Tips for Thanksgiving Week

Thank you for visiting the Museum this Thanksgiving holiday!

For the most enjoyable experience during a very busy week, we’ve compiled a list of quick tips—including days with the best availabilities, how to get discounts in Museum shops, and more.

Did you know? 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. 

Don’t forget: the new entrance at Columbus Avenue and 79th Street, through the Museum’s Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation, has the shortest entry times.

Monday, November 25

Tuesday, November 26

Wednesday, November 27

  • The Museum is open for regular operating hours, but there are some changes for visitors due to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade balloon inflation, which takes place on the streets around the Museum the day before the parade:
    • The Museum’s parking garage is closed. 
    • Beginning in early morning, 77th and 81st Street will be closed to traffic, and NYPD will close sidewalks around the Museum.
    • Subway service to the 81st Street B/C station will be interrupted. For updates, please check the MTA website.
  • Please note: visitors will only be able to enter the Museum from Central Park West. For wheelchair accessibility, please proceed down the driveway, entering the Museum through the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Hall on Floor 1.
  • Members can use the Member Entrance on the lower level of Central Park West for expedited entry.
  • The entry point to view the balloon inflation is located at 72nd Street.

Thursday, November 28: The Museum is closed for Thanksgiving. 

  • The Museum's parking garage is closed until 1 pm due to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Friday, November 29

  • Enjoy extended hours: The Museum is open from 9 am–5:30 pm. 

Saturday, November 30

  • Enjoy extended hours: The Museum is open from 9 am–5:30 pm. 

Sunday, December 1

  • The Museum is open regular hours, from 10 am–5:30 pm.

Reserve Tickets »

More Tips for Visitors:

Check out Plan Your Visit for public transportation information.