How to Reach MoMA NYC
Getting to the Museum of Modern Art in New York City is easy thanks to its central Midtown Manhattan location. Whether you prefer the subway, bus, taxi, rideshare, ferry, or even biking, this guide covers every transportation option to help you reach MoMA without hassle.
Address & Hours
Museum Address
11 West 53rd Street
Manhattan, New York, NY 10019
Between Fifth Avenue and Sixth Avenue
Opening Hours
| Sun – Fri | 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Saturday | 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Closed | Thanksgiving & Christmas |
By Subway
The subway is the fastest and most affordable way to reach MoMA from nearly anywhere in New York City. The museum is served by multiple subway lines, giving visitors plenty of options regardless of where they are starting from.
Nearest Subway Stations
- E M5th Avenue / 53rd Street — The closest station, located just steps from MoMA's entrance. Exit and walk west on 53rd Street.
- B D F M47-50 Streets / Rockefeller Center — A short walk east on 53rd Street to the museum. This station connects to many lines across the city.
- F57th Street — Located a few blocks north of MoMA. Walk south on Sixth Avenue to 53rd Street, then east to the museum.
A single subway ride costs $2.90 using a MetroCard or OMNY contactless payment. Trains run frequently throughout the day, with service available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
By Bus
New York City buses offer a convenient above-ground alternative to the subway. Several bus routes pass within a block or two of MoMA, making them a comfortable option, especially during nice weather when you can enjoy the views along the way.
- M50 Crosstown Bus: Runs along 49th and 50th Streets. Stops near the museum on West 53rd Street. One of the most direct bus options.
- M1, M2, M3, M4, M5: These north-south routes travel along Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue, with stops within a short walk of MoMA.
- M7: Runs along Sixth Avenue (Avenue of the Americas), stopping just one block west of the museum.
- M10: Serves the Central Park West corridor and connects to Midtown near MoMA.
- M31, M57, Q32: Additional crosstown and inter-borough routes that stop within walking distance of the museum.
Bus fare is $2.90 per ride. You can pay using a MetroCard, OMNY, or exact change in coins. Free bus-to-bus transfers are available within two hours of your first ride.
By Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout New York City and can drop you off directly at 11 West 53rd Street. Yellow cabs can be hailed anywhere on the street, while rideshare vehicles can be ordered through their respective apps.
Be aware that Midtown Manhattan traffic can be congested, especially during weekday rush hours (7:00-10:00 AM and 4:00-7:00 PM). If you are coming from a nearby location, walking or taking the subway may actually be faster than driving. The congestion pricing zone also applies to vehicles entering Manhattan below 60th Street, which may add to the overall cost of your ride.
By Ferry
The NYC Ferry system provides a scenic way to travel to Midtown Manhattan. The closest ferry terminal to MoMA is the West 39th Street / Midtown terminal, served by multiple ferry routes. From the terminal, MoMA is approximately a 15-minute walk north along the avenues.
A single ferry ride costs $4.00 and offers stunning waterfront views of the Manhattan skyline. The ferry is especially popular with visitors coming from Brooklyn, Queens, and other waterfront areas. Check the NYC Ferry schedule in advance, as service frequency varies by route and time of day.
From NYC Airports
New York City is served by three major airports. Here is how to reach MoMA from each one:
From JFK International Airport
Public Transit (60-75 min): Take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station, then transfer to the E train toward Manhattan. Exit at 5th Avenue/53rd Street.
Taxi/Rideshare (45-90 min): Flat fare of approximately $55-$75 plus tolls and tip. Duration varies significantly with traffic.
From LaGuardia Airport
Public Transit (45-60 min): Take the Q70-SBS bus to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Avenue, then the E or M train to 5th Avenue/53rd Street.
Taxi/Rideshare (20-40 min): Approximately $30-$50 plus tolls and tip. LaGuardia is the closest airport to MoMA.
From Newark Liberty Airport (EWR)
Public Transit (60-90 min): Take the AirTrain to Newark Penn Station, then NJ Transit or Amtrak to Penn Station Manhattan, then transfer to the E train to 5th Avenue/53rd Street.
Taxi/Rideshare (40-75 min): Approximately $60-$90 plus tolls and tip. Traffic through the Lincoln or Holland Tunnel can add significant time.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit MoMA is on weekday mornings, especially Tuesday through Thursday. Arriving right when the museum opens at 10:30 AM allows you to explore the most popular galleries before the midday crowds build. Late afternoons on weekdays, after 3:00 PM, are another good window with lighter attendance.
Weekends are the busiest times, particularly Saturday afternoons. If a weekend visit is your only option, Saturday evening is the best choice since MoMA stays open until 7:00 PM on Saturdays. Holiday weekends and school vacation periods draw the heaviest crowds and are best avoided if your schedule is flexible.
Tips for Visiting
- Buy tickets in advance: Purchasing tickets online before your visit helps you skip the ticket line and go directly to the galleries. Timed-entry tickets are available and can help you plan your arrival.
- Wear comfortable shoes: MoMA's galleries span six floors, and you will likely walk several miles during your visit. Comfortable footwear is essential for an enjoyable experience.
- Use the coat check: The free coat check near the entrance lets you store bags, coats, and umbrellas so you can move through the galleries unencumbered.
- Download the MoMA app: The museum's mobile app provides self-guided tours, gallery maps, and detailed information about individual artworks. Free WiFi is available throughout the museum.
- Start from the top floor: Many visitors begin on the ground floor and lose energy by the upper floors. Starting at the fifth or sixth floor and working your way down ensures you see the most famous works while you are fresh.
- Visit the Sculpture Garden: The Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden is a peaceful outdoor space that provides a refreshing break between galleries. It is one of MoMA's most beloved features.
- Allow time for dining: MoMA's restaurants and cafes offer excellent food. Plan your visit to include a meal or snack, especially if you are spending several hours at the museum.
For a more detailed overview of what to expect, check out our comprehensive Plan Your Visit guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the closest subway station to MoMA?
The closest subway station to MoMA is 5th Avenue/53rd Street, served by the E and M lines. This station places you just steps from the museum's main entrance on 53rd Street. Exit the station and walk west on 53rd Street for about one block.
The 47-50 Streets/Rockefeller Center station, served by the B, D, F, and M lines, is also very close and only requires a short walk east on 53rd Street to reach the museum.
Is MoMA wheelchair accessible from public transit?
Yes, MoMA is wheelchair accessible from several public transit options. The 5th Avenue/53rd Street subway station (E, M lines) has elevator access, and the route from the station to the museum entrance is fully step-free. The 47-50 Streets/Rockefeller Center station also provides elevator access.
All New York City buses are equipped with wheelchair ramps and lifts, making bus travel another convenient accessible option. Accessible taxi and rideshare vehicles can also be requested through standard ride-hailing apps.
How do I get to MoMA from JFK Airport?
From JFK Airport, the most efficient public transit route is to take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station, then board the E train heading toward Manhattan. Ride the E train to the 5th Avenue/53rd Street station, which is directly adjacent to MoMA. The entire journey takes approximately 60 to 75 minutes.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi or rideshare from JFK directly to MoMA. The drive takes 45 to 90 minutes depending on traffic conditions, and the fare typically ranges from $55 to $75 plus tolls and tip.
How do I get to MoMA from LaGuardia Airport?
From LaGuardia Airport, the most straightforward option is to take the Q70-SBS bus to the Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Avenue subway station, then transfer to the E or M train toward Manhattan. Ride to the 5th Avenue/53rd Street stop, which is right next to MoMA. The total trip takes about 45 to 60 minutes.
A taxi or rideshare from LaGuardia to MoMA typically takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic and costs approximately $30 to $50 plus tolls and tip. LaGuardia is the closest airport to MoMA, making it the quickest option for air travelers.
Is MoMA within walking distance of Times Square?
Yes, MoMA is approximately a 10-minute walk from Times Square. From the center of Times Square at 42nd Street and Broadway, walk north on Sixth Avenue (Avenue of the Americas) to 53rd Street, then turn right and continue east to 11 West 53rd Street.
The walk is straightforward and takes you through the heart of Midtown Manhattan, passing Rockefeller Center along the way. It is a pleasant route with wide sidewalks and plenty of landmarks to enjoy as you go.
Are there Citi Bike stations near MoMA?
Yes, there are several Citi Bike docking stations within a short walk of MoMA. Stations can be found on nearby streets including 6th Avenue, 53rd Street, and 54th Street. You can check real-time availability of bikes and docks using the Citi Bike app or the map on the Citi Bike website.
Biking to MoMA is a popular option during warmer months. After docking your bike, the museum entrance is typically just a one to two minute walk from the nearest station.