Not everyone knows that the grand French Renaissance-style chateau on the southeast corner of Fifth Avenue and 79th Street is actually open to the public. But it is: the Ukrainian Institute of America promotes the art, music and literature of Ukraine by hosting art exhibits, concerts, film screenings, poetry readings, literary evenings, children's programs, lectures, symposia and other programs. Each of these events provides an opportunity to glimpse the splendors of this grand 19th century town house.
Best and worst times to go to the Ukrainian Institute of America
If you can, visit the Institute during the summer when the Art Show and Sale takes place. Not only are the hours longer during this exhibition, giving you more flexibility to fit a visit into your schedule, but you'll have more room to move around and explore than you would during the busier and more time-constrained evening events.
Must see/do at the Ukrainian Institute of America
Take some time to admire the details of the ornate façade of the building before heading inside. The elaborate decorations continue inside—note in particular the carved woodwork of the lobby staircase and the ceiling in the Chandelier Room.
Admission to the Ukrainian Institute of America
The Institute's hours and admissions fees vary according to what events are taking place. For the 2015 Summer Art Show and Sale (through September 8, 2015), hours are 12 noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is free.
Parking and Public Transportation to the Ukrainian Institute of America
The Institute is located on the southeast corner of Fifth Avenue and 79th Street. To reach the Institute by subway, take the Lexington Avenue 4, 5, or 6 lines to the 77th Street Station and then walk 2 blocks north and 3 blocks west. By bus, take the M1, M2, M3, or M4 buses on Fifth and Madison avenues. The Institute does not have a parking garage, but on-street parking is available in the neighborhood (just be prepared to feed the meters on the avenues) or you can park at the nearby Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Food at the Ukrainian Institute of America
The Institute occasionally serves food at event receptions. If you are attending an event that does not include a catered reception but you want a snack, consider grabbing a hot dog or ice cream from one of the street vendors in Central Park, which is across the street.
Insider tip for visitors to the Ukrainian Institute of America
Even if the event you are attending doesn't include a tour of the exquisitely paneled Members Room, ask if you can peak inside to admire the woodwork.
Other places to visit near the Ukrainian Institute of America
The Ukrainian Institute of America is like a tiny jewel-box located near the enormous and sometimes overwhelming Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Author's Bio: Victoria Franzese is a proud New Yorker who owned, operated, and wrote for a successful online travel guide for 15 years. Now, thankfully, all of her travel is purely for fun. See where she's going next at @VOFranzese.