Whitney Museum of American Art

Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort St., presents more than a hundred years' worth of contemporary and 20th-century American art and specializes in acquiring the work of living artists. The diverse collection includes modern sculptures, paintings, prints, photographs and drawings.

Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney founded the museum with nearly 600 pieces from her personal collection in 1930, and today visitors can appreciate the vision of Alexander Calder, Jasper Johns, Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol and other key artists that represent more than 23,000 works.

The museum's spacious and airy Renzo Piano-designed building in the Meatpacking District is a work of art in itself, boasting an expansive outdoor plaza adjacent to the southern end of the High Line. The sleek contemporary space harmonizes well with other structures in this edgy industrial neighborhood. Exterior staircases and strategically placed couches, along with a striking combination of spacious galleries and outdoor terraces adorned with sculptures, allow patrons to admire views of the city and the Hudson River.

The museum also hosts a variety of rotating exhibits as well as film and video screenings.

Guided tours are available. Food is available. Time: Allow 1 hour, 30 minutes minimum.