is super helpful! They can charge your phone (my phone accidentally died and crystal let me use her phone while mine was charging, no one would do that so thank you so much again!) ...I recommend this place and i am defiantly coming back‍.

Ch
Review №5

I visited this museum today using a culture pass. This pass is a perk given to Library card holders who go online and reserve and retrieve tickets via the culture pass website.In my personal opinion this museum is a mix of sophistication and simplicity at its best . You have to visit this museum at least once to understand what I mean.Upon entering you will stumble upon the hostess desk. The women at this desk are accommodating but not friendly. My date and I were taking care of swiftly and then left to figure out how to navigate the museum on our own.Today we were able to access almost every floor except the second because it was under construction. Nevertheless my date and I had fun navigating through each floor .One thing we did notice was that security guards were in plain sight at all times. At first we honestly felt like we were being followed.All in all I had a great time at this museum . It took my date and I an hour to get through 5 floors of art , and when we finished we felt full of art and ready to go home and rest our feet.

CH
Review №6

Amazing experience. Sleek and unique architecture with a large spiral staircase transversing the entire building. Himalayan exhibition is particularly thought provoking and beautiful to look at, combined with great staff and many interactive experiences. 10/10 recommend you check this place out, even if its not as well known as other museums.

Kh
Review №7

Very nice museum. Showcases Himalayan Art, Nepalese art, Tibetan art, Indian art. Being an Indian, I felt proud while looking around some masterpieces as it reminds you of your origin.

Av
Review №8

Its a beautiful Asian Art Museum with breath-taking art work and a lot of interactive installations. There are 6 floors filled with statues, paintings, silk art and limited time installations. I was here for an evening event, it was interesting and very well executed. The staff members are very helpful. The gift shop has so many unique treasures and the staff is exceptionally knowledgeable and helpful. Overall, it was a great trip and I learned so much in terms of history and art. You should definitely check it out. They also offer specials and a lot of different interactive events for families.

Er
Review №9

Beautiful museum! Came here on a Wednesday evening and it was not packed at all. We were able to leisurely enjoy every floor. I loved it and would definitely be back. Cool installations on the top floor!

Ma
Review №10

This is a very deep dive into Buddhist culture. A lot of statues, everything is well explained. Visiting this exhibition feels like a very great blessing.After being the whole eternity among statues and pictures you can get slightly grounded in a cafe. They serve Indian food, salads, coffee and whatever else you want.Also you can have a craft class and make your own print with wooden forms.There’s a lot of books and buddhism related items in the shop. Even puzzles with mandalas.Definitely worth visiting, especially if you’re interested in Buddhist culture.

Mi
Review №11

Gift shop is great! Bought this Lotus flower. I really like the lighting. Each floor has rooms that lead to other rooms full of intricate Himalayan artifacts. Enjoyed hanging out on the first floor with a coffee from the cafe.

Mc
Review №12

I was recently here for a charity event for Apex for Youth and it was great. Was able to explore the museum and they have a great collection of South Asian art. Really enjoyed them and they have great unique pieces.

Br
Review №13

Great warm and welcoming space inside and (as New Yorkers will appreciate) the only clean, public restroom in blocks around. Gift shop has great selection of cards and stationary, candles and knick knacks. Pictures of dining/waiting area, where you can hang out and write, or drink coffee, or order food from the menu.

Li
Review №14

Very special place.My husband and I have missed it so much during the Covid-19 lockdown. We have visited regularly for concerts, lectures, exhibits and even lunch.

Review №15

Fantastic museum. Nicely litt and well explained, Himalayan treasures from BC to today.

Ky
Review №16

A stunning and full-of-surprise museum located in the charming neighborhood. Definitely a top-notch cultural hub thats more than competent enough to be coupled with any museums or galleries in the world in the similar scale.

Gr
Review №17

Fantastic museum that provides an educational introduction to Himalayan art through its rich and extensive collection. It features both historical and contemporary work and a cafe with Himalayan cuisine (and happy hour!). Don’t miss the beautiful panorama on the lowest level.

Ro
Review №18

Had an incredible time here. It’s free on Friday evenings so you can walk right in. Loved the wall of anxiety vs hope. Really unites us all as humans. The exhibits about Buddhism were beautiful and pretty interesting.The restaurant food was really good (surprising for a museum restaurant). They have good cocktails available. The curry salmon was cooked well. The matcha ice cream included some biscuit and candied ginger and the combo was delicious- i would recommend to anyone looking for a sweet treat for just $5. Overall a lovely visit!

Ma
Review №19

Interesting museum with a focus on Tibetian art - both modern and ancient. I went on a Friday evening and admission was free. Check out their website for K2 nights - where they have a series of music performances and a live DJ. You might be tempted to take the elevator up and work your way down the stairs - but its much better to go up in order. The first floor offers basic guides to understand Tibetian Buddhist art and will set the context for the rest of the visit.

Jo
Review №20

I came in with a friend looking for a experience of Art that was interactive as well as educational. This museum offered all I was looking for. Filled with ancient art from the Himalayas and surrounding countries. I was blessed with a abundance of beauty and also was able to enjoy a quiet sit in the Temple space they have there for all to see. I really had a nice time and when done, one can enjoy a nice tea with a meal or a drink and a meal on the lobby level. Gift store has lots if goodies to peek at and a great book store as well.

Jo
Review №21

I loved the progression of art throughout time from the bottom floors to the upper floors with modern art, especially the photography. So wonderful to see representation of real people in photographs rather than what we might assume them to be like. Went on a Friday night with free admission for a date and we loved it. Gift shop is stocked with beautiful cards and souvenirs and there is a bar and restaurant with bites to eat. Lived in New York for years and never went there but now planning on many return trips.

Ac
Review №22

Very interesting place to visit. Not only for tourists because a lot of people actually dont know about this museum. But believe me you will be surprised of it.

Jo
Review №23

A very interesting museum. Custom and not boring like most for me.

Ev
Review №24

The Rubin Museum is ranking very high in my top 10 list of most favorite museums world-wide. The museum’s exquisite collection of Himalayan art delights at every visit. The Thangka paintings are absolutely beautiful and rare gems of Buddhist teachings. The sculptures are equally superb. In addition, the Shrine Room, featuring numerous ancient spiritual artifacts, is one of my most beloved places to visit. The daily, weekly, and monthly events range from educational to academic, meditational and yogic immersions, to fun-filled dance- and music nights. Do visit often.

Va
Review №25

The Rubin presents art is a great place to see Buddhist art. Along with the Asia Society and the Met its a treasure in NYCT that traverses Asia’s diverse cultures, regions, and narratives. The Museum’s special exhibitions celebrate art forms that range from ancient to contemporary, including photography and multimedia, while its permanent collection galleries are focused primarily on art from the Himalayan region.

Et
Review №26

Wonderfully, interesting and well presented yet small enough to not overwhelm. Best museum gift shop in NYC.

os
Review №27

Private museum, beautiful, great ambience, broad and open space; you cannot only watch and experience great expos of arts artists but also sit and relax, enjoy restaurant, mouth watering food, and even have long hours of working space and enjoy the climax of Asia centric gift shop.

Bi
Review №28

Top notch museum in NYC emphasizing on Himalayan culture and art. Moreover, they put on more innovative contemporary exhibitions in contrast with classic historical artifacts.

Ni
Review №29

I absolutely love this Museum . It might not be as popular as some of the bigger museums ...but such a great place. There is always something new to experience . Relaxing and Zen. Its a must visit.

Ch
Review №30

Focused and intense. A great experience.

Ni
Review №31

A wonderful display of Himalayan art

Vi
Review №32

Really awesome place. Loved the layout, loved the exhibitions. They are interactive, educational and even help you relax. The top floor is where the om exhibit is located. You get to be apart of art and history by participating. They also have a nice cozy cafeteria with good selections.

Ch
Review №33

I was not too happy with my visit to the Rubin Museum of Art, except for my favorite part - A Monument For The Axious and The Hopeful - Closes Jan 7th 2019, so go check it out soon!!! I went on an organized tour. The docent focused too much on the teaching and history of Buddhism rather than that of the actual art. I was also under the impression the museum would have variety, not that is was soley focused! on Buddhism. I learned a lot, but would have rather just stood at the Hope & Anxiety wall. Also, the wood exhibit was pretty cool - A Lost Future by Shezad Dawood, The Otalith Group & Matti Braun - closes Feb 4th 2019.

Sh
Review №34

Good collection of South Asian art. The artwork mainly consists of paintings and bronze sculptures. Be sure to read the signs for learning more about the culture. Dont forget to see the Buddha room, which was very tranquil. If you have some time, be sure to check it out. Admission is free Friday evenings.

Th
Review №35

Smallish sized museum of Buddhist and Tibetan art. About 5 floors and doesnt take too long to get through. Is comfortable, relaxing, and serene. The tibetan temple room is especially special. Small cafe in the entry level, had great mocha lattes!

Ro
Review №36

Wonderful museum with fantastic gift shop and cafe. The bao buns are a must try. Gift shop has wonderful unique items. they have many activities available so check their website. Smaller museums are lovely because you can go through the whole place in less than a day. The gift shop has so many unique items for gifts or yourself especially wonderful books.

Ma
Review №37

I really enjoyed how well kept and cleanly laid out the galleries are. Every room looked perfect. No one artwork was too crowded. Great mixture of old and new art. I loved my visit!

Ti
Review №38

The Rubin Museum is where contemporary minds meet the art and wisdom of the Himalayas. Founded in 2004, the Rubin is located in New York Citys Chelsea neighborhood fusing art, science, and human behavior to reveal fresh perspectives on our world. Through thought-provoking exhibitions presented across six gallery floors and programs in a state-of-the-art theater, including films, concerts, and on-stage conversations, the Rubin provides immersive experiences that encourage personal discovery.The tour will explore the buildings history and how its current design incorporates motifs from traditional Himalayan art and culture. Having gone through multiple reincarnations, the Rubin Museum started out as tenements, was reborn as the Barneys Womens Store in the 1980s, then reborn again as the Museum it is today, the result of work by architecture firm Beyer Blinder Belle and designers Andre Putnam and Milton Glaser.

As
Review №39

This museum is so peaceful, calming and intriguing. The exhibits are well curated and the staff are friendly, engaging and welcoming. I highly recommend coming here to visit even if you attend and do work in their cafe area.

Co
Review №40

Definitely come to the gallery openings!A beautiful, uplifting space. You will definitely enjoy yourself, and meet incredible and interesting new friends as well.

Ri
Review №41

If you are visitng the city dont forget to check the Robin Museum of Art. You will find really interesting art innovations who are one of a kind. I had great experience and I hope all of you to enjoy this museum like me. In this area you will find a lot of good restaurants if you get hungry or just to take a drink.

Ad
Review №42

Fantastic museum. It is the first museum that I have been to that was devoted to Tibet and Buddhism. They also have rotating exhibitions that have an Asian focus.

Jo
Review №43

Came here for the first time and truly fell in love with this place. So much art and history here its amazing. Totally worth a trip, the exhibits are breathtaking.

L
Review №44

Interesting museum for Himalayan art. We went on a tour and the topic was a big of a miss but the atmosphere of the space is very welcoming. Each floor is quite small but there is a beautiful spiral staircase in the center.

A
Review №45

Happened to be volunteering here one day w my colleagues, and thats when i discovered it. Small yet very nicely maintained, good security and nice cafe on ground fl.

Ar
Review №46

Peaceful museum, great for meditation and thinking. I like to go and write. Buddhist/Asian art theme. They currently feature an Om booth where you can record your Oms and have them added to an audio track they are creating.

Cl
Review №47

I really enjoyed entering the museum. The galleries were amazing. Alot of interesting items and the rooms are kept in pristine condition. There is an assortment of art that will be appreciated by both younger and older people alike. Definitely go to this museum!

Li
Review №48

Nice museum, not that much to see- tends to be one theme. I was there at an event. The drinks are very overpriced, food more average priced for the area

sa
Review №49

I love visiting the museum. Its a small/medium sized museum, so its a great place to visit with other people while doing other things during the day. The happy hour on Friday is also a great moment for visiting with friends.

Mi
Review №50

Simply Magical! 6 Floors, Camera-friendly, Spiral Staircase, Red-walled, Multimedia Museum of Tibetan and Himalayan art. Free admission on certain days and Happy Hours top off this great little museum. Ultimately, its the atmosphere that encourages a shared appreciation of art and culture that makes this place so special. It is somewhat esoteric and diverse, with many interactive pieces, clear explanations of what symbols mean, and spaces that encourage discussion between guests. Definitely worth a visit!

To
Review №51

Nice museum. Great insight into Himalayan art.

Me
Review №52

Amazing museum of zen and art. Sunday’s are the day to go w kids if you like free admission!

Ka
Review №53

Amazing free museum with incredibly well curated collections. Went recently for the RT/SR/VS Lost Future exhibition and loved the immersive lake feature.

Ev
Review №54

My husband and I celebrated our 35th anniversary in the city for the weekend! On the last day he surprised me with a visit to the Rubin Museum of Art. I was shock because its an Art Museum and I said wow....really baby....he said its an era and area of the world that you love. Himalayan art and religion. Omg I was in heaven. The artwork and religious artifacts were spectacular! Love, love ....love... He was told 2 hours to view 3 floors no way 3 1/2 and that is due to having to get to the airport to get our flight home. Oh the gift shop was wonderful. I picked up 3 gorgeous and informative books. I took over 50 pictures! Did I say how much I enjoyed my visit! Oh when you walk in the wheel of desire..dreams a great start!

Pr
Review №55

Very interesting collection of Buddhist art from China, India, Nepal and Tibet. They have an interesting melange of philosophy, craft, historic and political background that is hard to get otherwise.Make sure to find the buddhist altar room on the third(?) floor: the visual and audio environment molded together for a haunting experience.

Ya
Review №56

A smaller and quiet museum in the middle of a busy city. Alot of Himalayan and Nepalese art which is pretty unique.

gr
Review №57

1st time and loved it !

Je
Review №58

I like a lot, especially because I went at Museum for k2 Friday night . Friday always admission is free from 6:00 to 10:00 PM. If you come at 6:00, you can enjoy the happy hour until 7:00 Pm with a 2-for-1 on selection drinks. Besides You can find pieces of art magnificent relatives to tibetan art. I really enjoy it

Di
Review №59

One of the most beautiful small museums and etc in the USA. Its a temple, gallery, museum, gift shop, hangout spot, restaurant, gorgeous place.

Mi
Review №60

Such a wonderful place. Fits historic with a visually contemporary environment with eastern philosophy and story. Always fresh and compelling. Highly recommend for an experience thats memorable.

Do
Review №61

Wonderful museum for lovers of Himalayan art and culture. The cafe is excellent, too. Small, quiet, an oasis in the city.

mc
Review №62

Spiritual place with much Look see and Listen. Main floor cafeSerai also fun

Na
Review №63

The wheel of life . Buddha

Ed
Review №64

Attended an event here and I enjoyed my time at the Rubin. The Asian art pieces were a real treat to see and learn about.

Av
Review №65

Great museum with some good stuffs from Himalayas.

S.
Review №66

One of my favorite museums. So serene, I could stay there all day gazing at the Buddhas.

Fr
Review №67

I knew bits of the Rubin collection before there was a museum to house them. Last Saturday I interviewed a western Lama about programs of meditation in prison. The Rubin Cafe was a perfect spot for tea and in depth conversation.

D.
Review №68

If you want a serene museum with beautiful art and modern space plus laid back atmosphere look no further and become a repeat customer like the author!

So
Review №69

One of my favorite museums in NYC. It has a nice vibe, I always feel peaceful after visiting it. Was there with my mom and a 11 years old daughter - everyone enjoyed the experience. P.S there is also a bar inside the museum on a first floor

Pe
Review №70

It is one of most beautiful museum of art in NYC. I thoroughly enjoyed every piece and those creative exhibitions. The best of everything is it allows to take memories with you by taking pictures. I have huge collection of the exhibits which gave me new idea and additional knowledge.It focuses more on Asian and Himalayan art and I could also view few pieces from Bhutan too!A great place to visit if you are in NYC and learn on Himalayan Buddhism art and related culture and traditions.

Ro
Review №71

Beautiful exhibits and amazing staff. It can be a very Zen experience. Take your time and enjoy.

Gi
Review №72

Its very educational. I enjoyed the experience and thought it was a very good value. I spent 2 hours there and left with a better understanding of the culture and its religion.

Ti
Review №73

Always a great museum to visit, with both an extensive permanent and rotating collections. Love the concept of the current staircase artwork - A Monument for the Anxious and Hopeful.Fridays the cafe turns into a great happy hour spot, with great looking food and 2-for-1 on selected drinks. In addition, Fridays are also open to the public for free! Perfect for a bit of culture with the family

Ma
Review №74

The program was excellent, but If not become a member. Was a member for the first five years, but the museum did fewer programs and increase program costs. Too bad.

Ma
Review №75

Definitely worth a visit ! If you are interested in Asian/South Asian art and culture this is a lovely place to spend an afternoon. Quiet respite from the city. I do wish the café offered more authentic food. I visited during their annual festival and enjoyed the dancers.

Ra
Review №76

Great collection of Hindu and Buddhist art over 5 floors. Cool basement lounge and delicious cafe with excellent tea selection. Hidden gem of a museum in the heart of Flatiron.

An
Review №77

Good but not great. But interesting combination party and musiem on Fridays evening

Pa
Review №78

K2 Friday Nights are a great date spot. Happy hour drinks are delish

Di
Review №79

Awesome place with a very nice gift store. A very amazing place for asians to know how their roots are one with so many similarities in our culture...China, India, Nepal and Tibet. The shrine was so beautiful and powerful.

Le
Review №80

I was very impressed with the well thought-out exhibition which incorporated every part of the museum in its scope. From the grand swirling staircase, to the food in the cafe and on every floor. Wonderfully curated collection of historical and contemporary pieces staged with excellent contextual information. A must visit museum!

Si
Review №81

Small specialized Museum in Asian art, lots of religious figures and even a shrine where some people use it as meditation site. The building is beautiful. Fridays night free entrance.

ma
Review №82

Had a wonderful time catching up with a friend, it a nice place tucked away in the middle of busy Manhattan. Wonderful place to meet for coffee or lunch.

Ad
Review №83

Beautiful museum with a vast collection and a guided historical contextualization. Would recommend!

In
Review №84

This place is such a treasure for the Himalayan-Buddhist culture-religion. So much to see & learn, and in a beautiful organised way. And its even kids friendly with their special activities on Sundays for kids.

Ri
Review №85

The Rubin Museum specializes in Himalayan art, and has a fantastic collection of items from around that part of the world. It is set on 6 floors in a building that has great character and design but to its previous use with a great circular staircase in the middle. There is also a very nice restaurant in the museum. Yo u could easily stay a whole day and enjoy it.

Ch
Review №86

It is one of the best places for family outings as well as to take kids along. The place in itself is a knowledge hub and the various arts the features of natural environment.Last week , i went here with my family and the kids in the family had a lot of fun along with learning.They have a cafeteria there so you can grab a quick meal! This is a wonderful place.

an
Review №87

Unique museum that helps set the context for the art of Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, Bangladesh (Buddhist and Hindi). A nice mix of contemporary and historic in a beautiful and inspiring collection.

Be
Review №88

I was working on a business trip and didnt get off until 4:30 on a Saturday. I walked 30 minutes to The Rubin and couldnt have spent a better 45 minutes anywhere else. It was awesome. Soundscales cool but the museum has so much more.

Je
Review №89

Absolutely amazing collection of Himalayan art on display.

N.
Review №90

Awesome museum. Great atmosphere on Friday nights for drinks and conversation. Close to train station. Would highly recommend.

Ma
Review №91

Fun, inventive museum, mixing traditional art with contemporary works and topics. Friday nights are particularly fun to visit with live music and drinks.

Me
Review №92

Great vibe and atmosphere. Interactive and informative. Loved it & will be back!(:

Ur
Review №93

Beautifully constructed boutique museum with permanent and temporary exhibits of Asian art. Interactive exhibits well suited for young and old alike. A wonderful restaurant on the ground floor serves delicious salads, appetizers, sandwiches and main courses with an Asian influence. Mulligatawny soup is the best I have ever tasted!

Ma
Review №94

Art museum with Himalayan art and happening Friday night hang outCrowded bar with DJ, free entry, grab a drink and visit the six floors of exhibits.Free from 5 pm on FridaysRestaurant and bar on siteGreat for evening with colleagues, friends or dates

ju
Review №95

Cute. Has a nice cafe for food and drinks. Interesting art. Went for a panel talk and it was full but still felt intimate due to the set up. I think that they have a theme for the year and the panel discussions are based of different aspects of that theme. Very interesting and def will be back.

Ly
Review №96

Highly recommend the current contemporary special exhibition - Clapping With Stones - the Art and Acts of Resistance. Creative, powerful. The works of worldwide contemporary artists are highlighted. Beautifully architected building, superb permanent collection of Vajrayana Buddhism art from the Himalayan areas.

El
Review №97

This peaceful museum became an unlikely favorite of mine. Im neither scholar nor student of Eastern traditions. Yet, I return again and again to find truly interactive installations, superior contemporary works and engaging displays of artifacts. On a recent trip, I stepped across an artists water pond...and noticed the shrine room has expanded to include chairs and shared meditation beads. This museum is truly a model for others to follow. The cafe is excellent. The only area in need of fresh ideas is the gift shop.

G
Review №98

Nice museum dedicated to Himalayan art and culture in present-day Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, Mongolia, and Northern India. The museum also provides spaces for meditation and spiritual experiences. Free admission every Friday evening.

Ol
Review №99

This chamber museum is not too large , focused on one topic - the art of the Himalayas. Including modern vision.

St
Review №100

Beautiful unique must-see collection of Buddhist art from Tibet and Nepal punctuated by exhibits of contemporary photography and art from these areas. A real gem of a museum that is very different from everyrhong else in Manhattan.

Information
99 Photos
100 Comments
4.6 Rating
  • Address:150 W 17th St, New York, NY 10011, United States
  • Site:https://rubinmuseum.org/
  • Phone:+1 212-620-5000
Categories
  • Art museum
  • Cafe
  • Performing arts theater
  • Store
Working hours
  • Monday:Closed
  • Tuesday:Closed
  • Wednesday:11am–5pm
  • Thursday:11am–10pm
  • Friday:11am–5pm
  • Saturday:11am–5pm
  • Sunday:11am–5pm
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
  • Restaurant:Yes
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