What 2 Columbus Circle Is
At the southern entrance to Midtown Manhattan’s Columbus Circle, 2 Columbus Circle is a New York landmark that has evolved from a modern art gallery into the home of the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD). Designed by Edward Durell Stone and completed in 1964, the building is affectionately known as the “Lollipop Building” for its round windows and scalloped columns.
MAD’s 54,000-square-foot Jerome and Simona Chazen Building hosts exhibitions, educational programs, and artist studios. The site is near Central Park, Lincoln Center, The Shops at Columbus Circle, and the Broadway Theater District.
History
2 Columbus Circle opened in 1964 as the Gallery of Modern Art. Huntington Hartford envisioned it as a place to show modern artworks outside the mainstream. Edward Durell Stone’s design, with its white marble façade and distinctive “lollipop” columns, drew both acclaim and controversy. The building later became a city office before closing for renovation.
In 2008, it reopened as the Museum of Arts and Design after a redesign led by Brad Cloepfil. The renovation replaced the original marble with glazed terra-cotta and fritted glass while retaining the building’s distinctive form.
Columbus Circle was established in 1905. It features the Columbus Monument and marks the city’s point-zero for measuring distances (National Park Service). Its development from farmland into a modern city landmark reflects New York’s growth.
What to See
Architecture
Stone’s original design is known for its white marble façade, scalloped columns, and circular windows. Cloepfil’s 2008 renovation introduced a contemporary skin of fritted glass and terracotta, preserving the building’s curves. The interplay between the original form and later exterior has made it a subject of ongoing architectural study and appreciation. (Secret NYC)
The museum’s interior includes flexible galleries, artist studios, a theater, educational spaces, and the rooftop restaurant Robert.
Collection and Exhibitions
MAD’s collection spans ceramics, glass, metalwork, fiber, jewelry, and innovative design from 1950 onward. Notable works include Judith Schaechter’s “Seeing is Believing” and Charles Simonds’ “Dwelling” (MAD Museum Exhibitions). The museum’s mission is to celebrate the creative transformation of materials and foster dialogue between artists and the public.
Exhibitions listed as current or upcoming include:
- Saya Woolfalk: Empathic Universe — through Sept 7, 2025
- The Mad MAD World of Jonathan Adler — through Apr 19, 2026
- Dana Barnes: Untamed Gestures — through Oct 11, 2026
- OUT of the Jewelry Box — ongoing
- Designing Motherhood: Things that Make and Break Our Births — opens Oct 4, 2025
Site-specific installations and interactive experiences also feature in the museum.
Programs and Amenities
MAD offers artist talks, workshops, Open Studios, educational outreach to schools and community groups, and family programs. (Blog Daisie)
Visitors will find free Wi-Fi, accessible restrooms, and family-friendly activities. The Store at MAD sells artist-made jewelry and design objects. Robert, the rooftop restaurant, offers dining with panoramic views.
Special Events and Tours
MAD offers a rotating schedule of special exhibitions, artist-led workshops, and guided tours. Free tours take place every Friday and Saturday at 11:30 AM. Check the events calendar for current offerings.
Visiting Information
Visiting Hours
- Monday Closed
- Tuesday–Sunday 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Thursday Open until 9:00 PM
Check the official MAD website for holiday schedules or updates.
Columbus Circle itself is a public space open 24/7; MAD and other venues have their own hours.
Tickets
- General admission $18
- Students and seniors (65+) $12
- Children under 12 Free
- NYC residents Discounted rates with valid ID
- Thursday discount 50% off admission from 4:00–7:00 PM (Loving New York)
Tickets are available online or at the entrance. Advance purchase is recommended for busy periods.
Accessibility
The building is fully accessible, with accessible entrances, elevators, ramps, restrooms, assistive listening devices, and accommodations for service animals.
Location and Transit
MAD is at 2 Columbus Circle, steps from Central Park and major transit lines. The 59th Street–Columbus Circle station serves the A, B, C, D, and 1 trains. Nearby buses include the M5, M7, M10, M20, and M104. Multiple bus lines serve the area, and paid parking and parking garages are available nearby. (Secret NYC; MTA Official Site)
Photography
Photography is permitted in most permanent galleries, without flash. Restrictions may apply to special exhibitions.
Tips for Visiting
- Arrive early for a quieter visit, especially on weekends and during popular exhibitions.
- Online ticket purchases can help visitors skip the lines.
- Thursday evenings offer discounted admission and may be quieter.
- Guided tours are available on Fridays and Saturdays at 11:30 AM.
- Reserve rooftop dining at Robert in advance.
- Check the events calendar for tours, family activities, and special programs.
- Upper floors offer views, and a meal at Robert can be part of a visit.
Planning resources include the Museum of Arts and Design official website, Secret NYC’s guide to MAD, and NYCgo’s Columbus Circle guide. Visitors can also follow MAD on social media and use the Audiala app for audio guides and curated itineraries.
Nearby Places
Columbus Circle sits at the crossroads of 59th Street, Broadway, Eighth Avenue, and Central Park West, making it a transportation and cultural hub.
- Central Park An iconic green space directly across the street and a short walk from MAD.
- The Shops at Columbus Circle Luxury retail, shopping, upscale dining, and top-rated restaurants.
- Lincoln Center Home to opera, ballet, and symphony performances.
- Jazz at Lincoln Center Live performances (Official Jazz at Lincoln Center).
- Broadway Theater District World-famous shows a short walk away.
- Hell’s Kitchen and Fifth Avenue Neighborhoods with dining and retail experiences.
- American Museum of Natural History and Carnegie Hall Nearby cultural landmarks.
Dining and refreshment options around Columbus Circle include Robert at MAD for rooftop American cuisine, Bouchon Bakery for pastries and coffee, Jean-Georges for Michelin-starred fine dining, and street vendors serving classic New York snacks.
For an overview of the area, see Responsible New York’s Columbus Circle overview.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are MAD’s opening hours?
Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; Thursdays until 9:00 PM; closed Mondays.
How can I buy tickets?
Tickets are available online or at the museum entrance. Advance purchase is recommended for busy periods.
Is the building wheelchair accessible?
Yes. It has accessible entrances, elevators, ramps, and restrooms.
Is photography allowed?
Photography is permitted in most permanent galleries without flash; restrictions may apply to special exhibitions.
What is the best way to get there?
Take the A, B, C, D, or 1 train to 59th Street–Columbus Circle. Multiple bus lines serve the area, and nearby parking garages are available.
