When are New York galleries open?

Most New York galleries keep similar hours, but not all, and the exceptions catch people out. Here is what to expect.

Tuesday to Saturday

The standard week for a New York gallery is Tuesday to Saturday, from about 10 or 11am to 6pm. Galleries in Chelsea, Tribeca and on the Upper East Side mostly follow it.

Smaller galleries often keep shorter or different hours. On the Lower East Side and in Chinatown, Wednesday to Sunday is common, sometimes from noon.

Sunday and Monday

Most galleries are closed on Sunday and Monday. If you only have a Sunday, head to the Lower East Side or Chinatown, or to a museum.

Summer hours

In July and August many galleries switch to summer hours, often Monday to Friday, and some close for a week or two in August. Programs slow down too: summer is when many galleries show group exhibitions.

Holidays

Galleries usually close on public holidays, and many close between Christmas and New Year's Day.

By appointment

Some galleries open only by appointment, and some are on upper floors behind a buzzer. Both will say so on their websites. Email ahead; most will reply the same day.

Openings run late

On the evening a show opens, the gallery usually stays open for a reception, most often from 6 to 8pm. See how openings work.

Check before you go

Hours change with the season and between shows, when galleries close for a few days to install. Gallop shows each gallery's hours and whether it is open right now.