The Art Memberships Every Cultural Traveler Needs in New York City

Not only does membership to the Metropolitan Museum of Art include its three diverse branches—the Met Fifth Avenue, the Met Breuer, and the Met Cloisters—but it also comprises membership subgroups as varied as the institution’s offerings. Members of the Curatorial Friends Group enjoy a behind-the-scenes peek into the international art world, while the Met Family Circle group enables families with young children to engage with art at an early age. Membership perks vary by group, ensuring that subscribers may enjoy advantages most relevant and exciting to them.

Often credited as one of New York City’s most underrated attractions, the Museum of the Moving Image is enhanced further by having a membership. A museum for the modern age, this Queens institution is dedicated to TV, film, and digital media and is known for its core exhibition comprising artifacts from over 1,000 film productions as well as its regular screenings, ranging from live-scored silent films to the latest international releases. A great gift for the culture vultures in your life, membership provides unlimited free admission to the museum’s offerings, free admission to the nearby Queens Museum, two-for-one admission to Museum of the City of New York, discounted movie tickets at Cinema Village, and much more.

Experience the new Whitney—and a new level of superb quality—as a member of the Whitney Museum of American Art. In addition to expected perks, such as unlimited express admission and deals at the museum’s shop and restaurants, Whitney membership also grants you private viewings after the museum closes. It also offers discounts at more than 50 Manhattan restaurants and businesses and free admission to the world’s leading modern and contemporary art institutions through the museum’s Reciprocal Admission Program.

As “Manhattan’s only dedicated contemporary art museum,” the New Museum of Contemporary Art is one of New York’s most coveted cultural experiences. That’s why, at just $60, membership to the New Museum and access to the priceless perks that come with it can be considered a steal. Snag your membership today to enjoy free, unlimited admission; receive invitations to private viewings, receptions, and tours; have the first pick of Annual Gala tickets; and much more.

With buzzy exhibits, such as the international The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier: From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk and Ai Weiwei: According to What?, the Brooklyn Museum has set itself apart as New York’s museum for the next generation. The second largest museum in New York City, Brooklyn Museum has plenty to offer, not the least of which being its attractive membership perks. Members of this trendsetting institution enjoy complimentary admission to the museum’s exhibits, libraries, and archives; free or discounted tickets to local concerts, performances, and more; and discounts on children and adult art classes.