Guggenheim Museum (New York)

Known officially as the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, this is one of New York City's most popular art attractions, located overlooking Central Park on the corner of Fifth Avenue. It is the permanent home for a huge collection of post-Impressionist and contemporary art and the structure of the building itself is considered its most stunning attribute. It is definitely worth a browse during cheap city breaks in New York, even if modern art is not to your taste. Built by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1959, it is one the 20th century's most exuberant pieces of architecture. Such is its iconic status, it was recently registered as a National Historic Landmark, despite it being only 50 years old.

 

The interior galleries are made up of one long, winding spiral ramp which rises several floors around a central rotunda. It is a unique way to view art which itself is as unconventional as any art space in the city. On short breaks in New York, you will relish browsing works by such greats as Picasso, Kandinsky, Chagall and Mondrian. In addition there are always several temporary exhibitions which encompass everything from pop art posters, sculpture and new media installations. On long weekends in New York, you can also enjoy an interactive tour of the museum, art lectures and creative art classes each Sunday.

 

The Guggenheim Museum is the perfect choice for a rainy day, especially with demanding children in tow. The incredible design and exuberant exhibits are reason enough to captivate young minds, but there are also plenty of rewarding art based activities too. Family short breaks in New York can engage in storytelling for pre-school kids, creative writing classes for teenagers, drama workshops and film screenings. There are free dedicated family friendly tours of the museum, offering insights and commentary suitable for all ages, followed by creative workshops and activity sessions.