Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum

★★★★☆ 4.4 | 3160 reviews | 572 views

Business Details

Accessibility
Assisted listening devices
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair rental
Service options
Onsite services
Highlights
Active military discounts
Live performances
Offerings
Gift shop
Amenities
Cafe
Offers tours
Restaurant
Restroom
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Crowd
Family-friendly
LGBTQ+ friendly
Transgender safespace
Payments
Admission fee
Children
Discounts for kids
Good for kids
Parking
Paid street parking

About

**Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum: A Hub of Innovation and Creativity in Manhattan**

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan’s Upper East Side, the **Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum** stands as a beacon for design enthusiasts, innovators, and curious minds alike.

Housed in the historic Andrew Carnegie Mansion on Fifth Avenue, this renowned institution is the only museum in the United States exclusively dedicated to historical and contemporary design.

With its unique blend of immersive exhibits, cutting-edge technology, and an extensive collection spanning centuries of design history, Cooper Hewitt offers visitors an unparalleled experience that bridges art, technology, and functionality.**A Rich History Meets Modern Innovation**The museum’s origins date back to 1897 when it was founded by Sarah and Eleanor Hewitt, granddaughters of industrialist Peter Cooper.

Their vision was to create a space where students and professionals could study decorative arts and design. Today, that legacy continues with a modern twist.

The museum underwent a major renovation in 2014, transforming its historic mansion into a state-of-the-art facility while preserving its architectural charm.

Visitors can marvel at original details like ornate woodwork and stained glass windows while exploring galleries filled with interactive displays.**World-Class Exhibitions and Collections**Cooper Hewitt boasts an impressive permanent collection featuring over 215,000 objects that span more than 30 centuries of design history.

From textiles and furniture to graphic design and digital media, the museum showcases works from around the globe that highlight innovation across cultures and time periods.

Temporary exhibitions rotate regularly, offering fresh perspectives on topics such as sustainable design, emerging technologies, or influential designers who have shaped our world.One of the museum’s standout features is its use of technology to enhance visitor engagement.

The **Pen**, an innovative digital tool provided to every guest upon entry, allows users to interact with exhibits in new ways by saving designs they admire or creating their own virtual sketches.

This personalized approach ensures that each visit feels unique.**A Destination for All Ages**Beyond its galleries, Cooper Hewitt serves as an educational hub with programs designed for all ages.

Families can participate in hands-on workshops that encourage creativity through activities like crafting or coding. Meanwhile, professionals can attend lectures or networking events focused on industry trends.

The museum also collaborates with schools to inspire young learners through STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) initiatives.For those seeking a moment of tranquility amidst New York City’s hustle and bustle, the Arthur Ross Terrace & Garden provides a serene outdoor space where visitors can relax while enjoying seasonal installations or simply soaking up the beauty of nature.**Plan Your Visit**Conveniently located at 2 East 91st Street near Central Park’s northern edge, Cooper Hewitt is easily accessible by public transportation or car.

Its proximity to other cultural landmarks makes it an ideal stop during a day exploring Manhattan’s rich artistic heritage.Whether you’re a seasoned designer looking for inspiration or someone new to the world of design eager to learn more about its impact on everyday life, Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum promises an unforgettable journey into creativity and innovation.---### ** .spinner_b2T7 { animation: spinner_xe7Q .8s linear infinite } .spinner_YRVV { animation-delay: -.65s } .spinner_c9oY { animation-delay: -.5s } @keyframes spinner_xe7Q { 93.75%, 100% { r: 3px } 46.875% { r:.2px } }

Technical Info

Machine ID /m/03yp5s
Feature ID 0x89c258a2492a3fb1:0x2028546238b46dfa
Created 04 Jan 2025
Updated 03 Sep 2026

Most Visited Museum Businesses in Upper East Side Manhattan