Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Beyond Art: Great Entertainment at 12 Top New York City Museums

By Jacquelin Carnegie
Breaking the Waves, Works & Process,
The Guggenheim

In museums all over town, there's lots more happening than the exhibits on the walls: Music, Dance & Family Fun. New York City museums have become de facto performing arts centers with exciting events, often thematically tied into what's on view. Here's a small sampling to get you started:

UPTOWN - MUSEUM MILE
THE GUGGENHEIM
1071 Fifth Ave (at 88th St); www.guggenheim.org/new-york
Throughout the year, there are several top-notch, special events, so be sure to check the Performance calendarWorks & Process: In an intimate theater space, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, this performing arts series gives you the opportunity to see new works by some of the most acclaimed, international creators and performers in the world.
Peter & the Wolf, The Guggenheim

For the Holidays: Don't miss the divine Isaac Mizrahi production of Prokofiev's Peter and the Wolf and the Rotunda Holiday Concerts--fun for children and adults!

THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART
Fuentidueña Chapel, The Cloisters

1000 Firth Ave (at 82nd St); www.metmuseum.org
There is always something cultural happening at the museum from concerts to lectures to site-specific performances. 
MetLiveArts: This series offers interesting performances, commissions, and world premieres in the museum's theater. Site-specific events are set in unique gallery spaces throughout the museum.
THE MET CLOISTERS - Concerts www.metmuseum.org/visit/met-cloisters
In the beautiful, medieval Cloisters' museum in Fort Tyron Park, concerts are held in the splendid, 12th-century Fuentidueña Chapel, with wonderful acoustics. (Concert tickets include free, same-day museum admission.)

THE JEWISH MUSEUM
The Jewish Museum
1109 Fifth Ave (at 92nd St); www.thejewishmuseum.org
The museum offers an amazing range of cultural programs from interesting discussions with artists and curators, to talks by contemporary authors and thinkers, concerts, and other performances and workshops inspired by exhibitions on view.

MUSEUM OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK
El Museo del Barrio 
(photo: Michael Palma Mir)

1220 Fifth Ave (at 103rd St); www.mcny.org
This museum, devoted to New York City history, presents fascinating events and talks illuminating New York's past and imagining the city's future. Check out the Stories & Events calendar. 

EL MUSESO DEL BARRIO
1230 Fifth Ave (at 104th St); www.elmuseo.org
The museum focuses on Latino arts and culture. Its' bilingual programs, festivals, and special events celebrate the 
rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean and Latin America. Get ready to party!

THE FRICK COLLECTION
1 East 70th Street; https://www.frick.org
The Frick, Living Hall (photo: Michael Bodycomb)
Henry Clay Frick was a successful, robber-baron, industrialist during the Gilded Age who had a passion for art. His magnificent 1914 Beaux-Arts mansion on Fifth Avenue, designed by Carrère and Hastings, was turned into a museum in 1930. Now, after an impressive, major renovation, it’s like walking through a “lifestyle” rather than a museum. In addition to lush 16th- to 18th-century furnishings, paintings (Rembrandts, Van Dykes, Vermeers, Turners, Fragonards, Gainsboroughs, etc.), sculptures, and decorative objects, the family’s former, private rooms on the 2nd floor have been turned into exhibit space. Concerts will be held in a new, state-of-the-art auditorium and a lecture series in a new education center. Welcome to a beautifully-updated, Gilded Age experience!


DOWNTOWN
WHITNEY
99 Gansevoort St; www.whitney.org
Terrace, Whitney
In a downtown area, recently made hip by the fabulous High Line walkway, 20th- and 21st-century American art is celebrated in the museum's new building abuzz with activity. The Whitney Biennial is one of the museum's signature exhibits, along with an exciting, eclectic mix of performances and talks on a regular basis that are tied into current exhibits. Plus, check out the cool events on Free Friday Nights & Free 2nd Sundays. Best feature: The "art terraces" on every level with stunning views of New York and the Hudson River. 

MUSEUM OF JEWISH HERITAGE
Edmond J. Safra Plaza, 36 Battery Place; mjhnyc.org
While not as well known as The Jewish Museum, MJH, located downtown by Battery Park, presents a broad tapestry of Jewish life in the 20th and 21st centuries—before, during, and after the Holocaust. Hence, the engrossing programs include discussions, films, plays, and concerts that highlight the richness of Jewish culture and ideas. (There's also an Andy Goldsworthy stone garden really worth seeing and great views of the Statue of Liberty.)
Pioneer, Seaport Museum

SOUTH STREET SEAPORT MUSEUM
12 Fulton St & 213 Water St; https://southstreetseaportmuseum.org
The museum, on Schermerhorn Row in the historic seaport district, presents the story of New York as a great port city through an extensive collection of maritime artifacts and a fleet of historic vessels. Their newly-renovated A.A. Thomson & Co. building, around the corner on Water Street, is now a hub for any number of engaging, public programs such as lectures, live music, films & special events. And, from May to September, enjoy a sail on the Hudson River onboard the Pioneer schooner or the W.O. Decker tug boat!

WESTSIDE
AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
Central Park West at 79th St; www.amnh.org
Apex Stegosaurus, AMNH
The museum is a treasure trove of discoveries. In addition to all the interesting exhibits and dioramas, there are wonderful activities for kids and adults: the Astronomy Live series; the annual Margaret Mead Film Festival; cocktails & conversation at the after-hours SciCafe evenings; and family-fun cultural events, themed to tie-in with current exhibits. There's a lot more going on here than dinosaur bones!

         BROOKLYN
BROOKLYN MUSEUM OF ART
The Bang Group, BMA


200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn; www.brooklynmuseum.org
In addition to way-cool exhibits, BMA offers a variety of interesting events for adults, teens, and kids. These include talks, performances, films, and workshops that enhance the museum’s current exhibits and permanent collection. Every month, there's also free First Saturdays which usually feature music, dancing and a film, plus museum admission.

Editor's Note: Some of these wonderful, special museum events are free with admission, others require a separate ticket and/or booking in advance. Be sure to check the museum's website. And, when you enter any museum, be sure to read the signs ("suggested" admission means pay any amount not the $20+ listed). Also, many museums have free or "pay what you wish" evenings starting at around 5pm. The Metropolitan Museum ticket includes same-day admission to The Met Cloisters. Some events may also be offered online. 

Thursday, March 20, 2025

Concierge Confessions: 15 Top Sightseeing Tips in Washington, DC

By Jacquelin Carnegie
(photo: National Cherry Blossom Festival)

Visiting The White House and the Smithsonian Museums is already on your itinerary. But these great sightseeing tips come from the best kept secret in the nation’s capital—Les Clefs d'Or hotel concierges. (A pin of crossed gold keys on a concierge’s lapel means you’re getting advice from a seasoned professional.) Les Clefs d'Or concierges pride themselves on really knowing their cities—the best sights, events, restaurants, etc.—so you can get the most out of your visit. These wonderful activities are some of their top DC recommendations: 

CHEAPEST RIDES TO ALL THE DC SIGHTS
Best Ways to Get Around Downtown DC 
The 
Metro & Metrobus are great ways to get to all the cultural and entertainment sights in the DC city center. They run frequently, so get SmarTrip. There's also a Capitol Bikeshare program and, of course, Hop-On-Hop-Off buses. They may be touristy, but are an excellent way to get acclimated.

DC MUSEUMS NOT TO BE MISSED
The Smithsonian Institution in DC, includes some 19 museums, galleries and the National Zoo! All are amazing and worth visiting, especially since they’re all free. 
Additionally, there are numerous other gems such as:
(photo: Hillwood Estate)
Fabulous Fabric: The Textile Museum
(701 21st St, NW; https://museum.gwu.edu)
Established in 1925, the collection features fabulous antique and contemporary textile arts such as oriental rugs, American quilts, silk clothing, and cotton fabrics. It's now part of the George Washington University Museum at Foggy Bottom.
First in Modern Art: The Phillips Collection
(1600 21st Street NW; www.phillipscollection.org)
Considered America’s first modern art museum, opened in 1921, with a great collection, located in the lovely Dupont Circle neighborhood. 
Estate Envy: Hillwood Estate - Museum & Gardens
(4155 Linnean Ave., NW; www.hillwoodmuseum.org)
Be sure to plan at least half a day to visit the magnificent Marjorie Merriweather Post mansion-museum & gardens; there’s a nice café, too.

EAT, PRAY, DRINK YOUR WAY AROUND DC
Best Hail Mary: Dahlgren Chapel of the Sacred Heart
Georgetown University Campus (37th & O St. NW, Healy 113)
Of the seven chapels on the Georgetown campus, the beautiful Dahlgren Chapel, built in 1893, is the primary house of worship for the campus’ Catholic community. After Mass, head over to The Tombs restaurant for more libations.
Dahlgren Chapel (photo: Georgetown University)
Best Bloody Mary: The Tombs 
(1226 36th St. NW; Tel: 202/337-6668; www.tombs.com
After you’ve repented, enjoy the best Bloody Mary in town or Sunday brunch at this popular Georgetown hangout in the basement of the 1789 Restaurant.
Best Combo – Books & Beer: Kramerbooks
(1517 Connecticut Ave. NW; Tel: 202/387-1400; www.kramers.com)
Pick up the latest bestseller, a cold one & a tasty snack all at this wonderful, independent bookstore and resto-bar.

SIGHTSEE DC BY BIKE OR BOAT
Best Sightseeing on Wheels: Bike Tours
Unlimited Biking - Learn some interesting history and get unique DC touring tips as well as a nice workout on these informative bike tours of Washington, DC & Alexandria, VA. Or, just rent a bike to explore the sights on your own.
Great Recreation: Fletcher's Boathouse - Boat & Bike rental 
(4940 Canal Rd NW; www.fletcherscove.com; Open March-Nov)
Located in Georgetown on a cove along the Potomac River, Fletcher’s Boathouse has provided a bit of nature and recreation for DC residents, including several Presidents, since the 1850s. Go for a leisurely boat, canoe or kayak ride, or bike along the C&O Canal towpath.
C&O Canal Boat (photo: National Park foundation)

Cool Canal Boat Rides: C&O Canal 
(Georgetown Visitor Center, 1057 Thomas Jefferson St. NW;  https://www.nps.gov/choh)
The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal was built between 1828-1850 to transport agricultural goods to market. Today, it’s a National Historical Park that starts in Georgetown and runs 184.5 miles. You can walk or bike along the towpath. Or, go on a fascinating Canal Boat Tour to learn all about the history of life on the canal in mid-19th-century America. (Spring/Summer) 

GET YOUR FILL OF DC GARDENS & HISTORY
Most Amazing Garden: The Bishop’s Garden - National Cathedral
(3101 Wisconsin Ave. NW; https://cathedral.org/gardens)
Bishop's Garden (photo: All Hallows Guild)
Most people tour the stunning National Cathedral without stopping to admire the gardens on 59-acres of wooded, landscaped grounds. The Bishop’s Garden, planned by Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr., is a beautiful, medieval-style garden planted with fruit trees, roses, perennial flowering plants and herbs. Winding stone paths, a gazebo, a 9th-century baptismal font and other statuary add to the charm.
Oldest House: The Old Stone House
(3051 M St. NW, Georgetown; https://www.nps.gov
Built by cabinetmaker Christopher Layman in 1765, this house in Georgetown is considered the oldest building in Washington, DC. Take a trip back to the 18th century by touring the period rooms, when open. Be sure to admire the English garden out back.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN DC
The Mayflower Hotel, Marriott (1127 Connecticut Ave. NW; https://tinyurl.com/uvfx8bke) - Opened in 1925, this 4-diamond, luxury hotel near Dupont Circle is one of the Historic Hotels of America. President Harry Truman called it the "second best address" in DC.
The Willard (1401 Pennsylvania Ave. NW; washington.intercontinental.com) - On the National Register of Historic Places, this magnificent hotel has been at the center of DC’s social and political scene since 1818; a favorite of President Ulysses S. Grant.
 Washington Monument (photo: National Cherry Blossom Festival)

Hotel Monaco, Kimpton (700 F St. NW; https://www.monaco-dc.com) - This luxury, boutique hotel is in the original US General Post Office building, a registered National Landmark.
The Ritz Carlton (1150 22nd St. NW; 
https://www.ritzcarlton.com) - Relax in sophisticated elegance in the heart of downtown DC.

DON’T MISS DC’S FAB FESTIVALS
The Best of the Fests: Some highlights - National Cherry Blossom Festival (March-April); DC Jazz Fest (Labor Day weekend) and the terrific & unique Smithsonian Folklife Festival (June-July) on the National Mall; a great way to celebrate the 4th of July! There is so much to explore from cool neighborhoods to national monuments, plus theaters, jazz clubs, and entertainment venues; one visit just won’t be enough!

Thursday, March 6, 2025

Marvelous Mosaic: 5+ Great Ways to Celebrate Irish Culture & St. Paddy’s Day in NYC


By Jacquelin Carnegie – (New York, NY)
Every March, it’s time to dig out that bright green sweater and brace yourself for gallons of green beer, rowdy teenagers, and lousy weather--it's Saint Paddy’s Day in New York! But, Irish culture is so rich and varied, it should be celebrated for more than just one day! Here are some great ways to do so all year long in New York:
Come for The Craic
Irish Arts Center 
Celtic AppalachianCelebration II 
(photo: Brandilyn Davidson & Erin Baiano)
726 11th Ave (btw 51-52 St), Tel: 212/757-3318; www.irishartscenter.org
The IAC is a treasure-trove of Irish cultural activities. Throughout the year, attend concerts, dance performances, plays, films, lectures or readings, and be sure to enjoy “the craic” (great conversation). If you’re bitten by the Irish bug, the IAC also offers classes for children and adults in Irish music, dance, language, and history. Great annual events include: St. Patrick's Day Open House (Free): Celebrate Irish music & dance with performances and craft workshops for the whole family. Book Day: Snag a free book by a great Irish or Irish-American author.
Discover Irish Playwrights
Donnybrook! (photo: Carol Rosegg)
The Irish Repertory Theatre
132 West 22nd St; Tel: 212/727-2737; www.irishrep.org
The Irish Rep features plays and musicals by well-known and emerging Irish and Irish-American playwrights. 
Get Some Culture
American Irish Historical Society
991 Fifth Ave., at 80th St.; Tel: 212/288-2263, www.aihs.org 
Founded in 1897, the AIHS celebrates the Irish-American experience with a focus on contemporary Irish culture. Events range from talks to art exhibits to readings and concerts on the harp, piano, penny whistle, and bodhrán. All take place in AIHS’ magnificent Beaux-Arts townhouse.
Thrill to the Music
In New York, there are Irish musicians playing everything from traditional, to rock to pop. No matter what your taste, there’s a band for you.
Paddy Reilly's Music Bar (519 2nd Ave., at 29th St.; Tel: 212/686-1210; www.paddyreillysmusicbar.us): In NYC, there’s an Irish pub on almost every corner, but this is one of the best with great Irish music; Black 47 got their start here.

New in Town: Emmet Cahill the hottest Irish tenor and lead singer of the fab Celtic Thunder group.
Old Favorites
: For 25 years, Black 47 was “Rockin’ The Bronx,” giving voice to the joy and the sorrow of all the Irish immigrants who’ve found a second home on Bainbridge Avenue and in other New York boroughs. Band leader Larry Kirwan now does solo gigs with a St. Patrick's Day concert. 
Some years, The Celtic Tenors, doing traditional songs, and The Saw Doctors, with their folk-rock vibe, roll into town. 

Larry Kirwan of Black 47








Sober St. Patrick’s Day® - This is a wonderful way to enjoy the sprit of the day with great Irish entertainment--acclaimed musicians, dancers, singers, comedians--but without the rowdy drunks.

Worship in Gaelic
The Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral
263 Mulberry St, corner of Mott & Prince, Tel: 212-226-8075; www.oldcathedral.org
Long before people worshiped at Saint Patrick's Cathedral (1879), on Fifth Avenue and 50th St., they came here to the city's first Cathedral Church, founded in 1809. Today, Mass is given in English, Spanish, Chinese, and, on occasion, in the Irish language, Gaelic. Throughout the year, there are lovely concerts and other cultural offerings.

 (photo: Laura_Mexico)

Saint Patrick's Day Parade
The first St. Patrick's Day Parade in New York was held in 1762, when Irish ex-patriots and Irish soldiers marched through the city. Every year, the Parade heads up Fifth Avenue, from 44th St to 86th St.

Did you know that there are other regions, referred to as 
"Celtic Nations," that share this heritage with Ireland: Brittany, France; Wales; Scotland; the Isle of Man & Cornwall.
(Often, Brittany's BZH NY society invites musicians from Brittany to perform and celebrate St. Patrick's Day in New York.)

Thursday, February 20, 2025

5 Not-To-Be-Missed Museums In Paris

By Jacquelin Carnegie

Paris has incredible museums. You already know about the wonderful Louvre and the Musee d‘Orsay, but there are also terrific, smaller museums that are not to be missed. Check out these gems.


Parisian Perspective

Musée Carnavalet 

23 rue de Sevignée; http://www.carnavalet.paris.fr; 3rd arrondissement, Metro: Chemin Vert or Saint Paul (Closed Mondays; Free) - Reopened, after a major renovation

Visiting this marvelous, funky museum is like walking through a history book of the story of Paris. It takes you step-by-step through the city’s development from prehistory, when it was the village of Lutèce, through Roman times, the Renaissance, the French Revolution, the Belle Epoque, and on to today. Be sure to start at the beginning, to get the full effect. After you’ve traveled through time, relax in the beautiful, courtyard gardens. App: "Musée Carnavalet" - Discover Paris' history with the aid of the museum App (in 6 languages).

Magnificent Masterpieces

Musée Jacquemart-André 


158 Blvd Haussmann; https://www.musee-jacquemart-andre.com; 8th arrondissement, Metro: Miromesnil or Saint Philippe du Roule (Open daily, Fee.) 

This 19th-century mansion is as much a work of art as the masterpieces it houses. Edouard André, from a prominent banking family, and his artist wife, Nélie Jacquemart, had a passion for collecting art. They traveled extensively gathering paintings, sculpture, tapestries, furniture, and objects d’art. Their collection includes works by Botticelli, Chardin, Fragonard, Mantegna, Rembrandt & Van Dyck. There’s even a room devoted entirely to Renaissance paintings. This sumptuously-decorated museum gives you a glimpse into the elegant lifestyle of the Belle Epoque. There's also a sumptuous café with a terrace overlooking the inner courtyard. App: "Jacquemart-André Museum"


Sensational Sculpture

Musée Bourdelle

18 rue Antoine Bourdelle; http://www.bourdelle.paris.fr; 15th arrondissement, Metro: Montparnasse-Bienvenüe (Closed Mondays; Free; Fee for temp exhibits)

Antoine Bourdelle studied at the Ecole des Beaux Arts in Paris and became an assistant to Rodin in 1893. Bourdelle’s colossal sculptures are on display in his former home, studio and garden, tucked away on a side street in the bustling Montparnasse district. The lovely garden is a great spot to repose after hours of sightseeing; there's also a new café-restaurant. 


Musée Zadkine 

100 bis, rue d'Assas; http://www.zadkine.paris.fr; 6th arrondissement, Metro: Vavin or Notre Dame des Champs (Closed Mondays; Free; Fee for temp exhibits)

Russian sculptor Ossip Zadkine came to Paris in the early 1900s. He lived and worked in this tranquil spot near the Jardin de Luxembourg from 1928 to 1967. The collection, displayed in his former atelier and a little garden, features abstract sculptures along with paintings, drawings, tapestries, and photos documenting the work.



Architectural Artistry

Fondation Le Corbusier 

8-10 Square du Docteur Blanche; http://www.fondationlecorbusier.fr;

16th arrondissement, Metro: Jasmin or Michel-Ange - Auteuil (Closed Sundays & Monday mornings; Fee)

For lovers of architecture and modern design, it’s worth a trip to these beautifully-preserved structures by the famous architect Le Corbusier (Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris). In a cul-de-sac off Rue du Docteur Blanche, there are two houses, built in 1924: 

Maison La Roche (https://bit.ly/1rv5tZR, open to visitors) - This is a wonderful example of Le Corrbusier’s work. Commissioned by Raoul La Roche, who wanted a house with a gallery to display his art collection. Maison Jeanneret (library visits by appointment only) houses the Foundation. 

Appartement de Le Corbusier (24 rue Nungesser et Coli; https://bit.ly/1k3Ogev; 16th arrondissement, Metro: Michel-Ange – Molitor or Porte d'Auteuil; One metro stop or a 20 minute walk from the Foundation) - Le Corbusier lived and worked in this apartment and studio on the top floors of Immeuble Molitor from about 1934 until his death in 1965. The light-filled, vaulted space is still decorated with his personal belongings; a treat for Le Corbusier aficionados.

***

Editor’s Note: 1) Some COVID protocols may still apply such as mask-wearing & advanced ticket purchase. Be sure to check each museum's website. 2) Get the most out of your upcoming visit with this guide: THE ARTSY VOYAGER: 101 Artsy & Cool Things To Do in Paris https://amzn.to/38J45Bh