Hunter S.
Yelp
This is a sparkling hidden gem, tucked away in Edward Hopper's birthplace, the village of Nyack. Located about 15 miles (a 35-50 minute commute) from Manhattan, it would make for a great half day or full day trip from the city!
This home was built and owned by Hopper's maternal grandparents. It was in danger of demolition until the village worked to collectively buy and restore the property. It opened as a museum in 2017.
The museum boasts many early boyhood sketches. Hopper's bicycle is on display. Many personal artifacts are on view, including journals and painting/tool kits. You can view his bedroom, arranged as he would have had it, with an inspiring view of the Hudson. There are also works by his wife, Jo, who was a major influence on his career, and a key to his success.
The staff here are so enthusiastic, kind, and knowledgeable. I could sense the passion they felt about the subject. There is also a great, informative film. The info boards are clean, clear, and concise.
There is also a map and QR code to lead you around Hopper's Nyack, where you can see places important to him and places he painted. Nyack is a very walkable downtown, and the house is near many shops and restaurants.
Entry fee is reasonable. I donated extra. The gift shop has some nice items!
The Whitney has an extensive Hopper exhibit on view through March 5, 2023. And even after this is over, the Whitney holds a huge Hopper collection on view regularly.
NYU maintains Hopper's NYC studio, though it has recently been closed due to COVID.
It would be easy for a Hopper fan to plan a long weekend or a couple of days visiting these various sites and learning more about the artist (he was 6'7!).
I can't rave enough about this museum or the staff. A PBS documentary comes out later this year and the preview I saw was wonderful.