Skip to main content

Free Art Exhibits in New York City

With temperatures dropping and people starting to plan holiday vacations and staycations, it’s the perfect time to look at some of the free indoor activities available in the city. You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy some of the world’s top arts and culture scene, from contemporary local art to some of the masterpieces of the world. New York City offers plenty of opportunities for art aficionados to take in exhibits without paying a penny. Here are a few free art opportunities not to miss.

The Bronx Museum of the Arts
Explore contemporary art from a diverse variety of artists, as well as works that use the Bronx as a key theme in them. The museum is easily accessible by subway and also features a new café.

The David Zwirner Gallery
A range of contemporary artists from around the world occupy the space at David Zwirner Gallery, which is updated throughout the year with new exhibitions.

Frick Collection (Sundays 11-1)
Visit this magnificent mansion for free on Sunday mornings to take in the collection of art that it houses, including some of the finest small bronze sculptures in the world. Take in European masterpieces from artists such as Rembrandt and Goya, and during concert season, listen to concerts for free from the museum courtyard.

The Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay & Lesbian Art
Take a peek into what inspires and drives the artists at this museum, where insight is provided to the artists as individuals. Through paintings, drawings, sculpture, and photography, learn about the importance of art to the LGBTQ community in this museum, which is the first in the world dedicated to LGBTQ art.

Museum of Modern Art (Fridays)
Admission is free for all visitors during UNIQLO Free Friday Nights, every Friday evening from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. The UNIQLO admission permits visitors to visit all of the museum’s exhibits.

Pace Gallery
With three New York City locations, the Pace Gallery offers a great way for art-lovers to spend a day.