Tomorrow morning, New York City kicks off the Open House New York (OHNY Weekend) — one of the city’s most anticipated fall events. For three days, locals and visitors alike will have a rare opportunity to peek behind the scenes of architectural landmarks, infrastructure sites, and cultural institutions that are usually closed to the public.
What Is OHNY
Open House New York is an annual festival that takes place over one weekend each fall. Its idea is simple yet brilliant: to open the doors of spaces across the city — from museums to skyscrapers and industrial sites — so everyone can discover how New York really works from the inside out.
This year’s lineup includes everything from a salt storage facility and the brand-new JP Morgan Chase headquarters to renowned architecture studios and historic industrial buildings.
The most in-demand spots were available only by paid ticket, which sold out on October 3 faster than the first iPhones on launch day. That means many attendees, myself included, will be exploring drop-in (walk-in) sites — places open to everyone, with no reservations needed and completely free of charge.
Best Free OHNY Weekend Locations
If you’re in New York this weekend, here’s a curated list of standout spots worth visiting.
Temple Emanu-El
One of the largest and most beautiful synagogues in the world, known for its stunning architecture and spiritual atmosphere.
Address: 1 East 65th Street
When: Saturday, 1:30–3:30 PM
The Original Map of Manhattan
Housed in the Office of the Manhattan Borough President, this exhibit is a great excuse to visit the 19th floor of a 1914 municipal building.
Address: 1 Centre Street, 19th Floor South
When: Saturday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Westbeth Artists Housing
A legendary artist community where painters, musicians, and designers live and work. The creative energy here is palpable — a must-see for art lovers.
Address: 155 Bank Street
When: Friday evening; Saturday & Sunday, 1:00–6:00 PM
620 Loft & Garden
A stunning rooftop venue overlooking Rockefeller Plaza — one of the most beautiful and sought-after event spaces in the city.
Address: 620 Fifth Avenue
When: Sunday, 12:00–4:00 PM
Brooklyn Army Terminal
An architectural and engineering marvel of the 20th century, built to supply U.S. troops during World War I. During WWII, over 20,000 people worked here.
Address: 140 58th Street
When: Saturday & Sunday, 12:00–4:00 PM
Nikolas Weinstein Studios
A glass studio creating large-scale sculptures for world-renowned architects like Frank Gehry, Kengo Kuma, and Foster + Partners. The installations here are breathtaking in scale and craftsmanship.
Address: 8-03 43rd Avenue
When: Saturday, 12:00–4:00 PM
Poster House
A charming museum in Chelsea dedicated to the art of posters and advertising — a cozy and inspiring place to explore the evolution of graphic design.
Address: 119 West 23rd Street
When: Friday, 10:00 AM–8:00 PM
Brooklyn Seltzer Museum
A small, nostalgic museum celebrating the history of fizzy water and Brooklyn’s soda culture — a bubbly blast from the past.
Address: 474 Hemlock Street
When: Sunday, 12:00–3:00 PM
Bronx General Post Office
A historic 1937 landmark featuring 13 New Deal–era murals painted in 1939 by Ben Shahn. A perfect stop for history and art enthusiasts.
Address: 558 Grand Concourse
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Learn More
For the full list of locations and the complete festival program, visit ohny.org.
