Frieze New York 2025, happening in May, is a major art fair showcasing contemporary works and large-scale installations. Held at The Shed in Hudson Yards, it brings together galleries, artists, and collectors from around the world. You can expect to see paintings, sculptures, and digital art from both emerging and established artists. Pair your visit with exclusive art studio tours in Chelsea or Brooklyn to meet creators and see their process up close. This combination makes for a full day of art and inspiration in NYC. Book your Frieze tickets early, as they sell out fast, and plan your studio tours to match your schedule. Stay at a nearby hotel like the Artezen Hotel for easy access to Hudson Yards.
What to Expect at Frieze New York 2025
Frieze New York 2025 takes place at The Shed, a modern cultural venue at 545 West 30th Street, accessible via the 7 train to 34th Street-Hudson Yards. The fair runs from May 8 to May 11, 2025, with hours typically from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, though VIP previews start a day earlier. You’ll find over 100 galleries presenting works by artists ranging from new talents to big names like Yayoi Kusama or Jeff Koons. The art spans mediums like oil paintings, bronze sculptures, and interactive video installations. Special sections, such as Focus for younger galleries and Frame for solo artist presentations, highlight fresh perspectives. Expect curated talks with artists and curators, plus live performances that add energy to the experience.
Tickets cost around $50-$80 for general admission, with discounts for students and seniors. VIP passes, priced at $250-$500, offer early access and exclusive events. You’ll walk through large, open exhibition spaces, so wear comfortable shoes. Food stalls and a café on-site serve sandwiches, coffee, and light meals, but you can also eat at nearby spots like Mercado Little Spain. Photography is allowed, but check for restrictions on specific pieces. Arrive early to avoid crowds, and download the Frieze app for a map and schedule. Book tickets online at least a month in advance to secure your spot.
A room painted blue
Why Frieze New York Stands Out
Frieze New York is one of NYC’s top spring art fairs because of its focus on contemporary art and its global reach. Unlike older fairs like The Armory Show, Frieze emphasizes living artists and current trends, making it feel fresh and relevant. The Shed’s sleek design, with its retractable roof and open layout, creates a bright, spacious setting that lets the art take center stage. You’ll see works priced from $1,000 to over $1 million, appealing to both casual visitors and serious collectors. The fair also partners with local institutions like MoMA or the Whitney, hosting events that connect you to NYC’s art scene.
Another highlight is the fair’s programming. You can attend panel discussions with artists, curators, and critics, covering topics like digital art or sustainability in creation. Live installations, such as soundscapes or performance pieces, happen throughout the fair, adding an interactive element. Frieze Week, the days surrounding the fair, brings pop-up exhibits and gallery openings across Manhattan, so you can extend your art experience. Check the Frieze website for a full events calendar, and plan to spend at least 3-4 hours at the fair to see everything.
Pairing Frieze with Art Studio Tours
To make your Frieze visit even better, book an art studio tour in Chelsea or Brooklyn. These tours, often led by local artists or guides, take you to working studios where you can meet painters, sculptors, or photographers. In Chelsea, you’ll visit spaces along West 24th to 27th Streets, a hub for galleries and studios. Tours last 2-3 hours, cover 4-6 studios, and include talks about the artists’ techniques and inspirations. You might see a painter mixing colors or a sculptor shaping clay, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process.
Brooklyn tours, especially in Bushwick or Williamsburg, focus on street art and newer artists. You’ll see murals and visit lofts where creators work on bold, experimental pieces. These tours are small, with 6-12 people, so you can ask questions and chat with artists. Wear casual clothes, as studios can be dusty, and bring a water bottle. Book tours at least two weeks in advance, as they fill up during Frieze Week. Check meeting points, usually near subway stations like 23rd Street (C, E) or Bedford Avenue (L), and arrive 10 minutes early.
A sculpture of a giant head with hands covering its eyes
Planning Your Visit to Frieze New York
Planning is key to enjoying Frieze New York 2025. Start by booking your tickets online through The Shed’s website or Frieze’s official platform. General admission tickets go on sale in March, and VIP passes sell out by April, so don’t wait. If you’re traveling from out of town, book a hotel near Hudson Yards, like the Conrad New York Downtown, for convenience. The fair is accessible via subway (7 train), bus (M34-SBS), or taxi, but public transit is fastest. Parking is limited, so avoid driving if possible.
Arrive at The Shed by 10:30 a.m. to beat the midday rush. You’ll go through a security check, so keep bags small and avoid large backpacks. Inside, pick up a free map at the info desk to plan your route. The fair is spread across multiple floors, with elevators for accessibility. If you have mobility needs, contact The Shed in advance for accommodations like wheelchairs or seating. Bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down favorite artists or galleries, as you’ll want to follow up later. Check the weather, as May can be rainy, and bring a light jacket.
People standing on a rainbow floor at the Frieze
Getting Around NYC During Frieze Week
NYC is busy during Frieze Week, so plan your transportation. The subway is your best bet—take the 7 train to Hudson Yards for Frieze or the C, E to Chelsea for studio tours. Buy a MetroCard with $10-$20 for multiple rides, and use the NYC Subway app for real-time schedules. Buses like the M12 or M34-SBS also stop near The Shed. If you prefer taxis or rideshares, expect higher fares during peak hours (10 a.m.-2 p.m.). Walking is great in Chelsea, as studios are close together, but wear sturdy shoes for comfort.
For studio tours in Brooklyn, take the L train to Bedford Avenue or Lorimer Street. If you’re combining Frieze with other art events, like gallery openings in SoHo, use the N, Q, R trains to Canal Street. Keep a small amount of cash for tips or small purchases, as some studios may not take cards. If you’re carrying luggage, use a storage service near Penn Station or Port Authority to stay hands-free. Plan your day to avoid rushing—Frieze takes 3-4 hours, and studio tours add another 2-3 hours.
People looking at art installations in the Frieze fair
Where to Eat Near Frieze and Art Studios
You’ll want to eat well to keep your energy up. Near The Shed, Mercado Little Spain at Hudson Yards offers Spanish tapas, sandwiches, and coffee, with prices from $10-$20. For a sit-down meal, try Peak, a restaurant above The Shed with views of the city, serving dishes like pasta or steak for $25-$50. In Chelsea, near studio tours, head to Cookshop on 10th Avenue for brunch or lunch, with options like avocado toast or burgers for $15-$30. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, as you’ll be walking a lot.
In Brooklyn, Juliana’s Pizza in Dumbo serves classic pies for $15-$25, perfect after a Bushwick studio tour. If you’re in Williamsburg, try Westlight, a rooftop bar with small plates and cocktails for $10-$20. Many places get crowded during Frieze Week, so make reservations a week in advance, especially for dinner. If you have dietary needs, like vegetarian or gluten-free, check menus online or call ahead. Most spots near Hudson Yards and Chelsea are accessible via subway, so you won’t need a car.
Other Art Events During Frieze Week
Frieze Week brings tons of art events across NYC. In Manhattan, check out gallery openings in Chelsea or SoHo, where you can see new exhibits for free. The Whitney Museum, near Hudson Yards, often hosts special talks or shows tied to Frieze, with tickets around $25. In Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Museum may feature contemporary art exhibits, accessible via the 2, 3 train to Eastern Parkway. Many galleries extend hours during Frieze Week, staying open until 8 p.m., so you can visit after the fair.
Pop-up shows in Dumbo or the Lower East Side showcase younger artists, often with free entry. Check Artforum or Time Out New York for event listings. If you’re into street art, Bushwick’s murals are a must-see, especially during guided tours. Combine these with Frieze for a packed art day, but pace yourself to avoid burnout. Most events are walkable or a short subway ride from The Shed, so plan your itinerary to group activities by neighborhood.
Life-sized anime figurines of women in an art fair
Tips for First-Time Frieze Visitors
If it’s your first time at Frieze, here’s how to make it smooth. Buy tickets online early to avoid lines, and opt for morning sessions to beat crowds. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as you’ll stand and walk for hours. Bring a small bag for essentials like your phone, wallet, and a charger, but avoid large bags to speed up security checks. Download The Shed’s accessibility guide if you need accommodations, and contact organizers for specific needs like sign language interpreters.
Take breaks at seating areas or the café to recharge. If you’re buying art, talk to gallery staff—they’re happy to explain pieces and prices. Don’t feel pressured to buy; most visitors just browse. Use the Frieze app to mark favorite booths and check talk schedules. If you’re combining with studio tours, book them for a different day to avoid feeling rushed. Stay at a hotel like the Smyth Tribeca for a central location near both Frieze and Chelsea.
People walking around looking at Instagram posts on walls
Safety and Accessibility at Frieze
Frieze New York prioritizes safety and accessibility. The Shed has security staff and bag checks at all entrances, so arrive 15 minutes early. Keep valuables in a zipped bag and stay aware in crowded areas. For emergencies, medical staff are on-site, and pharmacies are nearby on 10th Avenue. The venue is wheelchair-accessible, with ramps and elevators, and service animals are allowed. Contact The Shed’s accessibility team two weeks in advance for specific needs, like audio descriptions or tactile tours.
Hudson Yards is a safe area with police patrols, but stick to main streets at night. If you’re traveling alone, share your itinerary with a friend. For studio tours, confirm accessibility with operators, as some Chelsea lofts may have stairs. Brooklyn tours are mostly outdoors and easier to navigate. Bring a portable charger, as you’ll use your phone for photos and maps. Check The Shed’s website for updated safety protocols, especially for health-related guidelines.
Women looking at books during the Frieze fair
Make Your Frieze New York 2025 Trip Memorable
Frieze New York 2025 is a must-visit for art lovers, showcasing cutting-edge contemporary works at The Shed. Enhance your cultural experience with art studio tours in Chelsea or Brooklyn, where you can meet artists and learn about their creative process. To make the most of your time, start planning early—book tickets, use the subway for easy travel, and consider staying at a budget-friendly hotel in New York like the Artezen Hotel for both comfort and convenience.
For a well-rounded experience, join a New York in one day guided sightseeing tour to explore major landmarks efficiently. If you’re a theater enthusiast, don’t miss some of the best Broadway shows New York 2025 has to offer—like the Tony Award-winning “Hadestown.”
Want to dive deeper? Discover the hidden gems in Manhattan on a local walking tour for a unique, off-the-beaten-path perspective. To continue exploring, check out the New York City tourism site for curated guides and inspiration, including the Queens travel guide and the Manhattan visitors guide.
