When considering all the possibilities for things to do while visiting NYC, I like to pair or group places that are close to maximize my time. This 1 Day itinerary will guide you in how best to enjoy two NYC bucket list stops: the Museum of Modern Art (aka the MoMA), and riding the Tram over to Roosevelt Island, with a few extra stops along the way should you like a little extra. (I like the extra.) This one-day itinerary is great for families, kids, or the solo traveler as it's not a far distance, there is little to no wait times, and all activities are a go at your own pace style!
Making it great day out of visiting the Museum of Modern Art, NYC by combining two NYC hot spots into one adventure, with some possible activities in between depending on your time. Two great spots to pair into one unique experience are the MoMA and Roosevelt Tram, I will outline how to do this for the best use of time. On a summer 2024 trip this is exactly what I did with my oldest son, and we really enjoyed out Midtown Manhattan experience.
Need some great art in your life? As far as collections of famous paintings in NYC, this museum is at the top of every list. Rival of the MET and Natural History Museum, these top 3 most visited museums of NYC attract a crowd for a reason. The MET receives more than 6 million people each year. The Natural History Museum comes in second with 5 million visitors a year. And the MoMA sees 3 million yearly. On recent trips I indulged in the MET and got lost among Egyptian, Greek, and Roman art. On this trip I needed some Van Gogh and impressionistic pieces in my life. My kids recently asked me "did you know Starry Night is in NYC, how come we've never seen it?" The reality is, I've been and my two oldest went as smaller children but didn't remember.
It's been a while since I've walked through the MOMA galleries of these very exclusive collections. I planned 3 hours at the museum, and two hours on Roosevelt Island, with an hour and a half in between for Central Park and some sights along the way. We move pretty fast, and the weather outside was beautiful! Feel free to adapt to meet your time and weather needs.
Arrive: Let’s start our day planning about two - three hours at the MoMA. Located at11 W. 53rd Street. Midtown Manhattan is easy get to, and an easy walk from Grand Central Station. We took the LIRR to Grand Central coming into the city, and leaving took the LIRR out of Penn Station. This was due to train times not preference or anything. Both stations are great for traveling and well-marked.
MoMA Logistics: Each floor has a time zone.
Visit the MoMA website
Floor 1: The ticket office, sculpture garden, and main hall. There is a restaurant and gift shop.
Floor 2: 1980 - Present, includes a bomb shelter, patriotic pieces, and some teddy bear satellites.
Floor 3: Various periods – Rotating Exhibits - larger galleries
Floor 4: 1950 – 1980 with works by Warhol, Pollock, Kasama, Rothko and many more. This is a progressive and thought-provoking floor of exhibits that are true to the pop culture of the world in this era.
Floor 5: 1880 – 1940 some of the most well-known classic paintings of this period are housed in these galleries.
Floor 6: Only open to special exhibits, restrooms, store.
I recommend starting on floor 5 and working your way down.
The Fifth floor has the most famous works of the building, with a timeless collection that just needs to be seen! I am highlighting some of the pieces, and which gallery they are in that can't be missed on your visit!
Starry Night, Van Gogh Gallery 501 A main attraction pulling in 3 million visitors a year! Starry Night, by Vincent Van Gough is an oil on canvas work done in 1889 that famously shows the night winds blowing through an imaginary village. The year prior, in 1888, Van Gough voluntarily checked himself into the Saint Paul De Mausole Lunatic Asylum, after a break down which led to him cutting off his own ear. The exact motivation for this mutilation is yet unknown although there has been much speculation. The impressionistic swirls in this painting have inspired many artists to add such movement in their own work. Said to have captured the view from his bedroom window during different times of the day, this piece has a crowd around the clock. Standing in front of this painting which is one of the most recognizable pieces of art in the world today, is a feeling of true appreciation.
The best thing about visiting the MoMA is that the entire 5th floor is full of galleries of amazing artists, and masterpieces. Abstract, cubism, and impressionism reign. Not to say that floors 1 – 4 are less, but this is where you will find the classics. Some of the timeless work of arts I enjoyed most are highlighted here.
While visiting, you can freely wander discovering Jackson Pollock, Claude Monet, Henri Matisse, Salvadore Dali, Pablo Picasso, Paul Cezanne, and Frida Kahlo. While those are just my favorites, this is by no means an extensive list. This is great so long as none of the core pieces are accidentally missed in the wandering.
You could also grab a map and intentionally see particular pieces. I will share my recommendations for don’t miss these from the 5th floor:
Water Lilies, Monet Gallery 515 The entire space is all Monet, Large overwhelming series of paintings are oil on canvas and came from the French village of Giverny where Monet spent the end of his life. In these recognizable pieces with color depth you can’t reach but you can only imagine falling into. Come in and feel like you are one with Monet's view. This corner gallery, which is a bit off the main course, was emotional to me as the large pieces give a strongly connected feeling. Surrounded by Monet's works really gave escape from this world and perspective into Monet’s world.
Broadacre City, Frank Lloyd Wright Gallery 519 Wright, who became famous for creating “organic architecture” built over 380 buildings in the first half of the 19th century.
Acquiring Frank Lloyd Wright’s archive was a good move for the MoMA. He was more than just a builder, as he was a visionary, teacher, writer, and had a plan for creating beautiful useful spaces. Broadacre City was never realized; however, it is a significant peer into the mind of Wright’s legacy, giving insight into the thought process. Seeing the large 12 X 12 model in real life felt like part of an Iron Man movie where Tony Stark is looking over his father’s model of the future.
The Persistence of Memory, Salvador Dali Gallery 517 This oil on canvas 1931 masterpiece is one of the original pieces of the museum. Melting clocks is a reoccurring theme for Dali, and this surreal painting captures the mood of times being temporary. While the Dali Museum in Saint Petersburg holds many of this famous Artist’s works, the MoMA has a few notable pieces not to be missed by the artist.
Dance I, Henri Matisse Gallery 506 This oil on canvas done in 1909 is known for being a change agent in art and how paintings flow. It uses only four colors, focusing on movement. The motion sensed from this work goes on to inspire other works to have less detail and capture action more intentionally. (shown in photo above) Other prominent works by Matisse are nearby. Landscape, is another favorite which shows his range of skills to compare both of these pieces. Periwinkles, found in the same gallery, (506) made of oil, pencil and charcoal on canvas, which is one of my favorite looks.
L’Estaque, Cezanne Galley 518 Cezanne uses color and line boldly, and created many works that dive into the impressionistic style. This oil on canvas piece is one is his more notable landscapes. To me it is the perfect blend of nature and art in a dreamy but real scene. Completed from 1879 – 1883. In this same gallery you can gaze upon Cezanne's Self-Portrait in a Straw Hat, completed in 1875 – 76.
In Gallery 501 two more Cezanne works, Pines and Rocks, and Still Life with Apples live, and are well known for his unique recognizable style. If you love this era of French Post- Impressionistic work, don’t miss these two galleries which host many that capture the essence of this period. I struggle with having a favorite artist, but Cezanne tops the list.
Self Portrait with Cropped Hair, Frida Kahlo Gallery 517 Completed in 1940 with oil on canvas is known as a statement of divorce. In this famous painting the artist had recently divorced famous artist Diego Rivera and vowed to move forward independently supporting herself by selling her artwork. Previously Kahlo’s self-portraits emphasized her long flowing hair, in big dresses, and in this statement piece her locks lay cut off on the ground and a new woman who looks ready for business has emerged.
The She-Wolf, Jacksin Pollock Gallery 522 Use of Oil, gouache, and plaster on canvas, Pollock's large drip painting works are easily recognizable. This piece is considered a reference to the twins who founded Rome, Romulus and Remus. This famous artist synonymous with splatter painting style has works featured on both the 4th and 5th floors. Galleries 401 and 405 house some of his well-known pieces like One: Number 31 (pictured below), and Number 1A.
Take your time circling down though the floors admiring the exhibits, there are some really significant works through out. We loved enjoying the galleries and walk through time. There are many other pieces at the MoMA, these are just a few of my personal favorites.
*Don’t leave without some of the framed window views of NYC caught by glass boxes strategically placed.
*Don’t miss the sculpture garden, which is a little oasis in the middle of the city, creating a break between worlds.
*Once you’ve filled your art cup for the day, it’s time to head back into NYC and venture back into some of the coolest midtown stops of the area.
From here we can head directly to the Roosevelt Tram for some awesome views of NYC OR we can first make a nice walking loop by several other midtown hot spots in the vicinity. If going directly to the tram: walk up (turn left on) 5th Ave, to 59th Street. And go all the way east to 2nd Ave where you will see the Metro Station.
If you're up for a little extra: exit the museum walking across to 5th Avenue, then turn right and walk down (south) a few blocks to 49th street where you cross over on 6th Avenue. On 49th, you will pass a few notable stops. Walk up (north on) 6th or 7th Avenue to 59th Street, and venture across the south side of Central Park which will hug the borderline of the park. Whenever you’re ready, pop into Central Park and walk along the Pond, Gapstow Bridge, and if you have the time to explore, Central Park Zoo on the East side of the park. Any walk in Central Park is a nice photo op and some nature refreshment. From here, walk across 59th Street toward 2nd Street, and hop on the Roosevelt Tram over to Roosevelt Island. Maps below for A - Direct route or B - the Extra stops route.
Pick your map:
Just a few blocks south of the MoMA:
Saint Patrick’s Cathedral: 14 E 51st St. The massive Gothic Revival-style St. Pat's remains the heart of the city's Roman Catholic community. Stop in for prayer, admire architecture, art, and be inspired by this statement made to glorify God.
Rockefeller Center: 48 to 51st Street, from Fifth to 6th Avenue - Rockefeller Center consists of 19 tall art deco buildings spread across 22 acres and is more of a complex unto itself than one skyscraper.
Top of the Rock: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, enter on 50th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues. From 8am – Midnight this ticketed observation deck spans three floors, including indoor and outdoor viewing areas with a 360-degree view.
Sax 5th Avenue: 611 Fifth Ave. Directly across the street from Rockefeller Center, this shopping hot spot is known for extravagant window displays and creative marketing ideas.
Radio City Music Hall: 1260 6th Ave, For nearly 100 years this 5,960-seat music hall has been most famous for hosting the Rockettes every Christmas season, however their event calendar is filled to the brim with world-famous musicians and performers. To see what’s on offer during your visit, the event calendar.
(underlined text links to appropriate page for your convenience)
Just a Few Blocks North of the MoMA:
Central Park @59th Street. – Entering the park through any one of the monumental gates to meander on paths through nature is like a world away from the world. Central Park has its own vibe. Immediately scenic views take on a whole different perspective being amidst boulders, trails, and a variety of elm, oak and cherry trees that pop with vibrancy. While there are notable playgrounds, and a Zoo in this vicinity, many just walk around the lake, or have a picnic taking in the sweeping views. Enter the park to the degree your time allows, but 59th Street will lead you to your next stop.
Just a Few Blocks East of the MoMA:
Roosevelt Tram and Roosevelt Island
254 E. 60th St. Tramway Plaza, NYC
Catch the tram at the Metro Station at 2nd Ave and 59th Street. For the cost of a subway ride ($2.75) enjoy riding this aerial cable car over to the unique island. Running alongside the 59th Street Bridge, riding the Tram gives you some very economical views of the skyline.
The closest subway stops to the tram are the N and R line, which is by Radio City, 6th Ave and 49th Street. The 4,5,and 6 train also get you close, with a station at 59th Street Station.
The Tramway runs every 15 minutes. During peak times, (M-F 7 – 10/ 3 – 8) every 7 minutes.
The ride is 4 minutes long. Cars are not very big, and most people stand the duration although there is some bench seating options towards either end of the car. I recommend getting a good window spot to take advantage of overlooking the East River and Manhattan’s glory. This is the most modern arial cable in the world and a very economical and fast activity to enjoy.
*All passengers are required to exit at each stop, you cannot ride round trip.
*Up to 3 children under 44 inches tall ride free with a paying adult.
Roosevelt Island:
Plan 3 hours to catch the tram and walk the perimeter of Roosevelt Island.
WHY: NY has plenty of great places to walk and capture views, but this very centrally located island has some unique perspectives. 1.75 miles long, or 35 city blocks, nestled between Manhattan and Queens, this Island offers picturesque views of either side of the city. Bridge and tram shots, skyline photos, unlimited selfies on location, and green spaces for the taking. Fun photography in a less congested place makes for some great photos!
WHAT TO DO: Stroll the riverfront promenade where you may see the ruins behind the fence of the Smallpox Memorial Hospital. You will likely pass by that on the way to Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park on the south tip of the island. This 14-acre green space is filled with people playing sports like soccer, volleyball, and others. Walking, jogging, and cycling are very popular here as it’s less crowded and easier to navigate the area.
Enjoy a walk through the community Garden from April 15th through October 15th. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world. The south garden entrance is across from the Fire Department at 750 Main St.
Take the free red bus to the northside of the island where the Gothic Revival lighthouse, built in 1872 lives. Built of granite quarried from the island itself, it's worth hitting both ends of the island. The northern tip is a pleasant, 20-minute stroll. Once there, admire the 50-foot-tall lighthouse which was built by inmates, and makes another cool landmark check on your bucket list.
If you do have children, this is a great spot as the extensive parks and playgrounds, and even water fountains are very welcoming. This is all stroller friendly and easy to navigate.
Roosevelt Island
*Once you are ready to leave, sunset is a really nice time to come back over the Tram, as the lights of the city twinkle on, the colors of the skyline are more dramatic!
I've never had to wait more than 15 minutes for a tram, and I use my apple pay on my phone to pay the fare which is $2.75 each ride. People will cram on in. I am not sure if there is a weight or capacity limit, but the operator's wait if they see you coming.
While there is not a lot of options for food in Roosevelt Island, there are some eateries with a good vibe. Granny Annie's Bar & Kitchen and Anything At All both seem loved by locals have good menus and reasonable prices.
Back in Midtown: If you're walking back to Grand Central, walk along the river and you will go right by the United Nations, 405 E 45th St, New York. While the majority of the time this is inaccessible, there are events which do make this a noteworthy landmark.
If you have other plans for the evening, this ends our itinerary and I wish you an amazing rest of your time in NYC.
Traveling Tips: Apple Pay made the subway easy. My kids showed me how to pay through Apple Pay, which charges $2.75/ ride. We are very comfortable riding the various lines, but pay attention to being at the platform which goes the direction you are going. For example, North or South bound or East or West.
When traveling across town, there are a few options:
The L Train: runs from 8th Ave to 1st Ave (along 14th Street)
The 7 Train: runs along 42nd street, from 10th to 4th Avenues.
The S Train: Shuttle from Grand Central to Times Square with 1 stop (we usually walk as this is a very scenic/ busy area).
And the E Train: Runs from 8th Ave to Lexington (along 53rd St).
Stay up to date with the MTA: Large Type Map
As a young college student majoring in Fine Arts at the Fashion Institute of Technology my love of art grew. We took many field trips to all the neighboring museums and galleries where we would go and discuss the works at hand. I have always loved both NYC and the culture of art appreciation.
Need More?
Have more time? Here's 3 more days of NYC Must Sees.
Or if you're visiting at Christmas time, this will be your best guide!
Want to walk the Brooklyn Bridge? Here's your tips for making that day great.
Or, visit Dyker Heights while you are in NYC for Christmas, experiencing this Brooklyn neighborhood with the most amazing displays.
Affordability meter: 7/10eter: 9/10
On a scale of 1-10 how affordable is this Day?
With 1 being utterly unaffordable and 10 being basically free I rate this Day adventure a 7.
Costs included admission to the museum, the train (LIRR), tram tickets, and food/ drinks.
The cost into the MoMA is ranges from $5.00/ member - $17.00/ student. 16 and under are free to enter. Those with disabilities and seniors cost $22.00.
On the day we entered, I purchased our tickets on the MoMA site 2 hours before and reserved two student tickets. They emailed me a QR code which I showed as we entered. It was very easy.
While the ticket cost is not unreasonable, I'd like to see some teacher discounts or other options for locals to enjoy entry without the full price. Our LIRR tickets which were off peak both ways ran about $21.00/ person round trip. Tram/ Metro tickets $6.00/ person. Food and drinks added up as we did get a pretzel outside of the MoMA, a smoothie outside Central Park, and a few other things along the way. Food added $60.00. This was however a choice I made knowing I could have packed snacks and drinks and opting to enjoy the food of the city. Overall, the cost of the day was worth the time and experience. I am very satisfied with the value of my activities and walked away with some fulfilling memories.
A few more Tips for NYC traveling....
~When in New York, a little planning goes a long way! Screen shot your directions and know your timing and routes
~Wear comfy shoes for walking
~Have a portable battery charger, you'll most likely need it
~Bring your water bottle/ tumbler. or rambler with you - save money and stay hydrated!
~Public restrooms are a hot commodity, go when you can!
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~Allow those you travel with to participate in the itinerary building
~Plan days that balance the free things to do with the activities requiring tickets
~Plan days that balance indoor and outdoor activities and consider the weather!
~Plan days that minimize running all over the place and create intentional focused fun in one area
~Keep the people prioritized over the things (you keep the people the stuff all fades)
~Enjoy where you are at. Be a little flexible with people and their navigation of time
~Let go of things you can't control
~Remember to put your people above things, and cherish the memories
~Live more, in abundance and walk in your own footsteps
~ All of my travels are intended to uplift 🥰
A note from the editor:
The information in this article was accurate when published but may change without notice. Confirm details when planning your trip.
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My goal is to make traveling easier for families and cut down on the planning process. 💜
As a New York native, I love this city and it's my pleasure to return visiting all my favorite places.
We are fortunate enough to stay with family when we return to NY, however I do recommend the Holiday Inn or Hilton for spending the night in the City. There are several, but I like the ones in lower Manhattan for price, parking, and cleanliness. A quick search will show you available options. Now I usually stay somewhere that offers free breakfast, but in NY I want close to public transportation. There are so many places to eat and no it isn't cheap, but the food is just part of the visiting experience here. I love the vibe of NYC. The easiness of moving around and exploring. NY is well marked and labeled; it's laid out in a way that is easy to understand. The system makes sense. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
If you want a little about my history as an artist, find it here:
Can you do what you love? Can you do more of it?
Can you turn this into a part of your routine?
Can you use it to benefit you or someone else? Sending love for your journey!
~Savvy Mama
For those planning travel over winter break, here are some of our favorite places in the continental US to have a budget friendly amazing family quality time adventure:
