Experience over 100 Years Of History At Nassau County Museum of Art
The Nassau County Museum of Art (NCMA) is a cultural and intellectual hub for art lovers in NYC. Inside, explore stunning exhibitions of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Outside, enjoy manicured gardens, outdoor sculptures, and nature trails.
Here’s your guide on planning your trip to the Nassau Country Museum, including the history of this establishment, how to get there and what to expect when you visit!
What to Expect When You Visit?
As you approach the museum, the elegance of the Georgian mansion and the well-manicured gardens is mesmerizing. Inside, the museum houses impressive galleries featuring works by renowned artists such as Roy Lichtenstein, Auguste Rodin, and Larry Rivers.
The museum’s rotating exhibitions ensure that there is always something new to see, covering a range of creative genres from classical to contemporary. This establishment is also a learning hub when it comes to the arts, The Manes Art and Education Center offers workshops, family programs, and art classes.
The sculpture garden, one of the largest on the East Coast, and showcases over 30 sculptures by artists like Richard Serra and Tom Otterness. Take some time to be one with nature on the designated nature trails, which seamlessly blend art and earth.
Background & History of the Legacy of the Nassau County Museum of Art
The Nassau County Museum of Art sits on 145 acres once owned by American poet, author, political activist, and arts patron William Cullen Bryant. In 1900 a man by the name of Lloyd Stephens Bryce purchased the land from Bryant and commissioned the construction of a neo-Georgian mansion. In 1919, Henry Clay Frick bought the estate as a gift for his son, Childs Frick, who ironically has his own major museum connection to NYC. Frick later became a prominent paleontologist and patron of the American Museum of Natural History.
Then, in 1969, Nassau County purchased the estate and established the Nassau County Museum of Fine Art. 20 years later, in 1989, the museum transitioned to a not-for-profit organization, this space goes back decades and is rich in history.
Where is the Nassau County Museum of Art, and How Do You Get There?
The Nassau County Museum of Art is located at One Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor, off Northern Boulevard (Route 25A), about half a mile west of Glen Cove Road. You can reach there by:
- Train: Take the Long Island Rail Road’s Oyster Bay line to Roslyn station or the Port Washington line to Manhasset station, then take a taxi to the museum.
- Bus: If you want to travel by bus, Nassau County NICE bus stop #1429 delivers you directly to the museum’s entrance.
- Driving: Complimentary parking is available on-site.
Planning a visit to the Nassau County Museum of Art is easy. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, with specific hours for different sections. The Sculpture Garden is accessible daily from 9 am to dusk, while the indoor exhibitions and museum store welcome visitors from 11 am to 4:45 pm. The cafe is open Thursday to Sunday, 12 pm to 4 pm.
Admission fees are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, and $5 for students with ID and children under 12. Children under 4 and museum members can enter for free. To avoid hassle, check the official website for the latest updates.
What Else Can You Do When You Visit?
Beyond exploring the Nassau County Museum of Art’s art galleries and sculpture gardens, numerous nearby attractions to make your visit or weekend getaway even more special.
Nearby, you can visit the Big Bounce America for a fun-filled day of bouncing and jumping, ideal for kids and adults alike. While you’re near Citi Field, check out the Queens Museum and all it has to offer! Nassau County is only a 30-minute drive to queens and there’s so many activities to do and sites to explore!
For incredible eats and shopping, head over Flushing where you will find some of the most incredible and vibrant flavors of Asia. This bustling part of Queens is unlike anywhere else in NYC and a go-to destination while in or near Queens!
FAQs
When is the Nassau County Museum of Art open to the public?
Different sections have different opening hours. The Sculpture Garden is open daily from 9 am to dusk. The indoor exhibition and museum store are open from 11 am to 4.45 pm on Tuesday to Sunday. The cafe is open from 12 pm to 4 pm on Thursday to Sunday. Please refer to the website for exact timings and closing dates, which include public holidays.
What is the admission fee to Nassau County Museum of Art?
Children under age 12 and students with ID pay $5. Seniors and adults pay $10 and $15, respectively. Entry is free for children under 4 and museum members. Please check the website for extra fees, e.g., art classes, school groups, educators, etc.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, with manual wheelchairs available in the lobby at no fee.
Visiting the Nassau County Museum of Art offers a blend of art, history, and nature. Whether exploring the impressive galleries or enjoying the serene sculpture gardens, there is something to fascinate everyone. The museum’s educational programs and rotating exhibitions offer something new and exciting. Neighboring the museum, you will find a variety of attractions to meet different interests. There’s something for everyone, from the Big Bounce to the vibrant Chinatown in Queens and much more.
Combining these experiences makes a trip to the Nassau County Museum of Art a full-day adventure or even a weekend getaway filled with art, nature, and local charm. With its myriad options, the museum and its surroundings promise an enriching and unforgettable outing for guests of all ages.
Nassau County Museum of Art
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