Mmuseumm is an ultra-trendy spot with a tiny yet fascinating collection of art objects. The New York Times included it in its list of “12 Hidden Art Gems of the World.” And that’s no coincidence — the museum is located inside a former freight elevator, with doors opening directly onto the street.
A Hidden Gem in New York
The “hidden gem” title also comes from the fact that the museum is only open on Fridays and weekends, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. However, you can always peek inside through a door’s peephole. And no, that’s not a joke!
Mmuseumm sits right where the prestigious Tribeca neighborhood ends and authentic Chinatown begins. So if you’re walking in the area, keep an eye out for large freight elevators.
Origins
The museum was founded by filmmakers the Safdie brothers, best known for Uncut Gems — arguably the best movie of 2019, featuring an unforgettable performance by Adam Sandler. Their film Good Time is also considered one of the best New York movies, with Robert Pattinson in a standout role.
The Collection
You definitely won’t get bored or tired here. After all, Mmuseumm covers only 1.5 square meters. It may be the only museum in the world that you can explore completely in a single glance while passing by.
The collection consists of carefully curated everyday objects that, at first sight, may seem ordinary. But in the exhibition context, they reveal profound cultural and social meanings. Mmuseumm follows the principle of “Object Journalism,” presenting items as stories about the contemporary world. Exhibits are updated annually, with each season dedicated to a particular theme or concept.
Some of the exhibitions featured at Mmuseumm include:
- “Personal Objects of Mass Migration” — items tied to human displacement, reflecting personal stories and struggles.
- “Nothing Is Worth More Than This Dollar” — objects illustrating economic contrasts and the value of things in different cultures.
- “The Nature of Nature” — artifacts related to natural phenomena and how humans perceive the environment.
- “Objects Made by Inmates in the U.S.” — items crafted in prisons, raising questions about justice and rehabilitation.
Visitor Info
📍 Address: Cortlandt Alley, New York, NY 10013
Admission: Free
Website: www.mmuseumm.com
