BEST NEW YORK CITY HISTORICAL MUSEUMS
Tenement Museum
Location: 103 Orchard St, Manhattan
History: Opened in 1992, this museum preserves the stories of immigrants who shaped the Lower East Side. It’s basically a time machine for your taste buds and heart.
Type: History Museum
Pricing: Tours typically around $30, but worth every penny.
Hours: Open 10 AM to 6 PM, closed Tuesdays.
The New-York Historical Society
Location: 170 Central Park W, Manhattan
History: Founded in 1804, it’s the oldest museum in New York and a trove of American history, featuring artifacts that would make George Washington do a double take.
Type: History Museum
Pricing: $22 for adults.
Hours: Open 10 AM to 6 PM, closed Mondays.
City Museum of New York
Location: 1220 Fifth Ave, Manhattan
History: Opened in 1923, it delves into the city's past, featuring everything from the history of street food to the famous subway system—both critical aspects of NYC life.
Type: History Museum
Pricing: $20 for adults.
Hours: Open 10 AM to 6 PM, closed Tuesdays.
The Jewish Museum
Location: 1109 5th Ave, Manhattan
History: Established in 1904, this museum is dedicated to Jewish art and culture, featuring a vast array of exhibits from ancient to contemporary, and it even has a collection of works by famed artist Marc Chagall.
Type: Art/Cultural Museum
Pricing: $18 for adults.
Hours: Open 11 AM to 5:45 PM, closed Saturdays.
The National Museum of the American Indian
Location: One Bowling Green, Manhattan
History: Housed in the historic Customs House, this museum focuses on the history and heritage of Native Americans, showcasing a range of artifacts and artworks. It’s culturally enriching in every sense!
Type: Cultural Museum
Pricing: Free admission—celebrate culture without breaking the bank!
Hours: Open 10 AM to 5 PM, closed December 25.
The Museum of Chinese in America
Location: 215 Centre St, Manhattan
History: Since its founding in 1980, this museum has documented the Chinese-American experience through innovative exhibitions, oral histories, and educational programs. A vibrant space dedicated to a crucial part of NYC’s history.
Type: Cultural History Museum
Pricing: $10 for adults.
Hours: Open Thursday to Sunday, 11 AM to 6 PM.
The Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to the Holocaust
Location: 36 Battery Place, Manhattan
History: Opened in 1997, this museum honors Jewish culture and history through exhibitions, documentation, and personal testimonials regarding the Holocaust, emphasizing hope and remembrance.
Type: Cultural/Historical Museum
Pricing: $15 for adults.
Hours: Open 10 AM to 5 PM, closed on holidays.
The Museum of the City of New York
Location: 1220 Fifth Ave, Manhattan
History: Established in 1923, this museum offers insights into the city's history, culture, and development—perfect for those curious about what makes NYC tick.
Type: History Museum
Pricing: $20 for adults.
Hours: Open 10 AM to 6 PM, closed Mondays.
The Museum of World War II
Location: 80 E 11th St, Manhattan
History: Founded in 2006, this museum features artifacts, documents, and a large collection of photos that provide insights into the daily life and history of those affected by the Second World War.
Type: Military History Museum
Pricing: $10 for adults.
Hours: Open Wednesday to Sunday, 11 AM to 5 PM.
The Spy Museum
Location: 260 W 44th St, Manhattan
History: This engaging museum, which opened more recently, dives into the world of espionage and secret agents, featuring artifacts, interactive experiences, and tales from the world of spies.
Type: Cultural Museum
Pricing: $25 for adults.
Hours: Open 10 AM to 6 PM, extended hours during special events.