With the launch of Lonely Planet’s Ultimate United States Travel List, we wanted to explore some of our favorite American destinations and zoom in a little closer.

Each piece begins with a bird’s-eye view of a uniquely American site’s history and impact and then zooms in to reveal the lived experience on the ground.

Understanding the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

In this article, New York City native Denise Vasquez explores the historical and architectural importance of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum.

Breathe in the aroma of sautéed onions, sauerkraut, and hot dogs flowing through the air. Whirl through the hustle and bustle of people racing along Fifth Avenue to 88th Street. Upon arrival, behold the architectural monument shining bright from the outside in: the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. The historic landmark emerges from other tall buildings standing around it, like a superstar of abstract art.

The Vision Behind the Guggenheim: 35,000 Feet

The vision of bringing the museum to life began in 1943. Hilla Rebay, art advisor to Solomon Guggenheim and director of the Museum of Non-Objective Painting, commissioned Frank Lloyd Wright to design a one-of-a-kind “temple of spirit” to hold Guggenheim’s art collection. After 700 sketches, six working drafts, and years of hard work, the building opened on October 21, 1959.

Nature influenced Wright, experience served as his teacher, and interconnection guided him. Composing the unity between the art, the building, and its environment was his symphony, and the Guggenheim was arguably his greatest masterpiece.

However, Wright’s genius was not immediately recognized. His vision was met with mixed reviews. Notably, prominent artists signed a petition against the building, and critics referred to it derisively as a “giant toilet bowl,” while others praised the monument for its beauty.

To truly appreciate the design, take a seat outside on the concrete ledge surrounding the building. Let your imagination run wild while admiring the architectural features. Whether you see the museum as a spaceship, a seashell, or a child’s spinning top toy paused in time, interpretation is open to you.

Unwind, indulge in a snack, and find solace amidst the natural surroundings. Leave behind the city’s noise and embark on an adventure that offers a journey of the body, mind, and spirit.

Exhibits at the Guggenheim: 5000 Feet

The Guggenheim is a cultural center that draws visitors from around the globe. Inside, exhibits create an immersive experience that resembles a trip through time. Past exhibits have included “Picasso and the War Years 1935-1945” and “Ellsworth Kelly: A Retrospective,” showcasing five decades of his photography, paintings, and sculptures.

Future exhibits, such as “A Year With Children,” will feature students involved in the Learning Through Art artist-in-residence program.

The Guggenheim’s dedicated team—comprising curators, scholars, conservators, and artists—collaborates to ensure long-term maintenance of its permanent collection. Consequently, researchers study the original materials and techniques used by artists to prevent deterioration.

The Guggenheim Museum Today: On the Ground

Upon entering the building, visitors are transported into an extraordinary world. The sound of splashing water and voices echoes throughout the circular space, guiding you through the plaza like a surfer riding a wave.

Look up at the skylight, or oculus, 96 feet above, and on sunny days, enjoy the warm light filtering through. The iconic rotunda captures the attention of all who enter.

The museum features a quarter-mile-long spiral ramp with a gentle incline, designed for accessibility, allowing everyone to enjoy the exhibits.

Run your fingertips along the freshly painted parapet and feel the textures of days gone by in every bump. Visitors facing mobility challenges can borrow a manual wheelchair from security for free, ensuring everyone can roam freely around the building, except at the top of the first ramp.

There are two stairs at the entrance of the High Gallery; however, visitors can use the elevator to access Rotunda levels 1 and 2. Accessible restrooms compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are available on levels 1 and 7.

For those who are blind or have low vision, the Mind’s Eye program has provided oral descriptions of artworks and the environment for over a decade. Visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing can request American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation for tours, programs, and workshops, with reservations recommended one to two weeks in advance. Bringing a service animal is welcome.

Visit the Guggenheim from Thursday through Monday, between 11am and 6pm. Members enjoy various benefits, including free entry and exclusive hours on certain Mondays from 6 to 8 pm. Additionally, take advantage of the pay-what-you-wish admission on select Saturdays from 4 to 6 pm. Discounted admission is provided for visitors with disabilities, and caregivers may enter free of charge.