Holiday Visit Tips

Thank you for visiting the Museum during the 2026 holiday season! For the most enjoyable experience during a very busy time, we have extended hours on select dates, and we've compiled some quick tips.

Museum Members can use a dedicated entrance for expedited entry and receive free admission to all ticketed exhibitions, plus discounts in the shops, cafes, and the Restaurant at Gilder. Not a Member? Join today.  

Thanksgiving Week

  • Monday, November 23, The Origami Holiday Tree opens to the public.
  • Visit Monday, November 23, or Tuesday, November 24, for best availability.
  • On Wednesday, November 25, streets around the Museum will be closed for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade balloon inflation. 
    • Due to street closures, the parking garage will also be closed.
    • Visitors must use entrances on Central Park West.  
    • Subway service may be affected. Please check mta.info for updates. 
  • The Museum is closed on Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 26. 
  • Extended holiday hours from Friday, November 28–Sunday, November 30.

Christmas Week

  • The Museum is closed on Christmas Day, Friday, December 25.
  • Extended holiday hours from Saturday, December 26–Wednesday, December 30.
  • The Museum is open with regular hours on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.

Directions, Dining, and More

  • Download our free Explorer app for turn-by-turn directions and highlights.  
  • Make a reservation to dine at the Restaurant at Gilder. 
  • Storage lockers for coats, shopping bags, and other personal items, located on the lower level of the Rose Center for Earth and Space, are available for rent, from 10 am through 5 pm. 
  • Visit the Accessibility section to learn more about Museum facilities, resources, and programs, including a new Sensory Room, located on Floor 1.