The Museum of Mathematics (MoMath) in New York City is a one-of-a-kind museum dedicated to inspiring curiosity and understanding of mathematics through hands-on, interactive exhibits and engaging programs. Located at 11 East 26th Street near Madison Square Park, MoMath offers visitors of all ages the chance to explore the wonders of math in a fun, creative, and educational way. It’s an ideal spot for families, students, and anyone with an interest in math, science, or technology.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the Museum of Mathematics (MoMath).
Overview of the Museum of Mathematics
- Location: 11 East 26th Street, New York, NY 10010 (Flatiron District, near Madison Square Park)
- Opening Hours: Open daily, generally from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though hours may vary on holidays.
- Tickets: Available for purchase online or at the door; it’s recommended to buy in advance, especially on weekends.
- Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all ages, with exhibits for kids, teens, and adults.
Top Exhibits and Experiences at Museum of Mathematics
MoMath has a variety of interactive exhibits designed to explore different mathematical concepts in engaging ways. Each exhibit combines math with art, science, and technology, encouraging hands-on interaction.
Square-Wheeled Tricycle
- What it is: An exhibit where visitors can ride a tricycle with square wheels on a specially designed track that makes for a smooth ride.
- Why visit: This exhibit demonstrates how mathematical principles can make seemingly impossible things (like riding on square wheels!) work smoothly, creating a fun experience that shows how shapes and surfaces interact.
The Enigma Café
- What it is: A collection of brain-teasing puzzles, logic games, and hands-on activities that challenge visitors’ problem-solving skills.
- Why visit: This area is perfect for those who enjoy puzzles and want to test their mathematical thinking and logic skills in a fun, relaxed setting.
Hyper Hyperboloid
- What it is: A giant hyperboloid structure made of intersecting strings, where visitors can stand inside and watch how straight lines create curved shapes.
- Why visit: The Hyper Hyperboloid allows guests to experience the beauty of geometric curves and the unexpected results when straight lines intersect in specific ways.
Math Square
- What it is: An interactive floor that lights up with shapes, numbers, and games when you walk on it, responding to movement and encouraging teamwork.
- Why visit: It’s a fun, energetic exhibit that shows how math can be interactive and social, with different games that require visitors to work together to solve challenges.
The Wall of Fire
- What it is: A laser-based exhibit that uses light and geometry to explore the concept of cross-sections.
- Why visit: The Wall of Fire invites visitors to interact with shapes and see how two-dimensional cross-sections can reveal three-dimensional objects, helping visualize abstract concepts in an accessible way.
Coaster Roller
- What it is: A roller coaster simulator that allows visitors to create their own roller coaster track and watch a simulated ride along it, exploring concepts of curves and slopes.
- Why visit: This exhibit is ideal for understanding how math applies to engineering, particularly with how curves, slopes, and angles create different speeds and experiences on a roller coaster.
The Human Tree
- What it is: A digital exhibit where guests can create a tree-like pattern with their arms, demonstrating the concept of fractals.
- Why visit: This exhibit shows the beauty of fractal patterns, where shapes repeat on smaller and smaller scales, creating intricate, nature-like structures.
Twisted Thruway
- What it is: A set of twisted roadways with various Möbius strip shapes that visitors can drive small cars on, challenging traditional ideas of surfaces and edges.
- Why visit: This exhibit introduces the concept of non-orientable surfaces, like Möbius strips, in a way that’s tangible and easy to understand.
Educational Programs and Events
MoMath is not just a museum for exhibits but a hub for math education and engagement, offering a range of programs, workshops, and events for different ages.
- MoMath’s Math Encounters: A free monthly presentation featuring guest speakers who dive into intriguing mathematical topics, making them accessible and engaging for a general audience.
- Family Fridays: Monthly events offering hands-on math activities designed for families to enjoy together.
- MathPlay: Specially designed for young children (ages 2-5), MathPlay introduces math concepts through stories, songs, and creative play.
- MoMath Summer Camps and Classes: MoMath offers summer camps and programs for students, focusing on mathematical concepts through interactive activities and experiments.
- Master Mathletics: A program aimed at students in grades 4 through 12, offering problem-solving sessions and competitions designed to develop mathematical thinking.
Museum of Mathematics Special Events and Seasonal Activities
MoMath hosts unique events throughout the year that bring even more excitement to mathematical learning.
- Pi Day Celebrations (March 14): Every year, MoMath celebrates Pi Day with special activities and events focused on the mathematical constant pi (π = 3.14), including pie-themed events and activities.
- National Museum Day: MoMath participates in this annual day, offering special activities and free admission as part of Smithsonian Museum Day.
- Math Madness Tournament: A national tournament where schools from across the country compete in math challenges and problem-solving games.
Nearby Attractions and Things to Do
The Museum of Mathematics is located near several other attractions, making it a convenient part of a day exploring the Flatiron District.
- Madison Square Park: Located just across the street, Madison Square Park is a beautiful place to relax, enjoy outdoor art installations, and grab a snack at the original Shake Shack.
- Flatiron Building: One of NYC’s most iconic landmarks, the Flatiron Building is just a few blocks away and makes for a great photo spot.
- Eataly NYC Flatiron: This Italian marketplace offers restaurants, cafes, and food counters with authentic Italian cuisine, perfect for a meal after visiting the museum.
- Gramercy Theatre: A nearby venue for concerts, comedy shows, and events, it’s ideal for catching a live show after your museum visit.
Tips for Visiting the Museum of Mathematics
- Book Tickets in Advance: MoMath can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays, so it’s a good idea to book your tickets online in advance.
- Plan for Hands-On Fun: Many exhibits are interactive and best enjoyed if you’re open to experimenting and engaging with the displays.
- Ask for Help: Museum staff are knowledgeable about the exhibits and can offer guidance on how to interact with certain displays to get the full experience.
- Combine with Nearby Attractions: Since MoMath is close to several NYC landmarks, plan to visit Madison Square Park or the Flatiron Building for a full day in the area.
- Check the Event Calendar: MoMath frequently hosts special events, workshops, and presentations. Checking their website before your visit can help you catch any special programs during your visit.
Museum of Mathematics Gift Shop and Souvenirs
The MoMath gift shop offers a variety of math-inspired items, puzzles, and games that let visitors bring the excitement of the museum home with them. The shop includes educational toys, math-themed T-shirts, books, and unique souvenirs, making it a great stop for finding fun, brainy gifts.
Conclusion
The Museum of Mathematics (MoMath) in New York City offers a unique blend of learning, entertainment, and hands-on exploration, making it a fantastic destination for all ages. With interactive exhibits, fun challenges, and fascinating insights into math’s role in our everyday lives, MoMath turns abstract concepts into exciting experiences. Whether you’re a math enthusiast or just curious, the museum’s engaging approach to mathematics ensures a memorable and thought-provoking visit for everyone.
