MoMi Expands Access with Free Entry to New Public Plaza and Programming

The Museum of the Moving Image has just debuted Open Worlds, a new initiative to expand access to the Queens culture spot that delivers on its promise of opening up a new world for museum patrons to relax and enjoy this local gem.

We recently checked it out and are sharing the details of our visit below. Find more cultural gems in our NYC Kids Guide to Museums, Galleries, and Exhibits.

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The Museum of the Moving Image lobby and outdoor space are filled with tech-inspired installations and wide-open spaces patrons can explore for FREE.

What Is MoMI's Open Worlds?

On Saturday, May 18, the Museum of the Moving Image opened its stunning, airy lobby and outdoor space FREE of charge for public access. In fact, at 15,500-square-feet, it is one of the largest WiFi-enabled community spaces in Queens.

I visited with my 3-year-old daughter and discovered that it was a great place for me to sit and relax and an open space for her to explore and take in some culture. She was instantly drawn to the video installation that greets you as you enter the lobby. Watching her interact with the installation was so much fun as it responded to sounds in real-time.

RELATED: Best Children's Museums and Family-Friendly Museums in NYC

The outdoor space at Open Worlds is a beautiful oasis from the bustling city!

The real winner here is a beautiful outdoor space that offers a peaceful oasis from the hustle and bustle of the city. On a nice day, parents can relax with an iced coffee from the on-site Little Flower coffee shop, while kids stretch their legs.

After visiting Open Worlds at the MOMI I have come to two conclusions. One, this is a perfect meet-up spot for parents and kids. Two, I’ll definitely be back with both my children to take advantage of the FREE upcoming events offered weekly. These events include puppetry, cinema, music, dance, science, and plenty more for the whole family.

RELATED: Free Museums and Free Museum Days in NYC for Kids

Kids are drawn to the video screens and open spaces of Open Worlds at the Museum of the Moving Image.

Know Before You Go to MoMI's Open Worlds

• The Museum of the Moving Image is located in the heart of Astoria. The Open Worlds installation is FREE for all visitors through October.
• Want to see more of MoMI? Take advantage of the museum’s free admission hours on Thursdays from 2-6pm. I went through the exhibits while I was there and it was a trip down memory lane and a feast for the imagination for my little one.
• There are plenty of restrooms throughout the museum. It is well temperature-controlled, and has a designated stroller parking area.
• There are also many great restaurants nearby. I highly recommend Comfortland, which is affordable, has plenty of vegan options, and is only a 15-minute walk away.
• Playground 35 is also a mere 5-minute walk straight down 35th Avenue and a great place for the little ones to get some extra energy out.

Photos by the author