The Park Avenue Armory is one of my favorite places in New York City. It just feels so different from anywhere else. The architecture is incredible, and the second you walk in you can feel the history. In a weird way, it kind of makes you think, "Wait... is this place haunted?" or "What stories could these walls tell?" I've been lucky enough to see a bunch of really cool art installations here over the years, plus a few fashion shows. If you've never been, definitely check out their website to see what's going on because there's always something interesting happening. The latest installation I saw had three huge pools inside this giant wooden deck with blown glass bowls floating around on the water. The whole thing was super relaxing. Some people were taking naps, some were quietly talking with friends, and others were just sitting there watching the glass drift around and soaking in the ASMR vibes. It's such a cool example of how creative they get with the space. In my dream world, I'd get married here lol. read more

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I went to see the new exhibit with porcelain bowls floating in three pools. Absolutely amazing. They offer discounts for Bloomberg employees, students and seniors. NYC ID discount only if you already have Armory membership. There were many people sitting and lying on the floor meditating or sleeping. I chose to sit on the area in the perimeter. Someone had a dog with them. A few children were also enjoying the space. So memorable. Go and see this if you can. read more

Park Avenue Armory - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

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A truly amazing venue for arts and antique shows! A gorgeous old magnificent building. Too bad the entry fees are so exorbitant read more

Dropped by to check out the clinamen floating bowls and thought it was just ok, ticket is cheaper if you buy in person, $25 vs online at $30 (including fees). I think it's a bit overpriced and maybe I just don't get the art, or don't think it's worth paying to watch bowls float in a pool, still a lot of people were there to check it out. I wouldn't recommend it though. read more

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I'm embarrassed that I have never been here before. What have I been doing as an artist in NYC for the past 25 years? Fool me once, shame on me, and all the other euphemisms meant to wag the finger at the accused. This place gives serious Regency Era vibes or is it the Gilded Age? One thing I DO KNOW, I love it here, and this time, sitting in these lavish rooms, I will not be a slave. Someone that looks like me remains in the minority between these stately walls, but yet I feel very at home. Came to see a brilliant adaptation of Romeo & Juliet, choreographed by Benjamin Mellipied and performed by the dancers of the LA Dance Project. Stayed to nestle into the lounge chairs in the lounge area and dream of dance, future excursions and other palatial places to lounge. Maybe drop a bag to be a member so I don't spend the next 25 years missing out on some of the best performance art I've ever seen. The Park Avenue Armory owes me nothing, but I feel I owe it a rousing round of applause, even if my black hands are some of the only ones clapping in the house. Bravo read more

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I visited the Park Avenue Armory for the first time last weekend for the Diane Arbus exhibit, and I was really blown away. The building is incredible. It was built for the 7th New York Militia Regiment and completed in 1880 (with expansions in the early 20th century). The interior of the building is a masterwork of the American Aesthetic Movement - especially that Veterans Room and Library, which really took my breath away. Decorated by Louis Comfort Tiffany, there is some really incredible stained glass and an amazing fireplace as well. It's been restored beautifully, and since I noticed a sign about tours of the building, the next time I visit I'm definitely reserving some time to learn about and tour the building as well. Since 2007, the Armory has hosted art exhibits and performances, and that's what I was there for - their current art exhibit. "Diane Arbus: Constellation" will be shown at the Armory through August 17, 2025, and is an incredibly comprehensive look at Arbrus's work. The way the work is displayed is incredible (the New York Times article about the exhibit is worth a read if you want to know more or before you visit), and the exhibit was amazing, if a little overwhelming (more than 450 prints?!). The Park Avenue Armory really surprised me. I'm sure I'll return for another exhibit in the future, and that time, I'm taking the tour, too! read more

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This afternoon ", I saw Yoko Ono's Wish Tree exhibit. It was free to all visitors and reserving a pass on their website was simple. Today was also the last day. As I entered the vast space, I saw that there were many trees in pots with papers hanging on the stems. A table had these blank rectangular papers and pencils that wrote lightly. I think it was done specially so that the writing would not distract the viewers. I wrote what I felt and tied it to a stem. Then I sat to reflect on the trees and the life of Yoko Ono. A tai chi class was held in a round circle by a teacher who had introduced herself. I would have liked to join. I have been to the Park Avenue Armory many times over the decades mainly to see the art and antiques shows. Today's exhibit was unlike anything I had seen before and it was peaceful. read more

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Was able to visit NYC's iconic Armory building that was temporarily transformed into a playful dreamland of epic inflatable balloon art. Balloon Story was An immersive experience where Art Meets Air. So many talented artists came together to create these installations which tells a captivating story, making it a perfect outing for all ages. My favorite part was the Eiffel Tower, Statue of Liberty and Egyptian statues. Also the space/astronaut and finding Nemo/underwater theme were really off the charts. It is rather intriguing to walk around and see how intricately the artists formed the balloons and tied them together to get those specific forms. Even more cool that I think they broke the world record and were using over 700,000 balloons to make sure this exhibition happened. Very impressive indeed. There was a lack of options for adults to snack on or to take a break away from others. There was only a cotton candy digital machine available as a treat. No other options which made this experience very underwhelming. read more

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This was my second time on an exhibition which is made entirely with just balloons ! Last time I had so much fun on the last event I had to give this one a try too. Besides, the price of the ticket was so reasonable. So I had to take a chance. I was in awe after I walked in, it's a heaven for kids lol. At my age I was having too much fun! Wished I have babies when I was walking around . My kid is so old to come all the way to a different borough to see this amazing unique creations ! Thank you everyone for the amazing service, such kind souls working there! Btw, it was my first time visiting the park avenue Armory & I gotta say it was very cool ! Gotta come back for different events . If you have kids & living in New York City you definitely gotta bring the kids here before it's done. You guys will not regret it read more

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I can't believe that just a week or two ago it was my first time in the Armory. As I grew up in this area. I was here for the Balloon exhibit which was very good and didn't know what to expect. Many large scale balloons were on exhibit. This place hosts many different events and it is very spacious. Though can deff get hot in here. I would come back here if there are other exhibits I would be interested in seeing. read more

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Absolutely stunning. Beautiful exhibit. Staff friendly. Very clean. A fun experience.

I always love this venue. Went for a conference and there were ample free tasty snacks and beverages. Employees were very helpful. Ambiance is so lovely, but a tiny bit spooky in a good way. :) read more

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This review focuses on the historical tour of the armory. They hold the tours generally every month, sometimes a couple of times a month. They are 25 dollars and at 11 AM. Our guide, Grace, was knowledgeable and down to earth. It was interesting to hear about the armory's different lives: a rich boy's club for aristocrats to play soldier, later a legitimate armory, a crumbling relic, then back to life as a landmark and restoration project, as well as a versatile performance/event space. The architecture varies from fully restored to arrested decay. The veterans room is their crown jewel and full of Tiffany glass and beautiful tile work. There is handsome woodwork throughout and a grand staircase. On the second floor, the armory houses restored locker rooms from the original construction, where performers rehearse and artists in residence work. Another floor is a women's shelter, while yet another floor actually does house a national guard unit. We got to see a stage being designed in the vast drill hall. I'll be excited to see some programming here--they have everything from art shows to music and percussion pieces, historical lectures, and dance. The show coming up is a troupe of African dancers, which looks amazing. read more

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This place is unlike the Broadway theaters, it's inside the armory warehouse and very large space converted to the theater, the seats are build up levels with armchairs, seats are comfortable and the levels are high enough so you don't have peoples head blocking your view. There's not really a bad seat in the theater because everyone is facing front sitting in square space. The public facility are also very nice, dark wood decor with large oil paintings of military figures second floor has gender mutual bathroom and lower floor has another smaller bathroom. The room to get drink is also very cute like a library. read more

Park Avenue Armory - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

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This is a great venue and love coming here for opening gallery nights. It's spacious and has a classy entrance. The ornate interior design is amazing too. read more

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I came here to see FKA Twigs perform so this was a 1st time to see a concert here Street parking can be tough in this area... there is a parking deck on 67th and park area If you stand in line before doors open- there are places on Lexington to get coffee and bathroom :) like Gregory's:) Love the old world feel when you walk in... like a walk back into time when I was walking in the hallways The concert space is HUGE... I mean it's a huge hangar space obviously . The stage was large and the sound was amazing! I could hear every detail. Of course I was standing in the front row but all the same - it was a great experience It was a general admission - standing concert so wearing comfortable shoes/clothing is key. read more

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Over the years I have attended a bunch of events in this historic structure. For many years I wrote a NYC blog and was lucky enough to be on the guest list for many of these. The building itself has an amazing look and feel. Almost like a castle in the middle of Manhattan. The inside is just as impressive from it's "Drill Hall" main event space to it's individual rooms, and grand staircase. Even the bathrooms are nice. Plenty of culture and history has passed through these halls. It's a beautiful venue and worth checking out if there is an art exhibit or show you are interested in. read more

The Park Avenue Armory is a landmark space that hosts many cultural events and shows. Last night we attended the performance artist event: Nick Cave - Up Right at THE LET GO. Currently, Nick Cave has many Art exhibitions and installations throughout New York and the world. His art speaks to the people of the world on many levels. The event takes place in the main 'Drill Hall' where the audience sits in a circle facing center stage in the cavernous room which is dominated by two separate flowing 40 foot tall cascades of shimmering mylar Strips (the sculpture). The music and the costumes for this performance are very elegant and beautiful. The main dancers costumes are Cave's 'Sound Suit' creations, both colorful and extravagant. The Harlem Choir singers and keyboard player are ethereal, playing continuously throughout the entire hour, we were all totally transfixed. At the end of the performance, a DJ takes over and we are all now enveloped in a party invited to dance the night away. Thus, letting go. I was so enthralled I didn't take enough photos so, I must return for another performance before it ends July 1st! Better hurry! read more

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Cool spot to hold The European Fine Art Fair ( TEFAF ) Not as big as the venue in Maastricht, they packed in everything one could imagine. I really liked the different rooms they decorated per different vendors. The history of the building only added to the swanky event. Look upwards & see exposes steel beams. Look ahead & see flowers & champagne carts & exquisite pieces of art Everything one could ever hope to see....Jaw dropping art from the likes of Monet, Renoir, Rodin, Lowry, Chagall, Cartier, Faberge, Tiffany - the list goes on & on & for a few extra $million$ you can take it home! read more

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I had the opportunity to attend an event that was being hosted at this space and all I can say is that I was thoroughly impressed. From the decor to the service, everything at the Armory was on point. Big shoutout to the staff here for giving guests a seamless and memorable experience from the moment we walked in. I arrived here around 6 in the evening on a Thursday. Event staff was in the main foyer checking people in. Once you were set you walked into the armory's main space and instantly noticed the grandeur of the venue. The high ceilings, accented woodwork, and large 19th century portraits hanging on the wall gave this space an esteemed feeling from the moment you saw it. The event itself also had several open bars set throughout the space in mostly all the major rooms. We were able to walk throughout the space, as well a grab a new drink when we wanted to as well. I'd recommend this space for almost any event function if you're looking to add a more classic and upscale feel to your event. If you have the opportunity just go check it out for the interior design itself! read more

Park Avenue Armory - Woodwork and interior design - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

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Amazing space. Nice size - not too big not too small for gallery/exhibition viewings.

Wonderful piece of history, unusual and fascinating programming. I recommend the tour.

This review is for "The Back Door" exhibit by Martin Creed. I'll be 100% honest, I came here for the balloons. I was with my friend who works at an art gallery in the LES to impart her wisdom of Martin Creed and of contemporary art in general. She explained that the entire exhibit is about heightening your senses - there were musicians roaming the halls, strange films playing everywhere (including nudity and even one of people vomiting....err yeah....), lights turning on and off, and doors closing/opening. After learning more about Creed, I was totally intrigued by the exhibit. According to the guide book (make sure to pick one up at the entrance!) "Creed reveals the surprisingly human meditations of the structures that shape our lives...that engages, and sometimes provokes all the senses." Not knowing the story and concept behind the exhibit beforehand, this was absolutely fascinating to me and such a cool experience. And yes, the balloons did not disappoint. We had to go in twice to get the photos we wanted. The first time was a bit overwhelming and it was difficult to get through the room and find the exit. Make sure to come here with a friend. Definitely wouldn't recommend doing this alone, not just because of the balloons but because the entire exhibit can feel REALLY creepy at times. Overall, would HIGHLY recommend. Such a fun time! Pro tip: Make sure to get your NYC ID so you can get in for free. read more

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This place is magnificent. The architecture is superb. The feeling you get is that of visiting something from the past. The arena area is so massive and amazing. I was there on business so I did not get to experience everything. But from what I did it is absolutely worth a visit. Highly recommended visit. read more

Impressive building. Nice piano concert. Wine and water offered. I would highly recommend this venue. We'll organized.

Today was the first time I visited the Armory. I have walked by 100's of times. I thought I would try to get inside if I wasn't blocked at the door. Something told me the admission price would be out of my range. I saw people buying tickets to get into the main hall. I just lingered around the front entrance. The huge area gave me plenty of opportunity to take pictures and peek in doors! I had a long talk with the nice lady at the information desk. She gave me a handout that has the history. She said they have tours. I didn't get the details. I'm sure you can find the information on the Internet. Like all of the armories in NYC they house a shelter on the top floor. This one is a women's shelter. I was overwhelmed with the size of everything. It's s big space with big everything from portraits to radiators to staircases. I had the strangest feeling I wouldn't want to be in there at night in the dark!! If you enjoy military history this is a great place to visit in NYC. It was kind of dark and dreary to me. I do appreciate the historic value. I'm glad this Armory has been preserved. Myself, I'll stick to historic residences for now. :) read more

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SPACE Large open clean SHOW ADAA Art Show APPEAL There was enough work here to inspire current artists, dealers and collectors. The appeal of the show seemed to target the older and established generation. STAFF Smiling, happy and helpful. SCORE 4/5 Despite being a very well run and organized show, I felt myself exhaustively searching for inspiration that was not present at the show. The works overall were not edgy enough for me. There were a few works that spoke to me but it was less than I expected. The majority age of the crowd was over 40 and that could be why the works selected for the show fit a certain aesthetic that was more subtle and less intense overall. There were a few that fit the emerging artist new wave enerf but very few. read more

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We came to visit during Antique book fair - and while we spend enormous amount of time standing in awe by huge manuscripts, we also took a tour around to see the armory. I love this "industrial meet victorian" style, huge open space - it's reminiscent of old European train stations, with metal structure & Tiffany's clock on the wall... Rich velvet curtains and round lamps in hallways with decorative iron holders add to whole steampunk feel of it. It's a great venue to visit, spacious, open, and with history. If you get a chance to see an event there, definitely go, it's one of the places that makes New York so beautiful. read more

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One thing is for sure after checking out "anthropodino," an art installation at the Park Avenue Armory: Artist Ernesto Neto smokes a LOT of weed. Neto, a Brazilian artist who came to prominence at the 2001 Venice Biennale, has created a mind-boggling installation that recreates the human body and occupies most of the cavernous, magnificent space of the Armory. Using materials like plywood, cumin, ginger, cloves, black pepper, styrofoam beads, rice and river stones, the bone-like "anthropodino" measures 192 feet in length by 122 feet in width and stands 69 feet high. It's one of the best spots in the city to take an acid trip. It's also a great spot to bring the kids and play hide-and-seek, as you can walk through it -- or run through it -- and interact. It's the closest thing we have in the city to living Jules Verne's "Journey to the Center of the Earth." I'm giving this exhibit a bonus point and boosting it to five stars because Hugh Jackman and a gaggle of kids were there on the day I visited. Brooklyn artist Steve Keane - famed for working with bands like Pavement and Silver Jews - was also checking it out. The only problem is that the exhibit ends soon. My advice is to smoke a big fatty and go before it departs. read more

Park Avenue Armory - My nephew and I at Ernesto Neto's anthropodino - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

A NY gem. I've been here for Tree of Codes (dance performance with music composed by Jamie XX), Goldberg Variations (classical piano performance by Igor Levit with the Marina Abramovic method for listening to music), and today for Martin Creed's The Back Door. This is a place for those who love the arts. The building itself is pretty spectacular, with its history and the decor. I came for primarily for the balloons and went into the room twice because it was just so fun. The other part of the exhibit I wanted to see were the videos. In the Drill Hall, there is a series of videos of close ups of women opening their mouths, and in the smaller rooms to the right there are some more videos incorporating audio and music. Not exactly for the squeamish the further you go, as there is a parental advisory sign. read more

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Went to a fantastic show over the weekend at the Armory. Our first time there. Really interesting, historic building.

My visit to the Armory was for: How many tears have you cried in your life? Created by turner pice winner Douglas Gordon. This stunning mediative installation is a beautiful experience. The impressive space has been transformed into a 3D mind tricking dark tranquil encounter, which had an edgy calm effect on me..... I am referring to the water space which gave the impression of a deep fall but it only covered an inch maximum which - when realized - then had a calming effect. Smart idea and collaboration... with Ms Hélène Grimaud ( even so we all know nothing is original anymore .... That's ok .... its the contacts and to turn into reality !) Well done Mr Gordon and Ms Grimaud. This venue is a unique experience, I am convinced that any performance you see here will highly stimulate you and compose unforgettable moments. Definitely, I will visit again and highly recommend this space to everyone! read more

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E and I came here for Martin Creed The Back Door - pretty cool installation. My favourite of course was the ballin-filled room. It was so fun and such a great way to make you feel like a kid again. We saw some kids at the other section and we had fun watching parents reaction to the very graphic films as their kids also had a peep of the film. read more

I wish they were more accommodating to people who regularly attend the armory. Seems like they are more interested in donations than providing service to customers who had an unfortunate experience. I will update my reviews as the days go if I hear back from them. read more

I can always count on my friend S to invite me to cultural events like the Park Ave. Armory's Ann Hamilton's Event of a Thread. While the line outside was pretty long to get in (last day afterall), it was pretty quick moving. Separating Cash and Credit line is pretty smart too. What's interesting most about the space is it's spectacularly fancy and well designed perimeter space - high wood lined halls adorned with holiday cheer, portraits of people, you really feel like you're walking through Lex Luthor's mansion and security is gonna find you any minute now. Come here at night and you might just run into the Ghostbusters. The exhibit space itself is incredibly grand - around 4 stories tall, you can probably fit the Enterprise, a UFO, or your belly after a Yelp Elite Event. Only gripe would be that the mezzanine platform and bathrooms could use some modernization/ upgrades. read more

I went to the Salon Art & Design Fair here. What a hidden gem in my neighborhood that I never even knew existed! The building is a stunning historic landmark. 19th century architecture and design has been preserved beautifully and there are few places like it left in this city. This building is home to an array of really interesting art and cultural offerings. The Salon Art & Design fair was fantastic and a pleasure to view in such an iconic venue. read more

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Christ, what a beautiful building, from the inside to the outside. And the irony is even better in that this building, which presumably was used in an ugly endeavor in the past, is now used to showcase the arts. Ok, self-righteous rant over. My thoughts are purely for its use as a concert venue as we came to see Massive Attack vs Adam Curtis. I do have to say and ding it one star for what I thought were flat and uninspired acoustics. If I show up to a Massive Attack show, I expect to feel my ribs and all my organs vibrating from the bass and all I got was a whimper. Terminal 5, such as it is, was a better venue as far as the sound quality was concerned. For music, my personal preference is for the more intimate venue where you can get really close to the artists - the setup here had the audience pretty far from the stage, which completely killed the ambience. read more

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I was here to work an alumni event my company was hosting. This venue is absolutely gorgeous, from the individual rooms to the grand staircase in the middle. The Armory screams wedding venue to me. I love the creak of the hardwood floors, even the smell of the building. It's all very upscale and full of history. read more

Went to De Materie a strange opera sort of performance with blimps and live sheep.I'm not to sure what it was about.It features ship building , the Dutch declaration of independence from Spain,medieval nuns , Piet Mondrian and Madame Curie- oh and a 17 th century Dutch physicist.Full orchestra , atonal music- hard to beat ! Something is going on in the world of Dutch and Flemish music and theater.In the last couple of years , I've seen two productions in Montclair NJ- Tragedy of a Friendship and The Book of Disquiet- as well as this production - all Dutch or Flemish- which made brilliant use of the stage.Lighting , music, use of film and costume , very elaborate mise en scene- all used brilliantly .The design clearly exceeds the quality of the material.But never have I seen a fairly large flock of sheep on a New York stage ! The building itself has good sight lines even from the mezzanine and they've restored a beautiful downstairs room .So a decent place to see a performance. read more

Park Avenue Armory - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

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First time was to see the play Yerma with Billie Piper. A beautiful interior and exterior with a unique performance stage. Some of the rooms have been restored to their original nineteenth century look, which is like entering a different time. Hope to be stopping in again soon for another play or just a walk around the premises. read more