MoMA PS1 Offers Free Admission for Three Years Starting 2026

MoMA PS1, located in Long Island City, New York, has announced an initiative to provide free admission to all visitors from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2028. This new policy, which marks the institution’s fiftieth anniversary, is made possible by a generous gift of $900,000 from creative strategist and art collector Sonya Yu.

Since 2015, the museum has offered free admission to New Yorkers, while other visitors have been encouraged to pay a suggested fee. By eliminating entry costs for everyone, MoMA PS1 aims to significantly increase attendance. According to the New York Times, annual visitor numbers have already rebounded to pre-pandemic levels of approximately 150,000. The museum projects that it will welcome 180,000 visitors annually by the end of 2026 and strive to reach 500,000 within five years.

Encouraging Broader Participation

MoMA PS1’s director, Connie Butler, emphasized the importance of accessibility, stating, “We know that contemporary art on its own is not going to necessarily always bring in the numbers, but over time, this will welcome people.” Butler expressed a desire for families to feel comfortable visiting the museum, noting, “We want people to bring their strollers on the weekend and come into the museum without any barriers.”

The initiative is designed to foster a casual atmosphere where visitors can experience various programs and exhibitions without financial constraints. Yu highlighted the current economic climate, remarking, “In today’s landscape, people have to constantly do math like, ‘Am I paying for my Netflix account, or am I paying for eggs?’” This sentiment underscores the initiative’s goal to encourage casual visits from individuals who may have limited time to engage with art and culture.

Upcoming Initiatives to Attract Visitors

To further enhance visitor engagement, MoMA PS1 has planned several initiatives for the upcoming year. Among them is the Greater New York exhibition, a quinquennial survey showcasing New York-based artists. Additionally, the museum will host a summer gala and expand its popular Warm Up summer music series, which has drawn large crowds in previous years.

By offering free admission and introducing engaging programs, MoMA PS1 aims to become a cultural hub that invites diverse audiences to explore contemporary art in a welcoming environment. The museum’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement reflects a growing trend among cultural institutions to prioritize audience development and inclusivity.