Brooklyn Museum Tours and Activities

A cultural beacon centrally located in New York's hippest borough, the Brooklyn Museum boasts a permanent collection of more than 1.5 million pieces and hosts several rotating exhibits yearly. The museum has a little of everything, from one of the largest Egyptian art holdings in the country to a robust American decorative arts collection.

The Basics
The Brooklyn Museum offers a cultural experience that reflects the diversity and eclectic tastes of borough residents, from contemporary works and decorative arts to multimedia installations. As you enter the light-filled first floor, ask about free daily tours. Don't miss the Steinberg Family Sculpture Garden, which hosts a range of architectural sculpture that would historically adorn New York's buildings.

Consider purchasing general admission tickets before you arrive to get the most out of your visit. Multiattraction passes that include museum admission are also an option. Advance purchase may include museum gift shop discounts and access to special collections and the permanent collection. Museum highlights include the galleries hosting pre-Columbian works, American Indian art, and the WPA-funded American murals—a significant element of American art history.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Brooklyn Museum is perfect for art aficionados, history buffs, and design enthusiasts.
• Leave enough time for your visit, since the museum is large and hosts an impressive collection.
• Check the subway schedule in advance, as weekend train service to Brooklyn is notoriously erratic.

How to Get There
Located on Eastern Parkway, next to the Brooklyn Public Library, the museum is best accessed by subway. Take the 2 or 3 train to the Eastern Parkway–Brooklyn Museum stop and you'll be right outside. Alternatively, hop the 4 or 5 train to the Franklin Avenue station. Driving is also an option, with parking just behind the museum.

When to Get There
The Brooklyn Museum is a perfect year-round (and foul-weather) destination, since most of the top attractions and galleries are indoors. Weekdays are the best for avoiding crowds, though the museum is closed on Monday and Tuesday. For free admission, visit on the first Saturday of the month, but be prepared for an elbow-to-elbow art experience.

Visible Storage
Do you want to learn how museums store art? The Brooklyn Museum offers visitors just this opportunity in the Visible Storage and Study Center, which displays works from the American art collection. Glass enclosures holding around 600 paintings, sculptures, and decorative items such as Tiffany glass offer a behind-the-scenes look at the museum's operation.