How cool is this photo?

It was taken by chrisbastian44 on Flickr, and it’s an amazing image of the Guggenheim in New York City.

This attraction has something of interest for everyone. You’ll find the fascinating building on Fifth Avenue just across from the southern part of Central Park. It rises among other more typical skyscrapers like a giant dollop of concrete sour cream.

I have to wonder what Frank Lloyd Wright would think of that description though. Wright was the amazing designer for the Guggenheim. This year an anniversary exhibition was arranged at the Guggenheim in honor of this legendary American architect. You can find his work throughout the United States and even visit his own homes and studios in places like Chicago and in Scottsdale, Arizona. Still, the Guggenheim is perhaps his most unique design.

The Guggenheim’s shape is not merely for the aesthetic wow factor, though. The design of the Guggenheim is first and foremost to enhance the viewing experience of the galleries. You’ll find collections of modern and contemporary art in the Guggenheim, so it’s only fitting that the space is thoroughly modern as well. Upon entering the building, you’ll see the layers of galleries like you do in the photo here. You then begin your journey in the elevator. It carries you to the top of the unique structure. And from there, you stroll the downward spiraling walkway through the galleries.

What you’ll see there is, in the words of the Guggenheim administrators, “at once a vital cultural center, an educational institution, and the heart of an international network of museums.” It’s a tall order, but the Guggenheim certainly delivers. The artwork at the Guggenheim was acquired from extensive private collections. The modern and contemporary artwork is assembled as such, the pieces displayed in pleasing but eclectic variety as they might be hung in a glorious home. Though not arranged by historical era, the Guggenheim continues to acquire pieces, hoping to erase any chronological gaps.

But the Guggenheim is far more than artwork on a wall. You might find any number of thrilling exhibitions at any given season at the Guggenheim. For this reason, you may want to check their website before visiting. You may want to arrange your tour around a specific event. Besides the exhibitions, the Guggenheim offers lectures by art critics and even by the artists themselves. You may be able to attend a film screening or a live performance. And for students, the Guggenheim offers classes, both youth and adult. Plus, you can view the galleries with the guidance of an experienced docent if you prefer.

With its brilliant collection, the Guggenheim is perfect for art tours – New York City offering so many amazing collections in its various art museums. But the Guggenheim is also a must-see attraction for theme tours in architectural design. It’s a living study of Frank Lloyd Wright’s amazing eye and purpose. And it’s a powerful look at how function and beauty go hand in hand.