The Ukrainian Museum

What to know

The Ukrainian Museum is the largest institution in the United States devoted to acquiring, preserving, and interpreting the rich artistic and historic heritage of Ukrainians. Founded in 1976 by the Ukrainian National Women's League of America, the museum serves as a vital cultural hub in Manhattan's East Village, a neighborhood historically associated with New York City's Ukrainian community. Its extensive collections are diverse, featuring about 2,000 works of fine art, primarily from the 20th century, including paintings, drawings, and sculptures. The museum also highlights traditional folk art, such as ceremonial textiles and rushnyky, as well as the intricate art of pysanky, or decorated Ukrainian Easter eggs. Beyond permanent collections, the museum hosts changing exhibits that explore a wide range of topics, including the architecture of Kiev and the immigrant experience of Ukrainians in the United States over the past hundred years. The institution continues to gain international prominence, as seen when President Volodymyr Zelensky and the first lady inaugurated a major Alexandra Exter exhibition in 2024. Located at 222 East 6th Street, the museum provides a quiet, focused space to explore the depth of Ukrainian identity and creativity across centuries.

Visitor tips

• Plan your visit for Wednesday through Sunday, as the museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
• Arrive around 12:00 PM when the museum opens to avoid potential crowds.
• Explore the museum shop for unique Ukrainian cultural items, which are also available online.
• Allow at least 90 minutes to fully appreciate the fine arts collection and the folk art displays.

Nearby context

The museum is situated in the East Village, a historic neighborhood of New York City's Ukrainian community, between Second Avenue and Cooper Square.