Patch Picks: Top 5 NY Museums

Now that we can be outside without perspiration, it’s a good idea to find something of significance to enjoy. Luckily for us, there are numerous cultural institutions in New York and they are just a train, bus or car ride away. This week, Sachem Patch fills you in on museums that you should visit soon.

Sachem Patch recommends the Top 5 NY Museums:

1. American Museum of Natural History: With the introduction of the FOX show “Terra Nova,” dinosaurs are once again the fascination and the Museum of Natural History has tapped into that interest with a new exhibit, “The World’s Largest Dinosaurs.” The exhibit even includes evidence of the Mamenchisaurus, a dinosaur that is said to be the largest to walk the earth. Visitors can learn about how they lived and moved millions of years ago. Admission: $21; Children, $12.50; Seniors, $16.50; Students, $16.50, but less than the suggested donation can be paid at the museum.
2. Museum of Modern Art: Until November 7, there is a fascinating exhibit that examines the way technology and people interact, and the design elements that effect this interaction (Bonus: Frank Warren’s Post Secret project is part of the exhibit). Also, a very extensive exhibit focusing on the life of Willem de Kooning is on display until January 2012. The almost 200 paintings, sculptures, drawings and prints on display span over seven decades and show how his art developed over the years. Admission, if purchased online: $16.50; Children under 16, free; Seniors, $16; Students, $12.
3. Long Island Children’s Museum: If your kids don’t like art yet or can’t be trusted near priceless gems, the Children’s Museum is a great choice for a weekend adventure. Currently, there is a traveling exhibit focusing on the fantastic entitled, “Dragons and Fairies.” This exhibit showcases the magical folktales that have been passed down from generation to generation in Vietnam. There is also a “Ghostly Gala” Halloween party on October 29 for kids to enjoy. Admission: $11; Seniors, $10.
4. Long Island Museum of American Art, History and Carriages: Located on 25A in Stony Brook, this local museum has rotating exhibits that represent our nation. Right now, there is an exhibit with the works of Long Island artist William Sidney Mount on display. His paintings show the political instability and the social separation that was prevalent during his time. The exhibit is divided into three sections: Economic Growth, Politics and Changing Society. Admission: $9; Children under 6, free; Seniors, $7; Students, $4.
5. Islip Art Museum: The closest of all museums on the list, the Islip Art Museum has a permanent collection of local artists from Long Island and the tri-state area. The artwork includes an array of media and the visiting exhibits have their own unique quality, while still keeping a connection to Long Island. “Secret Messages,” the current exhibit, incorporates coding, like spy signals, Braille and binary code, into artwork. There are approximately five exhibits rotating in and out of the museum annually. Admission: $3.