Whitney Museum of American Art

Overview

The Whitney Museum of American Art is the preeminent museum dedicated exclusively to 20th and 21st-century American art, housed in a striking Renzo Piano-designed building in the Meatpacking District.

Highlights

• The Building: Renzo Piano's asymmetric industrial-chic design features expansive outdoor terraces on multiple levels with stunning views of the Hudson River and the High Line.
• Whitney Biennial: The most prestigious survey of contemporary American art, held every two years since 1932, often defining — and provoking — the national art conversation.
• Edward Hopper Collection: The world's largest collection of works by Edward Hopper, donated by his widow, including iconic paintings like A Woman in the Sun.

History

Founded in 1931 by sculptor and art patron Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney after the Metropolitan Museum rejected her collection of American art. The museum moved to its current building in 2015.

Visitor Tips

• Terraces: The outdoor terraces are free to access even without a museum ticket and offer excellent views.
• High Line Start: The museum sits at the southern terminus of the High Line, making it a perfect starting point for the elevated park walk.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.