The museum was open late for its “Pay What You Wish” hours, and people dropped in with whatever they wanted to pay for admission. The lobby was busy but not too crowded, and everyone seemed relaxed. The building itself always stands out—a big spiral that you walk up or down to see the art. The design pulls your attention toward both the walls and the big skylight above.

The Permanent Collection

Most of what we saw was from the museum’s permanent collection. The Guggenheim started with Solomon Guggenheim’s personal collection and grew from there. It’s not a huge museum, but the collection covers a lot of famous names in modern art. The museum is known for:

• Lots of abstract art, especially by Wassily Kandinsky, who has more than 150 works there. He’s a big reason the museum is respected in the art world.
• The Thannhauser Collection, always on display, with paintings by artists like Picasso, Cézanne, Degas, van Gogh, and Manet. Some highlights are Picasso’s “Woman With Yellow Hair” and Cézanne’s “Man With Crossed Arms.” The collection is small, but it always draws a crowd.
• Other artists we saw included Paul Klee (“Red Balloon”), Jackson Pollock (“Enchanted Forest”), and Joan Miró. There are some Impressionists too, like Renoir and Pissarro, and a few modern sculptures scattered throughout.

Current Exhibits

Right now, the main ramp features a variety of modern and contemporary works, but the side galleries and tower spaces hold rotating exhibitions. Much of the focus is on major artists from the early 20th century to today, spanning painting, sculpture, and some photography. The exhibitions change every few months, so there’s usually something new alongside the familiar pieces.

Final Notes

The museum closes relatively early most days, but it stays open a bit longer for these special evenings. Audio guides and maps are available if wanted, and families and solo visitors seemed equally at home.

If you want to see some big names in a striking building, the Guggenheim on “Pay What You Wish” night is an easy, low-pressure way to do it.