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Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum

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At a Glance

Time Needed: 120 min.

Ages: All

Allows Food/Drink: No

Luggage Storage: No

Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum is a must-visit destination for any tourist interested in design, art, and history. Located in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, the museum is housed in the former residence of industrialist Andrew Carnegie and boasts a vast collection of over 210,000 design objects. Visitors can explore the museum's permanent collection, which showcases a range of design objects from various fields, including textiles, furniture, product design, and graphic design. The museum's exhibitions are also renowned for their innovative and immersive design, which makes for a unique and engaging experience. Aside from the collection and exhibitions, Cooper Hewitt also offers interactive and educational programming for visitors of all ages, including workshops, talks, and guided tours. This is a great opportunity for tourists to learn more about design and its impact on society and culture. Overall, Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in design and its history, and it offers a truly unique and enriching experience for visitors of all backgrounds.

2 E 91st St, New York, NY 10128 Get Directions





Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum Videos

For visual descriptions, please visit: https://youtu.be/LbtfTMIaU_c This 1946 entry of the "Unusual Occupations" series follows American textile designer, color authority and master weaver Dorothy Liebes and details her hand weaving process. Dorothy Liebes, A DARK, A LIGHT, A BRIGHT is now on view through Sunday, February 4, 2024

An Introduction to the Smithsonian's Youth Innovation in Rural America Toolkits. These free resources were developed by Smithsonian's Museum on Main Street and Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum and offer educators tools to work with youth and build connections to communities. Download the Designing for Change Toolkits: https://www.cooperhewitt.org/publications/designing-for-change-toolkit/ Download the Youth Innovation in Rural America Toolkits https://museumonmainstreet.org/YIRAResources

In celebration of Pride Month, join designer Adam Nathaniel Furman and architecture historian Joshua Mardell, editors of the recent publication Queer Spaces: An Atlas of LGBTQIA+ Places and Stories, to discuss why queer spaces are so important and how they compiled the diverse and international selection of spaces included in the book. For Queer Spaces, Furman and Mardell gathered together a community of contributors to share stories of spaces that range from the educational to the institutional to the re-appropriated, and more. With historic, contemporary, and speculative examples from around the world, Queer Spaces recognizes LGBTQIA+ life past and present as strong, vibrant, vigorous, and worthy of its own place in history. Looking forward, it suggests visions of what form these spaces may take in the future to continue uplifting queer lives. Adam Nathaniel Furman Furman is an artist and designer based in London who founded an atelier that creates projects of all scales from plates to skyscrapers, in various locations around the world from Tokyo to Milan. Dr. Joshua Mardell Mardell is an architectural historian. He is a Research Tutor in the School of Architecture at the Royal College of Art, and co-editor of the Journal of Architecture. He has published widely on 19th and 20th century architecture including in AA Files, Architectural History, The Journal of Architecture, and the Antiquaries Journal. George Benson (Moderator), Assistant Educator, Learning & Engagement Department, The Museum of Modern Art George Benson has worked at some of the largest museums in the world, advocating for greater representation of LGBTQIA+ people, history, and culture in each of them. At The British Museum, Benson advised on their first LGBTQIA+ exhibition, which overviewed 10,000 years of queer history from across the world. At The Museum of Modern Art, Benson co-wrote their first ever public queer tour, inviting participants to discuss what makes an artwork queer. Benson has also written for the NYC LGBT Historic Sites project, a nonprofit organization that documents sites of historical significance to the LGBTQIA+ community across NYC. This event  is made possible with major support from PwC Charitable Foundation.

Dorothy Liebes was one of the most influential designers of the 20th century. This overview of her career as a handweaver, textile designer, and color authority explores her impact on the fields of architecture and interior design, fashion, and film.

Designer and weaver Dorothy Liebes (1897–1972), who introduced handcraft and brilliant color to the modern interior, was among the most influential designers of the 20th century. The “Liebes Look”—which combined vivid color, lush texture, and often a glint of metallic—became inextricably linked with the American modern aesthetic. Liebes collaborated with the most prominent architects and designers of the mid-20th century, shaping American tastes in areas from interiors to transportation and industrial design, fashion, and film, and worked with dozens of U.S. firms to make her fabrics available at affordable prices. Despite widespread recognition during her lifetime, the details of her long and productive career are largely unknown. This exhibition will establish for the first time the full scope of her contributions as a designer, collaborator, mentor, public figure, and tireless promoter of American modernism. A Dark, A Light, A Bright: The Designs of Dorothy Liebes is made possible by The Coby Foundation; The Decorative Arts Trust; the Smithsonian American Women’s History Initiative, a program of the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum; and the Terra Foundation for American Art. The project received Federal support from the Smithsonian Collections Care and Preservation Fund, administered by the National Collections Program and the Smithsonian Collections Advisory Committee. Generous support is provided by the Lily Auchincloss Foundation; the Lenore G. Tawney Foundation; Mergentime Family Archive; and the Samuel H. Kress Foundation, administered by the Foundation for Advancement in Conservation. Support is also provided by Elizabeth Whelan, The Josef and Anni Albers Foundation, and Patsy Orlofsky.

The 2023 National High School Design Competition challenged high school students around the country to use design and data to support their community. Watch the finalists deliver their final presentations and stay tuned for the announcement of the winner at the end of the video. The finalists are: Yoona (Sarah) Lee, grade 11, St. Paul’s School, Concord, NH, and Yoojung (Claris) Shin, grade 10, Phillips Academy Andover, Andover, MA; Eleanor Lewis, grade 12, Design and Architecture Senior High, Miami, FL; and Rori Stanford, grade 12, Bergen County Academies, Hackensack, NJ. The judges are: Irene, Au, Design Partner, Khosla Ventures; Kristine Johnson, Co-Founder, Executive Director of Design, Cognition Studio, Inc.; Yeshimabeit Milner, Founder & Executive Director, Data for Black Lives; Maria Nicanor, Director, Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum; Eric Rodenbeck, Founding Partner, Stamen Design To learn more, visit www.cooperhewitt.org/designcompetition.

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Master Drawings New York Reveals 2024 Exhibitors and Early Highlights

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Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest subway stops to Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum

The closest subway stops to Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum at 2 E 91st St in New York City are:

1. 96th Street Station: Located on the Lexington Avenue Line (4, 5, and 6 trains), this station is just a short walk from the museum. Exit the station and head south on Lexington Avenue until you reach 91st Street, then make a left.

2. 86th Street Station: Also on the Lexington Avenue Line (4, 5, and 6 trains), this station is a bit further from the museum but still within walking distance. Exit the station and head north on Lexington Avenue until you reach 91st Street, then make a right.

Both of these subway stations are easily accessible and will get you to the museum conveniently. Remember to check for any subway updates or service changes before your visit. You can find the latest information on the official MTA website: MTA.info.

While you're in the area, I recommend exploring the beautiful Central Park, which is just a stone's throw away from the museum. Take a leisurely stroll through the park, rent a bike, or have a picnic on the Great Lawn. It's a great way to relax and enjoy nature in the heart of the city.

If you're feeling hungry after your museum visit, there are plenty of dining options nearby. Some popular choices include:

- Sarabeth's: A charming restaurant known for its delicious brunch options and homemade jams. It's located at 1295 Madison Avenue, just a few blocks south of the museum. Check out their menu and make a reservation at Sarabeth's Upper East Side.

- The Boathouse: Situated in Central Park, The Loeb Boathouse offers a picturesque setting for a meal. Enjoy classic American cuisine while overlooking the park's scenic lake. Visit their website for more information: The Central Park Boathouse.

I hope you have a fantastic time exploring the Cooper Hewitt Museum and the surrounding area!


What's the best way to get to Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum by bus?

The closest bus stops to Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum at 2 E 91st St in New York City are:

1. Madison Av/E 92 St: This bus stop is served by the M1, M2, M3, and M4 buses. You can check for updates on the MTA website [here](http://bustime.mta.info/).

2. Madison Av/E 89 St: This bus stop is served by the M1, M2, M3, and M4 buses as well. You can find bus updates on the MTA website [here](http://bustime.mta.info/).

Please note that bus routes and schedules are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for updates before your trip. Enjoy your visit to the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum!


How much time should I plan to spend at Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum?

The ideal length of time to plan for a visit to Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum in New York City is typically around 2-3 hours. This will give you enough time to explore the museum's extensive collection, engage with interactive exhibits, and fully immerse yourself in the world of design.

Cooper Hewitt offers a unique and interactive experience, allowing visitors to engage with design through various mediums such as textiles, furniture, graphics, and digital installations. Take your time to appreciate the intricate details and innovative concepts showcased throughout the museum.

If you're a design enthusiast or have a particular interest in a specific exhibition, you may want to allocate more time to fully explore and absorb everything the museum has to offer. Additionally, Cooper Hewitt often hosts temporary exhibitions and special events, so make sure to check their website for any upcoming highlights that might pique your interest.

Remember, it's always a good idea to check the museum's hours of operation and plan your visit accordingly. Enjoy your time at Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum and embrace the creativity and inspiration that awaits you!


Can I bring food and drinks into Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum?

Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum in New York City allows visitors to bring their own food and drinks into the museum. However, they kindly request that you enjoy your refreshments in designated areas such as the garden or outdoor spaces. Additionally, there is a café located on-site where you can purchase food and beverages if you prefer. So whether you want to bring your own snacks or indulge in the museum's offerings, you have options to satisfy your hunger and thirst while exploring the world of design at Cooper Hewitt.


Does Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum offer luggage storage?

Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum in New York City does not have a luggage storage facility on site. However, there are several options available nearby for storing your luggage while you visit the museum.

One convenient option is to use a luggage storage service such as LuggageHero or Vertoe. These services allow you to securely store your bags at nearby businesses, such as hotels or shops, for a small fee. You can easily find and book these services online or through their mobile apps.

Another option is to check if your hotel offers luggage storage for its guests. Many hotels in the city provide this service, allowing you to store your bags before check-in or after check-out.

If you prefer to explore other attractions before or after your visit to the museum, you can also find luggage storage facilities at major transportation hubs such as Penn Station or Grand Central Terminal. These facilities typically charge a fee based on the size and duration of storage.

Remember to plan ahead and check the operating hours and policies of any luggage storage service you choose, as they may vary. By utilizing these options, you can enjoy your visit to Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum without the burden of carrying your luggage around.


Is Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum a good place to visit for foreign travelers who are not native English speakers?

Yes, the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum is a fantastic destination for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. While English is the primary language used in the museum, they offer several resources and services to make the experience enjoyable for everyone.

Firstly, the museum provides multilingual audio guides that offer detailed explanations of the exhibits in various languages. This allows non-English speakers to fully understand and appreciate the artwork and design on display.

Additionally, the museum offers informative brochures and maps in multiple languages, making it easier for visitors to navigate the museum and learn about the different exhibitions.

The staff at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum is also very helpful and accommodating. They are accustomed to assisting visitors from all over the world and are happy to answer any questions or provide guidance in multiple languages.

Overall, the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum is a welcoming and inclusive destination for visitors of all backgrounds. Whether you are a non-English speaker or from another country, you can expect to have a fulfilling and enjoyable experience exploring the world of design at this remarkable museum.


What ages are appropriate for Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum?

The Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum in New York City is a fantastic destination for visitors of all ages! While the museum does not have a specific recommended age range, it offers a wide range of exhibits and interactive experiences that can be enjoyed by both children and adults.

For families with young children, the museum has a dedicated space called the "Process Lab" where kids can engage in hands-on design activities and explore their creativity. Additionally, the museum offers family-friendly programs and workshops throughout the year, making it a great educational experience for children.

Adults and design enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy at the Cooper Hewitt. The museum houses an extensive collection of design objects spanning various periods and styles, including furniture, textiles, and digital media. There are also temporary exhibitions that showcase contemporary design and explore different aspects of the field.

Overall, the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum offers something for everyone, regardless of age. So whether you're traveling with kids or visiting on your own, be sure to add this unique cultural institution to your itinerary!


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