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One of the Upper West Side’s most beloved cultural gems is taking a summer break—but for good reason. The American Folk Art Museum, located at 2 Lincoln Square near Columbus Avenue and West 66th Street, is temporarily closing its doors to undergo its most significant renovation in more than three decades.
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The museum began phasing out exhibitions this month; the remainder of AFAM’s galleries will close beginning May 26, following the end of Madalena Santos Reinbolt: A Head Full of Planets. The space will remain closed to the public until September 26, when it reopens with a temporary entrance and a brand-new fall exhibition. So yes, you'll have to wait a bit to get your folk-art fix—but the updates promise to be worth it.
Among the upgrades: new mechanical and operational systems, fresh flooring throughout the museum and shop, a revamped entryway and facade, and reimagined office and restroom spaces. The museum’s retail shop will also get a full facelift, complete with sleek new shelving and display cabinets designed by woodworker Chris Parow.
In a very Upper West Side twist, the renovation is happening in tandem with the renovation of the building’s other occupant: the Manhattan New York Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which owns the structure. The church has generously funded the museum’s renovation project, scheduled for full completion in spring 2026—timed to the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
Meanwhile, the museum’s retail shop will remain open between May 28 and June 1 and then shift to limited service (pick-ups and assisted sales only) from June 2 through August 12. It reopens for regular hours on August 13, while the museum itself remains closed.
One particularly exciting addition: the museum’s courtyard on 66th Street will be transformed into a public gathering space for outdoor events and programming, signaling a more vibrant, community-focused future for the institution.
Founded in 1961, AFAM houses more than 8,000 works of art, and it’s always free to visit. But if you want one last peek before the transformation, now’s the time to go!