The MoMA’s Rain Room exhibit has been the hottest way to cool down this summer. Parting water in a field of falling rain sounds pretty cool, right? The droves of NYC residents that have come out in droves to experience it seem to think so.
I recently braved a six-hour wait to check it out myself. And it was worth it — there’s something incredibly soothing about all that water falling all around you, not to mention the dramatic lighting thats set the mood. Still, six hours is a long time to be in line for anything.
The good news is that if you want to visit before the exhibit closes on July 28, there are certainly ways to better survive the line. See my tips below, then check out the following photos for a taste of what it’s all for.
1. Don’t run and don’t dwaddle. The sensors will have a hard time detecting your presence if you’re running through too quickly, but they’ll also forget you’re there if you, say, get too caught up in taking photos while standing in the same spot.
2. Go on a weekday. The wait has been as long as 6-8 hours on the weekends. Weekdays are obviously slower, but it won’t be getting less crowded in the exhibit’s final stretch.
3. Get there early. For the general public, the exhibit opens at 10:30am, but those who buy tickets online beforehand will start lining up as early as 6am. Museum members can get in at 9:30am and will start arriving around 6:30. If you’re thinking about getting membership to beat the crowds, know that at busy times the membership line will only save you about an hour.
4. Bring provisions. The line for the exhibit is mostly outdoors, a good portion of which is not shaded. On hot days, an umbrella will go a long way in keeping you cool(er). You’ll also want to stay hydrated–try freezing a water bottle overnight so you’ll have water that stays icy for longer. There’s also a concession stand for drinks and snow cones for those who get beyond the second, gated part of the line, but prices are steep. Books, games, and other portable entertainment are a good idea.
4. Take shifts. While I wouldn’t suggest sending one person to hold a spot for more than two others–think of the riot that would ensue–you don’t all have to be in line the entire time. Everyone needs bathroom breaks, and everyone will understand that children especially can get restless.
5. Dress appropriately. Yes, do you get sprinkled on in the exhibit, but this advisory is really for the fact that you’ll probably want to sit down in line. This means sitting on the NYC pavement, so don’t wear anything too nice…or considering bringing lightweight fold-up chairs.
