Find more than 250 Barbie dolls at the nostalgic exhibition. Photo courtesy of the Museum of Arts and Design.

What can I expect to see at Barbie: A Cultural Icon at the Museum of Arts and Design?

The elevator opens up right into the action at this iconic exhibition, which spans two floors of Manhattan’s beloved Museum of Arts and Design. “Walking feet,” I reminded my 6- and 8-year-olds, as they hurried towards the cases filled with colorful vintage dolls and a quirky retro television playing old Barbie commercials.

Really, Barbie: A Cultural Icon is like an interactive timeline, inviting you to experience the already-65-year evolution of one of pop culture’s most impactful toys. The exhibition starts with Barbie’s origin story–a chance to see the very first version of the doll, along with all 22 of her original ensemble outfits. From there, you go decade by decade, marking major milestones like the first Black Barbie doll, the introduction of Ken, and the creation of the Barbie Dreamhouse, while also taking in the oh-so-memorable fashions of the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Of course, the journey ends here in the 2000s, with the ongoing diversification of the characters in the Barbie Universe, who now encompass a range of ethnicities, body types, careers, and identities.

The exhibition is full of meaningful conversation starters for kids and teens, with Barbie serving as a perfect entry point for discussions about women’s rights, feminism, diversity, inclusivity, and more.

Are there fun activities at the Barbie exhibition?

Throughout the exhibition, you’ll find fun and playful photo opportunities, including a chance to strike your best pose inside an oversized Barbie box and to hop into the driver’s seat of a life-size neon pink Barbie Ultra 'Vette™ convertible.

On your way out of the museum, you’ll find plenty of browseable Barbie keepsakes in The Store at MAD, from coffee table books and jewelry to lapel pins and special edition dolls.

There are a number of fun and playful photo opportunities throughout the exhibition.

What ages is the Barbie exhibition at MAD best for?

All ages are welcome at the exhibition, but I’d say kids ages 6 and up will get the most out of the colorful and engaging lesson in Barbie’s evolution. Younger children will likely still love exploring the huge collection of Barbie dolls. Just keep in mind that visitors are asked to keep their hands off the glass cases of dolls and memorabilia–which we all know can be tough with curious little ones.

Maybe best of all, the exhibition is a total treat for grownups, and even teens, who are sure to love the walk down memory lane. And are likely to learn a thing or two about Barbie’s long and impactful history along the way!

When is Barbie: A Cultural Icon at MAD open?

Barbie: A Cultural Icon is on display now through March 16th, 2025. The Museum of Arts and Design is typically open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. From December 1st to January 4th, it’ll be open 7 days a week. Just note the holiday closures.

Where is the Barbie Exhibition?

The Museum of Arts and Design is located at 2 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10019, right above the 59th Street Columbus Circle subway station and easily accessible by the A, C, B, D, and 1 trains. While there’s no designated parking lot, there are a number of garages in the area.

How much does the Barbie Exhibition cost? 

Access to Barbie: A Cultural Icon is included with general admission to the Museum of Arts and Design. Adults pay $20–with discounted tickets for seniors and students–and admission is FREE for kids 12 and under, as well as members. Purchase your tickets here or sign-up for a MAD Membership, which includes unlimited free admission, members-only events, a gift store discount, and more.

Admission to the Museum of Arts and Design—and the Barbie exhibition—is FREE for kids 12 and under.

Are strollers allowed at the Barbie exhibit?

Small, collapsible umbrella-style strollers are welcome–although bulkier styles will need to stay home–and all floors are accessible by elevator. FREE self-service storage lockers are also available for storing belongings while you explore with kids.

Are food and drinks permitted inside the museum?

While food and drinks aren’t permitted inside the museum, there are tons of nearby spots to grab a snack. We made a pit stop at Magnolia Bakery right across the street before heading home!

Purchase Tickets to Barbie: A Cultural Icon

Whatever you do, just don’t miss your chance to get tickets for Barbie: A Cultural Icon, on display at the Museum of Arts and Design until March 16th, 2025.

Unless noted, photos by the author