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Brooklyn Museum
Category: Arts & Entertainment Museums Museums [Edit]
200 Eastern Pkwy(between Washington Ave & Classon Ave)
Brooklyn, NY 11238
Neighborhood: Prospect Heights
(718) 638-5000
- Nearest Transit:
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Eastern Pkwy - Brooklyn Museum (2, 3, 4)
Botanic Garden (S)
Franklin Av (2, 3, 4, 5)
- Hours:
Wed, Fri-Sun 11 am - 6 pm
Thu 11 am - 10 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
222 reviews for Brooklyn Museum
Review Highlights
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"...excited to see Judy Chicago's "The Dinner Party." In 10 reviews -
"I've seen some good movies at some First Saturdays." In 21 reviews -
"My brother and I saw the "Who Shot Rock & Roll" exhibit." In 10 reviews
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222 reviews in English
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Review from Vineet S.
This is an absolute gem when it comes to museums in the city. I really adore this place. I was here for the first Target Saturdays with my friends.
There is so much to see in this museum. One should definitely arrive early to enjoy the different art works on display across different floors. There might be some lines on some floors to get into a specific section of the museum.
The DJ that night was so good. It was so much fun to see the crowd with different age groups enjoying the music. This reminded me of first Fridays at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago as they used to have a similar event like this. They also sell some snacks and drinks within the premises during the event.
FYI- Arrive by 6 to get a smooth entry to the museum,when we went people were not let in after 7 due to over occupancy.Listed in: Touristy Places !!!
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Review from Nicole F.
New York, NY
5/8/2012
First Saturday of every month the museum is open late, until 11pm.
There are exhibits, workshops, music, drinks, dancing. All of this equals one thing, one of my favorite things to do = people watching!!
But wait, it gets better, it's FREE from 5pm -11pm. Need I say more? I didn't think so -
Review from Edgar S.
4/30/2012 1 Check-in Here
Want to be cultured? Head to the museum.
I ventured in to check out the Keith Haring Exhibit, which was incredible. The museum, on a Sunday was not packed at all. Good amount of people but not enough to make it uncomfortable.
They have suggested admission and they DO NOT accept cards.....cash only (this is the 21 century right?)
It is a cool spot for a day alone, with friends or a date. -
Review from Nick H.
5/25/2012
My girlfriend and I visited the museum on a recent Target Free Saturday and had a wonderful afternoon. Five floors of wonderful art and historical artifacts. The Keith Haring exhibit was also a pleasant surprise. There were quite a few guided programs and plenty of live music to keep us entertained. We arrived shorty before 5PM and found the museum to be empty. Unfortunately, we didn't know that the museum waives the entrance fee after 5PM. We were wondering why the massive crowds had all of a sudden showed up. There is on-site parking, for a fee, in the lot behind the museum. You can park the car there, check out the museum, then walk to Prospect Park, which is a short stroll away.
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Review from Kimberly W.
New York, NY
4/23/2012 1 Check-in Here
Came here specifically to see the Keith Haring exhibit. I was thoroughly happy when I stepped off the 2/3 train and onto the front steps of the museum. It's an open and lovely building and when you walk inside, you are greeted by two awesome Rodin owls.
The exhibit itself was kind of amazing. It really humanized Keith Haring in a way that feels different from most art exhibits where artists are usually distanced and placed on pedestals. You got to see photos of him just hanging out at parties, videos of him creating art, his notebooks full of musings and sketches. It was pretty neat.
The rest of the museum's collection was a bit confusing in its layout. It was such a crush of stuff, I honestly didn't know how to make sense of Native American art right next to mid-century furniture.
But yes, I like.
$8 suggested donation for Students now. -
Review from m. m.
Philadelphia, PA
4/22/2012
Went to the First Saturday program celebrating the work of Keith Haring, because my friend's band was playing. Easy subway ride from Manhattan, the subway lets you off directly in front of the museum. Glad I went early as it was crowded at 5 pm but got much, much, MUCH more crowded later. I was a bit baffled since after I saw my friend's set and went to enter the museum, there seemed to be a desk which was charging admisions, but the lady who let me through the rope told me it was free? I was perfectly willing to pay but she seemed to indicate that would not be necessary. I am now thinking I should have made a donation at least, but I think I made up for it by dropping quite a big wad in the gift shop before I left (wooden posable bear toys ftw).
Saw the Haring exhibit, The Dinner Party (which I've been reading about for years but never saw), some of the paintings and all of the historic houses/ rooms. The exhibit on the original Brooklyn settlers, complete with a partially original house that they lived in, was awesome. I wasn't such a big fan of the historic rooms that had been made to incorporate modern art pieces. Kind of a weird combo to me. In addition I saw a bit of a break-dancing presentation and of course Friend's Band (another band was playing later but i was tired so I bailed).
The First Saturday was a blast, I wish more museums would have bands come play rather than being all stuffy or "family oriented" all the time. I was also impressed by the large number of police guarding the subway and museum entrance so we could all safely traipse in and out without getting pestered by panhandlers or who knows what.
Only caveat is, there are almost no elevators and they are the slowest in history, so unless you have a really good reason to wait for the elevator (like someone is in a wheelchair), be prepared to climb stairs - lots and lots of stairs. I also understand there is a Museum Cafe in this place, but I couldn't find it in the melee - only saw the equivalent of a snack counter (which is located where the Cafe is supposed to be on the map, so maybe that was it? was expecting something much bigger). -
Review from Mary S.
4/25/2012
I came here with a friend to check our the Keith Haring exhibit which I heard is the largest collection of his works. The exhibit was very good, lots to see and understand. The layout was very well done.
I walked through the different floors, with more to see in every corner. This museum is VERY eclectic from colonial furniture to architecture to 19th/20th century paintings.
One huge advantage is it's only $11 for students to visit BOTH the BK Museum and Botanic Garden. Plus, the museum has easy access to the subway--it's literally right in front. -
Review from Kara C.
4/10/2012
Price: Free
Highlight: First Saturdays, Exhibits, People-Watching
Go here to get lost and shut off your cellphone and just wander.
If you need a purpose to go there, go for First Saturdays, a different DJ every first Saturday of every month from 8-10pm and a huge dancing crowd. If you choose to dance it gets hot in that hall really quickly. Programs such as film screenings, live bands and creating your own art pieces start from 5pm. It is great for all ages but definitely gets more jampacked with adults after 8 - so jampacked you may not be able to get in to see the featured exhibit.
There is something really chill about people watching in this Brooklyn scene, amazing energy, unique fashions and styles and that usual feeling of "Why the hell don't I live in Brooklyn?" But I know why... one day we'll have a rematch Brooklyn.Listed in: MAMAIJUSWANNADANCE
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Review from Sonia M.
4/11/2012 1 photo
My boyfriend and I came here for a Saturday night event that Target was hosting. We wandered the floors and explored the art work and artifacts. You can get lost in here. I loved the modern art and photography work on the top floor.
On Saturday's, the museum has a DJ, which draws a large dancing crowd. The concept of having a DJ in a museum is amazing! Definitely worth a visit every other month or so. -
Review from Darwin G.
4/1/2012
A beautiful museum with an extremely diverse collection. It reminds me of the MET, although it's obviously not as big. You could easily go through this museum in a few hours or an afternoon. They have pieces from many cultures, Egypt, Asia, the Middle East as well as American pieces, Colonial funiture and rooms, 19th and 20th century pieces. My personal favorites were the many Rodin sculptures and the Impressionist pieces in the center of the museum with its high ceilings.
While I wouldn't go out of my away from the incredible Museum Mile of Manhattan, this is still an incredible museum to visit if you're in Brooklyn or wander into Park Slope. -
Review from Daniel P.
New York, NY
GREAT MUSEUM ... A largely Un-Known Gem ... To most Manhattanites anyway. Check it out some time.
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Review from Jonille T.
Brooklyn, NY
3/16/2012 2 Check-ins Here
I don't like art. So when I had to take a mandatory Art Core Class this semester at Brooklyn College, I rolled my eyes. And when I heard we were going to the Brooklyn Museum, I rolled my eyes even more. And today, when I had to forgo cleaning my bathroom to take the far less interesting mandatory trip to Brooklyn Museum, I thought my eyes were going to roll out of my head.
But it couldn't have been more necessary for me to come here today, because I was able to visit Judy Chicago's The Dinner Party. This is the first piece of art I've ever seen that actually spoke to me. It really made me think; what IF all of these important female historical figures were in the same room? I've never felt such strong feminism in my life.
I spent 45 min there. I lost track of my classmates, got left behind, and had to find my own way home. Worth it!
It makes me wonder what other kinds of inspiring art I've been blocking out of my life for the last three decades. I have to make a trip back when I have more than two hours. And I might actually pay attention in my Art Class this semester. -
Review from Charles S.
Manhattan, NY
3/26/2012
This museum is dope. In beautiful prospect heights, this Museum was lovely architecture and is really pretty both inside and outside.
I went on a tour with a graduate school group and we really enjoyed ourselves. Our docent was so passionate about ancient Egyptian art and African art. She made me engage with this material and I am not necessarily the type to particularly get excited/interested about art museums.
I did not have a chance to check out other collections, but I know that they have European and other pieces. This museum may not have the same size collection as the Met, but it has a lot of intriguing pieces and everyone on the staff was friendly and helpful (This goes for the coat checking staff as well). -
Review from Phil H.
1/8/2012 1 Check-in Here
Damn, what's not to love about this place?
Target Free First Saturdays from 5-11PM featuring live music, full bar, food, dance party with DJ, performances, art programs, and more. Even the coat check is free. If you can't be entertained here then something is wrong with you.
The building itself is beautiful like a work of art. It was my first time here last night and as I ascended the subway steps it came into full view against a moonlit backdrop that gave it a grandiose look. It was almost not real, as if something out of a movie. Also, having it's own subway stop so close by makes it very convenient to get to.
On these free Saturday events it is a steal to take advantage of and explore all the floors and exhibits here. Live performance art, Egytian art and relics, old period rooms from homes dated back to the 1700 - 1800's, statues, classical and modern art / paintings, photographs, religious art, African art collection, Middle Eastern art, films, huge mushroom like sculptures, and even a large dinner plate display showcasing famous and historic women in history as depicted with art of their "flowers". The museum is huge and each floor has so much to see, but you never seem overwhelmed by what is on display. Just walk around at your own pace and take it all in.
Will definitely go back for another Target First Saturday to check it out again, and in the Spring to sit outside on the steps and grassy areas by the fountains to watch the world go by with a bite to eat. -
Review from Julia B.
1/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
Brooklyn, bitches!
I heart this museum long time! I used to live a few blocks away so I would come to their Target First Saturdays, religiously! It's been a while since I've been back and when I returned this Saturday, I fell in love with the Brooklyn Museum all over again!
Every first Saturday of the month, from 5pm-11pm, a range of events (all linked to a theme for the night) happen - all for free. The live bands are always talented, often getting people and children dancing and the DJ party on the 3rd floor is always a blast! Oh and during the summer months, the DJ party is in the parking lot in the back! Their choices of movie showings are always interesting. I've watched "I Love Hip Hop in Morocco", a documentary, to the Frida Kahlo movie here!
The museum itself is beautiful and simple. The permanent exhibitions are small but impressive. From African to Egyptian to Islamic to decorative arts, as well as modern, browsing is never overwhelming. Do check out the Dinner Table, a feminist exhibition, on the 4th floor with plates that resemble vaginas. Their special exhibitions can be hit or miss, though.
When you want to take a break, sit outside on the large steps and enjoy the fountain (when it's on). It's really cute to watch kids run through it in the summertime. Across the street is The Islands, a fantastic Caribbean hole-in-the-wall, and not too far away are two great bars, Washington Common and Franklin Place!
Conveniently located by the 2, 3, 4 & 5 so you have no excuse not to visit! -
Review from Daren G.
Brooklyn, NY
4/11/2012 2 Check-ins Here
I've lived only blocks away for a long time and am ashamed to say that it took me this long to visit. Having went to the last First Saturday event, I really hate to think all I've missed in these last couple of years. It's a beautiful place and I plan to spend much more time enjoying it in the future.
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Review from Julie K.
New York
4/16/2012
I love this Museum! Have a look at this great article http://www.frenchcultu... which focus on the dynamism of the Museum. Feel free to come every first Saturday of the month, it is wonderful!
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Review from Sam M.
Brooklyn, NY
5/12/2012
This is a really, really, really great museum. There's something very interactive about it, even when you are in a traditional gallery with paintings on the walls (and there are plenty of rooms that are so much more than that to begin with!). I'm not typically an art lover and definitely don't enjoy boring galleries with lots of old art on the walls and the Brooklyn Museum does an incredible job of not making it feel like that at all. In an interactive piece designed to be a shrine, I even made a wish on my last visit that the world would always have such awesome ways to explore creativity such as this museum. The last two special exhibits that I went to here (Basquiat and Haring) were exuberant, brilliant, and so memorable and there is always something appealing going on. First Saturdays are a wonderful way to spend a Saturday evening. The gift shop is top notch, the floor with a lot of houses and rooms is captivating, the building is stunning no matter where you are in it, and the list goes on and on. GREAT JOB, Brooklyn Museum!
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Review from Leanna P.
1/6/2012
Spectacular renovation.
I love this place solely for the Egyptian Exhibit. -
Review from Adrienne S.
Philadelphia, PA
4/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
If all of the world had suggested pricing, as the Brooklyn Museum does! We went specifically for the Keith Haring exhibit on Good Friday. I was pleasantly surprised when we got off the train and emerged right in front of the museum! Super convenient! You walk in and get your bags checked and then proceed to the cashier who tells you the "suggested price" for admission to the museum. She suggested we pay $24, we decided on $20 and that was the end of that. We made a pit stop at the cafeteria (which was difficult to find) so that I could grab something to eat. I had what may be one of the best pasta salads I have ever had in my life in this tiny little cafeteria. I actually copied down what was in it, so I could try it at home. *It was the feta, pesto, sun dried tomato pasta* We then went straight to the exhibit we came to see. It was encouraging to see that you were allowed to take photos in some parts of the exhibit, as most museums frown on that. In the Keith Hering exhibit, there were drawings and live media that helped to enhance the experience. Before we left, we visited the gift shop. Art museum gift shops are my favorite for picking up interesting gifts for others (or myself) and the Brooklyn Museum gift shop did not disappoint. However, their selection was not as varied as others I have seen. While leaving I took a moment to sit in front of the museums steps/grassy knoll area. If the weather would have cooperated, I would have been there all day.
I did not feel like the museum was the cleanest it could have been and the staff was not the friendliest, but the exhibits were interesting and seemed to appeal to a diverse crowd.
I will be back! And I will bring a picnic lunch to enjoy outside of the museum before going in! -
Review from Markus H.
Brooklyn, NY
4/11/2012
Greatest muesum around. First Saturdays are my highlight. A wonderul local event for the whole family.Entrance into the galleries, great music,great energy and lots of dancing, and generally just an all round great event. And its FREE You gotta check this one out!!
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Review from Julie C.
Ann Arbor, MI
2/12/2012
I came by on a First Saturday (on my weekend tour of free events/admission) and was pleasantly surprised by all of the activities! The place was packed, there was a live band, great exhibits, art activities and a dance party.
There were people of all ages, and I do have to say that this place probably housed the greatest amount of well-dressed, good looking twenty and thirty somethings I've seen at once. It's a bit of a trek from some parts of Brooklyn, but worth a visit to recharge your culture batteries. Next time, I'll know what to expect and will be dressed in my Saturday best. :D -
Review from Marq J.
New York, NY
3/19/2012
The Brooklyn Museum is among the best in the city. The Egyptian Exhibit alone is worth the price of admission.
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Review from Vivian L.
New York, NY
11/19/2011
Having worked at The Brooklyn Museum of Art during college, I think it's appropriate to write a review detailing the pros and cons of the museum. Specifically, I should say my experience at BMA.
Over the past eight years, the Brooklyn Museum of Art has profoundly transformed itself and gained tremendous public visibility. Not only has it acquired new sets of works such as Judy Chicago's "The Dinner Party" and one of the most extensive Egyptian collections in the country, but the museum has also introduced First Saturdays' sponsored by the NY Times and Target.
I believe BMA had strived to find its identity and a place in the art world for many years. To set itself apart from their counterparts located in Queens and Manhattan, they needed to be creative and innovative and embrace change. In 2004 when I was still there, BMA redesigned the front entrance and created a new public plaza for the hefty price tag of $63-million-dollar. This was their moment to shine and they solidified their standing in the art community by dramatically establishing an architectural connection between the interior of the building and the exterior surroundings. Simply put, they redesigned the entrance to welcome visitors in an airy, bright and modern space. Moreover, they embodied the vast, rich, and artistic heritage of different cultures as reflected in their art collections and special exhibitions.
Noted as one of the premier art institutions and second largest in the world, BMA's permanent collection ranges from classical masterpieces to modern art. Besides BMA's collections, they exhibited some of the up and coming artists aimed to draw a younger crowd and generate more memberships. For children, the museum also has an arts and craft class as well as other fun activities. Due to special galleries and exhibits, the museum has attracted very interesting characters - from a nun praying outside of the museum entrance during the "Sensation" exhibition to celebrity sightings.
I recalled vividly one of the most interesting encounters I had at the museum. I saw Leonardo DiCaprio and Gisele Bündchen in person. Yes, she looked the same in real life - very down to earth with barely any make up on her face. I asked for Leo's autograph =). They were checking out a special exhibit and didn't have any bodyguards accompanying them. The security guards, staff, and folks respected their privacy.
On the other hand, I would like to point out the flaws. First, it's not a pleasant trip to venture to BMA on the weekends. The MTA frequently performs track work on the weekends and thus the trains are either out of service or require a few transfers - Eastern Parkway on the 2 and 3. Second, I think the food prices at the museum cafe has increased significantly and I can't justify the price vs value trade-off. Third, sometimes the elevators are closed off or reserved for special events. Therefore, you have to take the stairs along with 60-100 other people. This happens on very rare occasions but the staircases are not very spacious. The staff is accommodating and helpful in those instances.
I conclude that BMA's formula for success has worked largely due to a number of reasons: their continued efforts to host interesting, thought-provoking exhibitions and form an engaging and intellectual stimulating dialogue with the visitors. Whether it's admiring the sensuality in Georgia O'Keeffe's painting or examining beauty and masculinity in Rodin's sculptures, you will be delighted to see what the museum has to offer. I suggest attending a First Saturdays' event to get the complete visitor's experience since admission is free after 5 PM. -
Review from Netta A.
11/14/2011 14 Check-ins Here
Everytime the Egyptian Exhibit came to this Museum I would go to see it so how happy do you think I was when I found out that the Museum will not have it has a permenant exhibit?! VERY HAPPY! The First Saturday's that they have here are perfect for those people that do not know if they would enjoy this museum but once inside with so ma\ny people they can see the beauty that I see.
It is a beautiful thing livng down the block form the museum because I have the pleasure of enjoying the inside and outside of this museum! A great place to take the children at night because the fountain is on with lights and the vibes are always relaxed. -
Review from Stefanie D.
Beechurst, Queens, NY
1/17/2012
This museum is amazing; I had to come here for an intensive writing course I was taking, and I'm so glad it was mandatory. This museum is clean, organized, and interesting. I came with some friends and it was amazing.
I came here for the Takashi Murakami exhibit, but I also saw other interesting exhibits. They had Louis Vuitton bags on display, with Murakami's signature cherry design. There was also a feminist exhibition with plates that resembled the female anatomy. By far, Murakami's exhibit was one of the most interesting and eye-opening. I also sat in on a lecture from a woman who studied Murakami's art and was able to learn more about women and their portrayal in modern Japanese culture.
The museum itself is aesthetically pleasing in terms of its architecture, so you can only imagine how much nicer it is on the inside. It is right next to the Brooklyn Botanical Garden, so, on a nice day, you could see both of these with ease. I went in the Spring, and there were beautiful cherry blossoms planted on the sidewalk. Additionally, the Brooklyn Library is a 2-minute walk from the museum, and on good days, they have a farmer's market by the traffic circle.
The whole area where the Brooklyn Museum is located is much nicer than the area you pass while driving down Flatbush Avenue. I have only fond memories here. I would recommend this museum to anyone who enjoys art and eye-opening exhibits. -
Review from Will R.
1/17/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Perhaps the best kept secret in NYC? I think so. After visiting all the heavy hitters after my first few weeks here many years ago (6) I made my conclusions as to which ones I would be a regular at: The Met, The Frick, The Museum of Natural History, and of course my beloved Brooklyn Museum. I took my Mom here once when she visited, she explained "Why would you want to go anywhere else in this city, there are no crowds, no crazy tourists, no lines" I think she put it best. They have a stunning collection that spans quite a broad range. Ever since my first visit the curation and exhibition spaces have continuously improved. I cannot wait for African wing to completely reopen, that will probably be jaw droppingly good. The Egyptian Wing is as strong as the Met, minus their Temple of Dendur of course. The American wing has a very funky non traditional curation which I think is great. The special exhibition cycle showcases such diversity- international stars all the way to unknown Brooklyn artists in their new "Raw" series (now when in the hell are they giving me a show dammit!!!)
The only time one should be wary of coming is on first Saturday, I know that sounds shocking but I enjoy a museum when there is space and quiet to contemplate the images and objects. That said first Saturdays here are definite tourist/ local hipster attractions. If you want trendiness then this would be your thing. It's not for me.
Remember the admission is like the Met- only suggested so if your not a hedgefunder or a trustafarian (hahaha) pay 'em a dollar.
The absolute highlights: (From a very biased Artist/ Professor)
1. Rodin in the lobby atrium (maybe the best overall cast of the Burghers of Callais)
2. The Egyptian Wing
3. The African Wing (could possibly be at the top of the list once they reopen it)
4. Assyrian reliefs
5. Indian Sculptures
6. American Wing (including visible storage)
This is an amazing place, if you've been to the other museums and you find them stuffy or hard to navigate The Brooklyn will be for you. Enjoy. -
Review from Nicole N.
10/24/2011 1 Check-in Here
When I checked in here, it was for the Caribbean brassfest which was awesome. But the museum is so much more to me. I have gone here on numerous occasions, and still enjoy the exhibits. I think its great, that Brooklyn can offer such a treasure, that many come to see. They have a pretty good collection of Egyptian art as well as a real sarcophagus.
I have never attended the First Saturdays, which are definitely a cultural scene, that I may have to take part in one of these Saturdays. -
Review from Gabrielle C.
New York, NY
7/26/2011
Brooklyn Museum is to the Met what Disneyland is to Disneyworld. (amirite?)
it's smaller (you can cover the whole museum in one big visit without feeling overwhelmed), it's never too crowded (i've never had to wait in line) and only a buck minimum donation required! (i think that's the same at the Met, but the judgey glare is much less pointed at the Brooklyn Museum, for sure).
I love the African masks, the stained glass, and the Dinner Party every time. Also wonderful touring exhibits (my favorite so far has been the Normal Rockwell one and the found photos). And tons of free events during the summer (free live music and talks and cool stuff for families).
Only thing is I've gotten lost pretty much every visit. Could use a few more signs directing the way to the stairs/elevator. -
Review from Tonya C.
10/21/2011
I came here for First Saturdays when I first came to Brooklyn. The event itself was really cool. It's a good time to see the museum, hear some discussions, have a drink and dance to the live music at the dance party. It's free and a must do if you get a chance.
Now the museum itself. I like the museum. It is beautifully structured outside and very pretty inside. They have some really good exhibits. In a city with the MOMA and the Guggenheim, it doesn't really match up. Don't get me wrong- it is not bad at all, but it's also not top of the list in NY. I don't know if I would've gone had I not gone on the free day and I'm sure the next time I go it'll be another First Saturday. -
Review from Dee B.
6/30/2011
*4.5 stars*
Wonderful museum! I was particularly excited to see Judy Chicago's "The Dinner Party."Listed in: A few fabulous days in NYC
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Review from Lili K.
This is a HUGE museum! The outside part reminds me a bit of DC museums + the way the Highline is set up. There's tons of seating and clean grass to have a mini picnic/read a book/lounge around.
Inside, there are a TON of rooms to check out-rooms of rooms (with their unique furniture), what looks like a very creatively decorated canopy (photo attached since I used to own one!), a half burnt up painting (I thought that was quite artistic), to other random objects and paintings. There was a back, dimly lit room filled with more furniture, which reminded me of the MET. Another section had a huge dining hall, with each plate symbolizing a woman's treasures through different depictions, dedicated to a well-known female (ie Emily Dickinson & Virginia Woolf). I thought that was pretty interesting.
There's also a section of coffins, mummy wraps, statues with the noses cut off (you find out why that's so common), a small Asian section, huge structures that look like mushrooms/parachutes, etc etc. I liked how there weren't really any staff members in most of the rooms-sometimes you feel pressured knowing there's one in each section just waiting to yell out, "No pictures!" at you.
Suggested donation.Listed in: free spots
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Review from David E.
Brooklyn, NY
Living two blocks from the Museum, I pass by it quite often and am always fascinated by its large, columned facade and its modern glass entrance. It sits right next to the Botanic Gardens and is a stones throw from the Central Library and Prospect Park, making it ideal to stop by if you're in the vicinity. It is quite large inside and never seems as populated as the Met, a big bonus to ease the traffic as you walk through the exhibits.
I absolutely love the water fountains right outside the front of the museum. Designed by the 'WET' Group, it spouts off from at least 20 different points, and creates a cascading effect that changes patterns throughout the day. Stadium seating is provided for onlookers and there is no ticket needed. Bring a sack lunch and your afternoon is set! -
Review from T M.
Brooklyn, NY
2/7/2012 4 Check-ins Here
A wonderful place to go to spend time and get some culture. Target Free Saturdays are a must.
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Review from Michelle L.
Brooklyn, NY
7/16/2011
Great museum to visit, especially if you live in Brooklyn and crave some culture but are too lazy to go into the city. :P
They have a great permanent collection, specifically their Egyptian art. Certain areas of the museum are a bit dated, but for the most part, the exhibitions have an updated look and are well put together.
I particularly liked their visible storage/study center, where you can see how they store items that they don't have space for in current exhibitions. It feels like you are given exclusive access to items that are not currently displayed!
My only complaint is that the layout is a bit weird and can be a bit confusing to navigate. Other than that, there are some bad ass paintings here that you don't want to miss. AND, it's not as crowded as all the other Manhattan museums! For a good dose of culture without all the tourists, come here. :) -
Review from Nils M.
4/1/2012
Brooklyn Museum is awesome. It's an impressive building with a great varied regular collection. Special exhibitions, like the Keith Haring we went to see, are presented very well and it is a real joy to go to a gallery on a Sunday and not be surrounded by throngs of people - makes the whole experience so much more pleasant.
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Review from Vandal S.
Forest Hills, Queens, NY
2/22/2012
My favorite NYC area art museum.
What I love about the Brooklyn Museum is that it is relatively inclusive. No matter where you come from, there's a pretty good chance this museum has work by your people somewhere on the walls. This institution realizes it is serving one of the most diverse populations on the planet. Most NYC museums either just don't get that or treat non-Europeans as if we're unable to create high art that deserves a place in their permanent collections.
No matter what you want to look at, this place probably has it. African art, mummies, Judy Chicago (at least currently - special exhibition), paintings by African Americans, 19th century furniture, early 20th century fashion drawings - I could go on and on. I had never ventured into the Sackler storage room until today - WOW! Whoever designed that area did a truly awesome job.
This museum readily embraces technology making it seem more modern than most in the area. iPads all over the place! Enter the catalog number of a piece and you are given the description.
So worth every visit I've made. -
Review from Richard D.
New York, NY
6/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
One of the better musuems in NYC!
Going through this place reminded me a bit of the British Museum (especially the Egyptian exhibits).
I liked the huge rooms and house replicas.
The museum itself is pretty, and you can get pretty tired walking around if you try and read everything. -
Review from Jessica P.
Somersworth, NH
9/11/2011
The museum itself has some nice gems like the Dinner Table (i think that's what it's called?)
My only issue? I've called here various times for random questions and it's a mess. I end up bouncing around for a long time before I get to someone who still has no clue what I need. It can be frustrating. -
Review from Jenna R.
Brooklyn, NY
1/22/2012
Been coming here religiously for the past 5 years of my life. By far my favorite museum. Interesting and exciting exhibits, you can spend a whole day here. Egyptian exhibit is amazing. *Rarely* any crowds, complimentary coat check, and bathrooms are clean and not smelly. A+ for organization.
