MoMA has been collecting animation since long before it was respectable, and this new gallery show pulls a century of it out of the vaults in one place. Because it opened at the start of August it is still in its fresh, uncrowded phase. If you have kids, or if you have ever argued that animation is the most technically inventive art form of the last hundred years, this is the room that makes the case.
What to expect
Expect a mix of screens, drawings, cels and design material rather than a continuous programme of films. Visitors dip in and out, so it works well as a break between the bigger temporary shows. It is one of the more family-friendly galleries in the building.
Good to know
- Take the E/M to Fifth Avenue-53rd Street or the B/D/F/M to Rockefeller Center
- Reserve a timed general admission slot online before you go
- New York State residents get free evening admission each Friday, booked in advance
- One of the better MoMA galleries for children, with plenty of moving images
- Fully accessible by elevator
- MoMA also runs a regular film programme downstairs, ticketed separately
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Common questions
Is it a film screening programme?
No. It is a gallery exhibition of animation drawn from MoMA's collection, though the museum also runs a separate film programme.
Is it good for kids?
Yes. It is among the most child-friendly galleries currently at MoMA.
How long does it run?
MoMA lists it as opening August 1, 2026 and running into summer 2027.
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