The Museum of the Moving Image's collection spans the history of film making, with many interactive opportunities throughout the museum. In addition to the permanent collection, the Museum hosts temporary exhibits that highlight many important elements and figures of film. First opened in 1988, the Museum of the Moving Image underwent a tremendous expansion and renovation which was unveiled to the public in early 2011.
1. Museum of the Moving Image Directions
Photo by Heather Cross, licensed to About.com
Located in Astoria, Queens, the Museum of the Moving Image is housed in one of 13 buildings that was part of the Astoria Studio complex, where films were made from the 1920s-1970 first by Paramount and then by the U.S. Army.
Museum Address: 36-01 35 Avenue (36/37th Streets) Astoria, NY 11106
Closest Subway: N/Q to 36th Avenue; R/M to Steinway Street
Parking: in addition to street parking (some with meters, some without), there is discount parking available at PV Parking Corp, 34-11 Steinway Street, Astoria (entrance on 41 Street, between 34 & 35 Avenues)
2. Museum of the Moving Image Hours and Tickets
Admission to the Museum of the Moving Image includes same-day screenings (except special events) -- when you visit they will issue you timed tickets for screenings/exhibitions when necessary.
Museum of the Moving Image Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday - Thursdays: 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Fridays: 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m. (Free admission: 4-8 p.m.)
- Saturdays and Sundays: 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
Museum of the Moving Image Admission:
- Adults: $10
- Seniors and College Students: $7.50
- Children 3-18: $5
- Children under 3: Free
- Members & Educators with ID: Free
- Fridays from 4-8 p.m.: Free (tickets for screenings are additional)
3. Museum of the Moving Image Visitor Tips
- Strollers and large bags are not allowed in the galleries -- but there is a free coat check available.
- If visiting with an infant or toddler, consider a baby carrier -- it's a great way to keep your baby contained in the galleries (& gives them a better perspective for viewing the exhibitions as well)
- There are lots of short films to watch throughout the museum with seating.
- Plan to spend about 1.5-2 hours viewing the collection/exhibits at the museum, in addition to time to see a film.
- Check the film schedule in advance to plan your timing at the museum to accommodate the films you want to see.
- Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult (18+).
4. Visiting the Museum of the Moving Image with Kids
The Museum of the Moving Image is very welcoming to families. There are diaper changing stations in the bathrooms on the first-floor, the cafe offers lots of child-friendly options and the fact that there are films and shorts playing throuhgout the museum provides a din that allows children to be children without disturbing other museum visitors.
- Children will begin to find the museum's exhibits interesting/accessible beginning around pre-school age.
- On weekends, the museum hosts family workshops, which are geared toward children 6+, as well as family matinee screenings.
- The Jim Henson's Fantastic World exhibit is particularly appropriate for families visiting the museum (on view through January 2012).
- Strollers are permitted only on the 1st floor of the museum, so consider bringing a baby carrier if visiting with young kids.
5. Where To Eat Near the Museum of the Moving Image
The Museum of the Moving Image has a nice cafe where you can enjoy a simple lunch or refreshments. If you're looking for a more substantial meal, take advantage of some of the delicious dining in Astoria:
- 5 Napkin Burger - just across the street, 5 Napkin burger has great burgers and milkshakes
- Philoxenia Restaurant - (3207 34th Avenue, 718-626-2000) one of Astoria's great Greek restaurants, Philoxenia is about 6 blocks away
- More Ideas: Astoria Restaurants from John Roleke, About.com's Guide to Queens, NY
