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American Folk Art Museum

Located at 2 Lincoln Square, this premier institution celebrates the creativity of self-taught artists through a global collection of over 7,000 works, including dazzling quilts and compelling portraits.

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What is the American Folk Art Museum known for?

It is a premier institution dedicated to the aesthetic appreciation of folk art and the creative expressions of contemporary self-taught artists from the United States and abroad.

How much does it cost to visit?

Admission to the museum is always free for all visitors.

What are the hours of operation?

The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:30 AM to 6:00 PM.

What can I see in the museum's collection?

The collection includes more than 7,000 works of art spanning four centuries and nearly every continent, featuring items such as dazzling quilts, compelling portraits, and works by living artists in various mediums.

Where is the museum located?

The American Folk Art Museum is located at 2 Lincoln Square on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in New York City.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The American Folk Art Museum is a premier institution located at 2 Lincoln Square on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Situated at Columbus Avenue and 66th Street, the museum serves as a center of scholarship and a place of discovery dedicated to the aesthetic appreciation of folk art and creative expressions from self-taught artists based in the United States and abroad. Since 1961, the museum has celebrated individuals whose singular talents were refined through personal experience rather than formal artistic training. This commitment to raw, intuitive creativity is reflected in a massive collection comprising more than 7,000 works of art. These pieces span four centuries and nearly every continent, showcasing the universal nature of self-taught expression. Visitors can explore a diverse array of media, ranging from compelling portraits and dazzling quilts to powerful works created by living artists. The museum also maintains a dynamic schedule, regularly hosting both in-person and virtual programming for its guests and members to deepen their engagement with the art. Maintaining a commitment to accessibility, the museum offers free admission to all visitors. It operates from Wednesday through Sunday, providing a welcoming space for anyone to experience the intersection of personal history and artistic instinct.

Visitor tips

  • Plan your visit between Wednesday and Sunday, as the museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
  • Arrive during the 11:30 AM to 6:00 PM window to ensure you have full access to the galleries.
  • Since admission is always free, this is an excellent low-cost addition to an Upper West Side walking itinerary.
  • Check the official website for current in-person or virtual programming schedules before arriving.

Nearby context

The museum is a cultural anchor of the Upper West Side, located at the intersection of Columbus Avenue and 66th Street within the Lincoln Square area.

Sources

Evidence and links