Rubin Museum of Art
Thursday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
The Rubin Museum of Art is an arts oasis and cultural hub in New York City's vibrant Chelsea neighborhood that inspires visitors to make powerful connections between contemporary life and the art and ideas of the Himalayas, India, and neighboring regions. With a diverse array of thought-provoking exhibitions and programs-including films, concerts, and on-stage conversations-the Rubin provides immersive experiences that encourage personal discoveries and spark new ways of seeing the world. Emphasizing cross-cultural connections, the Rubin is a space to contemplate the big questions that extend across history and span human cultures.
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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The area
Address
Neighborhood: Chelsea
Home to hundreds of art galleries, beautiful brownstones, and one of New York’s newest and most popular attractions, Chelsea is one of the city’s jewels when it comes to neighborhood life. The contemporary art scene is an integral part of the neighborhood’s identity, with gallery openings almost every night of the week and countless exhibits to explore. As a longtime hub of gay culture in New York City, it’s also a diverse district with a vibrant nightlife scene. The opening of the High Line, an abandoned elevated train track transformed into a world-class pedestrian park, gave this neighborhood new life as a tourist destination. The High Line provides visitors with a tranquil, elevated space with incomparable views, providing an unparalleled way to experience the city.
How to get there
- 18th St • 2 min walk
- 14th St / 7th Ave • 3 min walk
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
405 reviews
Excellent
283
Very good
108
Average
13
Poor
2
Terrible
0
hrobinson1114
Nashville, TN2,618 contributions
Jan 2021
This is not my type of museum, but I have a lot of Hindu friends, so I wanted to learn more about Hinduism, so here I am. This museum also touches on Buddhism and other practices of the Himalayan region. It is clean, minimalist, and well laid out. The wall plaques are easily understood and not too wordy or overwhelming.
They have centuries old artifacts in amazing shape. They also have an example of a shrine that's intricate and interesting.
This isn't a flashy instagrammable spot, but it's great for reflection and quiet. This would be a great way to start learning about these religions.
It only took me about an hour to do the whole thing, and I actually took my time. A couple of floors were being set up for new exhibits, so they weren’t open. I wouldn’t allot more than 1.5-2 hours here.
They have centuries old artifacts in amazing shape. They also have an example of a shrine that's intricate and interesting.
This isn't a flashy instagrammable spot, but it's great for reflection and quiet. This would be a great way to start learning about these religions.
It only took me about an hour to do the whole thing, and I actually took my time. A couple of floors were being set up for new exhibits, so they weren’t open. I wouldn’t allot more than 1.5-2 hours here.
Written January 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
deepakgupta5
Vancouver, Canada490 contributions
Jan 2022
This is a small museum tucked away in Chelsea, away from the hustle bustle of the main tourist centres but still within walking distance from the tourist hot spots. Museum is dedicated to Buddhist art from India, Nepal & Bhutan. It is not a huge collection but all the items have been carefully curated and there is an explanation for each and every item. Do go if you are interested in understanding more about Buddhist art
Written January 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
sanju_222323
New Jersey13,424 contributions
Aug 2021
This houses a collection of beautiful colorful paintings and sculptures from the Himalayan region - India, Tibet, Bhutan. Once you enter the museum the first thing you see is a wonderful Lord Ganesha statue. It is so peaceful inside-especially the shrine room, you will almost forget you are in the bustling New York City.
They also have a Mandala Lab. Each and every exhibit is very well explained. They have free Friday evenings and this is also part of Bank of America's free weekends. A must-visit.
They also have a Mandala Lab. Each and every exhibit is very well explained. They have free Friday evenings and this is also part of Bank of America's free weekends. A must-visit.
Written December 28, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
annetteWC
Eastchester, NY25 contributions
Feb 2020
This museum transports you to another time and place. The calm & peace found within the walls encourage reflection, meditation and inner peace. The pantings, sculptures and unique installations are filled with pleasant surprises. Each work of art could be viewed a great adventures, both inner (heart experiences) and outer (external, worldly) & wonderful surprises. Donald & Shelly Rubin (the museum founders) are to be praised for the realization of their great love of Buddhist Art and their ability to turn their vision into the most peaceful place in NYC. Thank you!
Written February 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Simonoxon
United Kingdom32 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
So with NYC just at the start of lock down (Covid19) the places we intended to pay a cultural nod to were already closed. A google revealed the Rubin and since one of our party is a practicing Buddhist it seamed an obvious choice. I’m glad we did.
Providing a fascinating insight into the traditions and offering some beautiful relics in a quiet un-rushed atmosphere this place is wonderful and informative.
I say give it a go!
Providing a fascinating insight into the traditions and offering some beautiful relics in a quiet un-rushed atmosphere this place is wonderful and informative.
I say give it a go!
Written April 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Derek O
Kingston-upon-Hull, UK60 contributions
Jul 2022 • Family
Nice little museum that is a little bit different. Focussed on Himalayan art and has a good collection of artifacts which are all well described. We weren't sure if we would enjoy it but it was well worth the visit.
Written July 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
BBBBTravel
Lehigh Valley, PA1,420 contributions
Apr 2021
Statues and paintings were somewhat nice. Sad that there were obvious stories in the art but often not explained. Lots about the artists and technique but i wanted to know more about what was happening in the artwork.
Perhaps more info overall at the beginning? I was often lost.
Prayer room was cool.
Perhaps more info overall at the beginning? I was often lost.
Prayer room was cool.
Written April 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Elizabeth W
486 contributions
Feb 2020
The Rubin was nice, enjoyable but small. I started at the top and worked my way down through the museum which was recommended by the staff. The exhibits were Asian, peaceful and beautiful. I think it was a little under $20 for an entry fee but I got in for free because I bank with Bank of America and so happy about that.
Written April 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mike P
Knoxville, TN118 contributions
Oct 2021
If you are into Bhuddist art and Tibetan history then this is the place for you. The Shrine which isnt open yet, will be a function Shrine. The many floors of painting and statues are awesome! I learned so much about Tibert. What a great place. Have your vacc card!
Written November 8, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Chmpgnrose
New York City, NY285 contributions
Dec 2018
Cool museum in Chelsea with a beautiful spiral staircase that climbs all the way to the sixth floor mostly carrying Himalayan art, Nepal, Tibet, Tibetan Buddhism, and photography of Asia. It is well curated with fine artifacts and video montages. There is a replica of a Tibetan Buddhist shrine room complete with Dharma, Tantric staff, Thighbone trumpet, Vajra, Stupa, Shakyamuni Buddha, images of Buddhas or Bodhisattvas, cymbals, fake incense, hand drum, bell, Seven offerings, and a kneeling station. Gold figurines of Deities and Bodhisattvas are However, there were no Sutra placed nearby the altar which are imperative to Buddhism religion. Guided tours are available at various times of the day. Audio guides are available as well. The description of each piece or original photograph are well informed and explained. Alone for Post-Christmas Day 2018, it is here where I am well-cultured to be immersed with art. Museums are so much better than spending a mindless four or five hours of karaoke / drinking binge. I pass by this museum very often en route to my workplace always intrigue, always entice my interest to go inside until now.
One adult admission is average of $15.00 is an utter disbelief to the bank.
Note: Photography (without flash) is permitted where noted. Security guards are heavily present everywhere.
One adult admission is average of $15.00 is an utter disbelief to the bank.
Note: Photography (without flash) is permitted where noted. Security guards are heavily present everywhere.
Written November 5, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Hope R
12 contributions
Where to park?
Timothy D
Woodstock, NY339 contributions
There is a 24-hour parking lot on the corner of 17th Street and 6th Avenue. There are also a number of parking garages and lots on 17th Street between Union Square and 7th Avenue. (From the Rubin web site). I also think public transport options are preferred, but if you have to have a car... Be aware it will be expensive.
ReginaldF512
New York, New York, United States2 contributions
Price of entry
robcurtross
New York City, NY14,583 contributions
From their website today:
MUSEUM ADMISSIONS
Adults $15
Seniors
Free every first Monday of the month $10
Students $10
Children (12 and younger)Free
Members Free
Every Friday, 6:00–10:00 p.m. Free
Rubin Museum of Art (New York City) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Rubin Museum of Art
- Rubin Museum of Art is open:
- Thu - Thu 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Fri - Fri 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Sat - Sun 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Hotels near Rubin Museum of Art:
- (0.11 mi) Chelsmore Apartments
- (0.30 mi) Chelsea Pines Inn
- (0.16 mi) Gorgeous remodel Chelsea/W.Village/Meatpklng-super quiet 12”ceiling new windows
- (0.37 mi) Motto by Hilton New York City Chelsea
- (0.28 mi) Walker Hotel Greenwich Village
- Restaurants near Rubin Museum of Art:
- (0.00 mi) Cafe Serai
- (0.03 mi) Freds Downtown
- (0.04 mi) cafeteria
- (0.10 mi) Da Umberto
- (0.07 mi) City Cakes