Museum of the Moving Image

Overview

The Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI) is a premier cultural institution dedicated to the history, art, and technology of film, television, and digital media. Located in Astoria, Queens, the museum showcases the evolution of the moving image, from early cinema to modern digital storytelling.

What to Expect

Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, view historical artifacts, and participate in hands-on experiences that highlight the magic of filmmaking and visual storytelling. The museum also houses a vast collection of memorabilia, including costumes, scripts, and animation tools.

Best for: film buffs, hands-on museum fans, and indoor date afternoons in Astoria; go on a weekday morning to beat the lines at the interactive exhibits.

Why Visit?

History

Plan Your Visit

• 30 min Start

  Floor 1 Lobby & Core Exhibition

  Begin your visit at the main lobby. Explore the Core Exhibition featuring over 1,400 artifacts from the museum's permanent collection, including vintage cameras, costumes, and memorabilia from iconic films and TV shows.

• 45 min Next

  Floor 2 Special Exhibitions

  Head upstairs to Floor 2 for rotating special exhibitions. These temporary exhibits showcase specific filmmakers, genres, or themes in depth. Check the museum's website for current exhibitions.

• 40 min Next

  Floor 3 Behind the Screen

  Discover the technical side of filmmaking in this interactive exhibition. Try your hand at sound editing, video game design, and other hands-on activities that reveal how the moving image is created.

• 1-2 hrs Optional

  Theater Film Screenings

  If time permits, catch a screening in one of the museum's two theaters. The museum regularly shows classic films, contemporary works, and rare archival material. Check the schedule in advance.

• 30 min End

  Café & Shop Relax & Browse

  End your visit with a snack at the Café, or browse unique film-related books, toys, and gifts at the Museum Shop.

Reviews

- 3 months ago -

Sophia Gantenbein

"This is a simply phenomenal trove of history in Astoria. I couldn’t believe how much they have…you would never guess how large it is from the entrance. Unexpected props, costumes, behind the scene..." "This is a simply phenomenal trove of history in Astoria. I couldn’t believe how much they have…you would never guess how large it is from the entrance. Unexpected props, costumes, behind the scenes tools; everything from a display case of the makeup products used on Sex and the City to the animatronic doll used in the Exorcist. Staff is generous and helpful. One of my favorite tips is the cafe in the lobby, an air conditioned, open and clean space that you can enjoy without paying for museum admission. You can also view the exhibits for free on Thursdays! There is even an outdoor area shrouded with trees when you need a breath of fresh air. Family friendly, as long as your kids behave acceptably and don’t ruin it for the rest of us…" Read more

- 4 months ago -

Eddy G

"The Museum of the Moving Image was a pretty fun weekend date spot to go with my wife. There are a lot of exhibits that are really interactive, and there's tons of interesting information about various..." "The Museum of the Moving Image was a pretty fun weekend date spot to go with my wife. There are a lot of exhibits that are really interactive, and there's tons of interesting information about various films and TV shows. I loved seeing things like the movie cameras that have been used over the years. Very fascinating. The one downside is that it can be really crowded sometimes. This is especially an issue with the interactive stuff. There were huge lines to see some of the interactive things. Made it a bit of a chore getting through the museum at times. Overall though, definitely recommend checking it out." Read more

- 7 months ago -

John

"The Moving Image Museum cannot be beat! They've got it all; cameras, an E.T. doll, an Exorcist doll, a Sopranos exhibit, arcade games, clean bathrooms, and a well-stocked gift shop. The Jim Henson exh..." "The Moving Image Museum cannot be beat! They've got it all; cameras, an E.T. doll, an Exorcist doll, a Sopranos exhibit, arcade games, clean bathrooms, and a well-stocked gift shop. The Jim Henson exhibit is a highlight. There's a kiosk that gives you a bit of information on every job on-set of a production. There are tons of jobs I've never heard of. It gives you an idea of the immense manpower needed to make these shows and movies we enjoy." Read more

- 6 months ago -

Yael W

"Made the mistake of not leaving enough time for this museum. It's large and offers so much. The last time I had been here was as a kid but now they offer multiple exhibits all of which were interesti..." "Made the mistake of not leaving enough time for this museum. It's large and offers so much. The last time I had been here was as a kid but now they offer multiple exhibits all of which were interesting. Shout out for having The Sopranos one. Wish it was slightly bigger and included costumes but nevertheless it was so interesting and fun for a fan like me!" Read more

- 5 months ago -

Jemlnlx

"Great visit to the Museum of Moving Image. Finally made it over to Queens to visit the Museum on a Thursday during their Free Thursdays (2pm - 6pm). General admission prices are $20 for adults, $12 f..." "Great visit to the Museum of Moving Image. Finally made it over to Queens to visit the Museum on a Thursday during their Free Thursdays (2pm - 6pm). General admission prices are $20 for adults, $12 for seniors and students and $10 for children. Tickets are NOT required for their Free Thursdays, but are required for all other days. The museum is conveniently located just a few blocks away from the Steinway M/R subway stations. There is also street parking in the surroudning area. The first floor has a large tabled cafeteria area which sells lots of cafe-style items. There is also a courtyard there. So many interesting movie and TV-based exhibits throughout the museum's second floor. Great explanations of and insight to the film-making process. The make-up/prosthetic area was particularly interesting which currently features "The Exorcist". There is also a great current exhibit on the Sopranos, diving into the making of the hit television series, taking you through some of its iconic locations. The Jim Henson exhibit was also great and takes you through his decorated career and his contributions to various shows like Sesame Street and the Muppets and movies like The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth. The third floor contains the technical "making of..." exhibits. It takes you through the cameras, lighting and sound capturing throughout the years. There are some great interactive exhibits on this floor. I was only there for about an hour and a half and found myself running out of time on the third floor. I would easily plan for a 3-hour or so trip to read and experience everything...including maybe a bite at the cafe and some relaxation in the courtyard." Read more

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