Museum of Arts and Design (MAD)
The Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) is much more than just a unique building on Columbus Circle: it’s a beacon of contemporary creativity in the heart of Manhattan. Dedicated to celebrating art, design, and craft, this museum offers a unique perspective on how materials and processes shape our world. ✨ Known for its innovative exhibitions and focus on manual creation, MAD represents the convergence of art and functionality.
Strategically located at 2 Columbus Circle, right on the southwest corner of Central Park, MAD is a must-visit for lovers of design, craft, and contemporary art. Whether you’re interested in jewelry, ceramics, glass, or furniture, its intimate atmosphere and fascinating collections make it an enriching experience that connects craft tradition with cutting-edge design. 🏺🖼️
Why Visit the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD)?
Visiting MAD means immersing yourself in a world where manual skill and artistic vision meet. It’s a unique place in New York that focuses on the creative process and materials as protagonists. Here, the boundaries between functional and decorative art are explored, showcasing works that challenge conventions and celebrate innovation.
Its cultural importance lies in its dedication to disciplines often underrepresented in major art museums. MAD provides a vital platform for artists and designers working with ceramics, glass, textiles, metal, and wood, showcasing both historical figures and emerging talents. Additionally, its prime location offers spectacular views of Columbus Circle and Central Park from its upper floors. 🏙️
MAD is also a symbol of architectural and cultural renewal. Occupying a redesigned modernist building, it has established itself as a vibrant center for exhibitions, educational programs, and public events that attract visitors from around the world interested in the intersection of art and design in everyday life. If you want a different and stimulating artistic experience, this is the place for you.
How to Get to the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) by Subway?
Main Stations
The main station providing direct access to MAD is 59th St–Columbus Circle, located just below the intersection of the same name. This station is a major interchange connecting multiple subway lines and leaves you just steps from the museum entrance. 🚇
Subway Lines That Take You to MAD
MAD is perfectly connected by the New York City subway, with several lines stopping at the 59th St–Columbus Circle station. The lines that take you directly to this destination are:
- 1 (red line)
- A, B, C, D (orange and blue lines)
How to Get to MAD From:
Central Park / Columbus Circle
If you are in Central Park or already at Columbus Circle, you’ve arrived! The museum is located at 2 Columbus Circle, easily recognizable by its distinctive facade. Just cross the street. 😉
Lower Manhattan (Wall Street / World Trade Center)
From Wall Street or the World Trade Center, you can take the 1 line (northbound) directly to 59th St–Columbus Circle. Alternatively, you can take the A or C line (northbound), which also stop at the same station.
Brooklyn (DUMBO / Williamsburg)
From DUMBO, you can take the A or C line at High St directly to 59th St–Columbus Circle. From Williamsburg, you can take the L line to 14th St–Union Sq and transfer to the 1 line (northbound), or take the G line to Hoyt–Schermerhorn Sts and transfer to the A or C line (northbound).
Queens (Long Island City / Flushing)
If coming from Long Island City, you can take the E line to 7th Ave and transfer to the B or D line (northbound) to 59th St–Columbus Circle. From Flushing, the 7 line takes you to Times Sq–42 St, where you can transfer to the 1 line (northbound).
Harlem
From Harlem, you can take the A, B, C, D, or 1 lines southbound directly to the 59th St–Columbus Circle station. It’s a quick and direct trip.
Airports (JFK / LaGuardia / Newark)
From JFK Airport, take the AirTrain to the Howard Beach station and transfer to the A line (northbound) to 59th St–Columbus Circle. From LaGuardia (LGA), take the Q70 LaGuardia Link bus to Jackson Hts–Roosevelt Av and transfer to the E line (Manhattan-bound) to 7th Ave, then transfer to the B or D (northbound). From Newark (EWR), take NJ Transit to Penn Station and then the A, C, or 1 line (northbound) to 59th St–Columbus Circle. ✈️
What to Do at the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD)?
MAD is a fascinating destination, not only for its prime location but also for its unique focus on material creativity. It offers a variety of experiences that will connect you with the world of contemporary art, craft, and design. Changing exhibitions, permanent collections, and stunning views await you.
Explore the Temporary Exhibitions
MAD’s temporary exhibitions are one of its biggest draws. They often feature innovative artists and designers from around the world, exploring contemporary themes through various media such as ceramics, glass, jewelry, textiles, and furniture. There’s always something new and surprising to discover! 🤩
Visit the Permanent Collections
MAD houses a significant permanent collection, with a special emphasis on contemporary jewelry (one of the best in the world 💍), glass art, ceramics, and wood and metalwork. Explore the dedicated galleries to appreciate the mastery and evolution of these disciplines.
Admire the Views from the Museum
Don’t miss the stunning views of Columbus Circle and Central Park from the upper gallery windows. It’s a perfect place to take a break, reflect on the art, and enjoy a unique perspective of one of New York’s most iconic corners. 📸
Participate in Programs and Workshops
MAD regularly offers artist talks, panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and special events. Check their calendar before your visit in case there’s an activity that interests you and you want to delve deeper into the world of design and craft. 🧑🎨
Visit the MAD Store
The museum store, The Store at MAD, is a destination in itself. It offers a curated selection of design objects, artist-made jewelry, books, and unique gifts created by artists and designers from around the world. It’s the perfect place to find a special and original souvenir. 🛍️
Attractions Near the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD)
MAD enjoys an exceptional location on Columbus Circle, surrounded by some of New York’s most important cultural and leisure attractions. If you decide to explore the surroundings after your museum visit, you’ll find a wide variety of interesting places within walking distance.
Columbus Circle
Columbus Circle itself is an attraction, with its monument to Christopher Columbus at the center and its fountains. It’s a major traffic hub and a vibrant public space, right at the entrance to Central Park.
Central Park
Directly opposite MAD is the southwest entrance to Central Park. You can take a relaxing stroll, rent a bike, visit Strawberry Fields (the memorial to John Lennon), or simply enjoy a green oasis in the middle of the city. 🌳
The Shops at Columbus Circle
Located in the Deutsche Bank Center complex (formerly Time Warner Center), this elegant shopping center houses luxury stores, renowned restaurants (like Per Se and Masa), and a large Whole Foods Market in the basement. It’s perfect for shopping or grabbing a bite to eat.
Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
A short walk northwest is the Lincoln Center, the city’s premier performing arts complex, home to the Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Ballet, and the New York Philharmonic. You can admire its architecture or even attend a performance. 🎭🎻
Carnegie Hall
A few blocks southeast, at the corner of Seventh Avenue and 57th Street, is the legendary Carnegie Hall, one of the world’s most prestigious concert halls, famous for its exceptional acoustics.
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Although it requires a slightly longer walk (about 10-15 minutes southeast), MoMA is another essential cultural visit in the area, with its vast collection of modern and contemporary art.
Tips for Visiting the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD)
Although MAD is a relatively easy museum to navigate, there are a few things you can keep in mind to make the most of your visit and enjoy everything this unique space has to offer.
Best Time of Day to Go
If you prefer a quieter visit, try going on a weekday morning, shortly after opening. Weekends and afternoons tend to be busier. Always check the opening hours on their official website, as they can vary. 🗓️
Avoiding Crowds
MAD doesn’t usually have the overwhelming crowds of other major museums, but popular temporary exhibitions can attract more people. Buying tickets online in advance can help you avoid lines at the ticket counter. The upper galleries are usually quieter.
Security and Museum Rules
As in most museums, there will likely be a security check at the entrance. Large backpacks and long umbrellas usually need to be checked in the coatroom. Generally, touching the artworks is not allowed. Photography without flash is usually permitted in the permanent collection galleries, but there may be restrictions in temporary exhibitions (check the signage). 🚫📸
What to Bring and What Not To
Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be standing and walking through the galleries. A light jacket might be useful, as museums often have air conditioning. Don’t forget your phone or camera to capture the views and permitted artworks. Avoid bringing food or drinks into the galleries (there is a cafe/restaurant in the museum). Consider bringing headphones if you prefer to listen to audio guides if available. 🎧
