The Museum of Sex (often referred to as MoSex) in New York City is a unique museum dedicated to the exploration of human sexuality, covering topics from art and culture to science and history. Located at 233 Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, this museum offers a fascinating look at the cultural, social, and historical aspects of human sexuality, with exhibits that range from the educational to the playful. It’s an immersive experience designed for adults that blends art, history, and technology to break taboos and encourage open conversation around sex and sexuality.
Here’s your ultimate guide to The Museum of Sex in New York City.
Overview of the Museum of Sex
- Location: 233 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10016, near the Flatiron District
- Opening Hours: Open daily, typically from around 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM, though hours may vary on weekends and holidays.
- Tickets: Tickets are available for purchase online and at the door; booking online is recommended due to limited capacity.
- Audience: The museum is geared toward adults (18+), offering content designed for mature audiences.
- Duration: Most visitors spend about 1–2 hours exploring the exhibits.
Top Exhibits and Experiences at the Museum of Sex
The Museum of Sex features rotating and permanent exhibitions that span various themes related to sexuality, art, and culture. Here are some of the main highlights:
Super Funland: Journey into the Erotic Carnival
- What it is: A carnival-themed exhibit with interactive installations that explore sexuality in a playful and whimsical way.
- Why visit: Super Funland offers an immersive experience that includes erotic games, funhouse mirrors, and carnival-inspired rides, making it one of the museum’s most popular attractions. Highlights include the Tunnel of Love ride and the bouncing boob room, which provide plenty of laughs and photo ops.
The Erotic Cabinet of Curiosities
- What it is: An exhibit featuring a collection of historical artifacts, curios, and sexually explicit objects from different cultures and time periods.
- Why visit: This exhibit offers an educational journey through history, showcasing how sexuality has been perceived and expressed across various cultures. It’s ideal for those interested in the historical and anthropological side of sexuality.
STAG: The Vibrator and Sex Toy History Exhibit
- What it is: A historical exhibit on the evolution of sex toys, particularly vibrators, with artifacts that trace their development over the years.
- Why visit: It’s an informative and eye-opening display that highlights the role of sex toys in society and examines how they have been normalized in modern times.
Sex Lives of Animals
- What it is: An exhibit exploring the sexual behaviors of animals, challenging traditional views on human and non-human sexuality.
- Why visit: This exhibit is both educational and humorous, using scientific research to highlight the diversity of sexual behavior in the animal kingdom.
Night Fever: New York Disco, Club Culture, and Sexuality
- What it is: An exhibit that explores the relationship between nightlife culture and sexuality in New York, focusing on iconic nightclubs like Studio 54.
- Why visit: This exhibit offers a nostalgic and cultural look at how clubs and nightlife have influenced sexual expression and freedom.
Play Zone: Adult Play Area
- What it is: An interactive area where visitors can engage with sexually-themed games and activities, blending humor and eroticism.
- Why visit: This area adds a fun, lighthearted element to the museum experience, featuring games like “Sexual Jeopardy” and life-sized pinball machines that encourage visitors to relax and play.
Special Events and Workshops
In addition to its exhibits, the Museum of Sex hosts events, talks, and workshops to further engage visitors in discussions about sexuality.
- Guided Tours: Some evenings, the museum offers guided tours led by knowledgeable staff who provide in-depth explanations of the exhibits and answer questions, adding more context and insight into the displays.
- Sexuality Workshops: The museum occasionally holds workshops and lectures on topics related to sexual health, pleasure, relationships, and more. These events are led by experts and are designed to provide a safe space for open dialogue.
- Film Screenings and Talks: The museum frequently hosts film screenings, talks, and Q&A sessions with artists, authors, and researchers on topics that intersect with sexuality, art, and culture.
Shopping at The Museum of Sex Store
The Museum of Sex store, known as MoSex Store, offers a variety of curated items that range from educational to playful.
- Books: A selection of books on sex, relationships, history, and art that cater to a wide array of interests.
- Art and Apparel: Prints, posters, T-shirts, and other merchandise inspired by the museum’s exhibits and themes.
- Sex Toys and Accessories: The store also stocks a curated selection of adult toys, lingerie, and accessories, offering visitors the chance to purchase unique items in a comfortable, open environment.
- Gifts and Souvenirs: Fun novelty items, games, and small souvenirs make for memorable gifts or mementos.
Nearby Attractions and Things to Do
The Museum of Sex is located in a vibrant area of Midtown Manhattan, near other notable attractions and dining options.
- Madison Square Park: Just a short walk from the museum, Madison Square Park offers green spaces, art installations, and the original Shake Shack for a casual bite.
- Flatiron Building: An iconic NYC landmark, the Flatiron Building is a popular photo spot and only a few blocks away.
- Eataly NYC Flatiron: This Italian marketplace offers a variety of dining options, cafes, and Italian goods, ideal for grabbing a meal or coffee after visiting the museum.
- The National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath): Located nearby, this museum offers a family-friendly, interactive experience centered around math.
Tips for Visiting the Museum of Sex
- Plan Your Visit Around Crowds: The museum can get busy, especially on weekends. Visiting during off-peak hours (weekday mornings or early afternoons) can provide a more relaxed experience.
- Book Tickets in Advance: Due to limited capacity, booking tickets online in advance is recommended.
- Be Prepared for Adult Content: The museum is open and frank in its exploration of sexuality, so visitors should expect exhibits with explicit content.
- Take Advantage of Photo Opportunities: Many exhibits are designed with photo ops in mind, so bring your phone or camera to capture memories.
- Engage with the Staff: Museum staff are knowledgeable and can provide deeper insight into the exhibits or direct you to specific areas based on your interests.
Who Should Visit the Museum of Sex?
The Museum of Sex is a perfect destination for adults who are open-minded and interested in learning about the cultural, historical, and artistic dimensions of human sexuality. It’s popular among:
- Couples: The playful and interactive exhibits make it a unique, fun date spot.
- Groups of Friends: The relaxed, nonjudgmental environment makes it a fun place for friends looking to experience something different together.
- Artists and Curiosity Seekers: The museum’s blend of art and history makes it appealing for those who enjoy exploring cultural topics and contemporary art.
- Sexual Health and Education Enthusiasts: Those interested in sexuality, health, and psychology will find the museum’s exhibits and workshops educational and thought-provoking.
Conclusion
The Museum of Sex in New York City offers a distinctive and engaging experience that’s both educational and entertaining. With its wide-ranging exhibits, from historical displays to interactive carnival-themed installations, MoSex is a museum that breaks taboos and celebrates human sexuality in a fun, open way. Whether you’re looking to explore the history of sex toys, learn about animal mating rituals, or simply enjoy a playful day out, the Museum of Sex provides a one-of-a-kind journey into one of life’s most universal topics.
