cool museums to visit in nyc

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28 Best Museums in New York City

While New York City's abundance of museums and cultural institutions is by no means an embarrassment, it's certainly true that too much of a good thing can scramble the eggs of one's brain once it comes time to narrow choices down. There's an incredible diversity of world-class museums in this city—in terms of location, of course, with essential entries spread across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, but also with regard to subject matter. There are the major art players, like the Met and the Brooklyn Museum, with massive headquarters housing expansive collections. But there are smaller spots—the famed Guggenheim, the International Center for Photography Museum—as well as those concerned not with art but history and science. No matter what interests you, there's a museum to wander through—find our picks for the best of them below.

Click the link to read our complete New York City guide .

MoMA PS1 Arrow

The sister institution to MoMA   is no ordinary art museum. Located in a striking Renaissance Revival former public school building in Long Island City, Queens, MoMA PS1’s setting is just as interesting as its collection. All manner of cutting-edge contemporary art is shown here, with a collection over 200,000 pieces strong, from the likes of James Turrell and Ai Weiwei. The people-watching can be just as good as the art, as creative types from around the city come here to find inspiration.

The Noguchi Museum Arrow

This intimate, meditative museum in Long Island City was conceived and built by Isamu Noguchi himself. Here, his mostly abstract sculptures and often-copied paper lamps are displayed across two levels of exhibition space and throughout a quiet, ivy-covered walled garden. Even if you're not familiar with Noguchi's work, you've probably come across one of his Akari light sculptures—geometric or globular lamps made of washi paper and bamboo that glow softly from within—which have become something of a modern design trope since he started designing them in the early 1950s.

The Cloisters Arrow

Located on four acres in northern Manhattan's Fort Tryon Park, the Met Cloisters is a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and is America’s only museum dedicated exclusively to the art and architecture of the Middle Ages. The building overlooks the Hudson River and actually incorporates five medieval-inspired cloisters into a modern museum structure, creating a historic, contextualized backdrop in which to view the art.

New Museum Arrow

Although the New Museum was founded in 1977, it gained renewed attention in 2007 with the opening of its Bowery location—a seven-story building that looks like blocks stacked on top of each other. The museum contains all things contemporary and modern, in all mediums, and tends to champion lesser known artists (recent shows have included Australian painter Helen Johnson, L.A.-based filmmaker Kahlil Joseph, and Philadelphia installation artist Alex Da Corte). Exhibits can be hit or miss, and enjoyment of them tends to be wildly subjective but that's part of what makes the museum such a vibrant, exciting, and diverse space.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art Arrow

For nearly a century and a half, the Met has remained the cultural epicenter of New York City, thanks to forward-thinking exhibits and an extensive permanent collection. With its Gothic-Revival-style building, iconic tiered steps, and Central Park location, the building is a sight to be seen. But step inside its Great Hall—as a ceaseless parade of museumgoers move to-and-fro—and you’ll feel the overwhelming sense of possibility and discovery that lays beyond. If you've got limited time or compatriots with limited attention spans, start with the Temple of Dendur, a 2,000-year-old soaring Egyptian temple (the only complete one in the Western Hemisphere)

Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum Arrow

Housed in a 1902 Georgian mansion on the Upper East Side, a visit here is worth it for the collection and also for the building itself, which is one of the finest former Gilded Age residences still standing. The collection here spans centuries, and includes all things related to design (there are more than 200,000 pieces), from furniture and metalwork to sculpture, musical instruments, and pottery. It's also more under-the-radar than its bigger neighbors like the Guggenheim and the Met , which means crowds aren't as overwhelming.

Rubin Museum of Art Arrow

Located in Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood, the Rubin Museum is dedicated to the art of the Himalayas and India. Spanning 1,500 years and 38,000 pieces, the Rubin's collection is a comprehensive, unparalleled deep dive into the art of the Himalayas, composed of sculptures, paintings, installations (that display rituals such as Nepalese wax metal casting), and reproductions of murals of Tibet’s Lukhang Temple. Fascinating temporary exhibits showcase, for example, photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson's documentation of mid-century India, or the ceremonies, agrarian festivals, and natural environment in Nepal’s Kathmandu Valley.

National Museum of the American Indian New York Arrow

Housed in a former customs house at the southern tip of Manhattan, the National Museum of the American Indian is dedicated to preserving and sharing the histories of the more than 1,200 indigenous cultures of the Americas. The collection includes beaded and feathered ceremonial objects, traditional works of art made out of carved wood and bone, exquisitely detailed clothing, and everyday items like baskets, pottery, and instruments, as well as photographs and other archival materials.

American Museum of Natural History Arrow

Truly one of the world's great natural history museums, the American Museum of Natural History spans four city blocks just across from Central Park . All aspects of the natural world are represented here, from a vast collection of taxidermy mammals, to depictions of the life of Native American tribes, to an entire hall dedicated to marine life—including a life-size model of a blue whale. The crown jewel is the dinosaur floor, with an imposing Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton that dominates the room. The newest attraction comes in the form of the long-awaited Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation , which opened in May of 2023 and, among many other things, boasts a comprehensive insectarium and vivarium. Breathtaking architecture from New York-based Jeanne Gang doesn't hurt, either.

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum Arrow

The Guggenheim is a radical departure from the typical museum layout—and from every other building in New York, for that matter. The circular concrete structure stands in stark contrast to the rectangular steel-and-glass buildings that surround it. Inside, a central ramp—which spirals upward and outward from one exhibition floor to the next—creates an open interior space, flooded with daylight that pours in through a glass dome. Frank Lloyd Wright designed the iconic building that houses Solomon R. Guggenheim's modern art collection, which includes paintings by Kandinsky, plus works by Picasso, Klee, Miró, and more. If you have time for a meal, head to The Wright, a James Beard Award-winning American bistro on site.

Tenement Museum Arrow

The Lower East Side Tenement Museum is, as the name implies, a historic tenement house (two, if you want to get technical). On a tour of the tenements, you’ll hear personal histories of the working-class individuals who lived there and see how they made do with cramped quarters to build new lives in America. On a neighborhood walking tour—the other way to visit the museum—you’ll learn about the evolution of the Lower East Side and how its thriving immigrant population made it the most densely populated area in the country during the 1900s.

Brooklyn Museum Arrow

At 560,000 square feet, Brooklyn Museum is the third largest museum in New York City, and one of the its great institutions. Housed in a Beaux-Arts building from 1897, it sits on the edge of Prospect Park , inviting for spontaneous walk-ins. With 1.5 million works as part of the collection, just about every form of art is represented here. Particular standouts include its selection of paintings by Dennis Hopper and Norman Rockwell, and a top-notch Egyptian artifacts gallery.

Museum of the City of New York Arrow

The Colonial-style structure near the top of Central Park was built specifically to house the Museum of the City of New York in 1932 but today the museum maintains a low profile, and many New Yorkers have no idea that it even exists. The collection here is over 1.5 million pieces strong, and incorporates photography, paintings, drawings, furniture, decorative objects, and manuscripts—all having to do with the history of New York City's five boroughs. Because it's relatively out of the way for many tourists, a lot of people come here with a little more enthusiasm for the collection than your average museum-goer.

The Morgan Library & Museum Arrow

The Morgan is like a multi-hyphenate millennial—only instead of actress/model/influencer/whatever, it’s museum/library/landmark/historic site/music venue. Inside the multimillionaire’s personal library, expanded into a must-see museum and cultural space, you'll find rare artifacts, paintings, and books, some dating back to 4000 B.C. that are worth more than your house. In particular the museum is home to one of 23 copies of the original Declaration of Independence; Mozart's handwritten score of the Haffner Symphony; the collected works of African American poet Phillis Wheatley; the only extant manuscript of Milton's  Paradise Lost ; and Charles Dickens’s manuscript of  A Christmas Carol . Swoon.

9/11 Memorial and Museum Arrow

Every American should visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum at least once. As you enter the museum, you descend from the street to bedrock level—the foundation of the former Twin Towers—and are placed in a meditative mindset, forced to recall where you were on that fateful day. The museum itself is a masterful balance: It's grand in scale, contemplative in its construction, and personal in its execution. It pays homage to the enormity of the loss, both physical and spiritual.

El Museo del Barrio Arrow

Founded in the late 1960s by the artist Raphael Montañez Ortiz and a group of Puerto Rican artists who were fed up with the lack of representation in traditional museums, Museo del Barrio is an intimate space that celebrates the artwork and impact of Latino culture in the United States. With 6,500 objects ranging from historic Taino artifacts to contemporary paintings, sculpture, and photography, the collection is a comprehensive look at work by artists of Latin American and Caribbean heritage.

Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) Arrow

On the fringes of NYC's Chinatown , this intimate museum is housed in a modern, Maya Lin-designed space on Centre Street. The collection documents the history of Chinese Americans, from the 19th century to the present, and includes more than 65,000 works, from photographs to textiles and clothing. It's a thorough look at an important group of Americans that isn't always at the forefront of national conversation. Museum gallery talks are available every Saturday afternoon and provide an interesting (and free) overview of the Chinese experience in America since the 19th century. There's also a fascinating Chinatown walking tour (on Saturdays as well) for $35.

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Arrow

Located in Midtown Manhattan, the MoMA is larger than it appears as you approach it from the street below. One of the world’s most influential museums—displaying the works of important artists like Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso, Matisse, Rothko, Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dali, and Diane Arbus—it has 630,000 square feet of space and attracts more than a million visitors a year. While making a beeline for the fifth-floor Collection Galleries to take in The Starry Night and Monet’s Water Lilies is understandable, don’t miss the exhibitions, which tell new stories and can only be experienced in a limited time frame. Allocate time to spend pouring over the remarkable books and objects in the famous gift shop, too—an NYC must-visit in its own right.

New York Transit Museum Arrow

The New York Transit Museum, a small museum near Brooklyn's Borough Hall, is in a former subway station; to enter you have to descend from the sidewalk, just as you would if you were on your daily commute. It's the perfect spot to spend an hour with kids, who will love running in and out of the cars of a vintage subway train, clambering up into the driver’s seat of a city bus, or pushing their way through a turnstile. The place covers more than a century of New York mass transit history, which will even bring native New Yorkers back to a time when the subway was a more beloved part of life in the city than it is today. Stock up on souvenirs for the NYC-obsessed. From vintage transit token necklaces to Metrocard mugs and baseball caps with your favorite train line embroidered on them, there's something for everyone. If you want a souvenir but can't make it out to Brooklyn, they also have a shop location in Grand Central Terminal .

Jewish Museum Arrow

The largest museum of its kind outside of Israel, the Jewish Museum has over 30,000 items in its collection. Spanning Jewish ceremonial art, sculpture, archeological artifacts, and painting, the collection also includes famous works from the likes of Marc Chagall, Man Ray, and Eva Hesse. The museum is generally quiet and uncrowded, and houses an outpost of the much beloved downtown Jewish deli, Russ & Daughters .

Merchant's House Museum Arrow

Built in 1832, this intimate house museum is a time capsule of the lives of a wealthy 19th century family, complete with original furnishings, clothing, books, and artwork. Step into this five-story Greek Revival building (which happens to be the first building in Manhattan to be designated as a landmark, back in the 1960s), and you'll feel like you've snuck into a tidy, elegant home while all of its inhabitants are out to lunch. Two generations of the merchant-class Tredwell family, who lived in the home for 100 years, left behind more than 4,000 possessions, from oil lamps and fine china to unfinished needlepoint projects and prim dresses (some modeled by life-sized mannequins posed in various rooms and in the back garden).

Frick Madison Arrow

The Frick is as grand as it gets. Usually set in the former home of millionaire industrialist Henry Clay Frick, the Frick's holdings are packed with Art History 101 Old Masters, opulent furniture and rare decorative arts. While the Fifth Avenue mansion is being renovated and expanded, the collection is being housed in a nearby brutalist icon on Madison Avenue known as the Breuer Building (it used to be the Met Breuer , and before that, the Whitney Museum of American Art ).

Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration Arrow

Although the address is technically in Jersey City, this is a quintessential New York City experience—one that you access via Battery Park at the bottom of Manhattan. It's from here that you board the ferry—either the Miss Jersey or the Miss Liberty—that will deliver you to Ellis Island and the National Immigration Museum. That this boat ride also takes you not only past but up to the the Statue of Liberty herself, with the $25 cost of your ticket covering a visit to the monument as well as the museum, is merely icing atop what is on its own one of the city's best museums. With excellent restoration work, a fantastic photography collection, and eager park rangers giving free guided tours every hour about the immigration process that occurred here between 1892 and 1954, it's an experience as informative as it is beautiful.

Fotografiska Arrow

Located in a landmark Renaissance Revival building in the heart of Gramercy Park, Fotografiska New York brings the artistic sensibilities of its Swedish headquarters to Manhattan. It’s a massive, for-profit gallery space with some of the city’s most interesting and eclectically-curated photography exhibitions—when this writer pays a visit, one floor is dedicated to the star-studded oeuvre of Terry O'Neill, while another is occupied by Fire and features work by 13 emerging photographers shortlisted for this year's Prix Pictet prize concerned in some way with that titular element. The options for food and drink—the lobby café, chic dining room Verōnika, and Chapel Bar—make this a day-to-night venue.

Queens Museum Arrow

Get on the 7 and take it all the way to the Mets — Willet Point station. You're deep in Queens. You're not going to catch a game at Citi Field, nor spectate at the US Open (should the timing align), although you'll see plenty of sports fans milling about. You're here for the Queens Museum, which doubled in size during a 2013 renovation and offers free admission. If you've come for a specific reason, it's likely the 9,335-square-foot scale model of New York City in its entirety. The Panorama was originally built for the 1964-1965 World's Fair by Robert Moses and Lester & Associates. It is breathtaking in its attention to detail—you'll be able to find your hotel or apartment if you are willing to spend the time—and vastness. New York City is massive! Perhaps more massive than you realized, all the more reason to branch out to this farther-flung museum.

International Center of Photography Museum Arrow

Right below Delancey on Essex on the Lower East Side sits the new-ish headquarters of the International Center of Photography. Contained within the 40,000-square-foot modernist building, there's a school with a library and darkrooms, vast archives, shooting studios, and a beautiful gallery space that's open to the public. It's this latter part, the museum, with which we are concerned here—it is cavernous and clean, abundantly lit thanks to skylights and massive windows, and copious floor space means there's room for everyone. Love Songs: Photography and Intimacy is on when I visit, and features canonical work by Nan Goldin ( Nan One Month After Being Battered! ) and Nobuyoshi Araki, among many others. You can move through the space however you want, as every juxtaposition and sequence is placed thoughtfully. The work sings!

Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay and Lesbian Art Arrow

Charles Leslie and the late Fritz Lohman were partners in life and art collecting—in the 1960s, they joined their contemporaries and started holding impromptu salons featuring queer and otherwise homoerotic art. In 1987, they went official with the namesake foundation we know today aiming to showcase LGBTQ+ art and artists, a move which gained them museum status in 2011. With 30,000 pieces in the archives, featuring everyone from Robert Mapplethorpe, Keith Haring, and Andy Warhol to under-sung members of the community past and present, there is much to see in a relatively small space.

Museum of the Moving Image Arrow

There's so much to do in Astoria that, should you venture out there, it may be difficult to convince you that seeing a movie is one of the essentials. But that's exactly how you'll feel after poking your head into the Museum of the Moving Image, a celebration of cinema so joyfully educational that this writer copped a ticket to a film he'd already seen (the fabulous Passages, for they play new releases in addition to a robust schedule of repertory screenings) just to marvel for a little while longer in the illusion of an image that moves. The space allows for two rotating exhibits to coexist alongside the permanent installations about the art of filmmaking, which not only breaks down the invention of the medium but also allows the visitor to make their way through the postproduction process themselves by playing with scoring and sound editing.

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25 Fun Museums in NYC! Our Favorite Quirky, Entertaining & Unique Locations!

• Posted by by Elle-Rose
• Updated: September 19, 2023
• 9 minute read

Are you looking for the most fun museums in NYC? If so, keep reading!

If you’re searching for the most fun museums in NYC – then you’re going to find so much inspiration on this list! Let’s face it… NYC is full of museums, from the traditional museums, to the more modern ones!

Museums (and how much you enjoy them) depends on your interests and what you’re into, and some museums do have a bit of a reputation for being on the ‘boring’ end of the scale.

There are plenty – so get reading!

In fact, I’d argue that NYC has some of the most fun museums in the world! And I’ve included all my favorites on this list of the top 25 fun museums in NYC!

So fear not, this list will give you 25 amazing places to visit during your trip!

So let’s go!

Museum of ice cream.

First on my list, it’s the Museum of Ice Cream. Who doesn’t love ice cream? WE DO. Especially when visiting the Museum of Ice cream in NYC .

Oh, and if you are going for the food, then you’ll be pleased to know that you’ll be regularly treated to taste-tests and fun games.

This is one of the most fun museums in NYC, but it isn’t around all year and tends to run exclusively as a pop-up exhibit.

So, be sure to check the dates of your itinerary line up correctly before you get your hopes up for this fun museum in NYC!

Color Factory NYC

Color Factory NYC is a totally unique museum all about the sensory experience of color. It’s pretty amazing really, and unlike anything else in the city (which is why it makes my list of the most fun museums in NYC.

This amazingly fun museum in NYC is packed with interactive experiences that will delight you, make you smile and fill you with wonder. It’s a seriously cool day out, you’ll love it!

And most importantly, you’ll have fun! Check out their Instagram for a proper glimpse inside, and you’ll soon realise why this place is so much fun!

Read more about visiting NYC: 34 rainy day activities in NYC

Summit One Vanderbilt

Next on my list of fun museums in NYC, it’s Summit One Vanderbilt .

Ok, so technically, this isn’t a ‘museum’, it’s an observation deck. But the vibe here, feels almost like a mix between an observation deck, and abstract art museum.

Which I think qualifies it to feature on this list!

Eitherway, it’s a LOT of fun, and it’s a great place to see the city’s skyline, through a slightly more unique lens. I definitely recommend it, and it’s one of my top activities in NYC, hands down!

The Skyscraper Muse um

New York is known for its incredible skyscrapers, so the Skyscraper Museum is an amazing place to visit if you’re looking for awesome museums in NYC.

I mean, the Empire State Building is famous for a reason, people! This museum dedicated to skyscrapers is one of the top choices for this list, as it just leaves you in awe of what humans can create.

This fun museum in NYC goes into everything from designing a skyscraper to the construction side of things.

So, if you’ve ever looked upon that famous picture of the folks on Top of the Rock, then you’re sure to love this quirky museum. 

The Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum

If planes and air travel is your jam, then you will LOVE the Intrepid sea, air and space museum . It’s a crazy cool museum, full of real planes, real stories and incredibly educational and immersive experiences.

The fun museum in NYC is actually aboard the aircraft carrier  Intrepid (hence the name), which in itself is a National Historic Landmark.

This is one of the fun museums in NYC you won’t want to miss!

Read more NYC food recommendations:  50 amazing places to grab breakfast in NYC

Harry Potter: The Exhibition

Next up on my list of fun museums in NYC, it’s Harry Potter: The Exhibition .

Now, if you’re a fan of the Harry Potter movies (or books) then this is a great choice!

As you’d expect (from the name!) this place is jam-packed full of movie memorabilia, props, fun facts, and other great stuff. It’s truly an exhibition designed the Harry Potter fan.

Read more NYC tips: Top 20 famous streets in NYC!

Conjuring Arts Research Center

Next on my list of fun museums in NYC, it’s the Conjuring Arts Research Centre. Do you believe in magic?

Well, whether you believe in actual magic or not, you’re sure to love this fun museum in NYC.

Home to information on magic and sleight of hand, this fun museum in NYC will give away much of what the pros won’t tell you!

With awesome guides who will give you tips and tricks about magic and trickery, this museum guarantees a fun day out for the whole family. 

Coney Island Museum

You may have visited Coney Island, but have you checked out its awesome museum? After you’ve grabbed some delicious food and enjoyed the attractions at Coney Island, you should absolutely visit this fun museum in NYC.

Created to celebrate the area and educate guests about the island’s history, it’s well worth visiting if you’re a Coney Island fan.

Housing scaled models, fun house mirrors and other quirky artefacts, we feel it’s not to be missed! You’ll absolutely love this choice for fun museums in NYC!

Read more about visiting NYC:  The ultimate guide to spending Christmas in NYC

Museum of the American Gangster

Next on this list of fun museums in NYC, it’s the Museum of the American Gangster. If you’re fascinated by the lifestyles of American Gangsters, then you need to check out this fun museum in NYC.

Providing never before seen information about New York’s top crime bosses, you’ll find out all you’ve ever wondered about how NYC’s grittier side operated back in the day.

Covering everything from Bugsy Malone to John Dillinger, this place leaves no stone unturned when it comes to organized crime in the city. 

Read more: What is the best observation deck in NYC?

Museum of Sex

This one may be slightly taboo (and should probably be avoided if you have the kids in tow), but it’s one of the top fun museums in NYC.

Not only is this museum incredibly informative and interesting, but it will clue you up on the ins and outs of the physiological side of sex. Pun intended.

With great exhibits and some kinky installations, you’re sure to have a whale of a time if you’re old enough to appreciate this fun museum in NYC. 

Maybe not one for the kids (!!) but this is a great choice of fun museums in NYC for adults!

Museum of Street Art

New York’s street art has always been incredible, so it makes perfect sense that one of the most fun museums in NYC is dedicated to it!

The museum of street art in NYC is completely free, so it’s ideal for families hitting the city on a budget.

Covered from tip to toe with murals, you’re sure to leave this fun museum in NYC utterly inspired and ready to paint some street art yourself! 

Read more about NYC: 22 famous NYC filming locations!

The AKC Museum of the Dog

If you love dogs, then you should put the AKC Museum of the Dog on your list of fun museums in NYC to visit.

Not only does this museum have some truly adorable dog sculptures and fine art, but it aims to teach humans about the importance of human-dog relationships.

Although you won’t come across any real-life pups here, you will find them in every other form. So, be sure to bring your camera along and indulge your inner animal-lover on your next trip to NYC. 

The Museum of Broadway

The Museum of Broadway is such a wonderful choice for fun museums in NYC, especially if you love Broadway shows, or you’re looking for more information about Broadway and the amazing shows that have been performed throughout history!

Broadway is a New York City institution, and it’s part of the city’s soul! You can’t have NYC without Broadway shows!

This fun museum in NYC is all about celebrating Broadway and educating people about just how much work and production goes into the amazing shows throughout the city.

The Museum of Illusions

The Museum of Illusions is my next suggestion for fun museums in NYC. If you’re looking for something family friendly, and super fun – this is it!

The Museum of Illusions is an immersive museum, where you’ll get to discover lots of fun outlooks and perspectives.

I’ve found that this is a great choice for a rainy day – because it’ll inject a bit of fun and color into the day!

Madame Tussauds

How could we not include Madame Tussauds?

Madame Tussauds is probably one of the most famous fun museums in NYC, and it’s a classic pick for families or people visiting with kids and teenagers.

Madame Tussauds is super family-friendly, and it’s one of those museums that your kids will absolutely adore visiting.

But what is inside? Well, basically Madame Tussauds is a museum of waxworks! Full of lifelike figures of famous celebrities and characters.

Top tip? I recommend visiting earlier on in the day, when the crowds and queues are a little smaller!

Small is Beautiful: Miniature art exhibition

Next up on my list of fun museums in NYC, it’s the ‘ Small is Beautiful: Miniature art exhibition ‘ .

If you want to discover some genuinely unique and quirky art work, this place is a must-see. It’s so different to anything else I’ve seen before!

In this amazing little art museum, you’ll find teeny works of art that are so tiny you’ll need a magnifying glass to appreciate them fully!

It’s such a weird and wonderful experience, and definitely a great day out for adults and kids.

The New York Transit Museum

One of the quirkiest and most fun museums in NYC is the New York Transit Museum.

Located in Downtown Brooklyn, this fascinating museum aims to educate visitors about the history of NYC’s transportation system.

Covering everything from the oldest subway carts to other famous modes of transport, this fun museum in NYC is a wonderful glimpse into the past that shows just how far we’ve come as a species. 

Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay and Lesbian Art

As well as being fun and unique, the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay and Lesbian Art is also a celebration of individuality and self-expression.

The collections displayed at this museum aim to show the world that LGBTQ culture is beautiful, and encourages queer folk to fully embrace their sexuality through incredible art.

Not only is this a fun museum in NYC to visit for anyone, but it represents an important part of New York’s culture that deserves its place in the spotlight. 

Read more about exploring NYC: Top 20 most famous streets in NYC!

The Friends Experience

How can we write a list of fun museums in NYC, and not include The Friends Experience?

Friends (the TV show) is such an integral part of NYC culture, and a big reason many people are so obsessed with the city!

If that’s you, you should absolutely check out The Friends Experience, because it’s so much fun.

You’ll get to learn lots of fun facts about the TV show, as well as touring the film sets, and those famous apartments and coffee shops you’ve come to love so much!

Read more about visiting NYC: Where to find the Friends apartment, plus other Friends filming locations!

Sloomoo Institute

Next on my list of fun museums in NYC, it’s something a little different and quirky!

The Sloomoo Institute is for lovers of SLIME!

SlooMoo is a place for immersive and sensory experiences – great for kids that love slime, and kids who especially enjoy sensory museums and exhibits.

The Sloomooverse is full of never-ending, hand-crafted slime… and the Sloomoo institute is a place to make your own using yummy scents, vivid colors, and soothing ASMR delights.

Next up on my list of fun museums in NYC, it’s the wonderful (and slightly weird) Mmuseumm .

This cute and crazy little museum in NYC has to be seen to be believed!

It’s a fascinating and unique cultural museum that captivates and surprises visitors with it’s randomness and weirdness.

Located in a small storefront on Cortlandt Alley in Manhattan, this micro-museum challenges traditional museum norms by presenting exhibits within a space that is no larger than an elevator.

It’s full of random items, each that tell a story, and it’s really worth seeing.

Museum of Food and Drink

We all love to eat and drink the night away, right? Well, if you have a passion for food and all things drink, then add this spot to your list of fun museums in NYC to check out.

Food is a key part of NYC’s cultural footprint, and the MoFAD aims to teach visitors all about the city’s cooking, eating, and drinking.

If you visit at the right time of year, you’ll even be treated to a tasting or two! We advise checking out their website for more details on these, as dates can vary. 

Morbid Anatomy Museum

If you find bodies icky, then you might want to give this one a miss.

However, if you’re fascinated by the human body, then the Morbid Anatomy Museum is a fantastic thing to have on your itinerary.

Showcasing bizarre things such as a human-har scrapbook, an exploded skeleton, and much more, it’s unsurprising that this is one of the most fun museums in NYC for those who love morbid reality.

This one may not be a great choice for kids, but adults should absolutely book in! 

Elevator Historical Society Museum

You may not think much about elevators when you’re using them day to day, but they have a fascinating history.

For that reason, we believe that Elevator Historical Society Museum fits the bill!

This museum offers visitors a chance to understand elevator controls, how elevators were created, and much more!

Whether you’re a fan of mechanics or not, this is surely one of the ones to add to your list. 

Read more NYC tips: Which Broadway show should you watch in NYC?

American Museum of Natural History

The next idea, is a classic choice… the iconic American Museum of Natural History.

Look, we know this isn’t the most unique museum on our list of fun museums in NYC, nor is it the most quirky. But it is a lot of fun!

One thing the American Museum of Natural History does well, is create immersive and fun learning opportunities inside for visitors. Which we love!

It’s also an iconic part of the city, so it’s a lot of fun visiting and seeing all the parts of the museum you recognize from movies and TV shows!

Hopefully this list of fun museums in NYC has been helpful and given you plenty of ideas!

Let us know which of these you’ll be visiting!

Elle-Rose is the owner and editor of The World and Then Some! She has been a professional travel writer for over 12 years, writing for many different publications, including this one. Elle-Rose is a city break expert, and she specializes in popular locations such as NYC, London, Las Vegas and Dubai, regularly visiting to stay on top of new attractions, restaurants and hotels. Elle-Rose is super active on TikTok (@theworldandthensome), and loves filming video content in the cities she visits - so go and say hello!

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Written by An NYC Local

15 Exciting Museums in New York City (& What to See at Each)

By Antonina | Updated: January 30, 2024 | 6 Comments

Home to more than 83 museums (including the fifth largest museum in the world), there’s no shortage of great museums in New York City to choose from. The challenge? Knowing where to start, and that’s where I come in. In a sea of options, it’s nice to have some advice — so allow me to share the NYC museums you simply can’t miss during your first visit. With that said, let’s jump right in.

Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The 10 Best Neighborhoods for First Timers +3 to Avoid) . Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.

The Best Museums in New York City

Nyc best museums (table of contents), the metropolitan museum of art (the met), the museum of modern art (moma), the american museum of natural history.

• 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The Tenement Museum (The Immigration Museum in NYC)

The intrepid museum.

• The Morgan Library & Museum
• Whitney Museum of American Art
• Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
• New York Transit Museum
• The New-York Historical Society

The Met Cloisters

• The New Museum

Visiting Museums in NYC (FAQ)

Related articles, map of cool nyc museums.

Founded in 1870, the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) is often considered the best museum in New York City and it’s not hard to see why. With more than 2 million pieces of art spanning 5,000+ years, the Met is the largest museum in the country and the fifth largest museum in the world.

Averaging 6 million visitors per year, it’s also the most visited museum in New York City. If you only have time to visit one museum in NYC, this is the one. Plus, it’s conveniently located within Central Park, so you don’t have to go far out of your way to visit (assuming you plan to swing by Central Park during your trip).

Website : The Metropolitan Museum of Art Address : 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY Neighborhood : Upper East Side Featured Guide : 20 Pieces You Can’t Afford to Miss at The Met .

Home to world-renowned paintings like Vincent van Gogh’s The Starry Night, Claude Monet’s Water Lilies and notable works by Warhol, Basquiat and Dali, MoMA is a must-visit NYC musuem for those that love modern art. The musuem was established in 1929 and played a significant role in developing (and collecting) modernist art.

You don’t have to be an avid art connoisseur to appreciate the real-life paintings you grew up studying in school. MoMA has continuously evolved, expanding its collection and even undergoing several renovations to accommodate the growing collection. Its rich history and contribution to the art world make it one of the most popular museums in New York City.

Must-See at MoMA: The Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh, Andy Warhol’s Campbell Soup Cans, Frida Kahlo’s Self-Portrait with Cropped Hair, Monet’s Water Lilies, The Persistence of Memory by Dali, and Picasso’s work.

Website : The Museum of Modern Art Address : 11 W 53rd St, New York, NY

Welcoming 5 million visitors per year and spanning all aspect of the natural world, the American Museum of Natural History is considered one of the greatest natural history museums in the world.

Don’t miss the Hall of Ocean Life where you’ll have an opportunity to see a life-size model of a 94-foot blue whale — it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. The collection of taxidermy mammals is mind-boggling and have captured the imagination of children and adults for years.

Must-See at the American Museum of Natural History: Hayden Planetarium (one of the best planetariums in the world), the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life (for blue whale), the Hall of Saurischian Dinosaurs (for the iconic Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton) and the Butterfly Conservatory (requires additional fee, but worthwhile).

Website : American Museum of Natural History Address : 200 Central Park West, New York Neighborhood : Upper West Side Featured Guide : 15 Best Things to See at the American Museum of Natural History

The Brooklyn Museum

The Brooklyn Museum is often overlooked by those visiting Brooklyn for the first time, which is a pity. One of the largest and oldest museums in the country, it was established in 1896 and houses an impressive collection of more than 500,000 objects.

The museums spans various cultures and time periods, offering everything from ancient Egyptian masterpieces to contemporary art. Best known for the extensive collection of Egyptian antiquities, the Brooklyn Museum is a hit with locals due to the innovative rotating exhibits (that tackle social and political themes).

The Brooklyn Museum stands out not just for its vast collection, but also for its commitment to education, offering a ton of programs and workshops for all ages. It’s great fun for the whole family!

Website : Brooklyn Museum Address: 200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY Featured Guide : 10 Best Museums in Brooklyn & 15 Best Things to Do in Brooklyn

NYC is full of historic places, but none is more moving that the somber 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Honestly, I’m often hesitant to mention visiting this museum because it’s such a profound experience (makes me cry every time).

However, it truly is one of the best museums in New York City and definitely worth the visit, as long as you can brace yourself emotionally. Visitors descend down an escalator to reach this subterranean museum .

The layout is well thought out and easy to navigate, the focus instantly latches on to the intended exhibit. The pace of the visit always feels rightfully slow, as visitors contemplate the gravity of that terrible day. I think everyone should see the 9/11 Museum as least once. It’s something you won’t be able to forget.

Website : 9/11 Memorial & Museum Address: 180 Greenwich St, New York Featured Guide : 15 Unforgettable Things to Do in the Financial District

The 5-story Tenement Museum in the Lower East Side is comprised of two historic buildings dating back to 1863. These buildings were home to an estimated 15,000 immigrants (from 20 nations) between 1863 and 1935.

The idea for the musuem was born when personal belongings were discovered in a dilapidated tenement building. The belongings served as the impetus for the musuem, which strives to promote tolerance and historical perspective on the immigrant experience in NYC.

Today, visitors can sign up for guided tours to get a glimpse of the cramped living spaces of past residents. The humble rooms serve as a reminder that our national identity is best understood through the experiences of real working families.

Touring this unique New York City musuem is a moving experience. The rooms and stories evoke feelings of heartbreak and nostalgia. The guided tours are engaging , the rich history comes alive through knowledgeable and passionate guides that are eager to share everything they know.

Website : The Tenement Museum Neighborhood : Lower East Side Address: 103 Orchard St, New York, NY

• Neue Galerie

There’s no denying that the Neue Galerie is worth a visit for anyone that enjoys German and Austrian art. There was a recent movie created from this fascinating book , which chronicles the story of Adele Bloch-Bauer. Adele’s portrait by Gustav Klimt, The Lady in Gold, was stolen by the nazis during WWII.

Without giving too much away, the book tells the story of the painting from its theft, to purchase, to final return to the family in 2006. That very painting can be seen at Neue Galerie, one of the best things to see on the Upper East side for history buffs and art enthusiasts.

When you get your fix of the artwork, head to Cafe Sabarsky, for the famous Sachertorte (Austrian chocolate cake) and coffee in an opulant cafe.

Website : Neue Galerie Address : 1048 5th Ave, New York, NY Featured Guide : 15+ Best Things to Do on the Upper East Side

Located on the Hudson River, the Intrepid Museum is one of the most interesting museums in NYC. Centered around the historic aircraft carrier USS Intrepid (a veteran of World War II and the Vietnam War), the museum showcases a vast array of aircraft, the space shuttle Enterprise, and the submarine USS Growler.

Opened in 1982, the museum’s commitment to preserving history and encouraging a learning environment make it one of the best museums in NYC for families. Visitors of all ages can explore various exhibits, including decommissioned military vessels and space artifacts, everyone will find something to love!

Website : The Intrepid Museum Address : Pier 86, W 46th St, New York, NY

The Morgan Library & Museum allows visitors to step inside the private library of J.P. Morgan . The library is quipped with three floors of metal-enclosed walnut bookshelves, chock full of rare books and important artifacts.

The musuem houses an original copy of the Declaration of Independence, a handwritten score from Bach, and a plethora of books worth more than some of us will make in a lifetime. J.P. Morgan’s will bequeathed the library to the public after his death (and we are all so much better for it).

Must see: Frederick Douglass’ letter to his former master Hugh Auld, Johann Sebastian Bach’s Prelude and Fugue in B Minor and Morgan’s vault.

Website : The Morgan Library & Museum Address : 225 Madison Ave, New York, NY

Founded by a prominent America socialite, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, this popular NYC museum is a representation of her love for art. The Whitney Museum of American Art (better known as The Whitney), has been a beloved NYC institution for modern and contemporary American art since 1930.

The musuem was recently relocated to a massive 50,000 square-foot space in the popular Meatpacking District. Must see: Georgia O’Keeffe’s work, Edward Hopper’s A Woman in the Sun, Robert Bechtle’s ’61 Pontiac and Alexander Calder’s Circus.

Website : Whitney Museum of American Art Address : 99 Gansevoort St, New York, NY

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the Guggenheim Museum is an architectural feat (considered the architects most notable achievement). Unfortunately, Wright passed away six months before the museum opened to the public in 1959.

Once inside, visitors slowly make their way up a spiral 1/4 mile ramp to observe the artwork on each floor. Today this monolithic and distinctive concrete structure is considered a work of art itself and attracts more than 1 million visitors per year. Swing by The Wright cafe if you’re feeling hungry, it’s one of the best in-house cafes we’ve found to date.

Must see at the Guggenheim: The works by Picasso, Mountains of Saint Remy by Vincent van Gogh and The Hermitage at Pontoise by Camille Pissarro.

Website : Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum Neighborhood : Upper East Side Address : 1071 5th Ave, New York, NY

Dating back to 1904, New York City’s robust transportation system is one of the busiest and oldest in the world. Thankfully, visitors can take a walk down memory lane and explore vintage subway cars parked in a decommissioned subway station.

Located in Brooklyn, the New York Transit Museum is one of the best museums in NYC for kids . The museum covers a century of subway history and each car displays era-appropriate ads, which makes for some fun age-appropriate humor.

Visitors are able to explore the inside of vintage cars, some dating back to 1903, sit inside the driver’s cabin and admire vintage walk signs and transit furniture. Make sure to study the impressive photographs that highlight the evolution of the subway system, you’ll be hooked.

Website : New York Transit Museum Neighborhood : Brooklyn Heights Address : 99 Schermerhorn St, Brooklyn, NY

Love history? Read: 25 Thought-Provoking Facts About NYC You Probably Don’t Know (Yet)

The New-York Historical Society was founded in 1804, making it the oldest museum in NYC. This is yet another great activity for history buffs in search of the best museums in New York City. Located right next to Central Park, the museum strives to keep the city’s history alive.

Home to fascinating artifacts (like the calf brace worn by Franklin Roosevelt), make sure to check the current exhibits to see if anything sparks your interest. Also worth mention, The New-York Historical Society hosts interesting talks and events weekly, check the schedule here .

Website : New-York Historical Society Address: 170 Central Park West, New York, NY

Far removed from the heart of NYC, the Met Cloisters (an extension of the Metropolitan Museum of Art) is the only museum in the country dedicated to the art of the architecture and art of the Middle Ages. Opened in 1938, this unique NYC museum is found inside Fort Tryon Park, which sits along the banks of the Hudson River.

Renowned for its rich collection of medieval art like illuminated manuscripts, stained glass, and tapestries, the museum is a hit with history buffs. The museum owes thanks to John D. Rockefeller Jr., who generously provided for the building, land and acquisition of George Grey Barnard’s collection.

Barnard was a prominent American sculpture (his work can be seen at the Met), who spent a considerable amount of time traveling France, where he purchased medieval sculptures. Barnard’s collection was so essential to the founding of the musuem, it was incorporated into the building by Architect Charles Collens.

Website : The Met Cloisters Address : 99 Margaret Corbin Dr, New York, NY

The Frick Collection

One of the most elegant museums in New York City, the Frick is downright breathtaking. Currently housed in a temporary location on Madison Avenue (while the building undergoes renovations), the art will return to it’s original location spring 2024.

When repairs are complete, the musuem will return to the an 18th Century Mansion on the Upper East Side. Once home to the late millionaire, Henry Clay Frick, this museum displays his impressive private collection. Rembrandt, Goya, El Greco, Titian and Vermeer, it’s hard not to be impressed.

Must see: Rembrandt’s Self-Portrait, The Comtess d’Haussonville , the three works of Johannes Vermeer Officer and Laughing Girl,   Mistress and Maid and  Girl Interrupted at Her Music. 

Website : The Frick Collection Address: 1 E 70th St, New York, NY

A leading destination for contemporary art, The New Museum is renowned for its commitment to showcasing new art and new ideas. Located in the vibrant Bowery neighborhood, the museum opened to the public at its current location in 2007.

It’s known for presenting the work of under-recognized artists and groundbreaking exhibitions, often being the first to exhibit artists who later gain significant recognition. The museum attracts a diverse audience, especially those passionate about contemporary art and emerging artistic trends.

What makes the New Museum unique (apart from its unusual name) is that it doesn’t have a permanent collection. Rather, all exhibits are displayed on a temporary basis and feature works by contemporary artists that are not commonly seen in other New York City museums.

Website : The New Museum Address: 235 Bowery, New York, NY

List of the Best Museums in NYC (Post Summary)

In sum, the best museums in New York City are:

• Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)
• Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
• American Museum of Natural History
• Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
• Met Cloisters
• The Tenement Museum

The New-York Historical Society was founded in 1804, making it the oldest museum in NYC.

This is actually a pretty easy question to answer if you can answer this question first: do you like modern art? If yes, you’ll probably enjoy the MoMA. If you’re not a fan of modern art, I suggest going to the Met because there’s such a great variety of art to choose from. You can’t go wrong with either, but if you’re visiting NYC for the first time, the Met is more impressive.

If you only have the chance to visit one musuem while exploring NYC, make it the Met. It’s the largest musuem in the country (and 5th largest musuem in the world). The building itself is a masterpiece too. All around, that’s the best musuem in NYC for first time visitors.

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And there you have it, my personal list of cool museums in New York City, based on first-hand experience. I hope you enjoyed the post! Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or suggestions below, it’s always nice to hear from you. 🙂

About Antonina

Hi there! I'm Antonina. Like so many folks, living in New York City was always a dream of mine. Now it's my reality! I started New York Dearest as a means to share my passion for NYC with locals and visitors alike.

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February 6, 2023 at 5:54 pm

To maximize the usefulness of this website, please consider adding the URL’s for each of the museums, so that we don’t have to google each one. The street address is certainly useful, but the website address is essential. Also, please note that per their website http://www.frick.org , the Frick is in temporary quarters at 945 Madison Avenue at 75th Street.

February 6, 2022 at 8:59 pm

@Bobby Weaver, great point Bob. I was thinking the same thing. Not a huge deal but one less thing Yenno? Is the Frick ever going to move back into its regular location?? It’s been years!

February 7, 2022 at 12:33 pm

I agree! I think the date for the move back has been set! According to the website, the musuem should go back to its original location Spring 2024!

February 7, 2023 at 12:29 pm

Duly noted, Bobby! I added the website info for all the museums on the list, thanks for suggestion. 🙂 And yes, you’re correct about the Frick’s temporary location. It should be returning to the original building in Spring 2024, I’ll keep this post updated. Thanks so much again!

December 23, 2023 at 4:28 pm

I had no idea about the Neue gallery. great tip! Is the cafe good there? I’ve heard some great things…

December 31, 2023 at 12:35 pm

Hi James, the Neue Gallery is a real gem! And yes, the cafe is great. It’s a bit pricey, but the chic setting and great desserts can’t be beat. If you plan on visiting soon, I highly recommend the mango mouse cake. It’s sublime!

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The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to 46 Insanely Cool Museums in NYC!

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: January 25, 2024

Categories New York City

Are you a museum junkie who is looking for an insider’s guide to some super cool museums in NYC? Well, if you are then you’re in luck because  I am a bit of a museum fanatic.

I’ve also been living in the New York City area for well over twenty years and want to share all of my secret, expert tips on how to visit some of the best museums in NYC with you.

Because as you probably already know, New York City is home to some of the best museums in the world, which also means that there are ton of amazing t hings to do alone in NYC too.

And not just one or two world-class institutions either. We’re talking about hundreds, maybe even thousands of different inspiring cultural institutions that are just waiting to be explored.  

I mean, there is quite literally an amazing NYC museum out there for EVERY interest. So, if you’re fascinated by something like cats that wear Santa hats, then chances are pretty high that there is a museum in NYC for you (okay, maybe not that EXACT topic but you know what I’m trying to say). 

But with so many cool museums in NYC, it can be difficult to know exactly what the best museums to visit in NYC are, what museum is free today in NYC, and so much more. 

And that’s why I’ve created this guide for you. I want to help you enjoy your time in NYC and create the perfect  4 days in NYC itinerary for you!

I mean, I’ve been an unofficial tour guide for countless friends and family members who were visiting New York City for the first time . Therefore, I know just how stressful planning a trip to New York City can be. 

That’s why I developed this post right here. I want to take the stress out of planning a trip to NYC so that you can focus on enjoying yourself and not freak out because you accidentally wasted time trying to visit the  Guggenheim and, SURPRISE, it was closed. 

Yup, I’ve definitely been there and done that in other cities and it is very unfun indeed. 

So, save yourself a whole lot of stress and hassle by checking out this uber-fab guide to some of the coolest museums in NYC!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Where to Stay When Visiting Super Cool Museums in NYC

Okay. So before we swan dive headfirst into this hella awesome post about cool museums in NYC, let’s first discuss accommodation options and some of the best areas to stay in NYC . 

Because I’m gonna keep it real for you. New York is expensive with a capital “E”. Therefore, it will be a bit of a challenge to find a hotel/hostel that costs less than $100 per night. 

However, you can find well-priced hotel rooms if you know where to look and if you have a little help from a friendly local like me, especially if you want to know where to stay in New York City based on what you want to see and do .

So, here are some of my picks for the tops hotels in NYC. 

Pod 39 – Hidden away inside the always lovely Murray Hill neighborhood (They also have the hella best Indian food in the city is also here too), this uber-modern, super posh pod hotel has a fantastic assortment of rooms that start at just $120 per night. And yes, that price is ridiculously cheap for NYC.

Are they on the smallish side of things? Yeah, for sure. But where their rooms lack in space they more than make up for with modern amenities, friendliness, and an insane level of cleanliness.

So, if you stay at Pod 39 , you’ll have everything you need for a comfy, although slightly cozy, stay, And, added bonus? You’ll actually get to stay inside an awesome, residential home from 1918 and can choose between queen-size beds or stainless-steel bunk beds with TVs and bedside shelves. Yup, feel free to “oh” and “ah” at will. 

Even Hotel New York Times Square – This well-reviewed IHG brand hotel is centrally ocated in Times Square and is well-priced with rooms that start at under $150 per night. 

Is it the most luxurious hotel I’ve ever stayed in? No. But all the rooms here come with free WiFi, flat-screen TV, ensuite bathrooms with spa showers, eucalyptus linens, and premium EO bath products.  

So, if you’re looking to visit NYC on a budget and want a great place to stay, then consider booking a room at Even Hotel New York now!

The James New York – Tucked away in the always popular neighborhood of SOHO is this insanely posh hotel of awesome. It’s also well-located and known for its comfy, clean, and just overall wonderful refreshing rooms that start at a mere $177 per night.

All rooms here also feature wonderfully snazzy things like high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, glassed-off bathrooms, complimentary toiletries, and soft AF linens made from all-natural textiles,

Trust me, book a room here and you will 100% have absolutely no regrets. Because this place really is THAT awesome. 

The Bowery Hotel – Well located in the uber-fabulous Nolita section of the city is this epic hotel right here. And if I had a trust fund to call my own I would totally stay here since rooms at this 5-star hotel start at a hefty, $300 per night.

However, like most things in life, you get what you pay for. So, all of the stylish rooms here come fully outfitted with free Wifi, free bike rentals, exquisite city views, and so much more.

Added bonus? You’ll enjoy next-level impeccable service that will make you feel like a legit king of New York (Anyone else digging the Newsies reference?). So, don’t be shy and book this hotel now to enjoy the most luxurious of stays in New York City. 

Cool Museums in NYC – The Upper East Side

Otherwise known as the Metropolitan Museum of Art,  this museum is perhaps one of the premiere art museums in the entire world.

So, what can I actually say about this ultra-rad museum that has not already been said a thousand times before?

After all,  The MET is pretty damn epic since it was founded in ye olde 1880 and currently houses 36,000 different artifacts that span nearly 5,000 years of history – an exceptional collection of artwork that originates in every country and time period imaginable.

That’s why, for hundreds of years, The Metropolitan Museum of Art has been systematically bewitching the minds and hearts of visitors from all over the globe. It’s a magical place that has this uncanny ability to transport you into an entirely different time and place.

However, the awe-inspiring beauty of this museum doesn’t just lie in the past. It’s an institution that is continually at the forefront of innovation and features a wealth of rotating exhibits that expose people to the incredible creative diversity of the modern art world.

So, whether you are stuck in the past, living in the future, or looking for a whole new world, there is something for everyone at one of the coolest museums in NYC.

Also, fair warning, it should come as no surprise to you that there is NO WAY that you’ll be able to see this entire museum in a single day.

Therefore, don’t even try. But on the plus side, this museum rarely FEELS crowded since it’s just so damn big. 

PSST…Just a friendly reminder that while the MET USED to have, “pay what you wish” admission, those days have long since gone. That’s why only residents of New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania can now get pay what you wish tickets – at least if you present a valid form of ID. 

Pro Tip: Not surprisingly, The MET easily one of the most popular museums in NYC. Therefore, lines can be extremely long, even on weekday mornings. So, be sure to pre-book your skip-the-line ticket to the MET before you visit and to avoid this place like a plague on the weekend since it is packed with people. You should also visit the Cloisters while you’re in the area since it’s a highly underrated branch of this museum.  For more tips, you can read my insider’s guide to the MET . 

Address:  1000 5th Avenue, New York, New York (Between East 80th and East 84th Street),

Price: Pay what you wish for NJ, NY, and PA residents with a valid form of ID. Everyone else will have to pay $25 for adults, $17 for seniors, and $12 for students (free children under 12.). 

Hours: Open Sunday through Thursday from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm and Friday and Saturday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm.

How to Get There: Take the 4,5, or 6 train to the 86th Street station and walk from here.

2. The Frick Collection

Sadly, I had never even heard of this place until a couple of years ago. And you know what? That kind of hurts my soul since this museum is so freaking awesome and just one of the many cool museums in NYC.

It’s nestled along Fifth Avenue on NYC’s famed Upper East Side and features a vast collection of intricate gold gilded, French ceramic ware that is nothing short of mind-blowing.

So, If you choose to visit this museum for yourself (and you 100% should), head straight to the basement and admire the awesomeness within. And yes, that’s a direct order!!!

After that, take your time wandering through the wealth of galleries that fill the inside of the former mansion of Henry Clay Frick.

Along the way, you’ll discover a dazzling array of sculptures, paintings, porcelain, and furniture that serve as an everlasting monument to one of the greatest art collectors of all time.

Plus, added awesomeness? There are no stark and austere, pale white museum galleries here. Nope, not a chance.

Instead, imagine masterpieces of Western painting, sculpture, and decorative art all hung inside the serene and intimate setting of a home – a former private residence that makes you feel at ease and as though you have just stepped inside to visit an old friend.

As a result, this place feels like a true oasis of peace and tranquility amidst the interminable hustle and bustle of the city that never sleeps. 

I mean, come on! Who wouldn’t feel serene AF admiring works of art from a stone bench in the center of the building? You know, a quiet little spot that overlooks a scenic courtyard with a fountain that is lined with immaculate shrubbery and illuminated by a glass skylight.

Yup, talk about the stuff that museum lover dreams are made of. On top of all that though, each of the sixteen different galleries here features a unique selection of fine art that is arranged without regard to period or national origin (to commemorate the way Mr. Frick himself enjoyed the art he loved so much0.

So, be sure to check it out for yourself and see what all the awesomeness is about.

Pro Tip: Visit on the first Friday of the month, between 6:00 pm and 9:00 pm, and you’ll enjoy free admission to the museum (except for the months of January and September).

Address: 1 E 70th St, New York, NY 10021

Price: Tickets are $22 for adults, $17 for. seniors 65+ and disabled visitors, and $12 for students and kids between 10 and 17. 

Hours: Open Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. 

How to Get There; Take the 6 train here, get off at 68th street station, and walk to the museum from here.

3. The Guggenheim

The Guggenheim, or the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum if you want to get all fancy about it,  is basically like a straight-up, modern art mecca of the world.

And that makes sense since this is one of those cool museums in NYC that is home to an astounding number of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, early Modern, and contemporary art masterpieces.

Sprinkle in an astounding number of special exhibitions that rotate in and out of the institution and you have the stuff that cool art museums in NYC are made of.

However, art is not the only thing that people come here to admire. Because in truth, much of the artistry of the Guggenheim is entrenched in the beauty of the building that houses these masterpieces of modern art.

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, this iconic cylindrical building, wider at the top than the bottom, was actually designed to be a “temple of the spirit” – a concept you can see embodied in the ramp-like-gallery that swirls up and around the outer edges of the building.

It’s a stunning, continuous spiral that culminates in a masterful, almost spirit-like, ceiling skylight. Translation? Bring your camera because you will get some AMAZING, unique NYC photo ops here (My friend was dying of boredom as I took like a billion pictures. That and the security guard yelled at me for leaning over the edge. Oooopppsss). 

Anyway, if you do decide to visit (PSST…get your tickets in advance now) pick up a free audio guide and enjoy the stunning array of works here that were done by total greats like Kandinsky, Picasso, Pollock, Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.

Pro Tip: Have a coffee at Cafe 3 on the third floor and enjoy lovely views of nearby Central Park. You can also visit on Saturdays between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm to enjoy “pay what you wish” ticket prices

Address: 1071 5th Ave, New York, NY 10128

Price: Tickets are $25 for adults, $18 for students and seniors 65+ and visitors with disabilities, and free for members/kids 12 and under (avoid lines and get your tickets in advance now ). 

Hours: Open Thursday through Monday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. 

How to Get There:  Hop the 4,5,6 or Q train (get off at 86th street station and walk from there).

4. Neue Gallerie

Easily one of the many cool art museums in NYC, the Neue Gallerie is a relatively recent addition to NYC’s ultra-snazzy, upper east side. 

It sits along NYC’s famed Museum Mile (like many of the other cool museums in NYC on this list) and is definitely small in size. 

But what it lacks in size it more than makes up for with exquisite content since this institution specializes in displaying art from various 20th century, German and Austrian artists.

That’s why, during your visit, you should 100% explore the museum’s two unique collections since the one on the second floor is dedicated to works done by Austrian artists, while the one on the third floor is dedicated to works done by German artists.

Also of special note is a beyond gorgeous portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer (aka the lady in gold) done by Gustav Klimt in 1907 (it’s worth a cool, $135 million), in addition to works done by Paul Klee, Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, and Egon Schiele.

And added bonus? This is one of those Manhattan museums in NYC that also sits inside the historic, totally exquisite, William Starr Miller House, which is located on the corner of 86th street and 5th avenue.

Yup, thought I’d throw that little nugget of knowledge in there for you just in case you needed a little extra incentive to visit. 

Pro Tip: This is one of the best museums in NYC where photos are not allowed. But, if you head to the basement, you can take a photo of a copy of this famous painting before hitting the bathroom.

Address: 1048 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10028

Hours: The museum is open Thursday through Monday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm and closed on both Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Price: Tickets are $25 for adults, $16 for seniors, and $12 for students and educators.

How to Get There: Take the 4,5, or 6 train to the 86th Street station.

5. Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum

Honestly, the Cooper Hewitt museum is one of those cool museums in NYC that is totally underrated, IMHO. It’s also one of the best free attractions on the Upper East Side (if you visit after 5:00 pm).

But in fairness, it also sits on the upper east side, quietly tucked away in between titans of the museum world like the Guggenheim and the MET. 

It’s a really neat place though since it’s an institution with various installations that examine the incredible ways in which innovative design concepts touch people’s lives and make the world a more beautiful place to live (talk about a Kodak moment).

Before you step inside though, be sure to grab a photo of the museum’s picturesque courtyard before walking through the doors of one of the super rad, Manhattan museums in NYC.

Once your ticket sitch (aka situation) is squared away though, marvel at a wealth of super fun, interactive exhibits that everyone in your entire family will love (even that angsty AF teen who hates EVERYTHING).

Because this place, well, it’s definitely unlike any museum you’ve ever seen before and is brimming over with quirky exhibits that include furry walls, chairs that vibrate to mimic everyday activities, and a scratch and sniff wall a la Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

However, per usual, certain immersive experiences at one of the many cool museums in NYC are temporary and routinely rotate in and out of the building.

So, for the latest info on all of the museum’s awesome happenings, be sure to visit their website and get the inside scoop on what’s happening at the Cooper Hewitt.

And although I personally don’t recommend buying anything at their over-priced gift shop, I’d try to save time for a look since this place reminds me whole lot of IKEA, but on roids.  

Yeah, I’m not normally much of a gift shop person but it’s worth a peek since they have just about everything here, including kitchenware, home textiles, stationery, and more.

FYI, Cooper Hewitt is also within walking distance of Russ and Daughters (in the Jewish Museum) – a beyond epic eatery that is home to one of the best brunch spots up in NYC .

That’s why this would be an amazing place to stop for a bite either before or after your visit (hint, hint)!

Pro Tip: Try and visit on Tuesdays between  6:00 pm and 8:00 pm to enjjoy pay what you wish admission prices. 

Address: 2 E 91st St, New York, NY

Hours: Open every day from 10 am to 6 pm, with extended hours on Tuesdays. 

Price: Tickets are $18 for adults, $10 for visitors with disabilities, $12 for seniors over 62, $9 for students, and free for children under 18.

How to Get There: Take either the 4 or 5 to the 86th street station.

6. The Jewish Museum

Easily one of the best things to do on the Upper East Side , the Jewish Museum is one of the coolest museums in NYC that sits inside an old French, Gothic-style mansion from 1908.

The structure was eventually converted into one of the many cool museums in NYC and now boasts a collection of 30,000+ items that relate to Jewish culture and history.

So, walk through the hallow halls of one of the fun museums in Manhattan and expect to find a wide array of Torahs, sculptures, paintings, menorahs, and more.

However, before you visit one of the fun museums in NYC, just remember that you’ll really only find ancient art and antiquities here and not a detailed history of Jews in NYC.

Yeah, this is more of a cultural/art museum than anything else. But, that being said, you’ll love the variety of temporary exhibits that routinely pop up here.

You know, supremely snazzy things like retrospectives, live concerts, shows, lectures, and even the New York Jewish Film Festival – it’s in January and is one of the best things to do in NYC in winter.

However, temporary exhibits do pop up quite regularly, like concerts, retrospectives from prominent members of the Jewish community, lectures, world-class shows, and the New York Jewish Film Festival (held annually in January).

Pro Tip: Be sure to stop for a bagel with lox and cream cheese at the Russ and Daughters Cafe in the basement. The museum is also FREE on Saturdays so be sure to visit then.

Address: 1109 5th Ave, New York, NY 10128

Hours: Open Thursday through Monday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Price: $18 for adults, $12 for seniors 65+, $8 for students. and free for children 18 and under.

How to Get There: Take the 4/5/6 train to 86th street station and walk to the museum from there.

7. Bernard Museum of Judaica

There are several cool museums in NYC about Jewish life and culture, but the Bernard Museum of Judaica is easily one of the best due to its amazing collection. Plus, the synagogue that houses this top museum in NYC is also gorgeous.

Located within Temple Emanu-El, one of the largest synagogues in the world, the Bernard Museum houses various exhibits that both celebrate and educate visitors about Jewish culture, history, life, and beliefs.

This is one of the coolest museums in NYC that also consists of three galleries, one that showcases an impressive permanent collection of Jewish memorabilia and artifacts owned by the museum.

In fact, there are over 800 items in this collection, some of which date back as far as the 14th century.

I honestly learn a little bit more about Jewish culture every time I visit, and I am always blown about by how beautiful all of the artifacts are.

And then in the other two rooms are the temporary collections, featuring exhibits on topics as diverse as Jewish cemeteries in Europe, Jewish mysticism (Kabbalah) and Jewish arts and crafts.

Address: 1 E 65th St, New York, NY 10065

Hours: Open Sunday through Thursday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Price: Free

How to Get There: Take the N/R/W train to 59th Street and walk from there.

8. Museum of Food and Drink (MOFAD)

What to celebrate your love for all things culinary? If so then head to one of the many cool museums in NYC , the Museum of Food and Drink (or MOFAD for short).

It can found on Fifth Avenue, at the far corner of Central Park where the Upper East Side slowly turns into Harlem. And while you may think you’re gonna eat ALL the food while you’re here, think again.

Because what this museum strives to do is present food in a way that completely changes the way you think about the how this tasty affects the history, politics, economy, and culture of the world around you.

So, head over to MOFAD and explore this super rad place if you want to better appreciate the giant social impact that food makes on our every day lives.

Because they have some pretty neat exhibits like a smell synth (it allows you to mix a whole bunch of smells together to see what happens), a “Flavor: Making It and Faking It” exhibition, and Chow, which looks at the emergence of Chinese restaurants in the USA.

Address: 1280 5th Ave, New York, NY 10029

Hours: Open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, with final admission at 4:30 pm.

Price: Tickets are $15.00 for adults, $7.00 for kids 5-17, and $10.00 for seniors/military/students/disabled.

How to Get There: Take the 1/2 train to Central Park North or the 6 train to 110th Street and walk from there.

Cool Museums in NYC – The Upper West Side

9. the museum of natural history.

Located just across the park from the MET on the Upper West Side is this epic museum, complete with its very own library and planetarium.

It’s not only one of the largest in the world, with 28 interconnected buildings that house 45 permanent exhibition halls filled with 33 million specimens, but it basically makes you feel like you’ve walked into a real-life version of Jurassic Park – only better since nothing here will try to swallow you whole. 

However, the true beauty of this haven for lovers of the natural world is the fact that this place makes the world of science come alive for visitors (psst..get your tickets now since advance reservations are required).

It’s also an incredibly special place where you can see, touch, taste (sometimes yes but mostly, don’t lick the displays. LoL), and hear exactly how the world around us was created and shaped.

Because from dinosaur skeletons to meteorites to rocks, to cultural artifacts, this museum really does have it all. A fact that is only too fitting since the Natural History Museum is one of the premier, scientific research institutions in the world.

Yup! It houses more than 200 scientists working across a variety of disciplines like anthropology, astrophysics, and biology.

And lest you think this museum is just for kids, One Step Beyond will prove you wrong! Because each month (not right now but in the future when things go back to normal), One Step Beyond presents a different DJ performing in the Museum’s Rose Center for Earth and Space.

Plus, after enjoying the insane dance party, guests can actually take a walk up the Cosmic Pathway to the Hayden Big Bang Theater and journey through the virtual universe, to the alluring voice of none other than Liam Neeson, for just $25 per person, from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am.

However, not surprisingly, this innovative event is popular, so purchase tickets online, to guarantee admission.

Pro Tip: Visit the Hayden Planetarium while you’re here. It sits inside the Rose Center for Earth and is, no joke, one of the best planetariums in the world. If you have time, “Dark Universe” is a great production that uses exceptional special effects to hurtle you into space and show you exactly how the universe came into being. Also, do NOT eat at the basement cafeteria. It’s expensive and crowded and, just, no.

Address: 200 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024-5102

Hours: Currently open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm. 

Price:  Tickets are $28 for adults, $22.50 for seniors (60+) and students with a valid ID (discount tickets are available for residents of NY, NJ, and CT with valid ID), and $16.50 for children between 3 and 12, Like most places in NYC, you need to reserve your tickets in advance ..like now. 

How to Get There: Take the B (weekdays only) or C train to 81st Street station and walk to the museum there. You can also take the 1 train to Broadway and West 79th Street and walk from there.

10. Hispanic Society Museum and Library

At the Hispanic Society Museum & Library, you’ll find over 18,000 works of art from Spain, Portugal, and their former colonies in Latin America, the Philippines, and Portuguese India.

This includes work from some of the countries’ most prominent artists, as well as ever-changing temporary exhibits.

In addition to the artwork, the building itself is beautiful and will have you feeling transported back in time.

Now, about that whole library part of the name. Yes, it exists and it is open to the general public so that they can learn everything they can about the Hispanic peoples.

Also, not gonna lie, I love reading books about Spain , Portugal, and everywhere else, so I was stoked to discover this gem.

Granted, it’s academic books – many of them quite rare – but, I’m just a sucker for nice books (it’s why I spend a lot of time wandering through all the amazing bookstores in NYC ).

So, if you love your cool museums in NYC that come FULL of history and art, then the Hispanic Society of America is for you.

Pro Tip: Due to recent renovations on one of the best museums in New York City , the museum’s outdoor space and East Building Gallery are only open to the public.

Address: 613 W 155th St, New York, NY 10032

Hours: Open Thursday through Sunday from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

How to Get There: Take the 1 train to 157th Street or the C train to 155th Street and walk from there.

11. New York Historical Society

Okay, I know a historical society doesn’t exactly sound like one of the many cool museums in NYC, but, come on guys, hear me out!

Because this is one of those Manhattan museums in NYC that is cool with a capital “C”. Sure, the name may make it sound a little antiquated, but, you know what?

That makes total sense when you realize that this institution was first founded in 1804 (making it NYC’s oldest museum) to preserve the city’s large wealth of historical and cultural artifacts. 

Fast forward a couple of hundred yours and this building on Central Park west now houses more than 60,000 intriguing artifacts that include super-nifty things like:

• George Washington’s inauguration chair
• A leg brace donned by President Franklin D Roosevelt
• A door from Jack Stewart’s house that was covered in graffiti
• A ceiling mural by Keith Haring that sits above the admissions desk 
• And so much more.

There are even several interactive kiosks here that make the entire learning process infinitely more fun. 

And although this institution is nestled inside a beautiful pre-war mansion, the entire interior has been redesigned with a little modern pazazz to make this place a whole lot more visitor-friendly. 

Pro Tip: Don’t leave without visiting the Immersive Center for Women’s History on the fourth floor, And if you have kids, definitely check out the on-site children’s museum too. The museum also offers “pay what you wish” admission on Fridays between 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm. 

Address: 170 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024

Hours: Open Friday from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm and Saturday/Sunday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. 

Price: Tickets are $22 for adults, $17 for seniors/military personnel, $13 for students, $6 for kids (5-13), and free for children under four (You can also save a bit of money by getting a New York Explorer Pass now, which includes admission to this museum. But if you’re not sure about the pass, you can read my full review here ). 

How to Get Here: Take either the B or C train to 81st Street station or the 1 train to 79th street station and walk from there. 

12. American Folk Art Museum

First opened in ye olde 1962 (jk, it’s really not THAT long ago), this is one of those quiet little Manhattan museums in NYC that gives you a sneak peek into some of the USA’s earliest known pieces of art.

Because believe it or not, this not-so-large museum is home to a whopping seven thousand works of art. And while they’re not all on display at any given time, each item displayed here is totally unique and can date all the way back to the 18th century.

Therefore, you’ll find an eclectic collection of pieces here that include wood carvings, stone statues, quilts, ceramics, carousel animals, and much more – many of which were created by novice self-taught artists with no formal training. 

Whatever you do though, do not leave without visiting the enormous collection of illustrations from Henry Darger and the super cool gift shop with a ton of unique items for sale. 

FYI, various temporary exhibits also constantly rotate in and out of this place on the reg so there’s always something new to see as you check out one of the coolest museums in NYC and experience the best things to do in the Upper West Side .

Pro Tip: Although this is definitely one of the many cool museums in NYC, it’s also small. Therefore, you can definitely skip it if you’re short on time. But, if it’s like your 10,000th trip to the city and you’re looking for something new to do, then this is a great spot to check out. They also have free music on Wednesdays at 2:00 pm and Fridays at 5:30 pm. 

Address: 2 Lincoln Square (Columbus Avenue between 65th and 66th Streets), New York, NY 10023

Price: Free but you will need to reserve a ticket online prior to visiting (one of the awesome free museums in NYC). 

Hours : Open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:30 am to 6:00 pm. 

How to Get There: Take the 1 train to 66 Street and Lincoln Center and walk to the museum from there. 

13. Children’s Museum of Manhattan

Easily one of the coolest museums in NYC for families, the Children’s Museum of Manhattan features a ton of super fun, totally interactive exhibits that younger kids will love.

So, I typically tell people that if you have a child who is ten or under, then this is one of the cool museums in NYC that you can visit while on the Upper West Side .

Yes, it’s a bit small but it’s all about the quality of the exhibits here, which strive to stimulate kids’ imagination.

Therefore, give one of the fun museums in NYC a try as you check out popular exhibits like the Talking Dragon, Dora the Explorer rooms, an 8-foot tall finger painting mural, an outdoor exhibit about NYC’s watershed, and an array of toddler discovery programs – great if it’s a rainy day and you’re looking for fun indoor activities in NYC .

Address: 212 W 83rd St, New York, NY 10024

Hours: Open Wednesday through Sunday from 9:30 am to 4:45 pm.

Price: Tickets for adults and children are $15.00 each while seniors/disabled visitors are $12.00 and infants under one are free.

How to Get There: Take the 1 train to 79th Street station and walk to the museum from here.

Cool Museums in NYC – Midtown

14. intrepid sea, air and space museum.

There’s only one place in New York City where you can find an aircraft carrier, a space shuttle, and a submarine. And that is the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum .

This highly popular museum celebrates aviation and engineering and can be found on the Hudson River in Hell’s Kitchen.

It’s also one of the cool museums in NYC that features genuine vessels and aircraft that contributed to the technological advancement of the human race. Talk about a big deal!

As I mentioned, all kinds of vehicles can be seen here. So, you have the Enterprise, the world’s first space shuttle, Growler, a strategic missile submarine, and the Lockheed A-12, the world’s fastest military spy jet.

There’s even a British Concorde airplane – the fastest aircraft ever to cross the Atlantic Ocean!

Therefore, if you’re into vehicles of any kind, you’ll find something to love in this museum since there are 26 other fully restored aircraft available to see in addition to the ones I’ve already mentioned.

Add in an 18,000 square foot education center and you have the perfect spot where you can go learn yourself some science!

Pro Tip: This place is popular so be sure to book your tickets well in advance . Also, be aware of the fact that the last entry is at 4:00 pm.

Address: Pier 86, W 46th St, New York, NY 10036

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Price: Tickets are $33 for adults, $31 for seniors (65+), and $24 for children (4-12).

How to Get There: Take the M42 bus to the stop at 12th Avenue and W 42nd Street and walk from there.

15. Morgan Library and Museum

If you mosey on down to mid-town, you’ll find the ever-awesome Morgan Library and Museum – one of those cool museums in NYC that sits right down the street from Grand Central Station, the New York Public Library, AND Times Square.

More than that though, this place is straight-up next-level beautiful since it’s basically like a real-life version of the library featured in Beauty and the Beast.

It also houses a ton of fascinating exhibits that sit inside some of the fully restored rooms that made up Mr. Morgan’s personal library – rooms that may or may not (spoiler alert, they do) contain a copy of the Guttenberg Bible (the first book ever printed) and an original composition from Mozart. 

I know. I had to pick my jaw up off the ground too since there was a lot of plush, velvet decor.

Add in some stunning, vintage architecture, free live jazz performances on Fridays, and a series of legit interesting rotating exhibits, and you’d be forgiven for basically moving right in.

I mean, I’d forgive you for moving in, but the staff might not. But a visit is just as good and has the added benefit of being less devoid of selfie-stick-wielding tourists than the nearby New York Public Library. 

Pro Tip: Try to plan your visit for free Friday, when a visit to the museum is free from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. However, advanced reservations are required so definitely book your tickets about a week in advance. 

Address: 225 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016

Price: Tickets are $22 for adults, $14 for seniors (65+), $13 for students with an ID, and free for children 12 and under. 

Hours: Open Wednesday through Saturday from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm. 

How to Get There: You can take the 7 train to 5th avenue and Bryant Park, the 4/5/6 to Grand Central, or basically any other train to Times Square and just walk from there. 

16. Spyscape Spy Museum

Just call me Bond…James Bond. Okay, I kid, I kid. Because I am by far and in a way the clumsiest human on the planet. So yeah,  James Bond I most certainly am not. 

However, even though I am no professional spy, I still adore the Spyscape Spy Museum and think it’s one of many cool museums in NYC and one of the most fun things to do in NYC at night .

Because during your visit, you’ll understand exactly what it takes to become a real-life spy and the skills they need to live a covert life and remain virtually undetected for years at a time. 

So, if you want to all about the not-so-hidden arts of cryptography and cyberhacking, then this fun, interactive museum in the place for you. 

But wait, because inquiring minds wanna know! How much does it cost to be a spy for the day? Well, apparently $40, at least at the Spyscape facility.

And while you won’t leave with full access to Quantico, it’s a small price to pay for all the spy-related glory and cyber snooping skills that you’ll pick up while in this museum of pure awesome. 

So, grab your ticket now and step inside for a full-on, super immersive experience that starts with a preliminary briefing, during which you’ll receive a personalized wristband that is your ticket to eternal spy glory. 

Now, once this initial debriefing is complete, you’ll then walk through the museum and scan your wristband before entering various parts of the museum.

This way, the museum can assess your overall skills and keep track of your performance as you participate in various challenges to help you understand what real-life qualities you’ll need to be an actual spy. 

And in case you were wondering, all the tasks here are totally legit since this museum uses an actual profiling system, developed by the former head of British Intelligence, to figure out what spy-related job would be best for you. 

In total, there are ten different spy-related careers that could be perfect for you, and they include everything from analyst to spymaster (spoiler alert…I was not a spymaster. So excuse me while I go sob in the corner).

Yeah, I got handler. And I’m honestly not sure how I feel about that.

But what I do know is that I love Spyscape and think it one of the many cool museums in NYC since everyone will love visiting, even if you’re not into museums. 

So, visit today , test your spy skills, and leave with this interactive museum in NYC with the experience of a lifetime, as cliche as that sounds. Because truth be told this is probably one of the best museums in NYC…at least IMHO. 

Address: 928 8th Ave, New York, NY

Hours: Open Thursday 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Friday 2:00 pm to 9:00 pm, Saturday 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, and Sunday 11:00 am to 7:00 pm. FYI, the last admission is also 90 minutes before closing. 

Price: General admission is $39 for adults and $32 for everyone else. But, Spyscape also offers a bunch of different, special experiences too (loved my visit so be sure to get your tickets now !).

How to Get There: Take the W Line and get off at 57th Street Station.

 This place is kind of sort of awesome because it is basically the Micheal Jordan of the modern art world (and if you don’t know who that is, you should so go to Wikipedia now. That is your mission!).

I mean, everywhere you turn, you’ll find galleries brimming over with masterpieces from such powerhouse artists like Van Gogh, Matisse, Picasso, Warhol, Lichtenstein, Rothko, Pollock, Bourgeois, etc.(I don’t think I need to go on. You get the idea. GO NOW!).

And since this museum first opened its doors in 1929, MoMA (Total side note, I hate writing MoMA because autocorrect always turns it into mama. So if you see mama, don’t be alarmed) has acquired more than 200,000 pieces of art.

An array of stunning pieces from artists who find unique ways to represent art and challenge people’s conceptions of what art really is and the variety of emotions that it can evoke.

For people like me, who really don’t know anything about modern art,  it’s an inspiring crash course in all that is beautiful and addictive about modern art (While this is true, some of the stuff was way beyond me, but I’m still glad I went).

So, if you feel like visiting one of the cool museums in NYC for yourself, definitely prepare to spend the day here since MoMA’s permanent collection spans a grand total of four different levels, with prints, illustrated books, and unmissable Contemporary Galleries on level two; architecture, design, drawings and photography on level three; and painting and sculpture on levels four and five.

Also, just as an FYI, the museum’s most famous works are on the top two floors. Therefore, be sure to start at the top and work your way down.

And before you leave, don’t forget to check out the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden, which is adorned with sculptures from greats like Matisse, Miró, and Picasso.

Yup, just an all-around great place to spend the day in NYC so be sure to book your tickets now!

Pro Tip: Want the awesomeness of MOMA but without the insane crowds? Then check out MOMA PS1 in Queens or the MOMA design store in lower Manhattan . Both are awesome and give you a real feel for the beauty of MOMA.

MOMA also has free Fridays where you can enjoy free admission between 5:30 pm and 9:00 pm, although they are currently suspended and the museum now closes at 5:30 pm Fridays. 

Address: 11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019

Hours: Open daily from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm. 

Price: Tickets are $25 for adults, $18 for seniors (65+) and visitors with disabilities, $14 for students, and free for children 16 and under. 

How to Get There: Take the N, R, or W train to 57th Street and 7th Avenue and walk to the museum from there. 

Cool Museums in NYC – Lower Manhattan

18. the tenement museum.

Say hello to one of my all-time favorite cool museums in NYC, The Tenement Museum.  

Because this place? Well, it basically transports you back in time as it recreates the horrendous conditions that immigrants were forced to endure in 1863 at 97 Orchard Street. 

Yup, good old New York, New York was not a super fun place to live back in the day.

Also, because this museum is basically a full-scale representation of a tenement from back in the day, it will be small and won’t be able to fit a ton of people. 

You also can’t go it alone and visit by yourself. So yes, you will need to book tickets in advance and visit as part of a 90-minute, organized tour. 

Thankfully though, you have a variety of super cool themed tours to choose from, like under one roof, shop life, sweatshop workers, hard times, building on the lower east side, Irish outsiders (They also have a neat food of the Lower East Side tour for $45 per person), etc.

So, save your spot on one of these snazzy little tours and experience the dark, dank, cramped, and dirty living conditions that residents endured (the museum is actually very clean but you know what I mean). 

Because the truly awesome thing about the Tenement Museum is that it doesn’t just present you with artifacts that you look at through a shiny glass case. 

Oh, hell to the no. Rather, it allows you to personally experience a unique period in history by putting you in the same exact situations that residents themselves faced.

That’s why, if you’re a hardcore history nerd like me, then you’ll want to take a look at their website and pre-book a ticket stat (do this well in advance since tickets sell out quickly)!

Address: Located at 97 and 103 Orchard Street on the Lower East Side.

Price: Tickets are between $27 and $29 per person.

Hours: Open every day from 10 am to 6:30 pm.

How to Get There: You can either take the F or the J to Delancey Street Station.

19. Ellis Island

Not gonna lie, I am hardcore obsessed with this museum. Yeah, it’s easily one of my fave cool museums in NYC 

That’s because unlike the nearby Statue of Liberty tour, a trip to Ellis Island is a wonderfully interesting experience that is well worth your time.

And if it’s your first time to the city that never sleeps, then you may want to consider snagging a pretty reasonably priced combination ticket to Ellis Island AND the Statue of Liberty (it’s only $20, and a trip to both landmarks is included).

You’ll also want to avoid the queues and book your ticket well in advance . Not that you have much of a choice right now but you know what I mean. 

If I were you, I’d also plan on spending most of your time on Ellis Island since this place was an iconic immigrant gateway into the United States throughout the early 1900s. 

Because when you think of historic immigration to the United States, I bet Ellis Island is the first thing that comes to mind. 

In truth though, only steerage class passengers (12 million of them, to be exact, entered the country between 1892 and 1924) actually passed through this iconic entranceway when immigrating to the USA. 

And even though Ellis Island is no longer in active use, you can still hop on a ferry and explore the three-level Immigration Museum that currently stands here.

It’s home to a wealth of fascinating exhibits (imagine personal objects, photographs, and official documents) and intriguing narratives that tell the incredible history of people who decided to leave everything behind and embark on a brand new life in a brand new world. 

Now, after you arrive via the ferry to the Statue of Liberty, be sure to hit up the museum lobby for a free audio guide that will give you epic info on all of the artifacts that you’ll see on display here. 

You know, things like Through America’s Gate (it explains the rigorous examination process that people endured upon arrival), the Peak Immigration Years (it helps you understand why people came to this country and what their life was like upon arrival), the third floor, which features remnants from when the building fell into disrepair (imagine trashed chairs, desks, etc.), and so much more. 

Address: 17 Battery Place #210

Price: Tickets are $19.25 for adults, $14 for seniors 62+, $9 for children between 4 and 12, and free for kids 3 and under.

Hours: The museum is open daily from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm but check their website for any seasonal time changes.

How to Get There: Take the 4 or 5 train to Bowling Green and then walk to the ferry terminal in Battery Park.

20. 9/11 Museum and Memorial

Brace yourself before you visit this Manhattan museum in NYC. Because not surprisingly, it’s incredibly painful to visit since it brings all the events of that tragic day back to life. 

And as someone who was in NYC that fateful day, I remember those events all too well. 

This is also one of those cool museums in NYC that is actually two sites in one. So, if you really don’t want to visit the National September 11th Museum, you could always just pay your respects at the September 11th Memorial and skip the museum entirely.

Although, you’d definitely be missing out. Because while the museum is truly heartbreaking, it’s extremely well done and does a great job of paying tribute to all those who lost their lives that day. 

Yes, tickets are a little expensive, but the museum showcases a ton of great exhibits and even houses what remains from the original towers. s.

So, grab a pair of tissues (you’ll need it) and make your way through a heartbreaking amalgamation of artifacts, videos, and photos that tell the story of that fateful day in American history.

To start, you’ll enter through the museum’s glass entranceway and pavilion (it’s meant to represent a broken tower) and then descend via escalator to the basement of the museum. 

Along the way, you’ll see a series of 70-foot tall steel beams that once made up the base of the North Tower.

After taking in this solemn sight, explore the exhibits here, including Survivors Staircase (used by survivors to flee the building), the Foundation Hall (there’s a WTC retaining wall here and a column filled with inspirational messages, missing person posters,  victim memorials, etc.), a destroyed Engine Company 21 Fire Truck, etc.

There’s even a devastatingly sad but important part of the museum that is entitled “In Memoriam”. It’s made up of a series of walls that are lined with the names and photos of everyone who died because of these terrorist attacks. 

Honestly, it’s really hard to go through but important since we never want to forget that day and the innocent victims who lost their lives. 

So, although it will be a tough visit, definitely book your tickets online ASAP since the museum currently offers mandatory timed admission to protect visitors during the pandemic.

Address: 180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007

Hours: The 9/11 Memorial is currently open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm while the museum is open Thursday through Monday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Price: Museum tickets are $26 for adults, $20 for young adults (13-17)/seniors (65+)/college students, and $18 for US veterans.

How to Get there: Take the 1 to Rector Street, the 2/3 train to Park Place, or the 4/5 to Wall Street station and walk from there.

21. The National Museum of the American Indian

Guess what? This is one of those free museums in NYC that you are totally gonna love! 

Because it’s also one of those cool museums in NYC that is actually a part of the Smithsonian too (you know, the one in Washington DC)! Yup, kind of shocking (at least to me, but totally true) but 110% true.

So, get your nerd-erific freak on at this stunning, beaux-arts building which was once served as the New York Customs House in 1907. 

Since then though, this structure had been totally transformed into a cool and unusual NYC museum that introduces visitors to anything and everything related to Native American culture.

Also, during your visit, be on the lookout for four massive female sculptures that sit just outside the building. They were designed by an artist by the name of Daniel Chester French and symbolize (from left to right) the continents of Asia, North America, Europe, and Africa respectively. 

However, once you finally do make your way into the vast rotunda of this museum (it features an epic, 140-ton skylight at the top), walk through a series of innovative galleries that feature rotating exhibits on Native American culture, art, lifestyles, and traditions.

Afterward, visit their incredible permanent collection, which houses Native American technologies in the imagiNATIONS Activity Center and explains the incredible diversity of Native American culture through decorative arts, textiles, and various ceremonial objects.

And if you have time, take a moment to watch one of the live dance or musical performances that are typically held here (FYI, children’s book readings, craft seminars, film showings, and educational workshops are also held here too).

They’re super fun and a great way to create a lasting, first-hand experience with native American culture.

Address: 1 Bowling Green, New York, NY 10004

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and on Thursdays until 8:00 pm.

How to Get There: Take the R/W train to Whitehall Street station or the 4/5/6 train to Bowling Green and walk to the museum from there.

22. Museum of Chinese in America

When looking for cool museums in NYC that highlight the city’s rich cultural diversity, you absolutely can’t miss the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA).

The museum was originally opened as the New York Chinatown History Project in 1980 by historian John Kuo Wei Tchen and community resident and activist Charles Lai.

Tchen and Lai hoped the project would serve as a means to preserve the Chinese immigrant communities’ oral histories and traditions for future generations.

Today, MOCA remains a site dedicated to teaching about the Asian American experience to the community, and anyone else who visits.

That’s why, MOCA’s goal is to show visitors the history of NYC through a unique lens, one which enables further dialogue and better understanding.

Accordingly, MOCA now has regular new exhibits that focus on Asian American histories and stories. They also have an extension collection related to Asian Americans that the public can access for research.

Unfortunately, though, this section of the museum is currently under renovation as the result of a fire.

Address: 215 Centre St, New York, NY 10013

Hours: Open Thursday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, with extended hours until 9:00 pm on Thursdays.

Price: Tickets are $12 for adults, and $8 for students/seniors (65+)/children (2+).

How to Get There: Take the N/Q/R/W/6 train to Canal Street and walk from there.

23. The Whitney Museum of American Art

This is another one of those cool art museums in NYC that you’re totally gonna love. I mean, not only does it sit right along the Highline (in Chelsea), but it recently opened in 2015 and is now one of those cool museums in NYC that no art lover should miss!

Come to think of it, even if you’re not a big fan of modern art, you should still visit anyway since this 63,000 square foot building is overflowing with an insane collection of 20th and 21st contemporary American art from greats like Edward Hopper, Alexander Calder, Georgia O’Keefe, etc.

And added bonus? Head straight for the rooftop to get sick panoramic views of the nearby Hudson River. Or, simply visit to check out one of the uber-awesome rotating exhibits that the Whitney routinely showcases.

Pro Tip: To save a bit of cold, hard cash, try visiting on Fridays, between 7:00 pm and 9:30 pm, when the museum offers patrons pay-what-you-wish for tickets. But, per usual, definitely book your tickets well in advance to avoid long lines.

Address: 99 Gansevoort St, New York, NY 10014

Hours: Open 11:30 am to 6:00 pm Mondays and Thursdays, 1:30 pm to 9:00 pm Fridays, and 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm Saturdays and Sundays (Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays).

Price: Tickets are $25 for adults, $18 for students/seniors/disabled visitors, and free for anyone 18 and under.

How to Get There: Take the A/C/E train from Times Square to 14th Street/8th Avenue and walk to the museum from there.

24. The New York City Fire Museum

If there’s one thing we know about big cities, it’s that you’re going to need a good fire service. And with a city as big and old as NYC, that fire service is going to be one of the best … and one of the most fascinating!

Seriously, the New York City Fire Museum is super underrated. It sounds obvious, but there’s so much history here inside one of the many cool museums in NYC!

So much so that there are over 10,000 objects on display, and just as many records and photographs. Helmets, axes, uniforms, old horse and cart engines, forcible entry tools, and more.

In fact, some of the items on display here date back to the 1650s – before the United States was even founded! Some of these things are older than America, y’all!

Plus, the whole thing is housed in a renovated fire station from 1904. Therefore, if you’re looking for cool museums in NYC, DO NOT miss out on the New York City Fire Museum!

Address: 278 Spring St, New York, NY 10013

Hours: Open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Price: Tickets are $10 for adults, $8.00 for students/seniors, and $5.00 for children.

How to Get There: Take the C/E train to Spring Street or the 1 train to Houston Street and walk from there.

25. Federal Hall

Want to see one of the coolest museums in NYC in the Flatiron District? If so then hit up the supremely awesome Federal Hall.

It’s hidden away inside a stunning, Greek-Revival style building (so many columns) and even features a giant statue of George Washington right out front.

And that makes sense since this is one of the cool museums in NYC where George Washinton swore himself in as president in 1789.

It’s also one of the fun museums in NYC that served as New York City’s second City Hall but was eventually renamed once it was finished by Pierre L’Enfant in 1788.

However, the building’s present design really only came about in 1812, after the original structure was destroyed.

And after that, well, it served as the US Customs House until 1862. So, lots of history inside one of the coolest museums in NYC.

Therefore, step inside and learn all about post-colonial life in New York before admiring the uber-glorious, George Washington Inaugural Gallery.

There’s also a quaint visitor center where resident park rangers will be happy to assist you with anything you need, like city maps.

In fact, these lovely government employees even offer free thirty-minute tours of the facility daily at 10:00 am, 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm, and 3:00 pm.

Address: 26 Wall St, New York, NY 10005

Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Price: Free (one of the few cool museums in NYC that is free)

How to Get There: Take the 2/3 train or the 4/5/6 train to Wall Street station and walk from here.

26. The Skyscraper Museum

The New York City skyline is one of the most famous and recognizable skylines in the world. But, what a lot of people don’t think about is just how those distinctive shapes came to be imagined, planned, and built, or why.

Well, the NYC Skyscraper Museum aims to set that record straight with a full and comprehensive history of the people and events that led to the creation of each of those buildings that we love so much.

Along with a changing series of temporary exhibits, the Skyscraper Museum has permanent installations covering subjects like the first skyscrapers to be built, the history of tall buildings around the world, the changing skyline of Manhattan, and more.

So, if you ever wanted to compare the tallest buildings in the world to each other, but had trouble because they’re all in different countries, you’re in luck!

Because this is one of the top museums in NYC with scale models of them all, and a lot of them are pointier than you’d think!

Fun Fact: The Skyscraper Museum is in a permanent space in, appropriately enough, a skyscraper. However, it’s on the ground floor!

Address: 39 Battery Pl, New York, NY 10280

Hours: Open Thursday through Saturday from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Price: Free through January 2022.

How to Get There: Take the 4/5 train to Bowling Green and walk from there.

27. The Museum of Jewish Heritage

Not to be confused with the Jewish Museum on the Upper East Side, the Jewish Heritage Museum sits right next to the Hudson and is one of the cool museums in NYC that deals with issues that relate to Jewish culture and identity.

The building itself was also designed with six distinct sides to represent bot the Star of David and the 6 million Jews that were murdered during the Holocaust.

So, give one of the coolest museums in NYC a visit if you’re keen to see Jewish art and learn more about Jewish religious traditions.

After all, this is one of the fun museums in Manhattan with three floors that have unique exhibits like “Jewish Life a Century Ago”, “Jewish Renewal”, and “The War Against the Jews” (a Holocaust Exhibit filled with personal accounts and artifacts).

Finally, before you leave, stop by the peaceful, outdoor, “Garden of Stones”. It’s a stunning, narrow space that is filled with trees that appear to be held up by 18 giant stones.

Pro Tip: If you’re hungry, LOX in Cafe Bergson serves some delicious eats. So, try unique flavors of smoked salmon like gin and grapefruit while you’re here.

Address: 36 Battery Pl, New York, NY 10280

Hours : Open Thursday, Sunday, and Wednesday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. It’s also closed for all major Jewish holidays.

Price: Tickets are $16 for adults, $12 for seniors and the disabled, and $10 for students and veterans. You’ll also sometimes have to pay extra for special exhibits.

How to Get There: Take the 4/5/6 to Bowling Green and walk to one of the coolest museums in NYC from here.

28. Museum at FIT

Love fashion and learning about the history of clothing design?

If so then check out the Museum at FIT. It’s without a doubt one of the coolest museums in NYC and one of the best things to do in Chelsea NYC .

After all, this is one of the cool museums in NYC that features an astounding collection of 50,000 garments that date all the way back to the 18th century.

It’s also one of the fun museums in Manhattan that is famous for becoming the first gallery of fashion in the good old USA.

Add in a whole host of temporary events that include films, lectures, and panel discussions with industry insiders, and you’ll always have something new to discover here.

Address: 227 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001

Hours: Open Tuesday through Friday from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm and on Saturdays from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Price: FREE!

How to Get There: Take the 1 train to 28th street station and walk from here.

29. The New Museum

I love cool museums in NYC, yes I do, I love cool museums in NYC, how about you? 

Okay, yeah, I’ll stop being beyond weird now. But what I’m trying to say is that this is one of those cool museums in NYC that not only showcases awesome art, but that is slightly less popular than the MET and MOMA. 

Therefore, the crowdage here won’t be as intense as some of the other cool art museums in NYC on this list. 

Because this bad boy of the museum world was first founded in 1977 by Marcia Tucker and is currently hidden away in New York’s lower east side, right by the Bowery. 

But don’t let that fact detour you from visiting since this a premier destination for anyone who loves contemporary art. 

No really! Step inside for even a hot minute and you’ll quickly discover pieces from Keith Haring, Jeff Koons, Joan Jonas, Mary Kelly, and Andres Serrano, just to name a few.

This is also one of those fun museums in NYC that has the added benefit of having an exquisite, rooftop area where you can enjoy sweeping panoramas of the surrounding neighborhood (okay, the area isn’t THAT scenic but it’s still a nice view). 

More than that though, the New Museum is a modern, beautifully decorated building where you can discover the latest and greatest works in contemporary art, including a wealth of temporary art exhibits that continually move in and out of the museum.

Pro Tip: If you want to save a little extra money, stop by on the first Saturday of the month, when the New Museum has special events and features free admission for two adults per family.

Address: 235 Bowery, New York, NY 10002

Hours: Open Tuesday and Wednesday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, Thursday from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, and Friday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm . 

Price: Tickets are $18 for adults, $15 for seniors/visitors with disabilities, $12 for students, and free for anyone 18 and under.

How to Get There: Visitors can use the N, R, J, Z, 6, B, D, F, and M trains to get there. 

30. Rubin Museum of Art

Another one of the highly underrated cool museums in NYC on this list, the Rubin Museum of Art is a 25,000-square-foot-space that features an expansive collection of Himalayan and Tibetan art.

So, if you’re a big fan of Asian art then this is one of the coolest museums in NYC for you.

Especially since this museum is conveniently located in Chelsea and has over 1,000 pieces of art on display at any given time.

In fact, some of the antiquities here date all the way back to the second century. There are also a suite of educational programs on offer, including mindfulness meditation classes, cultural art demos, and musical performances.

Pro Tip: Visit on Friday nights between 6:00 pm and 10:00 pm when admission is free. Just be sure to make a reservation online first.

Address: 150 W 17th St, New York, NY 10011

H ours : Open Thursday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, except Fridays when the museum is open until 10:00 pm.

Price: Tickets are $19 for adults, $14 for students/seniors, and free for children 12 and under.

How to Get There: Take the A/C/E train to 14th Street or the 1 train to 18th Street station and walk from here.

31. Museum of Ice Cream NYC

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream…and the Museum of Ice Cream NYC.

Yup, it’s one of those super interactive museums in NYC that is basically every Instagrammer’s idea of total, next-level paradise since there are photo ops aplenty here. 

More than that though, this wonderfully pink museum in SOHO enthusiastically welcomes you into the whimsical world of ice cream with a series of vibrant, interactive displays that feature ice cream cones, spinkles, and basically anything else related to the dessert-y goodness that is ice cream. 

Is it small? Kind of. Is it culturally enriching? Probably not. But it’s one of those cool museums in NYC that the kids will love and that will provide you with ample photo ops for your Insta feed. 

And, added bonus? There’s a freakin’ three-story slide inside, a hall of giant scoops, a floating table of desserts (what is this Harry Potter wizardry?), a “Queen Beehive”, a sprinkle pool, and an MTA-like “Celestial Subway”.

Yeah, you’ll just have to visit for yourself to understand the eternal glory that is the ice cream museum. Just do yourself a solid and book your tickets WAY in advance since, not surprisingly, this place is hella popular. 

Address: 558 Broadway, New York, NY 10012

Hours:  Open Thursday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm and Friday and Saturday from 10:00 are to 6:00 pm. 

Price: Tickets are $39 for adults and free for children 2 and under. 

How to Get There: Take the R/W Train to Prince Street Station or the B/B/F/M train to Lafayette Street and walk from there. 

32. Mmuseumm

Just in case you were wondering, no, I didn’t misspell the name of one of the cool museums in NYC.

Because it really is known as MMuseumm (pronounced like museum) and is a fun museum in NYC that sits inside an unassuming, 60-square-foot freight elevator in the heart of NYC’s Chinatown. 

Home to a continually rotating array of often overlooked everyday objects like gluten-free Holy Communion wafers, bread clips, a hot water coil from Lithuania, a plastic glove from Paradise Valley, and a shoe that was once thrown at George W. Bush. this quirky museum in NYC is easily one of the more unusual things to do in NYC.

So, step inside (if you dare since it’s kind of cramped) and explore a museum that explains the history of the modern world using, “object journalism”. Yup, their term, not mine. 

It also has extremely limited hours (see below) and sits inside a super small space that gets hella hot in the summer, so plan accordingly. 

Pro Tip: The museum is currently closed for obvious reasons but is scheduled to re-open really soon. 

Address: 4 Cortlandt Alley, New York, NY 10013

Hours: Open to the public Friday through Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm, with visits available by appointment only at other times (Just send an email to [email protected] ).

Price: $5 is a recommended donation but there is no set fee.

How to Get There: Take either the 4/5/6 line or the J/Z train to Canal Street Station.

33. Merchant’s House Museum

Step back in time at this historic landmark site that is easily one of the best museums in New York City!

In fact, this award-winning museum has been operating on East 4th Street for 85 years and offers visitors the opportunity to see what life was like in days of yore in NYC.

The Merchant’s House Museum was originally – get this – the house of a merchant family (IKR?) named Tredwell.

The Tredwells lived in the house for almost 100 years from 1835 to 1933, and because of the architecture and furnishings they owned, the place has been preserved as part of the history of New York City life.

So, when visiting the Merchant’s House Museum, you’ll get to see the Tredwell Collection – a huge amount of former possessions of the Tredwell family.

But what did people own back then? Well, if you’re a fan of expensive-looking antiques, gorgeous fixtures, and Insta-worthy art and clothes, then you’re sure to fall in love with the Merchant’s House Museum at first sight since it’s one of the top museums in NYC .

Pro Tip: If you can, stop by for either Halloween or Christmas and do one of their festive, holiday-themed tours of the house. Regular, docent-;led, 75-minute tours of the home are also offered at 12:00 pm on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Address: 29 East 4th Street, New York, NY, 10003

Hours: From October through February the house is open Thursday through Sunday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm, last admission is at 4:30 pm. From March through September, the house is open Thursday from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm and Friday through Sunday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm, with the last admission at 4:30 pm.

Price: $20 per person for a formal tour and $15 per person to visit the interior of the home.

How to Get There: Take the N/R train to 8th Street station, the 6 train to Astor Place station, or the B/D/F/M to Broadway/Lafayette station and walk from there.

34. Arcadia Earth

Visiting Arcadia Earth will not be like any of your other visits to cool museums in NYC.

Because unlike most other top museums in New York City, where you’ll see pictures, objects and antiques hung up on or placed against walls, this multimedia experience has taken the idea of the museum to a whole other level.

So, instead of marveling at physical things, Arcadia Earth gives patrons a virtual experience.

Honestly, you really have to see it with your own eyes since this is probably one of the all-time coolest museums in NYC !

I mean, by using modern techniques like projection mapping, virtual reality, and augmented reality, the team at the museum has created some stunning and fully immersive exhibits.

But exhibits about what? Well, Arcadia Earth is here to show you the natural world – both real and imagined – with installations that showcase the environment and the impact people have on our world.

From exciting fantasy lands to walking among sharks on the floor of the ocean, this technologically advanced education center will have you appreciating this beautiful planet and thinking about how you can make small and positive changes that will make the world a better place.

Yup, it’s a fun family outing and a wake-up call all in one as you explore just another one of the cool museums in NYC.

Address: 718 Broadway, New York, NY 10003

Hours: Open Wednesday through Friday and Monday from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.

Price: Tickets are between $27 and $33 per person.

How to Get There: Take the R/W train to 8th Street station, the 6 train to Astor Place, or the B/D/F/M train to Broadway and Lafayette and walk from there.

35. Museum of Sex

One of the more unique museums in NYC, the Museum of Sex is a little R-rated and you MUST be 18+ to get through the door (and yes, they do check).

But, if you can handle a few risqué displays, this is a must! Just don’t visit with parents… trust me, it’s awkward AF.

Plus, one of the best things about this place is that they are constantly changing up their exhibits, so you can visit regularly and always see something different.

Some run for years, others just a few weeks, but all of their exhibits are pretty fascinating.

Of course, this is one of the top museums in New York City that is also very sex-positive and LGBT+ friendly.

In fact, they have hosted many LGBT-related exhibits, as well as ones about abortion, sex work, pornography, BDSM, and many more – like a popular exhibition that ran for 10 years and that was focused on the sex lives of animals.

That’s why all in all, The Museum of Sex is undoubtedly one of the best cool museums in NYC for a night out with friends – they are also available for bachelorette parties and this is the PERFECT spot for one.

Address: 233 5th Ave, New York, NY 10016

Hours: Open from 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm Tuesday, 1:00 pm to 12:00 am Friday, 12:00 pm to 12:00 am Saturday, and 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm Sunday.

Price: Tickets are $36 for adults.

How to Get There: Take the 6/R/W train to 28th Street station and walk from there.

36. Fotografiska

Fotografiska is definitely one of the higher-end cool museums in NYC to visit.

After all, this Swedish photography museum is housed in the Church Missions House, which is a Renaissance Revival that looks AMAZING, y’all.

Once you get inside, you’ll be treated to some of the most tailor-made, extravagant photography exhibits in the world.

In fact, each artist that showcases their work here works directly with the museum to make sure they get the most unique setup for their pictures.

So, from the lighting to the colors of the walls, everything is meticulously thought out down to the finest detail. It is extra AF.

Even the gift shop and cafes put other top museums in NYC to shame! I mean, you might think you were in a high-class restaurant as you sip your latte and shop for souvenirs.

There’s even a place inside the museum called the Chapel Bar, which is a members-only lounge made out of a former 19th-century chapel. I guess that’s something you don’t think you’ll need until you don’t have one at one of the cool museums in NYC.

Address: 281 Park Ave S, New York, NY 10010

Hours: Open daily from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Price: Tickets are $26 for adults, $16 for seniors (62+)/students with IDs.

How to Get There: Take the 6 train to 23rd Street station and walk from there.

37. Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art

Formerly the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay and Lesbian Art, this awesome art Mecca in SOHO is filled to the brim with exciting, visual arts displays that have been created by predominantly LGBTQ+ artists.

And that makes sense since this is one of the many cool museums in NYC that was first founded in 1969 to preserve the art of and foster a sense of community among the LGBTQ+ community in NYC.

It’s also a mission that became exponentially more important throughout the 1980s when the AIDS crisis hit. It was at that time that the museum swooped in to rescue precious art that would have otherwise been destroyed by families who were ashamed of their dying relative.

As a result, this is one of the unique museums in NYC where you’ll find a ton of pieces that center around various LGBTQ+ themes and issues of the day.

Current highlights include “Working Definitions”, a display that looks at the complexity of identity, and “Uncanny Effects”, which examines the relationships forged between LBQTQ+ cultural producers of the late 20th century.

Address: Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art

Hours: Open Friday through Sunday from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Price: Suggested donation of $10.00 per person.

How to Get There: Take the N/Q/W/A/C/E train to Canal Street and walk from there.

Cool Museums in NYC – Brooklyn

38. brooklyn museum.

While this museum is not as easily accessible as its more famous, Manhattan brethren, this is one of those cool museums in NYC that stands apart for its uncanny ability to represent both the ancient and modern world.

That’s because this amazing place is home to more than 1.5 million objects that include ancient artifacts, 19th-century period rooms, sculptures, and paintings from across several centuries.

Add in a slew of ultra-rad rotating exhibits that continually challenge both the way we see ourselves and the possibilities of the world around us and you have the stuff that museum-goer dreams are made of.

And although this museum is popular in its own right, the massive, five-story building here does a great job of dispersing tourist traffic – making this structure feel a whole lot less crowded than may museums in Manhattan.  

Additionally, the first Saturday of every month (except September) features special live music and performance art events that continue throughout the evening (Translation? Until 11:00 pm).

So, if you have the time for it, definitely check out one of these events since it’s a unique way to experience amazing artwork.  

I mean, just imagine looking at artwork, while dancing under the expansive, museum ceiling and listening to live music bounce around and you have some idea of just how awesome this experience really is (FYI, this event is currently on pause but I’m sure it will resume in the future). 

Address: 200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11238

Price: Tickets are $16 for adults, $10 for seniors (65+) and visitors with disabilities and students with a vaid ID, and free for anyone 19 and under.  

Hours: Open Wednesday/Thursday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm, Friday/Saturday from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm, and Sunday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm (galleries close 15 minutes before closing). 

How to Get There: Take the 2 or 3 to the eastern parkway/Brooklyn Museum stop and walk from there.

39. The City Reliquary

Sometimes a museum doesn’t begin with a huge grand plan. And that’s the case with this cool museum in NYC.

Because instead of funding and a brand new building, all the City Reliquary Museum started with was a ground floor apartment window display.

See, one day, local Williamsburg resident Dave Herman decided to set up a small display of interesting New York City objects for the public, complete with a button that would play a recording of him talking about their significance.

As time wore on, he accumulated all manner of artifacts. Eventually, the City Reliquary Museum moved into a building of its own, and thus, one of the best museums in New York City was born.

Because as a native New Yorker, it warms my heart to see places like this get the love and attention they deserve.

I mean, who’s to say that something like a New York subway token isn’t just as important to NYC history as the Empire State Building?

Yup, the coolest museums in NYC don’t get much more wholesome than this.

Address: 370 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211

Hours: Open Saturdays and Sundays from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Price: Tickets are $7 for adults, $5 for students/educators/seniors, and free for anyone 12 and under.

How to Get There: Take the L train to Bedford Avenue and walk from there.

40. The New York Transit Museum

Easily one of the cool museums in NYC, The New York Transit Museum is owned and operated by the MTA (there’s a small outpost in Grand Central that you can check out too) and sits inside the old Court Street Station in Brooklyn. 

Believe it or not, the station was actually decommissioned way back in 1936 and is now the uber-cool home of an eclectic assortment of vintage trains and buses – vehicles that now introduce visitors to the historic development of the public transportation system in New York City.

To see some of the oldest artifacts in the museum, visit the “On the Street: Trolleys and Buses” exhibition, which details the rise of fuel technology in buses and features an array of subway cars that date back to 1916.

Heck, there are even some wooden elevated cars here that go all the way back to 1903!

Other super cool museum highlights include “Grand by Design” (a celebration of Grand Central Terminal), “The Dr. George T.F Rahilly Trolley and Bus Study Center” (to scale models of vintage trolleys and cars), “No Spitting on the Platform” (a collection of historic transportation signage), “Moving the Millions” (talks about the history of the NYC subway), and more.  

However, the real appeal of any visit here is a stroll back into yesteryear as you meander through the collection of antique buses and trains that now call this place home -some of which date all the way back to the 1940s. 

So, stop by today and experience one of the most interactive museums in NYC (The museum is currently closed but I’m sure it will open again soon). 

Address: 99 Schermerhorn St Brooklyn, New York, 11201

Price: Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for children (2-17) and seniors (62+), and free on Wednesdays.

Hours: Open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Saturday/Sunday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.

How to Get There: If you’re coming here from Manhattan, take the 4 or 5 train to Borough Hall station and then walk to the museum from there.

41. Coney Island Museum

We can’t talk about New York City without discussing Coney Island, amirite?

Because once you’re done getting ice cream and walking along the pier, make sure you check out the Coney Island Museum!

After all, Coney Island is an iconic place. And this is one of the top museums in NYC that enables you to understand how it all got started.

I mean, did you know that the hot dog was invented here? Or that this was where the first-ever escalator ride took place?

Yup, there’s way more to Coney Island than meets the eye. And that’s saying something since Coney Island was designed to meet your eye as much as possible!

Plus, in addition to its seasonal displays, the Coney Island Museum also has its own permanent collection and exhibits that feature plenty of vintage signs, photographs, and other memorabilia – an array of items that will practically sing to you about its colorful thrill-seeking/ vaudeville-related past at one of the cool museums in NYC.

Address: 1208 Surf Ave. Brooklyn NY 11224-2816

Hours: Open, June 12th through Labor Day, Wednesday through Saturday 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm, and Sunday from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm. And after Labor Day through Spring, the museum is open Saturdays from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm and Sundays from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Price: Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for seniors/kids (under 12)/residents of Zip Code 11224.

How to Get There: Take the N/Q train to Coney Island and walk from there.

42. The Morbid Anatomy Library and Gift Shop

Looking to visit a truly offbeat, super quirky museum in NYC ? If so then head on over to Brooklyn and take a peek at the aptly named, Morbid Anatomy Library and Gift Shop.

It can be found in none other than Industry City and is one of the few, totally FREE museums in NYC where you can basically study, well, death and how crazy anatomical abnormalities affect the body.

It’s also one of the only museums in NYC listed here that actually grew out of a blog started by Joanna Ebenstein.

Fast forward a few years and it now includes a colorful (not literally, just figuratively) assortment of books, exhibitions, films, a library, and even a nifty gift shop, for all your slightly more macabre shopping needs.

It’s very much not big, and only features two rooms with crazy things like a two-head calf, a three-legged chicken, and even a full-on dead kitty wedding. Yup, crazy but totally true. It’s definitely a once in a lifetime experience though.

And whatever you do though, don’t forget to hit up there gift shop for some of the wackiest/best souvenirs in NYC before having a surprisingly delicious coffee at their awesome on-site cafe.

Address: 220, 421 36th St Building 2 Unit, Brooklyn, NY 11232

How to Get There: Take the N/D/R train to 36th Street station and walk from there.

Cool Museums in NYC – Queens

43. the noguchi museum.

Ever heard of the Japanese-American sculptor, Isamu Noguchi?

Me neither until I checked out one of the most unusual things to do in New York City . And I’m so glad I did because this place is cool and calming and always makes me want to throw everything away and become a minimalist.

See, The Noguchi Museum is housed in a large building once owned by Noguchi himself. Today, it now holds the largest collection of his original works in the world.

So, step inside to find a little bit of everything, including drawings, sculptures, architectural models, and furniture designs.

Because visitors will not only be able to enjoy Noguchi’s work, but they also learn all about his life. Of course, don’t miss a visit to the beautiful garden, a peaceful space that showcases the work of other world-renowned creatives too.

Yeah, as far as cool museums in NYC go, this is one of my favorites for relaxation and inspiration.

Address: 9-01 33rd Rd, Queens, NY 11106

Hours: Open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Price: Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students/seniors (65+), and free for kids 12 and under.

How to Get There: Take the Q103 bus to the Vernon Blvd/33 Rd stop and walk from there.

44. The Museum of the Moving Image

Before there was Hollywood…there was Queens, NY. No, really. I pinkie promise I’m not lying here. It’s just one of those totally random facts that you could definitely use to win Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. 

But anyway, per usual, I digress. No, what I’m trying to say (poorly) is that prior to the film industry’s big move to Hollywood, CA in the 1930s, most major motion pictures were actually made right in good old Queens, NY. 

In fact, classic films like The Return of Sherlock Holmes (or, the first Sherlock Holmes film to have sound) were shot in the Kaufman Astoria Studios in Queens – a building that was first created in the 1920s and that is currently at the heart of a historic district since it was also used to film Goodfellas, Carlito’s Way, and Sesame Street.

And then in 1988, the entire structure was converted into the aptly named Museum of the Movie Image, a facility that pays homage to all things art, history, and technology as they relate to film. 

So, if you should ever find yourself in good old Astoria, Queens, step inside and look back at NYC’s historic contribution to the movie industry. 

Because real talk? This is the ONLY museum in the country dedicated to the history of the moving image – a building that contains more than 130,000 super fun film-related items. 

You know, like an epic exhibit on the man, the myth, the legend, Jim Henson, otherwise known as the immortal creator of the Muppets. And let’s be honest, any museum that talks about the muppets is totally okay in my book. 

Pro Tip : Stop by on Fridays for FREE admission between 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm. And since you’re in Astoria anyway, grab a bite to eat at Ovelia since it’s one of my absolute FAVE restaurants in the area 

Address: 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria, NY 11106, United States

Price:  Tickets cost between $9 and $15 per person.

Hours : Open Wednesday through Thursday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Friday from 10:30 am to 8:00 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 am to 6:00 pm.

How to Get There: Take the E, M, or R train to Steinway Street station and walk to the museum from there.

Cool Museums in NYC – Staten Island

45. staten island museum.

When you’re looking for cool museums in NYC , make sure you head down to the city’s southernmost borough where you can find the amazing Staten Island Museum.

This institution of learning has graced the waterfront of Staten Island for over 100 hundred years, making it one of the oldest and best museums in NYC .

Founded in 1881 and then opened to the public in 1908, this iconic museum has been called the “Mini Smithsonian” due to the huge amount of exhibits and items on display.

Fine art? Check. Historical artifacts? Check. Natural science specimens? Y’all better believe it!

In fact, plenty of other NYC institutions are only around now because of the Staten Island Museum. I mean, have you ever been to the New York Botanical Garden? Or the Staten Island Zoo?

If you have, you can thank the Staten Island Museum for helping to get them off the ground. It’s definitely one of the many coolest museums in NYC with a legacy!

Address: 1000 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, NY 10301

Hours: Open Friday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Price: Tickets are $8.00 for adults, $5.00 for students/seniors, and $2.00 for children aged 2-12.

How to Get There: Take the S44 bus to the Lafayette Avenue/Richmond Terrace stop and walk from there.

46. The Alice Austen Museum

The Alice Austen Museum is one of the best cool museums in NYC in the borough of Staten Island.

As the name suggests, it was the home of Staten Island photographer Alice Austen (no relation to the British writers). Alice was born in Rosebank on Staten Island and spent her entire life in the area, capturing everyday life on the island.

Alice moved into the home that is now the Alice Austen Museum in the 1860s when she was a young girl.

She continued to live in the home until she and her partner, Gertrude Tate were evicted in 1945 after her wealth had depleted – after living in the home with Tate for 30+ years.

Later, in 2017, the house became a National site of LGBTQ History and museum operators are proud to highlight this important part of the home’s past.

Now visitors can walk through the house and enjoy the permanent exhibit showcasing Austen’s own work. There are also temporary exhibits of other photographers who focus on feminist or LGBT issues inside one of the best museums in New York City .

Address: 2 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10305

Hours: Open Tuesday through Saturday from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

Price: $10 per tour.

How to Get There: Take the SIM 33C to the Narrows Road/St. John’s Avenue stop and walk from there.

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Map of All the Coolest Museums in NYC

Other New York City Travel Resources You Will Love

• 80+ Cool and Unusual Things to do in New York City
• 18 Tourist Traps to Avoid in NYC
• A Quick and Easy NYC Subway Guide
• How to Get from JFK to Manhattan
• How to Get from Newark to Manhattan
• The Ultimate NYC Bucket List
• The Ultimate Guide to Summer in New York City
• Best Things to do in Greenwich Village
• Best Songs about New York City
• Best Date Night Ideas in NYC

There you have it! Because that just about wraps up this epic guide to 46 cool museums in NYC! 

Tell me, what did you think did all of your fave museums in nyc make this list if not then let me know in the comments below, and if you found this post helpful, feel free to pin it now so that you can read it again later.

Lucrecia Paffrath

Friday 21st of September 2018

some really fantastic articles on this site, regards for contribution.

girlwiththepassport

Sunday 23rd of September 2018

Thank you so much

Karine Rinck

Wednesday 12th of September 2018

glad to be one of several visitors on this awesome site : D.

Friday 14th of September 2018

Thanks so much

Saturday 5th of August 2017

Great article!

About the "suggested admission" thing... is it really OK to pay a really small donation? I want to pay as much as $1 because I'm just not a museum person, but I really don't want to look like those people that do not tip at restaurants.

Wednesday 9th of August 2017

Its totally fine. Whenever I go to the MET I really don't pay that much and its fine.

cours de theatre

Thursday 20th of July 2017

A big thank you for your article post.Thanks Again. Really Cool.

Gema Ziolkowski

Monday 1st of May 2017

Thanks for the article. Fantastic.

Thursday 4th of May 2017

Thanks for reading. So happy it helped

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22 Best Museums In NYC That You Need To Check Out

From avant garde art to photography to even natural history, New York City offers plenty of the best museums in the world!

New York is the crown jewel of the East Coast and features some of the best museums in the world. Whether you’re looking to learn about a particular topic or just want a unique way to spend a lazy Saturday afternoon, a good museum is always a great idea! The best thing about New York is that you can find an exhibit on just about any interest you may have, from history to modern day art. Plus, thanks to NYC’s top-notch public transportation, you may be able to hit several museums in a single day. No matter what your interests are, we’ve ranked the best museums in NYC to spend a day at.

1. The Museum of Modern Art

The Museum of Modern Art is widely regarded as one of the top art museums not only just in NYC, but in the world. It offers a collection of modern and contemporary works that include architecture and design, painting, photography, video, sculpture, electronic media, and more. The MoMA is home to Starry Night and classic works by Andy Warhol, Jean Michel Basquiat, Jackson Pollack, and Frida Kahlo, among others.

The MoMA is open Sunday through Friday from 10:30 am – 5:30 pm and Saturday from 10:30 am – 7 pm.

Where : 11 W 53rd Street

2. The American Museum of Natural History

Located in the heart of Manhattan’s prestigious Upper West Side, the American Museum of Natural History is one of New York’s most iconic cultural institutions. The museum is known for its exhibits on the history of the natural world and scientific collections. With over 30 million specimens that include animals, fossils, minerals, rocks, meteorites, and artifacts, it’s one of the best museums in NYC to learn about the progression of human history.

The American Museum of Natural History is open from 10 am – 5:30 pm Wednesday through Sunday and closed on Monday and Tuesday.

Where: 200 Central Park West

3. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art , also known as just the Met, is one of the top museums in NYC and the largest art museum in the Western Hemisphere. It features over 2 million works of art divided into 17 different departments. Spanning over 5,000 years of human culture, the Met is home to famous works ranging from prehistoric civilizations to the modern-day. Visitors can enjoy works from famous artists, including Van Gogh, Georgia O’Keefe, Picasso , and more.

The Met is open from 10 am – 5 pm on the weekdays (except Wednesday when it’s closed), and from 10 am – 9 pm Friday and Saturday.

Where: 1000 5th Avenue

4. The Guggenheim

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, also known as just the Guggenheim , is an art museum in Manhattan’s Upper West Side known for its rotating collection of works and Frank-Lloyd Wright-designed building. The design’s spiral shape allows visitors to peruse the various collections on display in a continuous loop that goes to the very top. Visitors of the Guggenheim will find classic works in styles ranging from cubism to surrealism to abstract expressionism .

The Guggenheim is open from 11 am – 6 pm on the weekdays (except Tuesday when it’s closed), and 11 am – 8 pm on Saturday.

Where: Guggenheim at 1071 5th Avenue

5. Brooklyn Museum

If you find yourself in Brooklyn, you have to have to check out the Brooklyn Museum , which packs just as much of a punch as the biggest museums in Manhattan. Similarly to the MoMA and Met, the Brooklyn Museum offers a little bit of everything from period rooms of historic art all the way to modern contemporary exhibits.

The Brooklyn Museum is open 11 am – 6 pm Wednesday – Sunday.

Where: 200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn

6. The Frick Madison

The Frick is an art museum famous for its Old Master paintings and works from the European Renaissance . The museum is named after Henry Frick, an industrialist, and financier who gave his home and art collection away to the public when he died. The museum has since expanded and is now home to classic paintings by Bellini, Rembrandt, Goya, and more.

The Frick is open from 10 am – 6 pm Thursday through Sunday and closed Monday through Wednesday.

Where: 945 Madison Avenue at 75th Street

7. The Whitney Museum of American Art

The Whitney Museum of Art , also known as just the Whitney, is an art museum in the Meatpacking District. With a focus on living artists, the Whitney is home to a wide variety of works ranging from 20th Century to contemporary American art. Their collection includes over 25,000 works from around 3,700 American artists , including works by famous artists like Edward Hopper and Willem de Kooning. The Whitney is one of the best museums in NYC for those who appreciate contemporary American art.

The Whitney is open from 10:30 am – 6 pm Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday (Tuesday, it’s closed), 1030am – 10 pm on Friday, and 11 am – 6 pm Saturday and Sunday.

Where: 99 Gansevoort St

8. The Morgan Library and Museum

Located in Murray Hill, the Morgan Library is a research library and museum that features an extensive collection of manuscripts, art, books, prints, and other classic works. It was created as banker JP Morgan’s private library but later made a public institution by his son.

The Morgan Library is open daily from 10:30 am – 5 pm, except on Monday when it’s closed.

Where: 225 Madison Avenue

9. The Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum

Situated in the picturesque Upper East Side, the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian is a museum dedicated to the history and development of contemporary design. One of the 19 museums under the Smithsonian umbrella, the Copper Hewitt features collections and exhibits on 240 years of innovation and progress in design .

The Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Museum is open daily from 10 am – 6 pm (except for Wednesdays when it’s closed).

Where: 2 E 91st St

10. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum is a museum in NYC dedicated to the victims of the September 11th attack on the World Trade Center. The museum features exhibits commemorating the events and the victims that lost their lives, including more than 40,000 images, 14,000 artifacts, 3,500 audio recordings, and 500 hours of video documenting what happened that day.

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum is open 10 am – 5 pm Thursday through Monday and closed on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Where: 180 Greenwich St

11. Museum of Digital Experiences

Get ready to be the center of the attraction at The Museum of Digital Experiences. This all-digital museum features a variety of exhibitions that are completely interactive. They’re affected by things like your movement, reflection, lighting pattern, and a whole lot more. This highly immersive experience is where technology and creativity meet, and is a great place to experience the art of the future.

The Museum of Digital Experiences is open Thursday and Friday from 4 pm – 9 pm and on the weekends from 1 pm – 9 pm.

Where: 65 Jay Street, Brooklyn

12. Museum of the Moving Image

The Museum of the Moving Image is a new media museum in Astoria. Located in the former building of the historic Astoria Studios, the museum is dedicated to the history of film, television, and digital media. It features multimedia exhibits on entertainment trends from the early 20th Century to modern-day, making it one of the best museums in NYC on the subject of new media.

The Museum of the Moving Image is open from 2 pm – 6 pm on Thursdays, 2 pm – 8 pm on Fridays, and 12 pm – 6 pm on Saturdays and Sundays (it’s closed Monday and Tuesday).

Where: 36-01 35th Ave, Queens

13. The Ellis Island Museum of Immigration

If you want to learn about the history and development of New York City, then the Ellis Island Museum of Immigration is a must-see. The museum features artifacts and records that chart the history of the US programs that made NYC such an important hub of immigration during the 19th Century. While visiting Ellis Island, you can also stop by the Statue of Liberty, another historic monument nearby that is crucial to NYC’s identity.

The Ellis Island Museum of Immigration and statue of Liberty are open daily from 9:30 am – 4:45 pm.

Where: Statue of Liberty National Monument

14. The Tenement Museum

Located in the heart of the Lower East Side, the Tenement Museum  features exhibits that showcase the lives and experiences of the immigrants who came to New York seeking a better life. The museum is housed in two restored tenement buildings on Orchard Street that were once home to over 15,000 people from 20 different nations. It features exhibits on period rooms that have been restored to show the typical lives of the people who lived there from 1869 to 1935.

The Tenement Museum is open daily from 10 am – 6 pm.

Where: 103 Orchard Street

15. Museum of the City of New York

Nothing gets more NYC than this museum, who’s artifacts and works tell the tale of our beloved city and its residents over the course of time. You’ll find a wide range of topics being discussed about NYC’s history, from our mouth-watering food to the course of political discourse and actions in the city. This museum takes everything we love about NYC and puts it into a beautifully curated collection of various items and pieces.

The Museum of the City of New York is open daily from 10 am – 5 pm except Tuesdays (closed) and Thursdays (10 am – 9 pm).

Where: 1220 5th Ave

16. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Step into the world of aircrafts, technology, and spacecraft at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum , Manhattan’s maritime museum. This barge turned museum located in Hell’s Kitchen features a staple collection of historical aircraft carriers, war vehicles, and even a historical space shuttle! No matter if you want to learn more about about the history of these vehicles, or you’re more fascinated in the technology behind it, this spot is so cool to see in person! They also have rotating exhibits alongside their permanent collections.

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is open daily from 10 am – 5 pm.

Where: Pier 86, W 46th St

17. Jewish Museum

Located on the Upper Eastside is The Jewish Museum , the largest and oldest museum dedicated to Jewish culture. Located in the gorgeous former Felix M. Warburg House, this cultural hub boasts thousands of artifacts, art pieces, photographs, and more about Jewish history. The reason we love this museum so much is because it celebrates both Jewish culture, while also acting as contemporary art museum celebrating Jewish artists! Walking through the rich and historical cultural heritage in this museum is certainly eye opening and stunningly beautiful.

The Jewish Museum is open Monday and Friday-Sunday from 11 am – 6 pm, and Thursday 11 am – 8pm. They are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Where: 1109 5th Ave &, E 92nd St

18. MoMA PS1

Sister to the larger Museum of Modern Art, the LIC location of MoMA PS1 is one of the oldest and largest nonprofit contemporary art museums in the country. Ps1 focuses on upcoming and emerging contemporary artists that aim to break the status quo and inject creativity into the art scene with their ideas. If there’s one museum that’s vision is “artist-first” it’s PS1. Plus, they are always teaming up with members of the community and doing partnerships that help push forward their philosophy of “celebrating the tenacity of creative expression to inspire connection.”

MoMA PS1 is open 12 pm – 6 pm Monday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday, and from 12 pm – 8 pm on Saturday. They are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Where: 22-25 Jackson Avenue, LIC

19. New York Transit Museum

The NYC transit system has kept New Yorkers on the go for over 110 years and at the New York Transit Museum , you get an exclusive walkthrough of how the subway and transit system has transformed and connected the locals since its inception. Located in an authentic 1936 subway station in Downtown Brooklyn, guests can hop on board vintage trains, sit behind the wheel of an old NYC bus, and so much more. They have a rotating selection of vintage subway cars and tons of artifacts that tell the story of the triumphant engineers that have built New York’s most important way to get around.

The New York Transit Museum is open 10 am – 4 pm Thursday – Sunday.

Where: 99 Schermerhorn St, Brooklyn

20. Museum of Sex

Sure the Museum of Sex might be rather tongue in cheek, but their mission to explore human sexuality has deeper underoots that makes this museum a must-visit. Their artifacts range from erotica and porn all the way to installations based on how technology affects sexual behavior. Hitting this museum can be a quirky, yet introspective journey all in one! They have over 15,000 items in their permanent collection and have rotating exhibitions that explore gender studies, technology, behavior, sex culture, and so much more.

The Museum of Sex is open 1 pm – 10 pm Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 1 pm – 12 am on Friday, 12 pm – 12 am on Saturday and from 12 pm – 10 pm on Sunday. They are closed on Tuesdays.

Where: 233 5th Ave

21. Museum of Ice Cream

In for a tasty treat? Check out the Museum of Ice Cream which is more of an immersive experience than a traditional museum. Walk through all sorts of colorful and tasty exhibitions that will have your sweet tooth feeling like you’re in heaven! Play games, take selfies, and even jump into their giant pool of rainbow sprinkles, all while learning about the history of ice cream. This will surely bring your inner-kid out of you! Plus, at the end of the museum be sure to stop in their cafe and retail store to try one of the museum’s signature ice cream flavors!

The Museum of Ice Cream is open 10 am – 7:30 pm Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. They are open 10 am – 4:30 pm, 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm on Friday, 10 am – 4:30 pm, 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm on Saturday, and 10 am – 4:30 pm, 5:30 pm – 7 pm on Sunday. They are closed on Tuesdays.

Where: 558 Broadway

22. New Museum

Last but not least, the New Museum is Manhattan’s only dedicated contemporary art museum and is a hub for “new art and new ideas.” What started as a single gallery has now turned into a center of art that “embraces contemporary art from around the world, diverse perspectives, and the free exchange of ideas.” This museum is perfect for art lovers who are curious, introspective, and adventurous. Be sure to stop by this spot if you’re looking to open your mind up to new ideas and explore the world of creativity.

The New Museum is open 11 am – 6 pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday-Sunday, and 11 am – 9pm on Thursday. They are closed on Mondays.

Where: 235 Bowery

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20 Best Museums in New York City for Art, History, Music, and More

From the Statue of Liberty to the Louis Armstrong House Museum, these institutions are ready to educate and entertain.

Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

New York City is home to myriad things to do and numerous must-visit museums. These venues showcase everything from incredible art to the city's fascinating history. In fact, some of the world's best museums are here, from The Met and MoMA to more underrated destinations like the New-York Historical Society and Queens County Farm Museum.

No matter when you visit , you'll likely include a museum or two in your itinerary. And that's an especially good idea during the colder months; Fora travel advisor Nicole Canal notes that museum visits "make great activities, since they're not weather-dependent." Without further ado, here's our list of the best museums in New York City, featuring spots in all five boroughs.

Tenement Museum

AJ Sharma/Travel + Leisure

“Immigration is such a rich part of our history, especially in New York City,” says Fora co-founder Henley Vazquez . “For an intimate and immersive lesson, head to the Lower East Side’s Tenement Museum , where you’ll see restored tenement apartments and gain insight into immigration, both past and present.” The museum is spread across two 19th-century-era tenement houses and tells the story of the people who once lived here.

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

Housed in an old public school building in Long Island City, this contemporary art museum is an offshoot of the main MoMA in Manhattan  and displays bold, experimental works with “a strong focus on community,” says Vazquez. You can easily spend an entire afternoon here perusing an abundance of art, be it paintings, sculptures, photographs, or murals. The museum also hosts live music performances , plus a handful of community-oriented events .

The Met Cloisters

Established in 1938 as a branch of The Metropolitan Museum of Art (more on that further down), The Met Cloisters is considered the country’s only museum dedicated to Middle Ages art and architecture; Fora travel advisor Deb Swacker says not to miss the collection of unicorn tapestries. And while the artifact-filled interiors are incredible, you should carve out enough time to stroll through the enchanting gardens, too. Planted in reconstructed Romanesque and Gothic cloisters, the greenery-filled, well-manicured grounds look (and feel) as if they’ve been pulled straight out of a beautiful European village . 

New York Transit Museum

Black Paw Photo

“The New York Transit Museum is great fun for all ages,” says Swacker. Located in a decommissioned subway station in the heart of downtown Brooklyn, this interactive museum is well-suited for families. “You can walk through old subway cars and sit behind the wheel of a bus," Swacker shares. Prepare to be dazzled by the museum’s impressive collection of nostalgia-inducing vintage subway cars.

Historic Richmond Town

Courtesy of Historic Richmond Town

A visit to Historic Richmond Town on Staten Island takes you back in time. Known as New York City’s only living history museum, it offers a first-hand look at what life was like here hundreds of years ago. “There are interactive exhibits [and] people dressed up and ready to answer all the questions,” says Swacker. Check out demonstrations in blacksmithing, broom making, basket making, carpentry, and open-hearth cooking.

Louis Armstrong House Museum

Courtesy of the Louis Armstrong House Museum

Jazz enthusiasts will not want to not miss the Louis Armstrong House Museum . Located in the Corona neighborhood of Queens, the home “has been kept as it was when the Armstrongs [Louis and his wife, Lucille] lived here,” says Fora travel advisor Julia Flood . You’ll find a spectacular collection of 1,600 recordings, 650 home-recorded tapes in hand-decorated boxes, 5,000 photographs, five trumpets, and 120 awards and plaques and more in the museum.

The Brooklyn Museum

Courtesy of The Brooklyn Museum

The Brooklyn Museum is 560,000 square feet in size, making it one of the city’s largest museums. You can easily spend an entire morning or afternoon exploring its collection of half a million objects. Check the website prior to your visit to know what temporary exhibitions will be open upon your arrival.

American Museum of Natural History

For a fun-filled experience that's great for multiple generations of travelers , head to the American Museum of Natural History . According to Fora advisor Amna Ismail , the museum entertains guests of all ages with its collection of approximately 32 million specimens and artifacts. Highlights include the massive blue whale model, mind-boggling dinosaur exhibits, and the Richard Gilder Center, which features an insectarium and butterfly vivarium.

Whitney Museum of American Art

“ The Whitney is perfect for art lovers and non-art lovers alike,” says Fora travel advisor Michelle Zelena . The 220,000-square-foot space houses a permanent collection of over 25,000 works from the 20th and 21st centuries, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, photos, films, and more. The pieces were made by 3,500-plus artists, including American icons Jean-Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol. Don’t leave without checking out the rooftop cafe, which offers incredible city views.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

New York City’s largest museum contains millions of pieces of art, some dating back thousands of years. "No matter how many times you've been to The Met , you'll see something new,” says Fora travel advisor Elise Cocozzo . Since the venue's sprawling size and seemingly endless assortment of awe-inspiring works can be overwhelming, Cocozzo recommends taking one of several free tours, which are led daily. “They're quick (one hour), the guides are predictably wonderful, and it's a great way to learn a bit, see a bunch, and not get lost," she adds.

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is housed in an eye-catching, Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building that is a masterpiece in and of itself. The fun continues inside, where you’ll find more than 1,700 works by artists like Jackson Pollock, Degas, and Van Gogh. “They also have performances, such as musicals and ballets, so check the calendar of events ,” suggests Canal.

New-York Historical Society

Founded in 1804, New-York Historical Society is the city’s oldest museum. Visitors and locals learn more about the history of both the city and our nation as they stroll the venue. Don’t miss the fascinating Frederick Douglass exhibit , the Center for Women's History , or the iconic Waldorf Astoria lobby clock , which dates back to 1893. On the ground floor of the space is the DiMenna Children's History Museum , which offers something fun for younger guests.

Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration

Ellis Island welcomed more than 12 million immigrants to America between 1892 and 1954, and you can learn more about the site's significance — and immigration overall — by visiting Ellis Island’s National Immigration Museum . In addition to browsing photographs and artifacts, you might retrace your familial heritage . Head to the second floor to visit the Registry Room (also known as the Great Hall), where some 5,000 people once filed through each day for legal and medical examinations.

The Bronx Museum of the Arts

John Lamparski/WireImage via Getty Images

This contemporary art museum highlights 20th-century works from American artists. The robust, 2,000-plus-piece collection includes everything from photographs by Jamel Shabazz and sculptures by John Ahearn to portraits painted by Henry Taylor. And don’t miss the newest exhibit, “Michael Richards: Are You Down?,” which features a collection of sculptures, drawings, installations, and more by the late artist; works showcased were made between 1990 to 2001, when Richards died in the September 11 attacks. The museum also hosts events like film screenings and panels.

Staten Island Children's Museum

Nataki Hewling

Located on the grounds of Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Gardens , the Staten Island Children’s Museum offers 12 indoor and outdoor exhibits, dance and arts workshops, science and story times, and many other hands-on experiences for children ages one and up. Kids can build block houses, send video postcards, climb a rock wall, and crawl through a human-sized ant hill while observing the museum’s collection of insects, millipedes and tarantulas included.

Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum

Elliot Goldstein/Smithsonian Institution

Design lovers are sure to marvel at this magnificent museum inside the elaborate, 64-room Andrew Carnegie Mansion on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. The venue has a permanent collection of more than 215,000 design objects, some dating back 30 centuries. Visitors will find everything from ancient Roman marble and Renaissance drawings to more contemporary works like 3D-printed glass here. Spend time on the Arthur Ross Terrace and Garden, too.

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum

Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

Open since May 2014, The National September 11 Memorial & Museum features 60,000 artifacts — a mix of physical evidence, first-person testimonies, and historic records — from the September 11, 2001 and February 28, 1993 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Archaeological remnants are also on display, including the "Survivors' Stairs" (which, at the time of the 9/11 attacks, were located at the edge of the World Trade Center Plaza) and the "Last Column," the final piece of steel from the World Trade Center to be removed from Ground Zero. After spending a few hours inside the museum, head outside to the memorial, which is free and open to the public . The name of every person who died in these two attacks is inscribed on the edge of the two reflecting pools.

Statue of Liberty Museum

Courtesy of National Park Service

The Statue of Liberty has been synonymous with freedom, equality, and democracy since its 1886 unveiling. You can visit Lady Liberty’s crown, and you can also check out the 26,000-square-foot museum that opened in 2019. The venue highlights the national monument’s creation, significance, and history, and the postcard-worthy skyline views from the venue are icing on the cake.

Fotografiska Museum NYC

If you’re fascinated by photography, visit Fotografiska Museum NYC . The New York City branch of the famed Swedish photography museum is housed in a spectacular 19th-century, 45,000-square-foot Renaissance Revival building. Don’t miss the adorable pet-themed exhibit , aptly named “Best in Show.” And before you leave, pop into the ritzy Veronika bar and restaurant on the second floor, or the effortlessly cool Chapel Bar , housed inside a 19th-century chapel.

Queens County Farm Museum

Courtesy of Queens Farm Museum

Think of this 47-acre museum as one part interactive museum and one part farm. Dating back over 300 years, it’s one of the state's longest continually farmed sites; today, it grows 200 varieties of crops, including veggies, flowers, herbs, and more. Explore the growing fields, pastures, and wooded areas via scenic hay ride. You might also pay a visit to the farm's resident animals, which include sheep, goats, alpacas, pigs, and hens. The on-site apiary, home to more than two million honeybees, is the largest in the city; honey is available for purchase in the farm store, as are fresh eggs. The museum also hosts fun-filled seasonal events .

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45+ Best Fun and Cool Museums in Manhattan NYC

Did you know that Manhattan boasts over 100 museums? That's right, you've got a plethora of cultural, historical, and downright quirky institutions at your fingertips.

As an urban explorer, you're spoilt for choice, from the world-renowned Metropolitan Museum of Art to the lesser-known, but equally intriguing Museum of Sex.

But with so many options, how do you decide which ones to visit? Don't worry, we've curated a list of 45+ of the most fun and cool museums in the city to help you out.

But why should you trust our selection? Well, let's just say, we've got a few surprises in store for you.

Metropolitan Museum of Art

Dive right into the world of art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, an iconic Manhattan institution that houses over two million works spanning 5,000 years of art history. As the premier museum in NYC, it's a treasure trove of creativity that'll liberate your mind and fuel your passion for artistic exploration.

You'll marvel at the intricacies of ancient Egyptian artifacts, appreciate the grandeur of European paintings, and be intrigued by modern and contemporary art. Each work of art tells a story, engaging you in a conversation with the past and the present.

Celebrate the freedom to express and interpret at this art museum, where you'll experience the diversity and profundity of human creativity. Embrace the Metropolitan Museum of Art, your gateway to the world of art in Manhattan.

Guggenheim Museum

While your senses are still tingling from the Metropolitan Museum of Art, prepare to be captivated by the architectural wonder and innovative exhibitions of the Guggenheim Museum.

This remarkable museum in Manhattan, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, is a masterpiece of art and architecture. Its spiraling ramps and unique circular layout make it one of the coolest museums in Manhattan, if not the world.

The Guggenheim Museum houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, continually challenging and engaging its visitors. This museum isn't just about viewing art, it's about experiencing it.

Its architectural grandeur and innovative exhibitions elevate it to one of the best museums in Manhattan. Your pursuit for freedom through art and culture finds its destination here.

Museum of Modern Art

After soaking in the captivating world of the Guggenheim, you'll find the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) equally enchanting, offering a different perspective on contemporary art. Located in Midtown Manhattan, MoMA is one of the best museums in New York.

As a gem among NYC museums, it offers a freedom-loving audience a unique encounter with modern and contemporary art. This museum in New York City champions the power of modern art to challenge the mind. With its thought-provoking exhibitions and collections, MoMA is a beacon of creativity and innovation, reflecting New York City's vibrant art scene.

A visit to MoMA is indeed a journey through the art history of the 20th and 21st centuries. It's a must-visit for any art enthusiast.

American Museum of Natural History

Switching gears from modern art, you'll find a world of wonder and discovery at the American Museum of Natural History, an iconic institution that's a cornerstone of Manhattan's cultural landscape. This history museum isn't your average NYC tourist stop.

A New York institution, it's one of the largest museums in the city, home to over 33 million specimens of plants, humans, animals, fossils, minerals, rocks, meteorites, and human cultural artifacts. It's a place where you can lose yourself in the past, present, and future of our planet.

You're not just observing, you're experiencing history firsthand. Step inside this revered museum and let your curiosity lead the way.

The American Museum of Natural History is a must-visit for anyone seeking an enriching, freedom-loving experience in Manhattan.

The Frick Collection

Moving from the vast universe of natural history, you'll find yourself immersed in the exquisite realm of European art at The Frick Collection. This museum in New York is anything but a traditional museum. It's housed in an early 20th-century mansion, bringing a unique perspective to the cool NYC museum scene.

Here are four reasons why The Frick Collection is one of the best New York museums:

• Its collection includes works from European masters such as Goya and Vermeer.
• The museum's historic mansion setting offers a unique viewing experience.
• It hosts thought-provoking exhibitions that challenge traditional views on art.
• The serene garden court provides a peaceful oasis in the heart of Manhattan.

Whether you're an art lover or a history buff, The Frick Collection is worth a visit.

The Cloisters Museum

If you're craving a medieval experience amidst the modernity of Manhattan, you can't afford to miss The Cloisters Museum. As one of the coolest museums in NYC, it's nestled in the lush environs of Central Park.

This museum is an exhibit in itself, housing an extensive collection of medieval art. The exhibitions, ranging from intricate tapestries to stunning stained glass windows, transport you back to a different era.

The Cloisters also provides you with a city to explore within the city, with its recreated medieval gardens and chapels. It's not just a museum, it's an experience, an escape from the city's bustle.

New York Historical Society

Often overlooked, the New York Historical Society should definitely be on your radar as it's one of the oldest and most prestigious cultural institutions in the city. Nestled in a corner of the cool New York scene, this museum in lower Manhattan is a treasure trove of history.

• Permanent Collections : Here you'll explore the rich history of New York through various exhibitions.
• Public Programs : The Society offers an array of events, from lectures to workshops, enhancing what NYC has to offer.
• Library : Housing an impressive collection of books and manuscripts, it's a historian's paradise.
• Children's Museum : Interactive displays make learning fun for kids.

Immerse yourself in the stories of the past that shaped the city. Museums NYC-style don't get much better than the New York Historical Society.

Whitney Museum of American Art

While the New York Historical Society provides a historical exploration of the city, the Whitney Museum of American Art offers an immersion into the contemporary and modern American art scene. As one of the best art museums, the Whitney holds the title of the premier museum of the American art. Its vast collection showcases a diverse range of mediums and styles.

Each visit, you'll feel the creative freedom inherent in these works. This cool museum in NYC isn't just about observation, it's about interaction. You'll encounter exhibits that challenge the boundaries of traditional art, pushing you to engage with the pieces in new ways.

It's no wonder that the Whitney often tops the guide to the best fun and cool museums in Manhattan NYC.

Museum of the City of New York

Ever wondered how New York City evolved into the bustling metropolis it's today? The Museum of the City of New York is your answer, dedicated to preserving and presenting the city's rich history, arts, and culture. This museum is dedicated to providing you with a comprehensive understanding of the history of New York.

Housed in a gorgeous building in Manhattan, the museum offers stunning views of the city.

The museum's exhibits cover everything from the city's founding to the present day.

You'll explore a diverse range of topics, from the city's architectural transformation to its cultural movements.

The museum also regularly hosts special events and exhibitions, keeping the history of the City of New York alive and engaging.

This journey through time is a must-visit for any history enthusiast.

National September 11 Memorial Museum

Shifting from the broad historical sweep of the Museum of the City of New York, you'll find the National September 11 Memorial Museum, a poignant tribute to a significant event in the city's recent past. Nestled in lower Manhattan, this national museum isn't just a testament to New York's resilience, but a beacon of hope symbolizing freedom.

While this may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of fun museums in NYC, the interactive exhibits offer a unique educational experience, making it one of the must-see things to do in NYC. The museum guides you through the narrative of 9/11 with personal stories, artifacts, and multimedia displays, painting a powerful picture of that fateful day and its aftermath.

Tenement Museum

Dive into the rich, immersive history of New York's immigrant past at the Tenement Museum, located on Manhattan's Lower East Side. This museum is also a gateway into the lives of the city's early settlers, offering a unique perspective on one of New York's most transformative periods.

As an interesting museum to visit, you'll experience firsthand the struggles and triumphs these brave souls underwent in their quest for freedom.

Here are four reasons you shouldn't miss the Tenement Museum:

• It's a vivid portrayal of immigrant life in the 19th and 20th centuries.
• The museum's guided tours offer deep historical insights.
• You'll get to see preserved apartments that housed thousands of immigrants.
• You'll learn about the Lower East Side's evolution into a cultural melting pot.

The Morgan Library & Museum

If you're a literature or art enthusiast, you'll definitely appreciate the Morgan Library & Museum, a Manhattan-based treasure trove that houses an impressive collection of rare books, manuscripts, and artworks.

Unlike the New York Transit Museum, which focuses on historical artifacts, or the Brooklyn Museum with its diverse art exhibits, the Morgan Library serves as a sanctuary for the written word and artistic masterpieces. It's a step away from the Museum of the City's urban focus, but still holds an essential place in New York's cultural landscape.

While the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration and the Museum of the American Indian offer perspectives on diverse heritages, the Morgan Library provides insight into the human creative spirit. It's a touch different than the Smithsonian Design Museum, but equally captivating.

Museum of Illusions

While the Morgan Library feeds your mind with literature and art, the Museum of Illusions in Manhattan invites you to experience a reality warped by fascinating visual and sensory illusions. This interactive museum, one of the coolest museums in NYC, offers you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of illusions.

Here are four of the best things you can look forward to:

• The Infinity Room : Lose yourself in a space that seems to go on forever.
• The Vortex Tunnel : Experience the sensation of the ground moving beneath you.
• Holograms : Be amazed by three-dimensional images floating in space.
• Illusion Art : Marvel at artwork that seems to shift and move before your eyes.

This cool museum is accessible with a New York Pass, making it an unmissable stop on your NYC adventure.

The Museum of Sex

Next on your itinerary, make sure not to miss the intriguing and provocative Museum of Sex, an educational institution dedicated to the exploration and presentation of sexuality. Like the Museum of the Moving Image and New Museum, this isn't your typical free museum. It's an under-the-radar gem that effortlessly combines education and entertainment.

The museum showcases a rotating selection of temporary exhibits, each focused on different aspects of human sexuality. Its displays are both fascinating and informative, challenging societal norms and encouraging open discussions. While it's certainly not for everyone, it's a must-visit if you're interested in the intersection of culture, history, and sexuality.

Neue Galerie New York

Shifting gears from the provocative to the refined, your journey through Manhattan's unique museums brings you to the Neue Galerie New York, a treasure trove of early twentieth-century German and Austrian art and design. Unlike the number of museums in Lower Manhattan or Long Island City, this place is an intimate haven of contemporary art.

• Modern and contemporary art : The Neue Galerie's collections showcase a marriage of form and function, a breath of fresh air from the usual museum installations.
• Architectural beauty : The building itself is a work of art.
• Café Sabarsky : Here, you can enjoy Viennese pastries after exploring the exhibits.
• Shop : The design shop offers replicas of items in the museum.

Enjoy freedom from the usual fare. Experience the refined allure of the Neue Galerie.

So, you've toured Manhattan's top museums, from the grandeur of the Metropolitan Museum of Art to the captivating illusions of the Museum of Illusions. You've marveled at the Frick's stunning art collection, delved into history at the American Museum, and even spiced things up at the Museum of Sex.

Each museum offered a unique, enriching experience, right? Manhattan's museums truly are a treasure trove, proving there's no end to the fun, intrigue, and knowledge to be found in NYC.

Sarah Writes is a quintessential New Yorker and a dedicated editor for AllThingsNewYorkCity.com. Born and raised in the bustling heart of NYC, she has a deep-rooted passion for the city's dynamic culture and vibrant lifestyle. Sarah's writing seamlessly captures the essence of the city—from its hidden gems to its popular landmarks.

Known for her engaging and insightful storytelling, she brings to life the diverse experiences and stories that make New York City unique. Whether exploring new neighborhoods, enjoying the foodie scene, or uncovering the latest trends, Sarah loves all things NYC!

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20 Best Museums in New York City + MAP

Home | Travel | North America | United States | New York | NYC | 20 Best Museums in New York City + MAP

As a city rich in art and culture, there are lots of wonderful museums in New York City , so I recommend visiting at least one of them during your trip. There are lots of great museums, galleries, and exhibits to choose from, so I think you’ll find plenty that you’d like to see!

Also, if you plan on visiting several museums, I suggest getting a New York attraction pass since it includes many of the best museums in NYC . I like the New York Pass , which includes the 9/11 Museum, the Met, MoMA, and the American Museum of Natural History, among others.

It’s also worth noting that some of the museums in this list have free days, and we have a guide to the best free museums in NYC that you can check out.

Whether you’re interested in art, history, science, or culture, you’ll find an NYC museum exhibit that appeals to you. Besides, having a museum day is one of the top things to do in New York City with friends, kids, or even by yourself. So, keep reading to see which galleries and exhibitions you must see.

1. American Museum of Natural History, the best history museum in New York

The American Museum of Natural History is an awesome place to visit and one of the best things to do in NYC with kids . It’s one of the top historical museums in New York City , teaching visitors about biology, ecology, geology, and more.

This huge institution has 45 exhibition halls, a library, and a planetarium. Among its permanent collection are 34 million artifacts and specimens ranging from plant and animal fossils to meteorites and gems. Some of the coolest exhibits are the mammoth skeleton, the Willamette meteorite, a nearly-complete T-rex skeleton, and a life-size model of a blue whale.

You can also see a space show at the planetarium, watch a documentary on the theater’s 40-foot-tall screen, and see which special exhibit is currently on view. Admission to the museum is included in the New York Pass , or you can get a ticket here .

• Hours : Wednesday – Sunday, 10 am – 5:30 pm
• Admission price : $23 for adults, $13 for children
• Location : Upper West Side, Manhattan

2. Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of the best art museums in NYC

Without a doubt, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the best art museums in NYC . Not only that, but it’s the largest art museum in the Western Hemisphere, with a permanent collection of over two million works.

The museum has all kinds of modern art from around the world, and its Egyptian and Roman galleries are among the best. Other highlights include artifacts from ancient Greece and paintings from medieval Europe. If you’re a fan of Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, and other modern masters, visiting The Met is one of the best things to do in Manhattan .

This popular NYC museum is included in the New York Pass , or you can get a skip-the-line ticket here .

• Hours : Sunday – Tuesday, Thursday, 10 am – 5 pm; Friday – Saturday, 10 am – 9 pm
• Admission price : $25 for adults, free for kids under 12

3. The Met Cloisters, an interesting art museum exhibit in NYC

Speaking of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, it also has a secondary site in Washington Heights. The Met Cloisters in Fort Tryon Park are built around the Cuxa, Saint-Guilhem, Bonnefont and Trie cloisters. Strolling through these covered outdoor walkways and courtyard gardens will make you feel like you’re in a French monastery.

In addition to the medieval gardens, the Met Cloisters contain over 5,000 paintings, sculptures, and tapestries. Some of the most popular works include the Hunt of the Unicorn tapestries and stained glass windows from Normandy, France. Without a doubt, the Romanesque and Gothic architecture of this NYC museum will take your breath away, so be sure to check it out.

Admission is included in your Met Museum ticket or with your New York Pass .

• Hours : Tuesday – Thursday, 10 am – 4:30 pm
• Location : Washington Heights, Manhattan

4. MoMA, the best art museum in NYC for modern art

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is, hands-down, the best art museum in NYC . It has one of the largest collections of modern and contemporary art in the world, with works by masters like Cézanne, van Gogh, Gauguin, and Matisse.

In addition to paintings, the museum displays drawings, sculptures, photos, films, and other design elements. For example, the Architecture and Design Department has 28,000 models, drawings, and photographs by designers like Frank Lloyd Wright and Isamu Noguchi.

Moreover, MoMA also has a library with nearly 350,000 cataloged items, a Film Library with over 25,000 titles, and a small collection of video games like Pac-Man and Minecraft . In other words, you can find just about anything art-related here, as long as it’s from the last 150 years.

MoMA is conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan, and it’s one of the best things to do in New York City . Admission is included in the New York Pass , or you can get your ticket here .

• Hours : Sunday – Friday, 10:30 am – 5:30 pm; Saturday, 10:30 am – 7 pm
• Admission price : $25 for adults, free for kids 16 and under
• Location : Midtown Manhattan

5. 9/11 Memorial & Museum, a poignant NYC museum to visit

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is one of the most important history museums in New York , and one that you should visit at least once. This moving museum commemorates the World Trade Center attacks of September 11, 2001, which killed nearly 3,000 people. The museum also honors the six victims of the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.

The museum’s collection contains over 58,000 items, including photos, audio recordings, and videos. Inside, you can also find artifacts like the original steel from the Twin Towers and a surviving staircase from the World Trade Center.

Outside, the 9/11 Memorial is at the former site of the Twin Towers and features two reflecting pools surrounded by white oak trees. The pools feature man-made waterfalls, which not only add beauty to the site but also drown out the city noise.

As you walk through the emotional memorial, you’ll also find bronze plaques with the 1993 and 2001 victims’ names inscribed on them. Another area is home to The Survivor Tree , a pear tree found amidst the rubble of the 9/11 attack. The eight-foot tree suffered major burn damage but was nursed back to health and now features old and new growth, making it a poignant part of the memorial.

The 9/11 Museum is included in the New York Pass , or you can purchase a ticket here . It’s also worth visiting the One World Observatory , one of NYC’s best observation decks . You can get a combo ticket for the museum and observation deck here .

• Hours : Thursday – Monday, 10 am – 5 pm
• Admission price : $30 for adults, $24 for kids 13-17, $19 for kids 7-12, free for kids under 7
• Location : Manhattan’s Meatpacking District

6. Statue of Liberty Museum, another museum in NYC that you should see

Another historical museum in New York City that I recommend is the Statue of Liberty Museum . In addition to its interesting exhibits, the museum offers beautiful views, so be sure to bring your camera when visiting the Statue of Liberty !

The Statue of Liberty Museum is full of artifacts and exhibits about the history of this famous New York sculpture. During your visit, you’ll learn about the history of Lady Liberty and her importance as a cultural icon.

You can also see the original torch, several galleries dedicated to the statue’s creation, and historic photographs and early sketches by the designer, Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi. There is also a theater showing a simulated aerial view inside the sculpture, giving you a unique perspective of the statue.

The museum is on Liberty Island, so will need to take a Statue of Liberty tour to see Liberty Island, the famous statue, its museum, and Ellis Island.

• Hours : Daily, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
• Admission price : $23.50 for adults, $12 for kids 4-12, free for kids under 4
• Location : Liberty Island

7. The Guggenheim, another museum with the best art galleries in NYC

If you have a passion for European avant-garde art, the Guggenheim is one of the best art museums in NYC . Located in the Upper East Side of Manhattan , one of the best neighborhoods in NYC , the Guggenheim is easily recognizable thanks to its white, cylindrical building. In fact, is one of the most famous buildings in NYC . Designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the museum’s unique shape is referred to as the “temple of the spirit”.

Inside, a ramp runs continuously from the ground floor to the top of the building, where there is a huge skylight. As you make your way up the ramp, you can check out the various galleries displaying some of the most well-known pieces from the 20 th century. The modern and contemporary works span several art movements, including Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, and Abstract Expressionism.

Here, you can peruse Kandinsky’s colorful paintings, Chagall’s surreal work, and Braque’s Cubist pieces, as well as works by Paul Klee, Fernand Léger, Juan Gris, and Paul Cézanne. Without a doubt, the Guggenheim has some of the best art galleries in NYC , and the building itself is like a work of art. You can get in with your New York Pass or purchase a skip-the-line ticket here .

• Hours : Thursday – Monday, 11 am – 6 pm
• Admission price : $25 for adults, free for kids
• Location : Upper East Side, Manhattan

8. Brooklyn Museum, another art museum in NYC with beautiful exhibits

The Brooklyn Museum is one of the most popular museums in Brooklyn and the third-largest museum in NYC , so it’s certainly worth visiting. This impressive Beaux-Arts building houses about 500,000 objects to help you explore various world cultures through the arts.

Among the collection are paintings, sculptures, and decorative art from Africa, Europe, Japan, North America, and Oceania. The collection of Egyptian artifacts is one of the most well-known; other highlights include the Islamic Art galleries and the shadow puppets from Indonesia and New Guinea. The Brooklyn Museum also has one of the largest collections of African art in any American art museum, and one of its more recent galleries is dedicated to feminist art.

Along with works by Rockwell, Rothko, and O’Keeffe, you can browse the Brooklyn Museum Libraries and Archives or walk through the sculpture garden. This is undoubtedly one of the top museums in Brooklyn, NYC , and it’s included in the New York Pass .

• Hours : Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday, 11 am – 6 pm; Friday & Saturday, 11 am – 8 pm
• Admission price : $16 for adults, free for kids
• Location : Brooklyn

9. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, one of the best museums in NYC for families

If you’re looking for one of the best NYC museums for families , check out the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum . It’s housed in the famed USS Intrepid aircraft carrier, a National Historic Landmark berthed on the Hudson River.

The USS Intrepid was first launched in 1943 and survived numerous kamikaze attacks during World War II. Today, it contains one of the most interesting museums in NYC where you can learn about the science, technology, and engineering behind history’s most impressive aircraft.

Inside, you can find 28 restored aircraft including spy planes, Cold War submarines, and fighter jets. Some of the highlights include the USS Growler , a missile submarine, a Concorde SST, and a Lockheed A-12, the fastest military jet in the world. You’ll also see the legendary space shuttle Enterprise and the museum’s Space Shuttle Pavilion, which is all about NASA’s space program.

After visiting the four decks of the USS Intrepid , check out the museum inside, which features all kinds of military memorabilia. If you want to go, admission is included in the New York Pass , or you can get a skip-the-line ticket here .

• Hours : Daily, 10 am – 5 pm
• Admission price : $29.70 for adults, $21.60 for kids 5-12, free for kids under 5
• Location : Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan

10. Museum of Ice Cream, a fun museum in NYC to visit with kids

If an ice cream museum in NYC sounds like a dream, then I’m happy to say that it’s your dream come true. The Museum of Ice Cream is in SoHo, one of the trendy neighborhoods in Manhattan . Here you will live a whimsical experience that immerses you in a colorful world.

The museum can be considered a “selfie museum” where you can capture Instagram-worthy photos. There are three floors of monochromatic galleries, imaginative displays, and all kinds of props you can interact with, like a giant inflatable pool of sprinkles.

As you’re engaging your senses with all the fun colors and patterns, you can taste delicious ice cream and sweet treats along the way. The experience is self-guided, and you can get in with this ticket or your New York Pass .

It’s one of the best museums in NYC for families , as long as you’re okay with the kids getting a sugar rush!

• Hours : Monday, Thursday, 11:30 am – 7 pm; Friday, 11:30 am – 8:30 pm; Saturday, 10 am – 8:30 pm; Sunday, 10 am – 7 pm
• Admission price : $49 for adults and kids over 3
• Location : SoHo, Manhattan

11. Frick Collection, a lovely fine art museum in New York City

Another art museum to visit in New York is the Frick Collection , which houses classic paintings and decorative arts. Here, you can look through the works of old masters like Goya, Rembrandt, Velázquez, and Vermeer, as well as 18 th -century French furniture and an impressive clock collection.

Other highlights from the Frick include Indian and Persian rugs from the 17 th and 18 th centuries, and a collection of Asian porcelain works, including Chinese vases from the Qing Dynasty. Besides its permanent collection, the museum houses temporary exhibits and the Frick Art Reference Library, which serves as an art history research center.

Moreover, the Frick Collection is within a Gilded Age mansion, which was the former residence of its founder, Henry Clay Frick. So, if you’re interested in Renaissance and early 20 th -century art, this is one NYC museum you can’t miss.

• Hours : Thursday – Sunday, 10 am – 6 pm
• Admission price : $22 for adults, $12 for kids 10-17, free for kids under 10

12. Whitney Museum of American Art, another famous museum in NYC worth seeing

The Whitney Museum of American Art is another famous museum in New York that’ll interest you if you like 20 th and 21 st -century art. The works here span different periods of art, such as Minimalism, Abstract Expressionism, and Pop Art. Throughout the collection, you can find works by Edward Hopper, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Andy Warhol, as well as lesser-known artists.

The Whitney has over 25,000 paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs, films, and videos, not to mention temporary exhibits and hosted performances. Moreover, a public art installation, Day’s End , is across the street from the museum, at Hudson River Park.

While you’re visiting, be sure to check out the Frances Mulhall Achilles Research Library and the outdoor terraces and balconies, which offer lovely views of Manhattan.

Every two years, the museum hosts an international art show called the Whitney Biennial, which showcases American art from newer, younger artists. So, if you want to admire the work of the old masters and maybe discover a new favorite, you can visit the Whitney with your New York Pass or this ticket .

• Hours : Wednesday, Thursday, 10:30 am – 6 pm; Friday, 10:30 am – 10 pm; Saturday, Sunday, 11 am – 6 pm
• Admission price : $25 for adults, free for kids under 18
• Location : Meatpacking District, Manhattan

13. Morgan Library & Museum, an unexpected museum in NYC you should visit

The Morgan Library & Museum is, without a doubt, the best NYC museum that combines art and history. It’s comprised of several buildings, including a 19 th -century Italianate home, and contains around 350,000 items. These range from paintings by Renaissance masters to centuries-old manuscripts and decorative objects.

The façade of the main building is guarded by two marble lionesses, while the library’s main interior features an ornate rotunda with ceiling murals. This has led to the over 100-year-old museum being named a National Historic Landmark.

Among the collection are drawings by da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, as well as works by Cézanne, van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Renoir. You can also find liturgical items from ancient Egypt and medieval Europe, like a 12 th -century Eucharist vessel depicting scenes from the New and Old Testaments.

There is so much to see here that I’m sure you’ll find something that interests you, such as the musical manuscripts and scores from Beethoven, Brahms, Chopin, and Mozart. One of the most acclaimed parts of the collection is a small sampling of illuminated manuscripts dating back to the 15 th and 16 th centuries. Kids get in for free, so consider adding this museum in Manhattan, NYC to your list.

• Hours : Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, 10:30 am – 5 pm; Friday, 10:30 am – 7 pm
• Admission price : $22 for adults, free for kids under 12
• Location : East Side, Manhattan

14. New York Transit Museum, a unique museum in NYC for families

One of the funniest things to do in Brooklyn with family is to visit the New York Transit Museum . Housed in a decommissioned subway station, this museum will teach you all about the history of the bus, subway, and rail systems in the New York metropolitan area.

There are thousands of artifacts at the Transit Museum, including preserved subway cars, bridge and tunnel memorabilia, and vintage road signs and vehicle advertisements. The lower levels of the museum contain an underground control room and a couple of fully functional subway tracks and old railcars that you can observe.

While it’s a smaller museum, the permanent and rotating exhibits do a wonderful job of showing visitors the technological improvements in modern transportation, as well as historical blasts from the past. Along with guided tours and films, you can see older subway and bus models, including the first bus with air conditioning in the U.S., which was released in 1956.

The Transit Museum is one of the top museums in Brooklyn, NYC , and there is a smaller satellite museum annex at Grand Central Station. Admission is included in the New York Pass , or you can reserve a ticket on the museum website .

• Hours : Friday – Sunday, 11 am – 4 pm
• Admission price : $10 for adults, $5 for kids 2-17, free for kids under 2
• Location : Brooklyn Heights

15. Tenement Museum, another eye-opening museum in NYC you can’t miss

The Tenement Museum is one of the more unique museums in NYC , as it portrays the experience of immigrants in New York in the 19 th and 20 th centuries. Without a doubt, it’s an essential museum, and walking through its exhibits is a great way to gain new insights into the country’s immigrant history.

Moreover, the museum is housed in two tenement buildings, which are similar to boarding houses. Today, the buildings are a National Historic Site, and they housed around 15,000 people from over 20 countries between 1863 and 2011.

The tenement buildings originally consisted of about two dozen apartments and a ground-level saloon. These days, you can take a guided tour through restored period rooms, which give you an idea of what life looked like between 1869 and 1935. Costumed guides help with depicting the immigrant experience from different perspectives, like women, Chinese Americans, Black residents, and Eastern European Jews.

Besides visiting the Orchard Street tenement buildings, you can take a neighborhood walking tour and explore some of the spaces in the Lower East Side that played a part in NYC’s immigrant history. This is definitely one of the coolest museums in New York to gain a new perspective and learn more about immigration while putting a face and a name to some of the people who came here to start a new life.

The museum is open daily, and tickets are available on the museum website .

• Hours : Monday – Thursday, 10 am – 5 pm; Friday – Sunday, 10 am – 6 pm
• Admission price : $27 for adults, $22 for kids 6-17, free for kids under 6
• Location : Lower East Side, Manhattan

16. National Museum of the American Indian, an important NYC museum to visit

The National Museum of the American Indian is a fascinating institute and one of NYC’s free museums , so I highly recommend it. The museum is part of the Smithsonian Institution, and the main branch is in Washington, D.C. That said, the New York City branch is well worth visiting and has been named a National Historic Landmark.

In the museum’s beautiful Beaux-Arts-style building, you can browse dozens of exhibits and galleries centered on Native American history and culture. Its permanent collection includes art and artifacts dedicated to Native American cultures across North, Central, and South America, while the rotunda displays various murals and hosts presentations and performances throughout the year.

In addition to the rotunda, the museum has a reference library, a photography hall, a theater, and a special exhibit gallery. What’s great about this place is that you can get a balance of historical displays and contemporary exhibitions. So, during your visit, you can see everything from ceremonial headdresses and instruments to present-day art installations.

• Hours : Monday – Friday, 10 am – 5 pm
• Admission price : Free
• Location : Financial District, Manhattan

17. Brooklyn Children’s Museum, one of the best museums in Brooklyn, NYC

If you’re visiting the city with kids, you’ll want to check out the Brooklyn Children’s Museum . Not only was it the first children’s museum in the country, but it was also the first green museum in NYC. Its engaging and creative environment teaches kids about history, culture, technology, science, and more, so it’s one of the best museums in NYC for families .

In addition to its programming, the museum has several interactive exhibits like a giant maze, a toddler area, and an outdoor playground. The ArtRink is a unique rooftop skating rink and art gallery that helps kids burn up some energy while also engaging in enriching activities.

There are also various festivals throughout the year celebrating things like Juneteenth, Holi, and Earth Day. The museum even has a community garden and greenhouse, so it’s a fun place for kids to get educated. General admission is quite affordable, but you can also visit on Thursdays from 2 pm – 5 pm for “Amazon Free Hours.”

• Hours : Thursday – Friday, 2 pm – 5 pm; Saturday – Sunday, 10 am – 1 pm & 2 pm – 5 pm
• Admission price : $13
• Location : Crown Heights, Brooklyn

18. Museum of Chinese in America, another great museum in downtown NYC

As if you needed another reason to visit Manhattan’s Chinatown , the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) is one of the most interesting museums in NYC . This cultural institution is dedicated to educating the public on the history and heritage of Chinese Americans throughout generations.

MOCA has over 85,000 items chronicling over 160 years of Chinese American history. While the museum suffered a fire in early 2020, it has since recovered most of its objects and has reopened to the public. Among the artifacts are photographs, books, audio recordings, textiles, garments, and artworks. There is also a research center with more archived documents and artifacts.

MOCA was founded out of a need to preserve the memories and experiences of the aging Chinese American population in the city, and most people would agree that the museum’s exhibits and programs do these generations justice. Moreover, admission is included in your New York Pass , so I recommend checking MOCA out! If you don’t have the pass, you can get a ticket on the museum’s website .

• Hours : Thursday, 11 am – 9 pm; Friday – Sunday, 11 am – 6 pm
• Admission price : $12 for adults, $8 for kids, free for kids under 2
• Location : Chinatown, Manhattan

19. Museo del Barrio, an underrated museum in NYC you can’t miss

Located in El Barrio (East Harlem), the Museo del Barrio is one of the most significant Latino cultural institutions in New York. It has more than 6,500 items that cover over 800 years of Puerto Rican, Latin American, and Caribbean history, so it’s one of the best museums in NYC that you should visit.

The exhibitions here focus on art across Latin America and the Caribbean and include modern pieces, archaeological objects, and traditional artifacts. For example, you can see everything from paintings and drawings by contemporary artists, to folkloric masks and artifacts from pre-Columbian cultures, like the indigenous Taíno people of the Caribbean.

In addition, there are lots of photographs, films, art installations, and temporary exhibits. The Museo del Barrio also emphasizes Puerto Rican art and culture, and hosts events throughout the year. It’s well worth adding it to your list of museums in NYC , and general admission is included in the New York Pass . If you don’t have the pass, tickets are very affordable and available on the museum’s website .

• Hours : Friday – Sunday, 11 am – 5 pm
• Admission price : $9 for adults, $5 for kids, free for kids under 12
• Location : Uptown, Manhattan

20. American Museum of the Moving Image, a fascinating museum in New York

Finally, the American Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI), is one of the best museums in Queens . You’ll love this interactive museum if you’re a movie buff. Housed in the former Astoria Studios building, MoMI has about 130,000 items, which makes it the largest collection dedicated to the moving image.

Here, you can explore galleries and multimedia exhibits focused on digital media and cinema. Among the museum’s permanent collection is an exhibition on Jim Henson, creator of The Muppets, as well as a video game gallery. MoMI also has two theaters that allow the museum to host regular film screenings and lectures.

If you find film and cinema to be fascinating, then you’ll love learning about the history, technology, and techniques behind this art form. In addition to live-action movies, the museum also focuses on animation, script writing, and movie posters, so there is a ton to see in this cool place in Astoria, Queens . The museum is only open on the weekends, so be sure to get your ticket in advance.

• Hours : Friday, 2 pm – 8 pm; Saturday – Sunday, 12 pm – 6 pm
• Admission price : $15 for adults, $9 for kids 3-17, free for kids under 3
• Location : Astoria, Queens

That’s it for the best museums in NYC ! It’s clear that there is a museum in NYC for just about anyone, so download this tourist map of NYC and keep it handy during your trip.

If you have any questions about these museums or you’d like to share your experience or recommendation, leave me a comment, and I’ll get back to you. Have a safe trip!

Ascen Aynat

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15 INCREDIBLE & Best Museums in NYC to Visit (By a Local)

Looking for the best museums in NYC to add to your visit? With nearly 100 museums in New York City, choosing which ones to see can be a bit overwhelming. That’s why we put this guide together for the coolest museums in NYC to help you pick!

New York City is home to several of the most famous museums in the country. New York is known for having so many museums, choosing which will be your next to visit can be difficult below are some of the best museums in NYC to check out plus what they are known for and other useful information you need to know before your visit! 

Disclaimer: This article to the top museums in NYC includes affiliate links meaning we earn a small commission when readers purchase tickets through our site at no extra cost to you! 

Note, many NYC museums are closed on Mondays and/or Tuesdays, be sure to check ahead before planning your visit! It’s always best to secure tickets in advance (which we provide links for below) to secure your visits to some of the most famous museums in New York.

Be sure to also check out our guide to free museums in NYC to help save some money on your trip!

Coolest Museums in NYC

New Museum 

235 Bowery, Manhattan

Founded in 1977, the New Museum opened its Bowery Lower East Side Manhattan location in 2007, boasting a seven-story building that looks like a stack of white building blocks. Specializing in modern and contemporary art, the New Museum is notorious for being the birthplace for showcasing rising talented artists and one of the coolest museums in NYC for contemporary art lovers.

This NYC museum’s founder, Marica Tucker, wanted the museum to have a fresh collection constantly vowing to buy and sell pieces of the collection every 10 years so there was always something ‘new,’ hence the name.

$18 General Admission, Open Tuesday-Sunday most weeks, Reserve Tickets Online

Tenement Museum 

103 Orchard Street, Manhattan

Located in the Lower East Side, the Tenement Museum is one of the best museums in NYC for history lovers. This NYC museum transports you to your ancestor’s earliest days arriving in America.

Guided tours provide biographical retellings of what it was like to live in the working-class tenement buildings. Most interesting is their walking tour which offers an overview of the built landscape of the lower east side.

$30 Building and Walking Tour, Reserve Tickets Online

Brooklyn Museum

200 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn

A must-visit in NYC, the Brooklyn Museum is considered by many to be one of the best museums in NYC. Sitting just outside of Prospect Park , the magnificent circa 1897 Beaux-Arts building the museum is housed in offers endless photo opportunities and housing a collection of over 1.5 million pieces of art.

The Brooklyn Museum has become known for its contemporary art exhibits, the museum offers every art fan something and is known for being the go-to for seeing works by Dennis Hopper as well as its expansive collections of Egyptian and African Art not to mention their rotating temporary exhibits.

$16 General Admission (special exhibits require additional ticket purchases), closed Mondays & Tuesdays, Reserve Tickets Online

Be sure to check out more of the best museums in Brooklyn and the best independent art galleries in Brooklyn too!

The Morgan Library & Museum 

225 Madison Avenue, Manhattan

Looking for one of the coolest museums in NYC? Go no further than the heart of Manhattan in Murray Hill the Morgan Library & Museum.

Step inside and transport yourself to another time. You’ll feel as if you’ll bump into J.P. Morgan himself in the library he built to house his private collection of rare books and manuscripts. Home to some of the rarest texts in the world, the museum boasts contemporary exhibit space for rotating exhibitions as well along with one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.

$22 Adult Admission, Wednesday to Sunday 10:30 am to 5:00 pm, Reserve Your Tickets

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) 

11 W 53 rd Street, Manhattan

The mecca of the modern art world, this midtown Manhattan Museum is one of the top museums in NYC. Since its opening in 1929 MoMA has changed the world of modern and contemporary art being one of the largest and most influential museums of modern art in the world.

From Paul Claude Monet, Cézanne, Andy Warhol, and Picasso – to Marc Chagall and Salvador Dalí, all the great modern artists live at MoMA. Best of all? Admission is FREE on Friday evenings

Tickets are free on Friday evenings, Open daily from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm, Reserve Tickets Online or Purchase a Skip the Line Ticket so you don’t have to wait in any lines.

Poster House 

119 W 23 rd Street, Manhattan

Poster House Museum is one of the newest and coolest museums in NYC and is the first museum in the country dedicated exclusively to posters.

View the visual and cultural impact posters have had throughout the centuries from Alphonse Mucha’s whimsical art nouveau advertisements to the psychedelic designs of the 1960s, and contemporary avant-garde from throughout the world – Poster House reveals a timeline of artistic expression through advertising and public art.

$12 Adult Admission, Open Thursday to Sunday 10 am to 6 PM, Buy Tickets Online

9/11 Tribute Museum

92 Greenwich Street, Manhattan

Just around the corner from the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, the 9/11 Tribute Museum is dedicated to the personal narratives of the families that lost loved ones due to the September 11th attacks in 2001.

Guided tours are given daily by survivors, rescue, and recovery workers who volunteer their time to offer their perspective of the historic events and aftermath of 9/11. 

$17 Adult Admission, Open daily 10 am – 6 pm, Reserve Your Skip the Line Tickets

The Frick Collection

1 E 70th Street, Manhattan

Many museum enthusiasts say the Frick Collection is one of the best museums in New York and one of the most famous museums in NYC for its collection of paintings by Old Masters.

Endowed and housed in the home of Gilded Age industrialist Henry Clay Frick, the museum is home to an impressive collection of paintings by the old masters including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Whistler, and Renoir to name a few.

The Frick offers a scaled-down setting unique in comparison to some of the larger museums in NYC.

$22 Adult Admission, Open Thursday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm, Reserve tickets online

Metropolitan Museum of Art

1000 5th Ave, Manhattan

One of the most famous museums in New York and the world, the Met short for Metropolitan Museum of Art. It is the largest art museum in the country with a permanent collection of over 2 million pieces of artwork not to mention its also one of the largest art galleries in the world.

You will need a full day for this mammoth of all thing’s art, history, and architecture. From ancient artifacts to contemporary works by international artists, the Met has something for everyone spanning over 6,000 years of history with its collections.

While you’re here don’t miss the Met Rooftop for sweeping views of Central Park and afterward, you can explore the best hidden spots in Central Park !

$25 Adult Admission, Open Thursday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm, Reserve Your Skip the Line Tickets Online, or Book a Private Guided Tour for a more intimate, educational experience.

The Met Cloisters

99 Margaret Corbin Drive, Manhattan

The Met Cloisters in Washington Heights is a magical place and one of the coolest museums in NYC. Once you pass into the museum under their stone arches, you are transported entirely to another place and another time.

The Cloisters, as they’re sometimes called, is home to some of the world’s most precious antiquities. Fifteenth-century tapestries decorate the interior, hanging just as they did in the days of dynasties. The gardens reimagined as if out of French storybooks and is incredibly romantic. 

While visiting this under-the-radar to tourists museum in NYC, be sure to explore all three cloister gardens, Cuxa, Bonnefont, and Trie.

If you’re a resident of Connecticut, New Jersey, or New York you qualify for the pay as you wish tickets meaning you can pay less or enter this museum for free with a valid ID.

$25 Adult Admission, Open Thursday to Sunday 10 am to 5 pm, Reserve Tickets Online

Whitney Museum of American Art 

99 Gansevoort Street, Manhattan

Known to many as simply the Whitney, this is one of the best museums in NYC and boasts works by all the greatest American artists from the 20th and 21st centuries.

See works by Edward Hopper, Robert Henri, Georgia O’Keefe, Andy Warhol, and Theodore Robinson. The museum is known for hosting special events and rotating exhibits making it one of the top museums in NYC.

Unlike other famous museums in NYC, the Whitney Museum focuses solely on American artists including works from the 20th century and contemporary art. They do a huge emphasis on featuring works from artists that are still living too.

$22 Adult Admission, Open Thursday to Sunday 10:30 am to 6 pm, Reserve Tickets Online

New York Historical Society 

170 Central Park West, Manhattan

One of the top museums in NYC to visit is the city’s oldest museum. Founded in 1804 the New York Historical Society museum’s collection is comprised of countless historical artifacts, manuscripts, works of art, and documents detailing the history of New York and the United States.

The museum’s granite Roman Eclectic style building is located across from Central Park West and is positioned in one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city.

$22 Adults, Open Friday to Sunday 10 am to 5 pm, Buy Tickets Online  

Museum of the Moving Image 

36-01 35 th Avenue, Queens

One of the coolest museums in NYC is located in the borough of Queens! The Museum of the Moving Image offers unique glimpses into the history and art of the media industry, and the only one of its kind in the United States.

The abstract re-designed interior reopened in 2011 and boasts a 1,700 square foot Screening Amphitheater. Dive into how films are made and see some of the most iconic objects and costumes featured throughout film history.

This is one of the best museums in New York for any cinephiles and fans of the movie industry and its history.

$15 Adult Admission, Open Friday to Sunday 12 pm – 6 pm, Buy Tickets Online

American Folk Art Museum 

2 Lincoln Square, Manhattan

The first museum in the country dedicated to displaying self-taught artists, known as folk artists.

The American Folk Art Museum is one of the top museums in NYC for viewing everything from handmade 18th-century artifacts to contemporary works by self-taught artists with over 8,000 pieces of works in their collection.

Admission is Free, Wednesday to Sunday 11:30 am to 6 pm

American Museum of Natural History 

200 Central Park West, Manhattan

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the best museums in New York and one of the most famous. Housing 45 permanent exhibition halls, the Rose Center for Earth and Space, and the Hayden Planetarium the museum is a must-see for anyone interested in scientific and natural history.

This is one of the coolest museums in NYC for the whole family too, there is something here to entertain anyone any age, but this is by far one of the most fun places for kids in NYC too. As already mentioned, this museum is massive. The collections include over 34 million specimens of rocks, minerals, human remains, cultural artifacts, plants, animals, fossils, and more.

A whole trip could be made exploring this museum, so this is one of those that’s perfect to visit over and over again.

$23 Adult Admission, Open Wednesday to Sunday 10 am to 5:30 pm, Reserve Tickets Online

Extra Top Museums in NYC to Visit

Solomon R. Guggenheim

One of the most famous museums in New York City this Upper East Side Museum in Manhattan holds a massive collection of early Modern, Impressionist, and contemporary artworks housed in the state of the art building designed by legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the building itself is a marvel and piece of art. Book Your Tickets in Advance.

Neue Galerie New York

Located on Madison Avenue in a magnificent Beaux-Arts style building, the Neue Galerie is dedicated to German and Austrian Art and holds pieces from famous artists such as Gustav Klimt and Ernst Ludwig Kerchner. Reserve Your Tickets Online in Advance.

Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum

The only museum in the country dedicated to the history of design. Located in the former Andrew Carnegie Mansion this cool museum in NYC houses objects used by notable and famous figures such as Abraham Lincoln’s chair and a Rolls Royce once owned by the Beatles.  Reserve Your Tickets Online in Advance.

Merchant’s House Museum

Walk into the Merchant’s House Museum in Greenwich Village and be transported to the nineteenth century. The only house in NYC that boasts a perfectly preserved historical interior and exterior and is said to be the most haunted house in Manhattan and most haunted place in NYC! Spooky! See how to visit here.

Museum of Sex

Museum visitors must be 18 or older to enter. Also known as MoSex, the Museum of Sex is one of the coolest museums in NYC. Offering everything from the earliest artifacts to contemporary reflections on the meaning of sex and sexuality, MoSex offers a museum experience unlike any other. Get Your Tickets Here.

Intrepid Sea, Air, & Space Museum

Located floating on the Hudson River on the historic USS Interpid aircraft carrier that served in the Vietnam War and World War II as well as a recovery vessel for the Mercury and Gemini Space missions. This top museum in New York features restored military aircraft and ships. Another highlight to this museum is the Space Shuttle Enterprise! Book Your Tickets in Advance.

Museum of Ice Cream

One of the coolest museums in NYC for fun photography and kids is the Museum of Ice Cream! With locations all over the country, their NYC location is one of the most popular ‘selfie museums’ with interactive exhibits that will leave you wanting a sweet treat! Book Your Tickets in Advance.

NYC Attraction Passes

If you want to enjoy multiple NYC museums consider getting an attraction pass that you pay a price upfront to get into attractions all over the city for free. By purchasing an attraction pass you can save anywhere from 35-45% on your attraction passes and saving you hundreds of dollars on your visit!

CityPASS offers a 3 attraction pass or a 6 attraction pass with over 12 city attractions to choose from including popular observatories like the Empire State Building, The Edge , Top of the Rock, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island, the Guggenheim, and more!

Another great option is the New York Pass which you can purchase anywhere from a 1 Day Pass to a 10 Day Pass that gets you into over 100 attractions. Once you purchase your New York Pass you download the Go City app and use that to get up to 45% savings on popular attractions as well as a few hidden gem attractions ranging from the Empire State Building to the Museum of Ice Cream and many of the NYC experiences mentioned in this guide!

See our full breakdown of the New York Pass and our breakdown of the New York CityPASS to see if it’s worth it for your visit to save hundreds of dollars on multiple attractions!

Did we miss one of your picks for best museums in NYC? Let us know in the comments below! If you found this guide to the coolest museums in New York helpful consider bookmarking for later or share the love below on Pinterest!

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The 10 Best New York City Museums

TripSavvy / Brakethrough Media

With hundreds of cultural institutions and historic sites in New York City, it can be difficult to narrow down which ones to include on your itinerary. There are options that will appeal to just about everyone, whether you want to see exhibits dedicated to art and design or history and science .

You should plan to visit no more than two museums in one day, and really one museum is usually more than enough daily. It's hard to really absorb what the museum has to offer if you're rushed or have reached saturation. A good plan is to visit one museum in the morning (this is when museums tend to be less crowded) and then choose a neighborhood to explore, a walking tour, bus tour, or a sightseeing cruise to round out the day. 

American Museum of Natural History

In 1869, Theodore Roosevelt, Sr., helped found the  American Museum of Natural History . Today, the legendary museum’s motto is “To discover, interpret, and disseminate – through scientific research and education – knowledge about human cultures, the natural world, and the universe.” Uncover the majesty of the blue whale in the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life, view spectacular films on intergalactic science in the Rose Center for Earth and Space’s Hayden Planetarium, and gaze at sparkling sapphires and precious stones in the Guggenheim Hall of Minerals.

It's one of the very best museums for kids in NYC; bonus:  AMNH hosts memories-of-a-lifetime sleepovers  several times each year, too.

Ellis Island Immigration Museum

About 12 million steerage and third-class steamship passengers were processed on Ellis Island in New York Harbor between 1892 and 1954. Immigrants who entered the United States through the port of New York were legally and medically inspected there. In 1990, Ellis Island was renovated and transformed into a museum dedicated to educating visitors about the immigrant experience.

Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim Museum,  designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, is best known for its spiral structure and unique museum layout. The permanent collection and temporary exhibitions at the Guggenheim , on the  Upper East Side , highlight modern paintings, sculpture, and film.

Tenement Museum

TripSavvy / Donghee Eim

Accessible only by guided tour, the  Tenement Museum  offers visitors the opportunity to see into the immigrant past of the Lower East Side while visiting the actual apartments where immigrants lived and hearing stories about their lives. The museum also gives tours in Spanish and American Sign Language.

Metropolitan Museum of Art

The largest museum in the Western Hemisphere, the Metropolitan Museum of Art showcases arts and artifacts from around the globe, including everything from Egyptian hieroglyphics to a Greek and Roman collection of over 17,000 objects to paintings by Van Gogh. The Met first opened in 1870, and since then, its halls have expanded to include African, Islamic, Indian, Byzantine, and Oceanian art, among many other types. The Met also includes The Cloisters at  Fort Tryon Park , filled with reconstructed medieval monasteries.

Museum of Modern Art

Founded in 1929 as the first museum dedicated entirely to contemporary art, MoMA , in Midtown East, is host to an impressive collection of modern artistic efforts in a variety of media that includes paintings, sculpture, design, and film. Some of the museum's most famous works include Vincent Van Gogh’s "Starry Night" and Pablo Picasso’s "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon."   MoMA is also a thriving center of cultural events, including educational programs and international films.

The museum offers special events and activities for families with children as young as four-years-old, making it a very family-friendly choice.

Museum of the Moving Image

TripSavvy / Brakethrough Media 

The Museum of the Moving Image focuses on film, television, and digital media and their impact on culture and society. Located in Astoria, Queens , the museum is easily accessible by subway, just a short ride from Manhattan, and is a great destination for film buffs and families alike.

New York Historical Society

The New York Historical Society, on the  Upper West Side , offers visitors an opportunity to see a collection that reveals much of New York's history. The collection includes Tiffany lamps, decorative objects, paintings, and furniture, and there are frequent special exhibits, as well as the Dimenna Children's History Museum.

Whitney Museum of American Art

Now stationed next to  Chelsea ’s popular High Line park (check out these 10 essential highlights along the High Line while you're in the neighborhood), the Whitney Museum of American Art features over 21,000 pieces of art from across two centuries. The Whitney was initially founded in 1930 by sculptor Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, primarily displaying art in her Greenwich Village studio. It opened on West Eight Street in 1931. Today, this museum draws thousands of viewers from around the globe to its celebration of contemporary American art. Exhibits include performance art, sculptures, painting, and film.

Best of all, 13,000 square feet of the museum highlights outdoor exhibitions, each facing the High Line .

The 9/11 Memorial Museum

 TripSavvy / Stella Levantesi

The tragic terror attacks of September 11, 2001, altered the hearts and minds of New Yorkers—and the world. To pay tribute to those who lost their lives, visit the  9/11 Memorial Museum , which rises over the center of the former World Trade Center site. On display is the Survivors’ Staircase, the last known visible piece of the towers that was left after the debris settled, and over 10,000 artifacts and 23,000 photos pertaining to that fateful day. 

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Published: August 15, 2022

UPDATED: May 21, 2024

New York City is home to some of the world’s most famous museums. You can see thousands of artifacts from around the globe, admire art spanning hundreds of centuries, learn about the city’s history and visit unique museums like Ellis Island or the NY subway system.

In this guide, we show you the 20 most popular NYC museums with our personal tips and ways you can save money.

Our NYC Experience

Kristen is a  New York state native  and  we lived in NYC for a few months in 2021 . We chose to move to the city so we could create the best content possible because you can’t just visit New York City for a weekend and claim to be an expert.

When we lived in the city, we personally visited many of the museums on this list and our goal is to help you figure out which of these museums are worth your time. It can very expensive if you plan to visit multiple museums so we’ll also give you our best money saving tips. Read more  about us .

How To Use This Guide

There are over 100 museums in New York so you have a lot to choose from and it can extremely overwhelming. Because there is so much choice, everyones recommendations will be different.

However, after living in the city ourselves, we think there are some museums that first timers to the city should not miss. This guide includes 20 popular museums in New York City listed in no particular order including highlights from each one.

All museums charge a general admission price, but many will offer free admission on certain days or for special groups including children. So we’ll also show you how to visit each museum for free when applicable , just look for our travel tips in each section . With a little bit of planning, you could easily save some serious cash when visiting New York’s best museums and we’ll help you do just that.

If you’re in a hurry, you can skip down to our conclusion, but we highly recommend you read this entire guide because we might discuss a New York museum you’ve never heard of before.

Now, let’s explore the best NYC museums:

1. Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, also known as the Met, is the largest art museum in the western hemisphere . With 1.5 million works of art spanning 5,000 years dating from prehistory to the present, this museum features 16 individual departments each with specialized staff.

• Address : 1000 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10028
• Location :  Google Maps
• Official website : metmuseum.org
• Reservations required : Yes
• Average time needed : 3-6 hours
• Admission price : $30 adults + children under 12 are free
• Hours of operation : Fri and Sat (10:00am-9:00pm), Sunday to Tuesday + Thursday (10:00am- 5:00pm), closed Wednesdays

The Met includes extensive works of African, American, Asian, Byzantine, Islamic and Oceanian art. But it’s also home to an encyclopedic collection of armor, antique weapons, costumes, musical instruments as well as paintings and sculptures from nearly all the famous European masters .

The Met Cloisters is a smaller branch of the Met in upper Manhattan with a focus on Romanesque and Gothic periods . It’s the only museum in America dedicated exclusively to art and architecture of the Middle Ages. Your ticket to the Met will include same day admission to the Met Cloisters .

What You Shouldn’t Miss

Here are a few highlights to add to your Met bucket list:

• Washington Crossing The Delaware (1851, Emanuel Leutze)
• Bridge Over a Pond of Water (1899, Claude Monet)
• Autumn Rhythm: Number 30 (1950, Jackson Pollock)
• Self-Portrait With a Straw Hat (1887, Vincent van Gogh)
• Cow’s Skull: Red, White and Blue (1931, Georgia O’Keeffe)
• Temple of Dendur (completed by 10 B.C.)
• The Sphinx of Hatshepsut (1479-1458 B.C.)
• The Astor Chinese Garden Court

If you’ve never been to the Met Museum, we recommend planning to spend at least half a day here . There are a few cafes and restaurants on site, but always check the opening times prior to visiting. You can see the menus here .

Or if you want a more personalized experience, you can book a highly rated guided tour with Get You Guide or popular private option with Viator .

Travel Tip : NY, NJ and CT residents can choose the amount they pay for admission with a valid ID or billing address.

2. 9/11 Memorial & Museum

September, 11th 2001 is a harrowing date in New York City history . On this day, there were multiple coordinated suicide terrorist attacks carried out by al-Qaeda against the United States. You can probably remember exactly where you were when you heard the news.

The 9/11 Museum includes a  permanent collection of material evidence , personal stories and historical records about the events at the World Trade Center site, crash at Shanksville, Pennsylvania and Pentagon as well as the World Trade Center bombing on February 26, 1993.

• Address : 180 Greenwich Street, New York, NY 10007
• Official website : 911memorial.org
• Average time needed : 2 hours
• Admission price : $33 adults + $21-27 for children
• Hours of operation : Open 9:00am-7:00pm daily (closed Tuesdays)

The 9/11 Memorial is a tribute of remembrance commemorating everyone who lost their lives on both the 1993 and 2001 terrorist attacks. You can visit the memorial before or after your visit to the museum and it’s open from 8:00am to 8:00pm daily. If you see a white rose on a name at the memorial, it signifies the victims birthday .

Travel Tip : Active or retired US Military can visit for free with a valid ID. Anyone will also receive free admission on Mondays from 5:30pm to 7:00pm with limited quantities available.

Our favorite part of the 9/11 Museum is a very detailed timeline which takes almost every minute into account. This is found in the historical exhibition which provides factual context before the attack, the day as it unfolded and consequences from the aftermath. Even though this was a terrible memory we both remember very vividly, we learned so much about September 11th and how the events transpired.

Guided Ground Zero tours are run by Get Your Guide and Viator if you want to learn more about the World Trade Center buildings from a local.

Travel Tip : This is one of the best museums we’ve ever visited. If you’ve never been and only have a few days in the city, we recommend you add it to your NYC itinerary.

3. The Modern Museum Of Art (MoMA)

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is one of the largest and most influential museums of modern and contemporary art in the world . This was the city’s first museum focused exclusively on modern art showcasing architecture, paintings, sculpture, photography, prints, illustrated books, electronic media and film.

• Address : 11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019
• Official website : moma.org
• Average time needed : 3-5 hours
• Admission price : $28 adults + children under 16 are free
• Hours of operation : 10:30 am-5:30pm daily + until 7:00pm Saturdays

If you enjoyed this museum, you can also visit MoMA PS1 (Public School 1). The MoMA PS1 is the largest art institution in the US dedicated solely to contemporary art located in the borough of Queens. Tickets are free for NYC residents and $10 for adults.

Here are a few of our favorite highlights at the MoMA:

• The Starry Night (1889, Vincent van Gogh)
• The Persistence of Memory (1931, Salvador Dalí)
• Campbell’s Soup Cans (1962, Andy Warhol)
• One, Number 31 (1950, Jackson Pollock)
• Water Lilies (1914, Claude Monet)
• Christina’s World (1948, Andrew Wyeth)
• Les Demoiselles d’Avignon (1907, Pablo Picasso)
• Free admission for NYC residents on first Friday of every month from 4:00-8:00pm

Travel Tip : NYC residents will receive free admission to the MoMA on the first Friday of every month from 4:00pm – 8:00pm.

4. National Immigration Museum

The National Immigration Museum is located on Ellis Island inside the restored main complex of the former immigration site. From 1892 to 1954, nearly 12 million immigrants were processed here through the busiest immigration station in US history.

• Address : 1 Ellis Island, Jersey City, NJ 07305
• Official website : statueofliberty.org
• Reservations required : No but ferry required
• Average time needed : 2-3 hours
• Admission price : $24.50 for basic ferry ride
• Hours of operation : 9:00am-5:00pm (but you’ll have to consider the ferry ride back after visiting)

During your visit, you’ll see a collection of photographs, searchable historic records and personal heirlooms. You’ll also walk through the Great Hall, baggage room and dormorteries. There are many displays discussing the complicated immigration process which we can relate to as Mark only just immigrated to the US in 2019.

You don’t need to purchase tickets to visit the National Immigration Museum, but you’ll need to purchase ferry tickets through Statue Cruises . Plan your visit and see the ferry schedule here . Statue Cruises is the only merchant that sells ferry tickets so don’t purchase from any other vendor .

You can also book a guided tour to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island with Get Your Guide or Viator .

READ : Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Ferry Tips

5. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

The Intrepid is popular American military and maritime history museum in New York City. Commissioned in 1943, the Intrepid aircraft carrier played a large part in WWII surviving five kamikaze attacks and a torpedo strike. It also served in the Cold War, Vietnam War and eventually become a NASA recovery vessel.

• Address : Pier 86, W 46th St, New York, NY 10036
• Official website : intrepidmuseum.org
• Admission price : $36 adults + $26 child (5-12)
• Hours of operation : 10:00am-5:00pm daily + open until 6:00pm Saturdays and Sundays April 1st to September 30th

We like this museum because it features interesting exhibits about aircrafts, guided missile submarines, the world’s fastest jets and the space shuttle Enterprise. You can explore the flight deck, gallery deck, hangar deck and third deck during your visit.

General admission includes access to the Intrepid , submarine USS Growler , Space Shuttle Pavilion and all temporary exhibitions. You’ll see an immersive multimedia experience about kamikazes, a large display about the Vietnam War and history about America’s first nuclear missile submarine.

Travel Tip : Active and retired military will receive complementary admission to the Intrepid with valid ID.

6. New York Transit Museum

The New York Transit Museum is one of the most unique museums in New York City because it showcases historical artifacts about the subway, bus and commuter rail systems. Founded in 1976, this museum explores the development of the greater NYC metropolitan area by preserving stories about the history of mass transportation.

• Address : 99 Schermerhorn St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
• Official website : nytransitmuseum.org
• Average time needed : 1 hour
• Admission price : $10 adults + $5 children (2-17)
• Hours of operation : 10:00am-4:00pm Tuesday to Thursday

The NYC Transit Museum is the largest exhibition in the US devoted to history of urban public transportation. It’s located in an authentic 1936 subway station with a working platform spanning an entire city block. We like this museum because you can board vintage subway cars, walk through old turnstiles and pretend to sit at the wheel of a bus. But due to it’s location and opening hours, it can be difficult to fit into a New York itinerary .

Travel Tip : Tickets are not available on site and must be purchased online prior to visiting. MTA employees can visit for free. Use code goingyourway  during check out.

Need help planning your visit to NYC?

Our popular New York City travel guidebook will help you with planning every aspect of your trip, including airport links, the subway, top attractions, itinerary ideas, restaurants, hotels and map!

7. American Museum Of Natural History

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the largest natural history museums in the world . It consists of 26 interconnected buildings with 45 permanent exhibition halls, a planetarium, a library and the biggest collection of fossils on the planet.

• Address : 200 Central Park W, New York, NY 10024
• Official website : amnh.org
• Admission price : $28 adults + $16 child (3-12)
• Hours of operation : 10:00-5:30pm daily

Some of the permanent exhibition halls include Biodiversity, the New York State Environment, North American Forests, Ocean Life, Birds of the World, Reptiles and Amphibians, Gems and Minerals, Primitive Mammals, African People, Eastern Peoples, Pacific Peoples and so much more. The collection is so large , only a small amount can be displayed at one time .

If you’ve ever seen the move Night at the Museum with Ben Stiller, this museum was the inspiration so it’s really fun to visit. However, we do think this museum is becoming a bit dated but it’s still worth visiting unless you’ve been to the Natural History Museum in London, England.

Here are a few things you should find at the history museum when visiting:

• 94ft Blue whale model suspended from the ceiling
• Tyrannosaurus Rex
• Rapa Nui Moai Cast from Easter Island
• Alaska brown bear exhibit
• Mammuthus (mammoth skeleton)
• Giant Sequoia Tree
• Lucy (one of the most complete skeletons from the early hominids)

All permanent exhibits are included in the general admission ticket but special exhibits require an extra fee unless you have a New York CityPASS ) and you’ll have to make separate timed reservations.

Travel Tip : NY, NJ and CT residents can choose the amount they pay for admission, but you’ll have to pay extra for ticketed exhibitions.

8. Whitney Museum Of American Art

The Whitney Museum of American Art is dedicated to exhibiting works from living artists presenting a full range of twentieth-century and contemporary art. It’s located inside an impressive building designed by architect Renzo Piano sandwiched between the High Line and the Hudson River.

• Address : 99 Gansevoort St, New York, NY 10014
• Official website : whitney.org
• Admission price : $30 adults + children under 18 are free
• Hours of operation : 10:00am-6:00pm Monday, Wednesday Thursday, Saturday and Sunday + 10:00am-10:00pm Friday + closed Tuesdays

We like the Whitney because it’s located in Manhattan’s vibrant meatpacking district and admission for Floor 1 is always free . With an impressive 50,000 sq ft of indoor galleries and 13,000 sq ft of outdoor exhibit space, you have multiple floors to experience. Don’t miss the beautiful views on the 8th floor terrace featuring the city skyline and Hudson River.

Here are a few works to keep an eye out for at the Whitney:

• Music, Pink and Blue No. 2 (1918, Georgia O’Keeffe)
• The Brooklyn Bridge: Variation on an Old Theme (1939, Joesph Stella)
• Calder’s Circus (Alexander Calder)
• V-yramid (1932, Nam June Paik)
• Monochromatic Chairs (2015, Mary Heilmann)
• Three Flags (1958, Jasper Johns)

Travel Tip : Admission to the Whitney is free from 5:00pm-10:00pm every Friday and the second Sunday of every month.

9. Museum Of The City Of New York

The Museum of the City of New York was founded in 1923 and it celebrates the city spanning over four centuries through images, videos, photography, objects and interactive digital experiences. This is an award winning museum and a great way to learn about NYC.

• Address : 1220 5th Ave, New York, NY 10029
• Official website : mcny.org
• Admission price : $20 adults + Children under 20 are free
• Hours of operation : 10:00am-6:00pm Saturday and Sunday + 10:00am-5:00pm Monday, Thursday and Friday

We haven’t visited this popular museum yet, but we always hear good things about it . Permanent exhibitions include New York at it’s core, Activist New York, Raise your voice and Timescapes which is a 28-minute film featuring people of the city. There are numerous special exhibits and various events offered throughout the year.

Travel Tip : Admission includes access to all exhibitions. Visitors who live in zip codes 10029, 10035 or 10037 can visit for free if you show a valid ID or a piece of mail.

10. Tenement Museum

The Lower East Side Tenement Museum offers visitors insight into what it was like to become an American immigrant in the 19th and 20th centuries . However, this museum is only accessible by guided apartment tours or neighborhood walking tours.

• Address : 103 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
• Official website : tenement.org
• Admission price : $30 adults
• Hours of operation : 10:00am-5:00pm Monday to Thursday + 10:00am-6:00pm Friday to Sunday

This museums offers numerous many different tours and it might be difficult picking just one. It’s located in the same building that over 15,000 immigrants from more than 20 nations called home. After your tour, you can enjoy 7 interactive exhibits, the visitor center and the shop.

Travel Tip : NY teachers will receive free admission on Sundays using code TEACHNY with a valid school ID or email. Discounts are also available for teachers, active military, 10002 zip code residents, visitors with disabilities and members of AAM, MANY or National Trust.

11. Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim Museum in NYC was designed by the famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright . The stunning building is now also part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It’s home to permanent exhibits of Impressionist, Post Impressionist, Modern and contemporary art as well as rotating temporary exhibits.

• Address : 1071 5th Ave, New York, NY 10128
• Official website : guggenheim.org
• Average time needed : 1 -2 hours
• Admission price : $30 adult + Children under 12 are free
• Hours of operation : 11:00am-6:00pm Sunday to Friday + 11:00am-8:00pm Saturday

We like the Guggenheim because it showcases many films which is a different take on art you don’t find in most museums. When we visited, there was a large screen playing a movie on repeat in the large atrium. Admission tickets include access to all galleries and special exhibits.

Travel Tip : A $3 discount is available to AAA members. Every Saturday from 5:00-8:00pm, you can pay what you wish for admission with a minimum of $1.00. Discounted admission is also available to active duty and veteran US Military with valid ID.

READ : Famous New York City quotes

12. The New York Public Library

The New York Public Library is one of the largest public libraries in the world . It was founded in 1895 featuring 92 locations throughout the Bronx, Manhattan and Staten Island. While this technically isn’t a museum, the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building (pictured above) is a leading research center.

• Address : 476 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018
• Official website : nypl.org
• Reservations required : No
• Average time needed : Varies
• Admission price : Free
• Hours of operation : 10:00am-8:00pm Tuesday and Wednesday + 10:00am-6:00pm Wednesday to Saturday

This library serves more than 16 million people per year and showcases more than 56 million items . It’s free to enter, but you’ll need a library card if you want to check something out. You can also take free one hour guided tours of various sections of the library. Tours are offered Mondays to Saturdays at various times and you can book one here .

13. Brooklyn Museum

The Brooklyn Museum is the third largest NYC museum featuring over 500,000 works of art. Founded in 1895, this museum is well known for its collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts as well as 17th to 20th century paintings and sculptures.

• Address : 200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11238
• Official website : brooklynmuseum.org
• Reservations required : No, but recommended
• Admission price : $20 adults + children under 20 are free
• Hours of operation : 11:00am-6:00pm Wednesday to Sunday (closed Monday and Tuesday)

Located in the borough of Brooklyn, this is a great choice if you’ve already been to the Met or the MoMA . Permanent collections include Art of the Islamic World, Arts of Asia, The Brooklyn Della Robbia, Ancient Egyptian Art, Design 1880 to Now, Assyrian Art, Period Rooms and American Art. General admission tickets don’t include access to special exhibitions and will require an extra free.

Here are a few items to look for at the Brooklyn Museum:

• Cartonnage of Nespanetjerenpere (945-718 BC)
• George Washington (1796, Gilbert Stuart)
• The Doge’s Palace (1908, Claude Monet)
• The Peaceable Kingdom (1833-1834, Edward Hicks)
• The Dinner Party (1974-1979, Judy Chicago)

Travel Tip : Admission is free the first Saturday of every month from February to August and October between 5:00pm and11:00pm.

14. Brooklyn Children’s Museum

Founded in 1899, the Brooklyn Children’s Museum was the first kids museum in the world . It was originally part of the Brooklyn Institute of Arts and Sciences and today it contains more than 30,000 artifacts .

• Address :  145 Brooklyn Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213
• Official website : brooklynkids.org
• Admission price : $15 adults + $15 children (1-12)
• Hours of operation : 10:00am-5:00pm Wednesday to Sunday (closed Monday and Tuesday)

This museum offers sensory play and exploration opportunities to encourage a child’s social, emotional and physical development. Permanent exhibits include Nature’s Engineers, AirMaze, Totally Tots, The NEST, Neighborhood Nature and World Brooklyn. General admission tickets include access to all exhibits as well as special performances or festivals.

Travel Tip : Admission is free every Thursday from 2:00pm-5:00pm in collaboration with Amazon and tickets can be reserved online.

15. SPYSCAPE

SPYSCAPE is a new contemporary experiential museum in New York City. It features seven main galleries showcasing the history of espionage and it’s extremely interesting. If you’re looking for a unique museum to visit in the city, we highly recommend it .

• Address : 928 8th Ave, New York, NY 10019
• Official website : spyscape.com
• Average time needed : 1-2 hours
• Admission price : $44 adults + $37 child (6-12)
• Hours of operation : 10:00am-10:00pm Monday to Saturday + 10:00am-8:00pm Sunday

We loved visiting this museum because you can pretend to be a spy . Depending on the package you choose, you’ll be profiled and given the chance to take on missions using high tech gadgets . The laser room (pictured above) was one of our favorite experiences.

16. The Morgan Library & Museum

Another popular library on this list of NYC’s best museums, the Morgan Library is located in the heart of the city. It began as the personal library of Pierpont Morgan , but has gone through multiple renovations and now holds a collection of historical manuscripts, early printed books and old master drawings.

• Address : 225 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016
• Official website : themorgan.org
• Admission price : $22 adults + Children under 13 are free
• Hours of operation : 10:30am-5:00pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday + 10:30am-7:00pm Friday (closed Mondays)

It’s a smaller museum, but the beautiful library is worth seeing for yourself. If you’re a returning visitor to New York, this would be a great option because it’s a hidden gem most people don’t include on a first time itinerary .

Travel Tip : Admission to the historic rooms of J. Pierpont Morgan’s Library is free Tuesday and Sunday 3:00pm to 5:00pm.

17. New York City Fire Museum

If you love firefighting or a fireman, you need to visit the New York City Fire Museum. This is the official museum of the Fire Department of New York dating back to the 1870’s. The mission of this museum is to preserve the history of the NY fire service and provide fire prevention safety to visitors.

• Address : 278 Spring St, New York, NY 10013
• Official website : nycfiremuseum.org
• Admission price : $15 adults + $6 children (3-17)
• Hours of operation : 10:00am-5:00pm Wednesday to Sunday

This is a small 2 floor museum, but it’s packed full of history . During your visit, you can walk through the permanent exhibits including Firefighting in Parade, Tools and Uniforms, the 9/11 Memorial, Fire Apparatus and the Romand of Firefighting. Special exhibits and events are also available.

Travel Tip : Active FDNY, NYPD, PAPD and active US military can visit for free with a valid ID.

18. National Museum Of The American Indian

Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the National Museum of the American Indian includes one of the world’s most expansive collections of native artifacts including archives, photos, objects and media from the Arctic Circle all the way to Tierra del Fuego.

• Address : 1 Bowling Green, New York, NY 10004
• Official website : americanindian.si.edu
• Hours of operation : 10:00am-5:00pm daily

We like this museum because it’s free to visit . The south gallery showcases an exhibit about the Infinity of Nations with 700 works from Indigenous cultures. While the east and west galleries celebrate history about Native New York . Kids also love the imagiNATIONS Activity Center which highlights food cultivated by native cultures that we eat today.

Travel Tip : You can also visit the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington D.C.

19. Neue Galerie New York

The Neue Galerie is popular NY art museum focused on early twentieth-century German and Austrian art . It features work from Vienna circa 1900 and German art from the early 20th century on the two main exhibition floors. Temporary exhibits also rotate on the third floor galleries.

• Address : 1048 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
• Official website : neuegalerie.org
• Admission price : $28 adults (children under 12 are not admitted during regular hours)
• Hours of operation : 11:00am-6 pm Thursday to Money (closed Tuesday and Wednesday)

A digital audio tour is available for free on the Bloomberg Connects App or you can book a private guided tour which should be arranged at least 3 weeks in advance. Visitors also love Café Sabarsky because it draws draws its inspiration Viennese cafés.

Travel Tip : The museum is open late on the first Friday of every month and offers free admission from 5:00pm-8:00pm.

20. Museum Of Jewish Heritage

Another NY museum still on our bucket list is the Museum of Jewish Heritage. It’s a very popular museum that focuses on Jewish history in the 20th century and now. However, it’s also a memorial to those who lost their lives during the Holocaust.

• Address : 36 Battery Pl, New York, NY 10280
• Official website : mjhnyc.org
• Admission price : $18 adults, children under 13 are free
• Hours of operation : 10:00am-5:00pm Sunday and Wednesday, 10:00am-8:00pm Thursday, 10:00am-3:00pm Friday (closed Monday, Tuesday, Saturday)

Tickets to the museum include access to both the permanent and special exhibits . Many visitors often say they could have spent more time inside so if you’re planning to visit, make sure you give yourself enough time.

Travel Tip : Admission to this museum is free on Thursdays between 4:00pm–8pm. 

Honorable Mentions

We love New York City because there is always so much to experience. Even after living in the city, we still have so many museums to visit. So if you’ve already seen most of the popular NY museums we’ve already listed, here are a few honorable mentions with a quick synapsis :

• Frick Collection – Masterpieces from the Renaissance to the early twentieth century.
• Queens Museum – Located in Flushing Meadows, it’s best known for the Panorama of the City of New York.
• New Museum – A popular contemporary art museum in Manhattan.
• New-York Historical Society – This was New York’s first official museum and it showcases 400 years of history.
• Jewish Museum – A museum highlighting the vibrant Jewish culture and art.
• Museum of Chinese in America – Detailed exhibitions of Chinese American history.
• Fotografiska NY – A branch of a Swedish contemporary art museum.
• Museum of Sex – An intimate museum featuring the history, evolution and cultural significance of human sexuality.

Many of these New York museums offer free admission on certain days so click the orange links to learn more if you’re interested in visiting.

Fun Museums In NYC

If you’re looking for a museum where you can get unique content for social media , here are a few options popular with influencers:

• Museum of Ice Cream – A museum about the history of ice cream with 10 multi-sensory installations.
• Museum of Illusions – Test your eyes with kaleidoscopes, holograms, optical illusions, puzzles and reverse rooms.
• Madame Tussauds – A unique attraction featuring wax statues of celebrities and famous people in Times Square.
• Sloomoo Institute – The ultimate playground for a slimy experience, great for both kids and adults.
• Color Factory – An interactive museum with immersive colorful art experiences.

Of if you’re visiting with kids , here are a few more museums they will love:

• Children’s Museum of Manhattan – Four levels with of interactive exhibits to help build physical and cognitive development.
• New York Hall of Science – Geared towards older children, this museum showcases science, engineering and technology to understand the world around us.
• Jewish Children’s Museum – Aimed towards children of all faith, this museum provides an interactive environment to explore Jewish history and culture.
• Staten Island Children’s Museum – This museum nurtures a child’s creativity and curiosity in an interactive way.
• National Museum of Mathematics – An award winning museum focused solely on math.

How To Save Money

If you’re planning to visit several of the most popular museums in New York, we recommend purchasing a NY Sightseeing Pass . This is an attraction pass that contains over 100+ activities in the city including most of the popular museums.

The NY Sightseeing Pass is our favorite attraction pass in the city and you should read our detailed review here to make sure the museums you want to visit are included. We also have a 5-10% discount exclusively for our readers.

Save $ With Our Discount

Use the button to receive our 5-10% discount off any NY Sightseeing Pass.

In Conclusion

Museums in New York City are not a one size fits all kind of thing . Depending on your travel style and who you’re traveling with, the museums you’ll visit in the city may drastically differ to others. Here is a conclusion of the best New York museums by category based on reviews from TripAdvisor and our experiences:

• Best art museum – Metropolitan Museum Of Art
• Most emotional museum – 9/11 Memorial & Museum
• Best history museum – American Museum of Natural History
• Most interactive museum – SPYSCAPE
• Best museum for kids – Brooklyn Children’s Museum
• Most unique museum – New York Transit Museum
• Best museum for photos – Museum of Ice Cream
• Best NYC themed Museum – Museum of the City of NY

If we had to choose the best museum in NYC, it would be the Metropolitan Museum of Art . The Met is currently the largest and most visited museum in New York City. We think the Met is better than the MoMA because it offers numerous works and artifacts throughout the centuries from various cultures. But if you like modern art, you should visit the MoMA over the Met.

However, you can’t really go wrong with any of the museums in New York and here are the museums we always recommend to our friends and family:

• 9/11 Museum
• New York Transit Museum
• Ellis Island Immigration Museum
• American History Museum

If you’re interested in learning specifically about New York, you should head to the Museum of the City of New York , the New York City Fire Museum or the Tenement Museum .

More New York Guides

• Cheap things to do in NYC
• Tips for visiting New York in Winter
• Best New York City hotels
• NYC observation decks ranked
• A 4 day New York City itinerary
• Fun things to do in Lower Manhattan
• 60+ amazing NY photo locations
• How to find the best NY pizza slice
• Where to find bagels in New York

Want more New York content? Head over to our New York Travel Guides to explore the Finger Lakes, Adirondacks and the best of NYC.

We hope this guide featuring the most popular museums in New York City helps with planning your visit!

Please let us know if you have any questions about the NYC museums listed or your visit to New York in the comments below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

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All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

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35 Best Museums in Manhattan

This post lists 35 of the best museums in Manhattan, including the top 15 museums, other great art and history, cultural museums, and museums that kids will love.

We mention which museums are free, offer free hours, or are free with a tourist deal pass.

• Top 16 Museums
• More Art Museums
• More Historical and Cultural Museums
• Museums For Kids
• Free Museums

Top 16 Museums in Manhattan

1. Metropolitan Museum of Art

1000 Fifth Avenue at 82nd Street

The Metropolitan Museum of Art on Manhattan’s Upper East Side is the most prestigious and largest museum in Manhattan and arguably the world. 

Its sheer number of items (nearly 2 million) in its permanent collection is staggering. 

But what makes The Met worth a visit is the depth of its collection. It spans 5,000 years of world culture, from prehistory to the present. 

It’s just not possible to see all of The Met in one day given that more than a million objects are on view! 

Their permanent exhibitions include European sculpture and decorative arts, medieval and Renaissance art, antiquities from the ancient world, Asian art, armor, costumes, musical instruments, drawings, and prints. 

They have a relatively small, but excellent, modern and contemporary art collection. If you are a glutton for modern art, head to the Museum of Modern Art.

Highlights are the Egyptian Temple of Dendur, ancient Roman frescoes, Emanuel Leutze’s Washington Crossing the Delaware , Jacques-Louis David’s Death of Socrates, and the European Sculpture Hall.

See our post on highlights of the Met collection .

Your ticket includes admission to The Cloisters, America’s only museum dedicated entirely to the art and architecture of the Middle Ages.

This museum is included for free with most tourist deal passes .

2. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

11 West 53rd Street between 5th and 6th Avenues

Located in Midtown Manhattan , the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is widely regarded as the world’s most impressive modern art museum. 

Its permanent collection is vast, with over 150,000 paintings, drawings, prints, photographs, sculptures, architectural models and drawings, and design objects.

Highlights among the permanent collection are Van Gogh’s Starry Night , Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon , Monet’s Water Lilies , Andy Warhol’s Gold Marilyn Monroe, Frida Kahlo's Self-Portrait , and Dali’s Persistence of Time .

3. American Museum of Natural History

Central Park West between West 77th and West 81st streets

With five floors housing 45 permanent installations and special exhibitions, you have a lot of ground to cover in the American Museum of Natural History! 

Its most famous inhabitants are the dinosaurs!

You can see reassembled dinosaur fossils, such as the Titanosaur, one of the largest dinosaurs that ever lived.

The Rose Center for Earth and Space has the spectacular Big Bang Theater and Hayden Planetarium as well as the sixth-largest meteorite in the world. 

The Wall of Biodiversity is designed beautifully and highly educational. The mineral and gems collection is fantastic. 

Last but not least is the iconic Blue Whale. This 94-foot-long, 21,000-point model of a blue whale, hangs over the entire hall. You cannot miss it!

When you’ve worn your feet out and need a rest, cross the street into Central Park to relax!

We ran a poll in our Facebook Group ( NYC Travel Tips ) and asked our roughly 160k members which museums they would visit.

Click on the image to cast your vote.

4. National September 11th Museum (9/11 Museum)

180 Greenwich Street at the World Trade Center

This one-of-a-kind museum has several exhibits that detail the history of 9/11 and the World Trade Center. 

The Historical Exhibition is filled with artifacts and historic details of the World Trade Center.

The Memorial Exhibition contains pictures of the 2,983 victims of both 9/11 and the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center. 

Witness at Ground Zero includes more than 500 photographs of the site in the days after the tragic attack.

This Lower Manhattan museum is situated next to the contemplative 9/11 Memorial . Be sure to set aside time to gaze at the twin cascading fountains.

Admission is free on Mondays 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm. Find out more about visiting National September 11th Museum .

Also, this museum is included for free with most tourist deal passes .

5. National Museum of the American Indian

1 Bowling Green (across from Battery Park )

This distinguished museum in Lower Manhattan has a permanent collection of 700 Native American art & artifacts, some going back as long as 12,000 years! 

In addition to permanent and temporary exhibits, the museum hosts public programs including music and dance performances that display the culture and diversity of the Native people of the Americas.

The museum is housed in the former Alexander Hamilton Customs House, a stunning Beaux-Arts building designed by Cass Gilbert, who also designed the Woolworth Building a few blocks north on Broadway.

The museum is always free to visit.

6. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Pier 86 at 46th Street

Housed on a former aircraft carrier, the USS Intrepid, this unique museum in Midtown Manhattan offers an immersive experience for its visitors of all ages. 

The museum includes the space shuttle Enterprise, a Concorde, and a guided-missile submarine - and is arguably the coolest museum in New York. 

Those who are interested in space, maritime and aeronautical history, and technology will love this museum.

It is very popular with children due to its interactive exhibits.

Note that the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is free to visit on select Fridays every month from April through September from 5:00 pm-9:00 pm.

7. The Tenement Museum

103 Orchard Street at the corner of Delancey Street

The museum is housed in an actual tenement building located on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. 

The tenement was built in 1863 and from that year through the 1930s, approximately 7,000 immigrants were residents in the cramped, poorly constructed, and unsafe apartments.

The Tenement Museum seeks to educate its visitors about the families who lived in the tenement over the years and by telling their stories with reenactments in the actual building, the museum tells the tale of America.

A visit to the Tenement Museum is a memorable experience. 

8. Guggenheim Museum

1071 5th Avenue 

The Guggenheim Museum’s collection contains masterpieces of Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, and early modern and contemporary art. 

Highlights include Wassily Kandinsky's Composition 8 , René Magritte’s Empire of Light , Marc Chagall’s Paris through the Window, and Paul Klee, Red Balloon .

The museum building itself is one of the most recognizable buildings in the world, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

The Guggenheim has a suggested donation policy on Saturdays from 6 pm–8 pm.

There is a mandatory $1 donation and you must reserve in advance.

9. The Frick Collection

1 East 70th Street (closed for renovation) * Temporary location 945 Madison Avenue at 75th Street

The Frick is an often overlooked museum in New York City, perhaps because it is a smaller museum tucked away in an elegant 18th-century mansion on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. 

Its collection has some stunning pieces of art and decor including acclaimed Old Master paintings and excellent examples of European sculpture and decorative arts. 

Highlights are Rembrandt’s Self-Portrait, Johannes Vermeer’s Officer and Laughing Girl , and Sir Thomas Moore by Hans Holbein.

10. New-York Historical Society Museum and Library

170 Central Park West at 77th Street

Located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, this is the oldest museum in New York City.

The society was founded in 1804 but it did not move into its current building until 1908. 

The museum’s mission is to educate visitors about the city’s rich history.

Their collection of artifacts and objects, some as old as four centuries, is impressive.

This museum offers free admission Fridays from 6 pm-8 pm.

11. Whitney Museum of American Art

99 Gansevoort Street between Washington Street and 10th Avenue

This museum focuses entirely on contemporary American art from 20th and 21st Century artists.

The Whitney Museum of Modern Art is known worldwide for its prestigious Biennial Exhibit.

The museum is located at the entrance to the High Line , so why not combine a visit?

Admission is free on Fridays from 7 pm-10 pm.

12. Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum

2 East 91st Street between 5th and Madison Avenues

This unique and beautiful museum is dedicated to ancient and contemporary design. Its collection has over 210,000 design objects spanning thirty centuries.

It is housed in a spectacular mansion formerly belonging to Andrew Carnegie.

13. Neue Galerie

1048 5th Avenue at 86th Street

This art gallery is dedicated exclusively to German and Austrian art and design including paintings, furniture, sculpture, photography, and more.

One major highlight not to be missed is Gustav Klimt’s Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I .

14. Rubin Museum of Art

150 West 17th Street at 7th Avenue

The Rubin is a rare find, with a collection dedicated solely to Himalayan art and artifacts. It hosts a very popular event called K2 Friday Nights. 

On K2 Nights, you can explore all the galleries for free, and after, head to Cafe Serai, which is turned into a lounge with a live DJ and a special cocktail menu.

Museum admission is free with a ticket reservation every Friday night from 6-10 pm.

15. American Folk Art Museum  

This museum on the Upper West Side across from Lincoln Center highlights the work of Folk artists, people who are self-taught and have not received any formal artistic training.

Its collection has over 8,000 objects from the 18th century to the present.

Admission is always free.

16. Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

Here you can hob-knob with celebrities and historical figures - well, actually, their wax versions.

The wax figures are incredibly lifelike and you will see them in their 'natural habitat'!

As you walk in, you'll join the "Opening Night Party" and mingle with Hollywood A-Listers like Brad Pitt & Johnny Depp.

That's just the beginning of the fun!

Additional Art Museums In Manhattan

17. El Museo del Barrio

1230 Fifth Avenue at 104th Street

Dedicated entirely to Latino arts, you can see works by artists of Puerto Rican, Caribbean, and Latin American heritage. 

It is free with suggested admission.

18. The New Museum

235 Bowery between Stanton & Rivington Streets

This is Manhattan’s only museum dedicated entirely to new contemporary art.

It is renowned around the world for its innovative exhibitions. Even the building itself, located on the Lower East Side, is cutting-edge!

Pay what you wish for admission from 7 pm to 9 pm every Thursday.

19. International Center of Photography

79 Essex Street between Delancey and Broome Streets

Dedicated to photography and visual culture, the ICP is a preeminent institution around the world.

It features a multi-level gallery and free public space.

Its exhibitions are widely acclaimed and include early daguerreotypes, documentary images, and contemporary photography.

Admission is pay-by-donation on Thursdays from 6 pm-9 pm.

20. Studio Museum in Harlem  

144 West 125th Street

This contemporary museum in Harlem is devoted to African-American artists of the 19th and 20th centuries.

It is temporarily closed, but continue to check their website for reopening dates.

Additional Historical And Cultural Museums In Manhattan

21. Fraunces Tavern Museum

54 Pearl Street at Broad Street

This NYC small gem of a museum provides a rich history of colonial life in New York and the history of the early days of this nation.

They even have a recreation of the dining room in which George Washington’s Farewell Dinner took place!

It's one of the many things to see in Lower Manhattan .

22. Federal Hall National Memorial

The intersection of Wall Street and Broad Street

Located on Wall Street , this was George Washington’s inauguration and the place where the Bill of Rights was officially passed.

You can see the actual bible that Washington took his oath on at his inauguration.

One very interesting display is about the trial of John Peter Zenger in 1735 which established the notion of freedom of the press, now codified in the First Amendment to the Constitution.

Always free.

23. Museum of Chinese in America (MoCA)

215 Centre Street between Howard & Grand Sts

This unique museum is located in Chinatown and showcases the history and heritage of Chinese-Americans.

24. South Street Seaport Museum

12 Fulton Street at Front Street

This museum was founded to preserve many of the buildings, ships, monuments, and the overall historic area of the South Street Seaport dating back to the Revolutionary War era.

The Museum includes its exhibit building and two ships you can board and tour, the 1885 cargo ship Wavertree and the 1907 Lightship Ambrose.

25. The Museum of Jewish Heritage

36 Battery Place at West street

Located in Battery Park City , this museum honors the victims of the Holocaust by examining Jewish traditions, achievements, and faith.

Their exhibitions are highly enlightening.

Admission is free on Thursdays between 4 pm-8 pm. Also, this museum is included for free with most tourist deal passes .

26. Morgan Library & Museum

225 Madison Avenue at 36th Street

This library consists of J.Pierpont Morgan’s exquisite collection of rare books and manuscripts, drawings, and artifacts.

It is housed in one of the finest examples of Neoclassical buildings in America.

Admission is free on Fridays from 7 pm-9 pm.

27. Museum of the City of New York

1220 Fifth Avenue at 103rd Street

The museum’s mission is to preserve and exhibit New York City's history through its permanent collection and unique exhibits. 

Free entry with suggested admission.

It's one of the best things to do in the Upper East Side .

28. National Jazz Museum in Harlem

58 W. 129th Street

At this small but excellent museum in Harlem , you can listen to hundreds of historical recordings of early jazz pioneers.

The museum also offers lectures, discussions, and live performances.

Admission is free but they appreciate donations.

29. The Jewish Museum

1109 5th Avenue at E. 92nd Street

In addition to a superb collection of Judaica, the Jewish Museum also hosts significant exhibitions of modern and contemporary art.

More than 28,000 works of art, artifacts and more. 

Free on Saturdays.

30. Skyscraper Museum

39 Battery Place at the corner of First Place

This small but interesting museum showcases the history of the skyscraper and its place in New York City.

You can see small-scale replicas of some of the city’s iconic skyscrapers. There are also changing exhibits.

This museum is also included for free with most tourist deal passes .

Best Museums For Kids

31. Castle Clinton National Monument

Located in Battery Park

In 1811, this fort was built to defend New York against the British aggression that led to the war of 1812.

America won the war after being used for several activities.

The fort became a historic site in 1946. It was restored to its original appearance complete with replica cannons.

There is also a very small but quite interesting exhibit room. 

32. New York Transit Museum Annex

Located inside of Grand Central Terminal .

This small annex of the New York Transit Museum in Brooklyn will give you a taste of the fabulous exhibits you’ll see if you head out to the museum itself. It also doubles as a gift shop. 

It’s not just kids who love the museum in Brooklyn. Adults find it fascinating too! We highly recommend you check it out! 

The Annex is always free, but the museum in Brooklyn charges admission.

33. National Museum of Mathematics

11 East 26th Street between Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue

This museum strives to educate the public - and especially kids - about the patterns and mathematics in the world around us.

It does so in a fun and interactive way that kids enjoy!

Its dynamic exhibits were created to spark curiosity and get visitors excited about the wonders of mathematics.

It’s in the Flatiron District , just down the block from Madison Square Park which is very popular with families.

34. Museum of Ice Cream

558 Broadway at Prince Street

Each of the installations here is hands-on and fun!

One of the most popular exhibits is the Sprinkle Pool – a swimming pool filled with colored sprinkles!

In addition to all the interactive exhibits, there is a lot of ice cream to eat! The museum holds special events throughout the year.

35. New York City Fire Museum

278 Spring Street between Varick and Hudson Streets

Located in SoHo , this small museum is in a 1904 Beaux-Arts-style former firehouse.

It houses one of the nation’s most significant collections of fire-related artifacts and art dating back to the late 1700s.

There is also a gallery dedicated to 343 fire department members who gave their lives on September 11th.

36. Museum of Broadway

The Museum of Broadway, an exciting addition to Times Square, opened in late 2022. The name is self-explanatory!

The Museum of Broadway is not only for theater enthusiasts.

This museum will appeal to anyone who enjoys immersive experiences, history, and dazzling creativity.

And learn about the current shows on Broadway as well as how to get deals on Broadway show tickets .

That's it. And remember, this is just a list of museums in Manhattan.

There are other boroughs where you can visit other great NYC museums, such as the Brooklyn Museum in Brooklyn or the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria, Queens, the Statue of Liberty Museum , and Ellis Island.

Related Posts

• Free Museums in New York City
• Things to Do In New York City
• Which New York City Tourist Deal Pass is Best

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61 Museums You Can’t Miss in New York City – From Iconic to Hidden Gems

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From the bright lights of Broadway and the towering skyscrapers of Lower Manhattan to the thriving Harlem arts culture and hipster Brooklyn music scene, New York City is, justifiably, considered the city of all cities.

Forever iconic and always exciting, this East Coast concrete jungle has served as the poster child for the USA for decades, oozing multicultural flair thanks to the millions of international immigrants who arrived via Lady Liberty herself through the 18th and 19th centuries.

Fast forward to today, and you’ve got the Big Apple we all know and love: a melting pot of different cultures, cuisines, and customs, where something new awaits you around every corner — one moment you’ll be slurping handmade noodles in Chinatown and browsing the halls of the Museum of Chinese in America, the next you’ll be three slices deep in a Little Italy eaterie before exploring the sensory-overload that it is the Museum of Ice Cream.

And what could be more quintessentially New York than its museums? From world-renowned institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and The American Museum of Natural History to lesser-known but no less fascinating places like the Museum of Sex or The National Jazz Museum in Harlem, there’s a museum for everyone in NYC.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong resident, the city is always full of surprises (not to mention new buildings) and never ceases to entertain.

So if you’re planning a trip to this concrete jungle any time soon and want to unleash your inner culture vulture, you’ve come to the right place. Without further ado, here are our top picks for museums in New York City !

1 – Museum of Modern Art

Tucked away in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, the internationally renowned and highly coveted MoMA is one of the best museums in New York City – as what was originally the inaugural museum devoted to the modern era, it’s a noteworthy first mention on any art or culture vulture’s Big Apple bucket list.

Diving deep into themes like fashion, architecture, photography, and design, with over 200,000 progressive works on show from world-class artists including Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso, Warhol, Kahlo, and Pollock, not to mention the ever-changing lineup of thought-provoking temporary exhibitions, this multi-floored, 53rd Street institution has a little something for everyone.

Throw in a sculpture garden (and terrace); an audio guide for visitors who want to delve even deeper into the contemporary art on offer here, plus annual festivals (and regular immersive events and indie film screenings) taking place throughout the year too, and you could easily whisk away an entire day here without checking off all the edgy sights.

Hot tip: for the most in-depth experience, join a docent-led guided tour, and for the most bang for your buck, visit on a Friday evening between 5.30pm and 9pm for free entry!

• Museum of Modern Art tickets

2 – Museum of the City of New York

As the world’s most famous city, it’s only fitting that buzzing and multicultural NYC has its own dedicated museum. Located on Fifth Avenue straddling the northeastern edge of Central Park, the Museum of the City was founded in 1923 with a mission to showcase and celebrate all things New York — and, with exhibits showcasing the modern era all the way back to the 16th century, it does so in diverse and spectacular fashion.

Through nearly 200,000 items on display at any one time, featuring photographs, old maps and manuscripts, furniture, paintings, toys, and all manner of objects that tell the story of NYC’s past and present, the Museum explores ongoing themes like “Celebrating the City”, “New York at Its Core”, and “New York, New Music”.

From exploring historical events like the American Revolution; looking into more modern occurrences like the construction of some of Manhattan’s most iconic skyscrapers (including the Empire State Building and the former Twin Towers); checking out exhibitions about activism, prohibition, or quirky once-offs like artworks by Puppets of New York – there’s much to discover here for locals and tourists alike.

What’s more, this museum also hosts a number of lively events each year — from lectures explaining what it means to be an immigrant living in NYC today to game nights, film screenings, and puppet shows.

3 – Morgan Library & Museum

The former private collection of JP Morgan; one of the finest collections of drawings, books, and manuscripts in the world can be found at Morgan Library & Museum (formerly The Pierpont Morgan Library).

A stone’s throw from the Empire State Building, the brownstone venue’s 350,000-item collection is made up of important literary works from authors such as Charles Dickens and Mark Twain, complemented by a treasure trove of diverse Egyptian art, Renaissance paintings, Chinese porcelains, and old drawings and prints.

Despite the building being close to 120 years old, today, it’s been transformed into far more than a multi-millionaire’s personal collection; the little-known museum actually houses 20 different spaces, including galleries, libraries, and a performance hall.

Hot tip: if short on time, the free 60-minute highlights tour, running Tuesday through Sunday at 12.30pm, is highly regarded.

4 – Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience

Tucked away in Tribeca a stone’s throw from the Hudson River, this new exhibit makes you feel as if you’re entering into the famed painter’s mind, with his bright colors and bold brushstrokes surrounding you at every turn, made completely immersive with the help of the latest technology.

Featuring dozens of reproductions of Van Gogh’s greatest hits projected onto the walls and floors around you, as well as an interactive portion where you can recreate your own Dutch masterpiece, Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience is an art-lover’s dream come true and an example of museums adopting modern technology to an exceptional standard.

Open year-round, this headline-making attraction promises to be a wonderful way to spend an evening — did someone say date night? — if you’re looking for something different, indoors, and want to learn more about one of the most famous painters in history.

5 – Metropolitan Museum of Art

Putting aside Paris’ Louvre, The Met is arguably one of the most famous art museums in the world , and for good reason. With more than two million works on display (from ancient Egyptian pieces to contemporary American art, Eastern tapestries, and historic Greek and Roman sculptures), this Midtown behemoth is an unrivaled treasure trove of culture that’s worth dedicating an entire day to explore.

Boasting everything from armor and weapons to musical instruments and costumes, the Met’s vast collections are spread across seventeen curatorial departments (plus a 20,000-item Department of Photographs), with special exhibitions that come and go throughout the year (so it’s always worth checking what’s on before you visit).

Featuring an overflowing gift shop and cafe to recharge the batteries, plus offering insightful historian-led tours, this Central Park-straddling institution is not to be missed.

• Metropolitan Museum of Art tickets

6 – Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Housed on top of the retired aircraft carrier Intrepid at Pier 86 on Manhattan’s West Side since 1982, this Museum is one of the largest maritime museums in the world, with a whopping 45000 square feet of exhibition space that dives the world of the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, and NASA.

Home to a vast selection of impressive retired military aircraft and vehicles (including a Grumman TBM Avenger and British Airways Concorde), the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum takes visitors on a journey through history, from World War II-era bombers and fighter jets to the space shuttle Enterprise and everything in between.

With submarines and helicopters too, and exhibits that teach not only about America’s Air Force, but also its maritime history and the U.S Navy SEALs, this interactive museum is perfect for kids and adults of all ages who want to learn about America’s military and aviation achievements.

Extremely interactive (which makes it a winner for kids and teens), the museum allows guests to do things like pilot an F-18 fighter jet (in a simulator) or see the space shuttle Enterprise up close, while also offering starlit movie nights and historian-led tours, making it one of the most fun (and educational) museums in NYC.

• Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum tickets

7 – Tenement Museum

New York City is a multicultural melting pot, and a metropolis built on the back of decades of immigration. Offering a rare insight into the day-to-day lives of late 19th-century immigrants to those of the 2000s, the Tenement Museum is a Lower East Side institution that tells the stories of those who helped shape NYC into the city it is today.

Operating out of two restored 19th-century tenement buildings on Orchard Street, this small museum takes visitors on intimate tours led by knowledgeable guides, through the buildings to get an up-close look at how these families lived, as well as the neighborhood to see how over 20 nations worth of new faces has built up the area.

With exhibits dedicated to themes like struggle, the role of Jewish women, and honing in on specific family stories, the Tenement Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the hardships and successes of generations of immigrants who made New York City their home.

8 – The Cloisters

A sister museum to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Cloisters is exclusively devoted to the art and architecture of the Middle Ages — and, believe it or not, the only place in America to do so — with a large focus on pieces from ancient Europe.

With its collection of more than five thousand works (including sculptures, tapestries, paintings, stained glass windows, and metalwork), this museum – housed in a reconstructed medieval monastery near Fort Tryon Park in Upper Manhattan – provides an unparalleled look at Romanesque and Gothic art (likewise an unparalleled view over the Hudson River).

Grandiose artwork aside, the venue is impressive in its own right. Made up of four different abbey and monster structures that were transported from Europe in the early 1900s, wandering around the ground here is like a journey back in time across the pond.

9 – Children’s Museum Of Manhattan

Easily one of the best museums in New York City for anyone traveling with kids in tow, the hands-on, curiosity-inspiring, and utterly delightful Children’s Museum of Manhattan (CMOM) is guaranteed to have the tots occupied (and learning) for at least a couple of hours.

With fun, interactive exhibits spanning five floors — from an area dedicated to free play to sections that teach kids about science, history, art, culture, and the adult career world — it’s no wonder this Upper West Side, kid-centric museum draws more than 325,000 people every year!

Designed to spark children’s imagination (and unleash the inner child in the parents too), the museum is known for its heavily interactive exhibits (like Superpowered Metropolis, Inside Art, and Adventures with Dora and Diego) that encourage a mix of play, learning, and experimentation.

Hot tip: Best Family Things to Do in New York City with Kids

10 – Guggenheim Museum

Housed in a showstopping building arguably as famous as the collection which lies inside — a circular, Frank Lloyd Wright-designed structure that sits on Fifth Avenue at the edge of Central Park — the Guggenheim Museum welcomes over a million visitors annually in search of one of the most comprehensive collections of modern and contemporary art in the world

Scattered throughout its unique, UNESCO-listed home, where a captivating spiralized interior makes for a wonderful photo op, hundreds of pieces of one-of-a-kind art are on display at any given time (including priceless works by Picasso, Kandinsky, Warhol, and Basquiat).

With guided tours, regular events, and flavor-of-the-month exhibits to boot, the revered museum is unsurprisingly heralded as one of the best museums in New York City.

• Guggenheim Museum tickets

11 – New Museum

In the heart of the Bowery, sits one of New York City’s most important museums for contemporary art – the New Museum .

Opened in the 1970s, this seven-story venue is dedicated to showcasing experimental (think wacky, weird, and wonderful – and not everyone’s cup of tea) works from emerging artists with a focus on new media and performance art pieces — with killer views of lower Manhattan from its 7th-floor space too.

The 60,000-square-foot museum — officially and fittingly called the New Museum of Contemporary Art — is made up entirely of stacked rectangular boxes, creating an interesting silhouette that stands out against its older neighbors.

12 – Rubin Museum of Art

Setting itself apart from the sleuth of general-interest Manhattan museums, The Rubin Museum of Art is devoted to the exhibition and study of Himalayan art from regions including Tibet, Nepal, India, and Mongolia.

With a collection of more than 38,000 pieces (the majority of which are from around the Tibetan plateau, many many of which uncover the relationship with mind and body), it’s one of the largest museums in the world dedicated to this type of fascinating, rarely-seen artwork.

Walking into the seldom-crowded museum feels like walking into an ancient temple; thanks partly to the building’s traditional New York City architecture but also because of the stunning display cases that house each individual piece, and the myriad Buddhist imagery and religious artifacts that create a sense of peace.

What makes this museum so unique however is not just its vast collection (which covers everything from paintings and sculptures to textiles and jewelry) but its Himalayan Cafe — grab an authentic meal after the hour-long guided tour for a delicious visit sign-off.

13 – Jewish Museum

Full of both religious and secular art, the three-floor Jewish Museum skirts the so-called Museum Mile on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, and covers hundreds of years of Jewish history and culture from all around the world (from biblical and medieval times up to the 21st century).

As one of the oldest Jewish museums in the world, dating back to the early 1900s, this beloved institution takes visitors on a journey through time, covering the Jewish diaspora and modern-day Israel, with 30,000 works of art and countless more pieces of literature to boot. Highlights include a menorah collection, the annual Jewish Film Festival, photographs of NYC Jewish life in the 1940s and 1950s, and a fascinating Leonard Cohen exhibition to boot

Award-winning and insightful, the museum is located in the Felix M. Warburg mansion – a piece of art and history in its own right.

14 – 9-11 Memorial & Museum

Incredibly moving and forever sobering, the National September 11 Memorial Museum documents the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the lead-up, and the aftermath.

Found in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan, on the site of the former World Trade Center Twin Towers, this museum is both a memorial to those who passed and a tribute to the survivors from that fateful day.

The museum — which is free to visit on Mondays for anyone traveling on a budget — tells the story of what happened in brilliant detail, using multimedia displays (including oral histories), interactive exhibits, rare artifacts, and even a fire engine with a story of its own; it’s an emotional journey that leaves visitors staggered but grateful for all the first responders who risked their lives trying to help.

Before entering the museum, the two infinity fountains catch your attention: occupying the footprints of the buildings, the waterfalls cascade into the reflecting pools and, etched with names of fallen heroes, make for a grand and poignant tribute. Each pool extends deep below ground level, not only sitting in the shadow of the former towers, but also representing the depth of loss and grief.

• 9-11 Memorial & Museum tickets

15 – Smithsonian – National Museum of the American Indian New York

A wonderful look into the culture and heritage of the Native American people, the National Museum of the American Indian New York is the local branch of the esteemed Smithsonian facility over in Washington D.C.

Housed in a beautiful building (the historic Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House) in Lower Manhattan’s Bowling Green, this museum tells the story of Native American history from a national perspective – highlighted by a permanent collection of 700 works of Native art from North, Central, and South America — as well as specific to the New York area, with exhibitions that explore everything from traditional crafts and tools to modern-day movements.

Regularly hosting musicians, dancers, artists, and elders, guests can also watch films, listen to music, and attend talks at this museum — a perfect (and free) spot for anyone interested in learning more about a hugely important part of American history.

16 – New York Transit Museum

As the world’s most famous subway system, it seems only fitting that the Big Apple should have its very own museum dedicated to all things MTA.

The New York Transit Museum , located in Downtown Brooklyn near City Hall (in a decommissioned subway station if you don’t mind), is exactly that: a treasure trove of subway and bus memorabilia dating back to the turn of the 20th century (including posters, timetables, signage, uniforms, old photographs and a whole lot more), plus interactive exhibits on how the transit system works today!

What’s more, the museum also has full-sized subway cars and now-retired busses — it’s like taking a step back in time.

17 – New-York Historical Society

Just around the corner from the Museum of Natural History (and the leafy fields of Central Park), the New-York Historical Society — miraculously, the first museum in the city — is a fascinating insight into the evolution and bygone days of New York City and State.

Founded in 1804, this institution is one of the oldest museums in America and has an extensive (and ever-changing) collection on show, from Tiffany glass windows to samurai armor to items relating to George Washington and beyond.

There’s also a library on-site, which is open for research, plus regular talks, a recreation of the Oval Office, a spectacular section dedicated specifically to women’s role in developing the city, and family-friendly activities — making it a history buff’s paradise.

18 – Brooklyn Museum

Move over, Manhattan! Cool, hip, and always interesting Brooklyn has its very own world-class museum, and it’s well worth a visit.

The Brooklyn Museum is one of the largest museums in the United States (second only to the Met in New York City), with a permanent collection that spans over 500,000 objects from all around the world: African art, European Impressionist works, Ancient Egyptian artifacts, contemporary American paintings of Andy Warhol ilk, you name it.

What’s more, as befits such an eclectic institution, the Brooklyn Museum also puts on some amazing special exhibitions and events; check the calendar to see what’s on and choose between art-making, dance (salsa party, anyone?) film screenings, and guided tours.

19 – New York Aquarium

Guaranteed to leave kids (and kids at heart) grinning ear to ear, the New York Aquarium promises a family-friendly day out with a difference.

Straddling the sparkling Atlantic waterfront in Coney Island, this aquarium is home to thousands of colorful animals big and small from close to 500 different species, including sharks (18 species alone!), sea lions, and cute-as-a-button playful penguins.

There’s also an impressive array of marine habitats on show, from coral reefs to mangroves to kelp forests; visitors can walk through underwater tunnels and see some amazing creatures up close in the touch tanks before learning a thing or two at Conservation Hall.

Designed to be immersive, educational, and a heck of a good time simultaneously, there are also daily feedings and talks by animal experts and VIP experiences where you can get up close and personal with the friendly residents.

• New York Aquarium tickets

20 – Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum

A highly respected attraction considered to be one of the best museums in New York City among the design community, Cooper Hewitt is a beacon for all things decorative, architecture, and design.

Showcasing everything from decorative arts and iconic graphic posters, to woodwork, pottery, musical instruments, and statement-making furniture, the collection dives into close to 250 years of design aesthetics and evolution, showing how far (or how little?) we’ve come since the 1700s.

Fitting to a place dedicated to eyecatching design, it rests within a beautiful 1902 Georgian mansion on the Upper East Side once lived in by none other than Andrew Carnegie

21 – Neue Galerie New York

Conveniently nestled on Museum Row in between the overshadowing Met and the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Guggenheim, the Neue Galerie is a little-known but highly impressive museum showcasing German and Austrian art from the 19th (and early 20th) century.

From Klimt to Kokoschka, Schiele to Schwitters, the Neue Galerie has an unrivaled collection of Expressionist and Cubist artwork that provides fascinating insights into two major European cultures at a time of great change.

In addition to the galleries (which are beautifully designed in keeping with the period), there’s also a lovely cafe — Café Sabarsky — serving Viennese pastries and coffee as well as a shop stocking high-quality souvenirs; it’s definitely worth popping in even if you don’t plan on browsing the museum itself!

22 – Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration

Usually paired with Liberty Island next door, Ellis Island is a vital and moving part of American history as the gateway for millions of immigrants who made the journey looking to start a new life in the United States in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Nowadays, Ellis Island is also home to the excellent National Museum of Immigration which tells the story of these people (and their descendants) through interactive exhibits, audio-visual displays, and historical artifacts that document America’s immigration history from the 1500s through to the modern-day.

Make sure to check out The American Immigrant Wall of Honor, and don’t forget to take a moment to admire the stellar view of Lower Manhattan as it towers over the harbor.

Tickets include access to both Liberty and Ellis Islands — make sure you set aside plenty of time to explore!

23 – The Museum at FIT

The Museum at FIT is a small but mighty institution celebrating all things fashion, from the historical and traditional to the cutting-edge and ultra-modern.

Housed in the Fashion Institute of Technology’s (FIT) stunning campus on Seventh Avenue, the museum features rotating exhibitions of both historic and contemporary garments (it’s been the site of over 200 innovative fashion exhibitions), as well as accessories, sketches, photographs and other ephemera related to fashion.

Besides the some-50,000 garments that span the 1700s to the 2020s, there are also regular lectures and workshops with leading figures in the industry, making it an essential destination for any fashion lover visiting NYC.

While you’re in the area, make sure to check out the High Line Park and Chelsea Market for a spot of lunch too!

24 – American Museum of Natural History

Straddling the western edge of Central Park, and make extra famous thanks to its location as the set for Night At The Museum, the American Museum of Natural History is considered one of the most beloved and best museums in New York City, and for good reason.

Boasting a jaw-dropping collection that includes everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to complete dinosaur skeletons, recreated wooly mammoths and displays documenting human evolution, there’s something here for everyone who has an interest in history (or prehistory), geology, science or the natural world.

And if the 45 permanent exhibition halls weren’t enough (not to mention the dedicated Rose Center for Earth and Space), the museum is also home to one of the largest planetariums in the Western Hemisphere — the 429-seat Hayden Planetarium space theater — which offers incredible shows exploring everything from black holes to the origins of life.

Suggested itinerary: after browsing the half of the museum and checking out the planetarium, make the most of Central Park next door. In the warmer months, throw down a picnic rug in the Shakespeare Garden and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature before walking to the Belvedere Castle; in winter, take a spin on the Wollman Rink and top off the adventure with a soothing hot chocolate!

• Museum of Natural History tickets

25 – Museum of Arts and Design

Contemporary, creative, edgy, and found at the southwestern tip of Central Park in Columbus Circle, the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) might seem like a relative newcomer to the NYC museum scene, having opened its doors in 2002, but it’s history actually transcends to the mid-1900s — making it a longstanding, and heavily underrated year-round attraction.

Across four floors of exhibition galleries for works by established and emerging artists, this family-friendly space makes a big impact thanks to its eclectic and innovative exhibitions that explore all aspects of art and design from the 1950s through to the present day.

From ceramics and glassware to furniture, textiles, architecture, graphics, jewelry and product design, MAD touches of all areas of how creativity shapes our everyday lives.

What’s more, the museum also hosts ambitious temporary exhibitions as well a theater for lecutes and workshops, and a handful visitable artistic studios where you can see designs come to life.

Hot tips: plan to visit on Saturday, when occasional live music is performed in the garden, and make booking for the 9th-floor restaurant for some amazing views!

26 – Queens Museum

A staple of true NYC culture, and enormous in both its size and reputation, the Queens Museum is located inside Flushing Meadows Corona Park (home to both the US Open tennis tournament and the iconic Unisphere from the 1964 World’s Fair), and whisks visitors away on a fascinating journey and an impressive collection that spans centuries.

The permanent exhibitions here focus on two things: firstly, on telling the story of Queens — from its Native American heritage to its current status as the largest and one of the most diverse boroughs in NYC — through interactive displays, multimedia installations and historical artifacts; secondly, on showcasing some of the amazing works by artists who have called Queens home over time, including major names like Jackson Pollock, Louise Nevelson and Alexander Calder.

In addition to these permanent galleries, tucked away inside an art-deco gem of a building (formerly known as the New York City Building), the undisputed Queens Museum highlight is its miniature version of the entire city of New York.

Dubbed the Panorama of the City of New York, this birds-eye tour of sorts was built for the 1964 World’s Fair, took three years to construct (and many more months to continually update) and comprises over 900,000 individual structures!

27 – Noguchi Museum

While you’re over in Queens, why not make a stop at the Noguchi Museum , which is dedicated to the work of Japanese-American artist and abstract sculptor Isamu Noguchi?

Founded in 1985 by the artist himself (a year before his death), this intimate museum comprises a single exhibition hall spanning two stories, as well as an enchanting outdoor sculpture garden. It’s home to the world’s largest collection of Noguchi’s works, including fascinating sketches, maquettes, paintings and sculptures from throughout his esteemed career.

What makes the off-beat museum so special is that it doesn’t just showcase finished pieces — visitors can see how Noguchi worked and how he developed his unique style by viewing unfinished works and prototypes. This provides not only insight into the creative process but also into the man himself!

With free gallery talks Wednesdays through Sundays at 2pm, this place is catnip for design nerds.

28 – Explore the Paley Center’s timeless treasures

A leading non-profit cultural institution, the Paley Center for Media ensures the preservation of a diverse media history and explores the impact of media on culture and society.

Hosting an unprecedented variety of programs that appeal to both the general public and industry professionals, such as the famous PaleyFest, these efforts aim to celebrate the pinnacle of television, digital content, and interactive entertainment.

The Paley Center for Media brings together influential leaders to explore and discuss the industry’s most pressing issues and opportunities, fostering a unique sense of community. Meanwhile, the acclaimed PaleyImpact series serves as a valuable educational platform, providing deep insight into the influence of media on social discourse and cultural change.

With an unrivaled collection of over 160,000 programs spanning more than a century, the Paley Archives is considered a national treasure and serves as a valuable resource for K-12 educators and students nationwide.

With exhibits, demonstrations, and a state-of-the-art PaleyGX game studio, the center is a hub for cultural exchanges and innovative entertainment experiences.

29 – El Museo del Barrio

Latin American and Caribbean art come to life at El Museo del Barrio , a delightful institution that showcases everything from ancient Andean textiles to contemporary Puerto Rican films.

This Harlem institution first opened in 1969 as the Museum of Puerto Rican Culture, before expanding its focus to encompass all Latin American and Caribbean cultures in 1984.

These days, It now occupies a stunning Beaux-Arts building on Fifth Avenue that was originally designed as a synagogue, and boasts a collection of over 65,000 objects that explore the last 800 years of Puerto Rican and Latin development!

With Spanish lessons, film screenings, and dance classes to boot, there are few places in the city better equipped to deliver an authentic Latin insight.

30 – Whitney Museum of American Art

Found over in the Meatpacking District near the banks of the Hudson River, the Whitney Museum of American Art is devoted exclusively to showing off all the best bits of contemporary American art from the 19th and 20th centuries, and boasts an impressive collection that includes pieces by iconic names like Jasper Johns, Edward Hopper, and Andy Warhol, to name but a few.

What makes the Whitney so unique is its history; it was founded in 1931 by Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney (a wealthy society lady who also happened to be a sculptor), making it one of the first museums in America dedicated solely to exhibiting art made in this country.

It also has a famed architect on its CV: Bauhaus-trained Marcel Breuer designed the original building back in 1966, best enjoyed today from the op-floor bar which dishes up all-star views of the Lower Manhattan Skyline.

• Whitney Museum of American Art tickets

31 – Museum of Jewish Heritage

Depicting the stories of Jewish life and culture around the world, the Museum of Jewish Heritage is considered one of Lower Manhattan’s most important cultural institutions, showcasing immigration and culture over the centuries, and providing a sobering look at the never-again events of WWII, in what is officially the third-largest Holocaust museum in the world.

Located in Battery Park City, visitors can explore permanent exhibitions on topics like the American Jewish experience, Ancient Israel, Yiddish Theater, Holocaust survivors, and even embark on virtual tours of places like Krakow’s Jewish quarter

With talks, workshops, and screenings happening on a near-daily basis, there’s always something new to learn at this fascinating, eye-opening museum.

32 – Brooklyn Children’s Museum

A surefire hit for galavanting families with kids in tow, the Brooklyn Children’s Museum is one of the oldest museums of its kind in America, first opening back in 1899.

Boasting a whopping 35000 square feet of exhibition space – including interactive exhibits on topics like science, culture, outer space, nature, the human body, history and hands-on art – it provides hours upon hours of fun-filled learning opportunities for tykes aged 0-12, with no less than 20,000 artifacts to admire (and play with).

With the overarching goal to inspire and ignite curiosity about the world around them, BCM also puts on special exhibitions throughout the year, as well as cool events like dance parties, sculpture-making, and an ice skating rink that are open to visitors of all ages.

33 – American Folk Art Museum

An Upper West Side hidden gem that’s been impressing artsy visitors for over 60 years, the American Folk Art Museum is devoted to all things handmade, showcasing everything from quilts and paintings to carvings and metalwork in its intimate galleries — with one overarching theme: pushing the boundaries.

What makes it so unique is that the pieces on show here aren’t just beautiful works of art – they offer a rare insight into the lives of their creators, with many of the artists featured being self-taught.

All up, more than 8,000 objects from the 18th century to the present are on display to admire, with rotating exhibits ensuring that no two visits are alike.

Hot tip: while some museum gift shops can be skipped, this one is an essential stop — it offers handcrafted and traditional folk items like jewelry, frames, toys, and decorative that you won’t find anywhere else.

34 – Merchant’s House Museum

The only 19th-century house left standing in Manhattan, the Merchant’s House Museum is a time capsule that allows visitors to get a rare glimpse into what life was like for the city’s well-to-do during the 1800s.

Furnished with original family belongings and heirlooms, it includes everything from clothes and books to toys and kitchen utensils, providing an intimate look at how the other half lived back in the day.

Reservations to wander around this 200-year-old NoHo hidden gem are required in advance, meaning that the crowd is never overwhelming and you can enjoy the 60-minute self-guided tour in peace.

Keep in mind: the Museum also offers historical neighborhood walking tours of the twice a month that are well worth the time if your schedule lines up.

35 – Dyckman Farmhouse Museum

A piece of history nestled in the Inwood section of Upper Manhattan, Dyckman Farmhouse Museum is a preserved slice of Americana that takes visitors back to 1764 – when the farm was first built.

Operated by the Historic House Trust of New York City, this museum offers guided tours of the main house, barn, and gardens, as well as educational programs for schools and kids’ groups throughout the year.

What makes Dyckman so unique is that it’s one of only a few colonial farms remaining in Manhattan (and one of even fewer with original buildings), as well as the oldest remaining farmhouse in Manhattan, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in NYC’s fascinating history (or just wanting some fresh air and green space on their trip).

The Dutch Colonial-style farmhouse, which has been overlooking Broadway for more than 200 years (the off-beat Broadway that seems a world away from the Times Square section) sits right around the corner from Inwood Hill Park and Fort Tryon, making for a great back to back itinerary for those in search of a rarely-sighted slice of peace on the otherwise-buzzing Manhattan island.

36 – The Bronx Museum of the Arts

Well and truly off the beaten track in the little-known (yet historic and culturally rich) Grand Concourse, this free-to-enter and internationally-recognized museum is known for its large-scale collection of diverse artwork — a collection that aims to reflect and showcase the Bronx’s melting pot of cultures through North American, Latin American, African, and Asian pieces.

What that means in practice is that you can expect to see everything from paintings and sculptures to installations, photographs and videos, with over 800 pieces spread across a roomy 33,000-square-foot converted synagogue.

Open since 1971, the Bronx Museum of the Arts also puts on fascinating artist talks, art auctions (unique souvenirs, anyone?), and galas, making it — and the surrounding restaurants and parks — worthy of a visit even if you’re not an art buff.

37 – Museum of the Moving Image

Celebrating the magical worlds of film, TV, and digital media, the Museum of the Moving Image is a one-stop-shop for all your entertainment needs.

From its extensive collection of props, costumes, and set pieces from classic movies to interactive exhibits on how video games are made, there’s something here for everyone who ever dreamed of stepping behind the scenes in Hollywood (or gaming). The “Behind the Screen” exhibition, in particular, is a crowd favorite, showcases over 1,400 unusual bits and bobs that cover the evolution of digital entertainment

Bonus: it also has an outdoor amphitheater that screens free family movies during the summer, making it a great option on those balmy NYC nights; and thanks to its location in Astoria, Queens, it provides a chance to explore a new area.

38 – Museum of Ice Cream

Heaven on Earth for sweet-tooth sufferers, the Museum of Ice Cream is a (you guessed it) museum dedicated entirely to everyone’s favorite chilly treat.

Full of quirky, immersive installations — from those made entirely out of ice cream to rooms filled with colorful sprinkle pools and 3-floor slides — this place is basically Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory for adults.

An artistic, walk-though selfie haven with no shortage of delicious flavors to try along the way, this modern and Insta-worthy sugary paradise is one of the best museums in New York City for those whose idea of a morning well-spent is a room full of candy.

While you’re in the area, and while we’re on the topic of delicious foods, Little Italy and its sleuth of world-famous restaurants is just a short walk away.

39 – International Center of Photography

Shutterbugs, listen up! Boasting a world-class collection of photography and photojournalism that spans from the 1840s to the present day, the International Center of Photography is home to some seriously impressive pieces — including snaps from revered photographers like Ansel Adams, Lewis W Hine Dorothea Lange.

As both a school and a museum, it offers hands-on beginner and expert classes and also frequently hosts thought-provoking exhibitions on timely topics (from a visual history of hip-hop to a photographic insight into the COVID-19 crisis and everything in between), making it a great place to go if you want to get your brain ticking as well as your shutter finger clicking.

All up, the longstanding institution contains over 200,000 images, with more than 3,000 artists having graced its walls throughout the ages.

40 – Hayden Planetarium

An interstellar activity ideal for a rainy day, the Hayden Planetarium is one of the most popular museums in New York City.

Sitting on the American Museum of Natural History campus, on the edge of Central Park, this place will take you on a journey through time and space with its state-of-the-art digital projections, astronomy exhibits, and friendly tour guides keen to unpack the wonders of the universe.

An hour or so at this esteemed planetarium and you’ll walk away having learned about black holes, discovered planets beyond our solar system, and watched the birth of the universe in the Big Bang Theater — all with the fascinating narration by none other than astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson.

41 – Museum of Sex

Kinky, very educational, and utterly fascinating, Fifth Avenue’s Museum of Sex takes curious visitors on a promiscuous journey of human (and animal) sexual evolution through the ages.

Dedicated to everything from ancient fertility rites and pornography to modern-day sex toy design, with occasional film screenings to boot, this place will teach you about sexuality in all its weird and wonderful forms.

It’s definitely not for the faint-hearted (or prudish), but if you’re curious about what makes us tick as a species then it’s well worth a visit. And be sure to leave time for the gift shop; it goes without saying, unique souvenirs await.

What to do next? After satisfying your cravings for the taboo, you’ll be about halfway in between the Empire State Building and Flatiron Building – so choose one, enjoy the 10-15-minute walk through Midtown’s vibrant streets, and then grab an Insta-worthy photo or two!

42 – Queens County Farm Museum

If you’re looking for a little bit of green in the concrete jungle that is New York City, head on out to Queens County Farm Museum – the largest and oldest working farm in NYC, dating back, would you believe it, to 1697?.

Open year-round and free to visit, the museum spans over 47 acres and features (among other things) a petting zoo, hayrides, seasonal festivals, an orchard, herb garden, tractor rides, and a deliciously satisfying ice cream parlor to keep the kids (and sweet-toothed adults) at bay.

Plus: it’s home to the only corn maze in all five boroughs – The Amazing Maize Maze!

Hot tip: The Farm sells fresh vegetables, fruit, eggs, and raw wildflower honey in the farm store, so be sure to pick up something for the trip home!

43 – Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

While a little cliché, Madame Tussauds is one of those tourist traps that’s actually worth your time (and money).

The world-famous wax museum, which has outposts in cities all over the globe, boasts incredibly realistic likenesses of some of the world’s most famous faces — including everyone from Beyoncé and Barack Obama to Marilyn Monroe and Morgan Freeman.

You can snap a selfie with each and every one of them; get up close and personal with some impressive historical recreations, like a scene from the Titanic or a recreation of Lady Liberty herself, and join the interactive activities in the Marvel Superheroes and Star Wars zones.

While it might not be high brow art or culture, Madame Tussauds is an NYC institution that provides an enjoyable way to kill an afternoon — especially if you’re traveling with kids in tow.

• Madame Tussauds tickets

44 – Asia Society and Museum

An Upper East Side insight into the art, culture, and history of Asia, the Asia Society Museum is one of the city’s best museums to explore if you’re interested in learning about the diverse continent’s peoples and traditions.

With a range of rotating exhibitions (past shows have focused on everything from Indian contemporary art and large-scale calligraphy works), as well as regular talks and performances, there’s always something new and exciting to see at this lesser-known museum.

After browsing the museum, pop into the tastefully-curated gift shop for a unique souvenir, or enjoy a relaxing cup of tea in The Garden Court Cafe – a beautiful atrium cafe that serves delicious brunch.

45 – New York City Fire Museum

Holding a lens over the Big Apple’s brave and cherished Fire Department, past and present, the New York City Fire Museum shines a light on the city’s past responders; their routines, their heroics, and the equipment they used (and still use) to do their job.

Housed in a former SoHo firehouse that dates back to 1904, the museum contains an impressive collection of over 10,000 artifacts that tell the story of the FDNY, from its humble beginnings (some dating back to the 1650s) to its current incarnation as one of the most celebrated and busiest fire departments in the world.

Highlights include horse-drawn pumper engines, antique brass fire poles, Victorian-era firefighting carriages, a host of interactive exhibits that are sure to capture your imagination, and, of course, sobering artifacts recovered from the World Trade Center site with an incredibly moving tribute.

46 – Museum of Chinese in America

Often shortened to MOCA, the Museum of Chinese in America is one of the most important institutions preserving and celebrating the history and culture of Chinese people in the United States.

Founded in 1980, MOCA strives to tell the untold stories and serve as a bridge between past and present – a goal it certainly achieves through its thought-provoking exhibitions.

Holding over 65,000 objects, the modest institution dives into topics like food, music, fashion, and technology, and showcases what it means to be Chinese American through personal stories, artworks, photographs, films, and interactive media.

Hot tip: to learn more about the area, join one of the museum’s Chinatown walking tours!

47 – Fotografiska New York

The sister outpost of the acclaimed Swedish photography museum, Fotografiska New York is a quintessential shutterbug shot — a world-class institution dedicated to showcasing contemporary photography from all over the globe.

Boasting rotating exhibitions (featuring both well-known and up-and-coming photographers), artist talks, workshops, and an excellent gift shop, Fotografiska is a great place to spend an afternoon if you’re passionate about photography – or just want to browse a handful of stunning, thought-provoking artworks.

Even better: the cutting-edge space sits inside a contrasting 19th-century chapel in the Meatpacking District. So after learning about the art form, why not soak in the historic space with a tipple at the rustic Chapel Bar?

48 – Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art

All about LGBTQ art and culture, the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art down in SoHo is the world’s first and only institution dedicated to this underrepresented field.

Founded in 1969, the museum has since amassed a collection of over 30,000 pieces – including paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs, prints, videos, and performance artworks – by LGBTQ artists from around the globe, which collectively showcase the diverse range of queer expression and creativity.

Complementing its rich and thought-provoking permanent collection galleries (which are always free to visit), Leslie-Lohman regularly hosts drawing classes, guest speakers (sometimes at its Prince Street annex), and rotating exhibitions that explore themes like gender identity, sexuality, love, family dynamics, and more.

49 – See art in a new light at Holographic Studios

Step into the world’s oldest hologram gallery and see life in an entirely new light. Since the 1970s, Holographic Studios has been at the forefront of creating holograms. A visit here is unlike any other!

Admire the gallery for free, or go on a guided tour with Doctor Laser, who has made incredible holograms of Andy Warhol, Bill Clinton and Cher, among other notable people.

You can also opt to join a VIP tour, where you can experience making a hologram yourself! If you want a more in-depth experience, you can even sign up for holography classes.

A trip to Holographic Studios is a unique opportunity to not just admire some of the most professional and artistic holograms, but to learn about the science behind these 3D laser images

50 – Mmuseumm

First off, no. That’s not a typo.

The MMuseumm has also done things a little differently, eschewing the traditional museum model in favor of a more modern, hands-on approach.

Housed in a tiny, 36-square-foot elevator shaft turned micro-museum in Chinatown, the free-to-enter MMuseumm features rotating exhibitions (made up of overlooked items from special events or everyday people) that explore everything from love and loss to food and fashion.

Thanks to its teenie size, which fits only three people at a time, it’s able to rapidly adapt its display items to the world around it to stay relevant and edgy.

To give you a little taste, past exhibitions have included Homemade Weapons of Defense, Personal Possessions found in the Pacific, and the shoe thrown at George W. Bush.

51 – Museum at Eldridge Street

A synagogue turned museum, the Eldridge Street Museum is a hidden New York City gem that welcomes Lower East Side wanderers and greets them with a thorough look into the city’s 19th-century Jewish community.

Originally built in 1887 as the area’s first synagogue for Eastern European Jews, the historic locale has since been meticulously restored; the now-vibrant cultural center celebrates Jewish culture and heritage through its ever-changing exhibitions, which explore everything from religious rituals to traditional Yiddish food and music.

What makes this place so special is that it provides visitors with an intimate look at what life was like for Jews living in America over 100 years ago; as you wander through the restored rooms of the synagogue (admiring the stunning stained glass windows and decorations along the way), it feels like time has stood still.

An important piece of NYC history and architecture, the Eldridge Street Museum is one of those places that leaves a mark.

52 – Alice Austen House

Dating all the way back to 1690 (!), the Alice Austen House is Staten Island’s oldest house – and it’s now open to the public as a museum that sits off the beaten track and provides a blissful insight into the life, the story, and the work of a renowned late artist.

Alice, who was born in 1866 and who lived in this Victorian Gothic home for close to 80 years, was an American photographer and one of the earliest female photographers in New York City, etching her name in history as a trendsetter and pioneer.

On the one hand, Austen’s photographs showcased the evolution of New York City street life through the lens; on the other, they provided a rare and raw insight into her private life as a lesbian who broke the mold and rebelled.

What makes this spot so unique is that visitors can actually walk through Alice’s house (and even see where she slept and ate), as well as explore her photography studio, darkroom, workshop, and more – giving a real sense of what life was like for this pioneering female artist.

Inspired to take a few photos of your own? Thanks to its location near the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge on the shores of the New York Harbor, the sweeping views of Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan are as good a spot as any to get that shutter finger moving.

53 – The Skyscraper Museum

In a bustling vertical metropolis lined end to end with towering buildings, it’s only fitting that there should be a museum all about – you guessed it! – skyscrapers.

The Skyscraper Museum , located in Battery Park City, celebrates the history and design of some of the world’s most iconic (and often record-breaking) buildings, with rotating exhibits that offer a unique look at how these structures have evolved over time.

From the skycraper’s humble beginnings in the late 1800s to the modern marvels we see towering above us today, this 50-year-old museum is a chance to learn about the people who dared to dream big and design ever-higher buildings, as well as the challenges and controversies that come along with constructing something so monumental.

Cheap to visit and seldom crowded, it’s easily one of the best museums in New York City for anyone interested in architecture or urban planning, as the fascinating exhibits extend beyond just manhattan, covering marvels and achievements the world over.

54 – South Street Seaport Museum

If you’re looking for a break from the bustle of Midtown, head on down to the South Street Seaport Museum for a chilled-out day by the water.

Located in Lower Manhattan at Pier 16, this maritime museum tells the story of New York City – and its relationship with the ocean – from its earliest days as a Dutch colony all the way up to present times.

With nautical artifacts, interactive displays, and historical reenactments, there’s something for everyone at this underrated attraction; plus, with a fleet of historic ships lining the docks and floors, including the 1885 schooner Pioneer; 1885 tall ship Wavertree, 1907 lightship Ambrose, and 1930 tugboat W.O. Decker, it’s a surefire hit for the kids too

Bonus: The Seaport is also home to some of the best waterfront views in all of NYC, so be sure to wander around a bit once you’ve finished up with the exhibits to admire the Brooklyn Bridge.

55 – New York Hall Of Science

Totally interactive and always fun, the New York Hall of Science is a great place to bring the kids for an educational day out.

With over 450 exhibits on everything from space and rocketry to DNA and robotics, there’s something to catch everyone’s interest, no matter what their age.

The Design Lab provides kids with opportunities to engineer solutions to real-world problems; Wild Minds exhibit uses videos, games, and interactive displays to outline the fascinating similarities between how humans and animals think; while The Happiness Experiment teaches visitors about the culture and science behind joy, and shows that it’s okay to not feel happy all the time.

And if that’s not enough to tire the youngsters out, there’s also a bunch of outdoor science-themed playgrounds where they can let off some steam.

It might be located in Queens, a little further out from the main Manhattan haunts, but with a plethora of attractions on offer in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, it’s easy (and recommended) to spend an entire day exploring the area.

56 – The Studio Museum in Harlem

One of the world’s leading institutions devoted to contemporary African art — made by people locally, nationally, and internationally — The Studio Museum in Harlem is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about this vital part of American (and international) culture.

It links the art world with the larger cultural scene and the local Harlem community, and the result is both intriguing and insightful.

Founded in 1968 in the heart of central Harlem on 125th St, the museum has a long and proud history of championing artists of color, with a mission to promote understanding and appreciation of African art through exhibitions, educational programs, and publications.

With a constantly changing schedule of exhibitions – both featuring works from the museum’s extensive permanent collection and touring shows – there’s always something new to see at The Studio Museum.

Keep in mind: in 2022, The Studio Museum is going through a renovation, however, art continues to be shown in public spaces through the inHarlem initiative – check the website to see what’s on!

57 – The National Jazz Museum in Harlem

A toe-tapping trip through time sure to put a smile on any music lover’s face, the National Jazz Museum in Harlem in Central Harlem’s cultural and entertainment district is one of the coolest (and most educational) places to visit in NYC.

Established in 1996 as a Smithsonian Affiliate to preserve and celebrate America’s unique musical heritage, specifically Harlem’s rich musical roots, the museum offers a range of rotating exhibitions, and hundreds of live performances, educational programs, and events throughout the year; all with the sweet melodies of jazz at their core.

Even if you don’t consider yourself a jazzy history buff, you’re sure to find something to enjoy here – whether it’s watching a live band play in the performance space; checking out artifacts like Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis’ nightclub cards, contracts, saxophone or set lists; or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere of this historic neighborhood.

Hot tip: in the summertime, don’t miss the Jazz Swings and Jazz in the Parks events!

58 – National Museum of Mathematics

Niche, fascinating, and the only one of its kind in North America, the National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath) is a bucket-list-worthy stop for any devout -cruncher.

Tucked away in the historic Flatiron District near Madison Square Park (take a photo or two of the eponymous building while you’re there), this museum takes math out of the classroom and into a fun and interactive world, where visitors can explore everything from geometry and topology to fractals and chaos theory through immersive light, color, and shapes-oriented display rooms.

With thirty hands-on exhibits that are both educational and entertaining (did someone say square wheeled tricycles you can actually ride?) MoMath is the perfect spot to whisk away an hour or two, for kids and adults alike.

For history buffs, you can dive into the development of math through the lens of experts, researchers, and professors, while families can enjoy the Tesselation Station and grab a mind-bending puzzle at the gift shop.

59 – Coney Island Museum

A longstanding family staple, always a go-to destination for fun in the sun, high-octane rides, and classic carnie treats (read: Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs is quintessential), Coney Island is as famous as it is locally adored, and its history is as diverse as the people who flock to it each summer.

In an effort to preserve and share that history with future generations, the Coney Island History Project was established in 2004, which eventually led to the opening of the Coney Island Museum in 2007.

Housed on the 2nd floor of a historic building on Surf Avenue that itself has an interesting past, today’s museum features rotating exhibitions on the area’s colorful culture and heritage, with a focus on sideshow performers, the history of Coney Island, as well as the history of the amusement industry.

There’s also an extensive archive of fascinating photographs, documents, and artifacts available for guests to enjoy, making this little — and certainly underrated — spot well worth a visit for anyone interested in learning about New York’s most iconic stretch of sand, from its early days as a seaside resort town to its more recent incarnation as a Brooklyn carnivalesque icon.

Don’t miss the crazily confusing funhouse mirrors, the rare “hold-to-light” postcards, and the vintage bumper cars! Plus, as a non-profit organization, admission is very affordable (just $5 for adults) – making it perfect for budget-minded travelers looking to stretch their dollar.

60 – SPYSCAPE

Put yourselves in the shoes of a secret agent at SPYSCAPE, an interactive espionage museum located in Midtown Manhattan.

From decoding messages to cracking safes, this high-tech museum offers visitors the chance to step into the life of a spy, with state-of-the-art exhibits that are constantly being updated with new challenges and games.

Sure to have you considering a career path in the FBI, the modern attraction is spread into seven different areas, each playfully educating about different aspects of spycraft – from the history of espionage to cybercrime and everything in between.

With your detective hat on, you’ll learn about the latest in intelligence and spy technology, see how artificial intelligence is helping to solve crimes, and even have to chance to explore the ins and outs of what it means to be a special MI6 agent in the James Bond exhibit, where you’ll see an array of gadgets used in the films as well as 007’s actual Aston Martin DB5!

• SPYSCAPE tickets

61 – Frick Collection

Criminally underrated compared to the likes of the Metropolitan Museum, Frick is a magnificent Manhattan gem that many New Yorkers themselves have never visited (purely to their own detriment).

A former private home (read: enormous Beaux-arts mansion) turned art museum (originally built by steel magnate Henry Clay Frick in 1914), this Upper East Side art haven boasts an impressive collection of works from Dutch masters like Jan van Eyck; French impressionists such as Renoir, Monet and Degas; and Italian Renaissance painters including Titian, Veronese, and Bellini.

Sure to transport you into a world that feels like the artistic heart of Europe, what’s more, there are plenty of tours available to help you get up close with each masterpiece.

Keep in mind: from early 2021, the Frick’s regular historic building (1 East 70th Street) is being renovated, with a temporary home created at 945 Madison Ave, just five blocks away in the Breuer building (previously the Whitney and the Met Breuer). It’s a unique opportunity to experience an entire museum outside of its usual context!

Get the best value for money with attractions passes

With so many incredible options for museums and landmarks, it can be tough to narrow down your itinerary – and if you want to see everything, including the skyscrapers and tours, the bill can add up pretty quickly.

Thankfully, you’re not the first one to experience this, so a range of companies have created tourist-focused attractions passes that grant special, discounted (and sometimes free) access to renowned and lesser-known attractions alike.

For the best bang for your buck, and to tick off as many of the best New York museums, restaurants, observation decks, and tourist attractions as possible — not just in Manhattan but across all 5 boroughs — check out any of the New York Explorer Pass , the New York Pass , the New York CityPASS , and the Sightseeing Pass .

All of these penny-pinching passes offer different features, so there’s something to suit every budget, interest, and holiday duration!

• Attractions Passes in New York City

Just to give you a taste, most passes include admission to at least six of New York’s most popular attractions – including the Empire State Building, American Museum of Natural History, the Met, the MoMa, and the Guggenheim Museum – for a fraction of the price. And if that’s still not enough, there’s usually a free boat cruise included too!

Need help choosing the right attractions pass? Check out our complete New York City attractions pass comparison guide .

Need a place to stay? Check out some of the best hotels in New York

With tens of millions of tourists making the journey to the Big Apple years after year, rest assured that there is no shortage of all-out-luxury hotels, bargain-basement hostels, and everything in between to choose from.

If sophistication and opulence are what the doctor ordered, look no further than the Mandarin Oriental on Columbus Circle, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Central Park and the city skyline from every room.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option in a prime location, check out Pod 51 near Bryant Park – it’s clean, comfortable, and right in the heart of Midtown Manhattan.

Throw in a few more popular names like Luma , Margaritaville Resort (perfect for thirsty travelers), the W Hotel , The Fairfield Inn & Suites , Hyatt Centric Times Square , and The Sanctuary Hotel (the last three of which boast killer rooftop bars!), as well as the ritzy Ritz-Carlton and upscale William Vale , and you’ve got quite a list to choose from!

For those who want to be close to all the action but don’t necessarily need five-star service or amenities, AirBnB, apartment hotels, or hostels are always a solid bet. With rooms (and entire apartments) available for rent all across the city, you’re bound to find something that fits both your needs and your budget.

Hot tip: No matter your preferred accommodation, be sure to book online in advance — compared to walk-in rates or the official hotel website, you can save up to 50% by using special web-scraping comparison sites!

• best hotels in New York City

Avoid the hassle! Book an airport transfer

You’re on vacation, after all, so why kickstart your journey with the stress and hassle of deciphering the enormous subway system or waiting for what seems like an eternity for your rideshare or taxi? Why add that unnecessary stress?

Instead, savvy travelers who want to spend more time enjoying their holiday and less time waiting at the taxi rank opt for a pre-arranged airport transfer.

With a range of options to choose from, a pre-booked airport transfer is convenient, with the driver meeting you at the arrivals lounge; enjoyable, because you’ll be greeted with a placard with your name on it (who doesn’t love a little VIP treatment, right?; affordable, especially when traveling in groups; and efficient, with no waiting time at the rank.

Plus, the friendly drivers are all locals, meaning they can offer some great tips and insights on the city, as well as point out landmarks along the way – something you might not get from your average yellow cab.

So, if you’re looking for a seamless, stress-free start to your New York City vacation, look no further than an airport transfer!

• airport transfers in New York City

Final thoughts:

Feeling inspired? Artsy? Or want a dose of history? Either way, a wonderful adventure awaits in The City That Never Sleeps!

We hope you’ve enjoyed our curated list of the best museums in New York City! If you have any other must-see suggestions, feel free to let us know in the comments!

And, before you go, make sure to check out our selection of activities in Brooklyn, Long Island, and Manhattan as well! As always, happy travels.

Trending Post : DIY Galaxy Playdough

Best Museums in New York City to Visit with Teenagers

Contrary to popular belief that teenagers are often formidable to satisfy, New York City (NYC) plentifully offers gorgeous museums seldom found in their hometown.

Museums in New York City

Teens will undoubtedly develop a positive attitude to adventure and explore their fashion, arts, and sports interests. You will have the best family fun and perhaps enjoy your skateboarding skills as a teen. Also, you will undoubtedly admit to having memorable moments at the museums.

In our guide below, we virtually take you on an epic museum visit before booking with them for your vacation.

Please keep in mind that most of these venues have strict bag policies. Check out Stasher to find a place to store your luggage in New York before you explore the city.

1.Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)

There’s nothing undeniable like passion. At FIT, young aspiring fashionista teens like you get the best opportunity to nourish your sense of reality. Have you ever wondered where to find a visual historical presentation of exemplary art and fashion?

The FIT gallery is rich in phenomenal records exhibits and a compilation of textiles, designs, and trends. Furthermore, you get a free exhibit admission, numerous free museum film screening, book talks, among many fashion-oriented events.

2.Museum of Food and Drink

Are you that guy whose moods change spontaneously when you smell or see food? Perhaps you have heard or read about the Brooklyn Museum. It would be best if you purposed to visit this ultimate destination. You don’t wish to miss their adventurous single seasonal exhibit. Furthermore, if gardening is your cup of coffee, the museum has a conspicuous botanic garden and is home to 52-acres treasures.

3.The 9/11 Memorial and Museum

Most teens did not witness the horrific and tragic attacks of September 11, 2001, on the World Trade Center. The resonance of this cultural legacy will be learned with the precise visual impression.

To mention but a few, teenagers can find and witness the relics, at the Foundation Hall, remnants of the attack, like the hardy Survivor tree, the deaths of the 1993 and 2001 bombings and attacks, respectively. An enlightening tour of the famous Memorial is the best chance to explore US history poignantly, unlike the information in books.

4.The Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Immigration Museum

You should schedule your vacation sooner to tour the most iconic New York City landmark. Before you can access the Statue, you board a ferry to every island on a thrilling adventure in every aisle. Can you imagine how lovely it is to view the Lady of Liberty and Manhattan?

After that, you will advance to the conspicuous Ellis Island , where you will tour the Immigration Museum. Be sure to explore the roles of Ellis Island during the Immigration to the Americas. It’s so pleasing to see lots of historical collections of original artifacts like photographs, medical records, suitcases, among others.

5.American Museum of Natural History (AMNH)

The museum is indisputably among the most prominent museums worldwide. A teenager would love to explore 32+ million specimens in 45 permanent halls. Here’s where the beloved model of the 94 ft long Blue Whale. The Hayden Planetarium presents the world’s largest virtual reality simulator for teens who love tech.

6.Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

In Manhattan lies the world’s most influential modern art museum. MoMA’s design depicts the artist’s best sanctuary, and thus the ultimate destination for teens. If you are a fanatic of the famous Monet’s “Reflections of Clouds on the Water-Lily Pond,” Not sure what that is? It’s where you can see rebel artists’ work, like Salvador Dali and Jackson Pollock.

7.Guggenheim Museum

It’s worth the tour to visit New York City’s most unique and permanent collection of an international art museum. The museum houses famous artists’; Gaugin, Cezanne, Picasso, Monet, etc.

8.Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum

Teens love educational tourist destinations that back their theoretical knowledge. The USS Intrepid has 30 restored aircraft, a British Airways Concorde Jet, and a submarine. Another fantastic experience at the Intrepid is its high-tech simulators that let you virtually journey the outer space or fly a jet.

9.Madame Tussaud New York

Here lies the world’s famous wax museum, where you get a coveted Hollywood celebrity experience. The museum houses numerous almost real athletes, cultural icons, TV characters, etc., to mention but a few; you can take photos with iconic Hollywood stars like Morgan Freeman, Sofia Vergara, among others.

10.Museum of Sex

Teens are in a transformational age bracket that, especially during this Information Age, they need selective and informational human sexuality. It covers the present and the past. The museum aims at preserving and presenting the history, evolution, and invaluable cultural importance of sexuality. You’ll find more than 15,000 artifacts up to date temporary exhibits that address the past’s taboo issues and enlighten varied cultural artifacts and materials.

11.Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)

This is a must-see art collection adding up to 2 million pieces, including various worldwide assortment. Located along Central Park, the Met has antique, vintage, and classical art.

12.Whitney Museum of American Art

You won’t like to miss an ultimate tourist destination of unique living arts. The museum’s extensive showcase of the last two centuries offers room for dialogues on art, the significance of innovation, and the essence of recognizing and investing in upcoming artists. Be sure to find awesome unique, non-traditional art. Art museums are some of the best you can visit when in NYC. GetYourGuide shows you all of the best to check out. 

13.The New York Historical Society

An intimate experience at the NYC oldest museum is worth your holiday. Founded in 1804, the museum and library that promotes research, public programs, and art and history exhibitions that stress the significance of history to the current world.

Bookings – Museums in New York City

We recommend adding your favorite and popular holiday destinations to your NYC itinerary and booking your luggage protection with Stasher . Always remember that most of these museums do not allow luggage inside. Others provide limited storage facilities. Thus, it would be best if you considered the best luggage storage services offered to you affordably (from $6.00 per bag per day) at Stasher.

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AMNH is throwing a big bash for the last Manhattanhenge of 2024

Don't miss it—or you'll have to wait 'til 2025 to see it again!

New Yorkers have had a complicated relationship with the sun this summer. Yes, we need the sun for life, but she's been extra fiery this year— overwhelming bridges , delaying trains and turning us all into sticky shells of ourselves . The city practically audibly exhales when the massive star dips beyond the horizon. 

That context imbues this year's Manhattanhenge with extra emotion. During the rare phenomenon, the streets of Manhattan line up perfectly with the sunset, making for a stunning sight. In honor of the last Manhattanhenge of 2024, the American Museum of Natural History is throwing a party on Friday, July 12, and everyone's invited. 

RECOMMENDED: A Guide to Manhattanhenge 2024 in NYC

Manhattanhenge happens four nights per year. The first two already happened back in May, so if you missed it, you won't want to miss the July dates. The full sun will be perched on the grid on Friday, July 12, at 8:20 pm, and the half Sun will be visible on Saturday, July 13, at 8:21pm.

If you want to not just see the phenomenon but also learn about it, head to the American Museum of Natural History on Friday, July 12 for a viewing party with special programming. Dr. Jackie Faherty, AMNH's senior scientist and education manager, will lead a ticketed 3D presentation about the science and history behind Manhattanhenge using the museum’s powerful OpenSpace visualization software. Tickets are $20 and for sale here .

After you learn some cool facts inside the museum, head outside to the free viewing event where you'll get to see the mesmerizing solar alignment while listening to music from the Williamsburg Salsa Orchestra.

"Manhattanhenge has become a part of the NYC summer experience. With so many people in the city realizing it is happening including a large number of people coming from out of town to witness it, the event ends up injecting a large amount of energy into the day. From an astronomy perspective, it’s really special to have the Sun—our host star—line up so perfectly with the concrete jungle of the city. Sunsets provide — arguably—the best light of the day, the golden hour light so it makes for an all around spectacular immersive astronomical experience," Faherty tells Time Out New York. 

It makes for an all around spectacular immersive astronomical experience.

Even if you can't make it to the Upper West Side party, you can see Manhattanhenge on your own. The best cross streets are 14th, 23rd, 34th, 42nd, and 57th, as they're all wide blocks with interesting buildings for framing your photos. It is recommended to go farther east for the best views. Be sure to stay safe by following walk/don't walk signs and paying attention to traffic. 

Faherty also recommends finding a place where you can safely watch the event without cars, like the overpass at Tudor City on 42nd Street as well as the overpass for taxis at Grand Central. (Though both of these spots often get very crowded!)

As for eye safety, Faherty says: "Manhattanhenge is a sunset viewing event so it’s the 'safest' time to look toward the sun. The reason you can look toward the sun when it is on the horizon is because you are staring at it through a large amount of atmosphere which serves as a protective layer for your eyes."

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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Over 30 FUN Things to Do in NYC with Teens

Exploring NYC with teens is a treat! From eating and shopping to museum exhibits and Broadway shows, there are so many things to do in NYC with teenagers. If an urban trip with rides on the subways, walking through Greenwich Village, and shopping on 5th Avenue is something your teens crave, they will not be disappointed. 

It’s easy to spot celebrities around town, including their favorite YouTubers, and enjoy some of the food is the best in the world.

More importantly, visiting NYC also gives parents a chance to reconnect with their teens. Creating a schedule is a smart idea. There’s so much to do, but be sure to carve out time to simply wander the streets so your teenagers can discover new things to do along the way.

We have the low-down on things to do, places to eat, and where to stay in New York City with our helpful list of dozens things to do in NYC with teenagers.  We also suggest that you purchase a New York CIty Pass if you are going to visit multiple major attractions on your next visit. My family used ours on our last visit and found it to be a great value.

Fun Things to to in NYC with Teens

Visit one of nyc’s many art museums.

If your teenager is into modern art, don’t miss the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) . It features every modern artist from Pablo Picasso to Salvador Dali to Frida Kahlo.

The Museum Mile, is a stretch along Fifth Avenue that is full of art museums. The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is very impressive, with famous works by Jackson Pollock and others displayed beautifully.

Other noteworthy museums include El Museo del Barrio , Cooper Hewitt Museum of Design , and the well-known Metropolitan Museum of Art . The Met features everything from tribal artifacts to works by Vincent Van Gogh. Art enthusiasts can spend days inside this sprawling museum.

There’s also the Whitney Museum of American Art . Located in the Meatpacking District on the High Line, it is NYC’s latest addition to the modern art scene. It’s a great place to introduce teenagers to the likes of Edward Hopper and Georgia O’Keefe.

Check out this awesome NYC bucket list !

Take Your Teens to the High Line & Hudson Yards

Starting at 14th Street, the High Line is a 1.45-mile-long elevated linear park, greenway and rail trail created on a former New York Central Railroad on the west side of the city . The High Line offers lounge chairs, which teens will love lazing in, as well as nature walks, dance performances, food vendors, and art installations all year long.

There are a ton of restaurants, bakeries, chocolate shops, and food vendors right underneath the railway in Chelsea Market . Teens won’t mind walking the length of the High Line because the views are so Instagrammable.

At the top of the High Line at 34th Street, you’ll find Hudson Yards , a new part of New York City with skyscrapers, a shopping mall, a performing arts center called The Shed, and The Vessel- a 150-foot shiny sculpture made from 154 interconnected staircases, which teens will love climbing and Snapchatting about.

Capture incredible memories of your NYC family vacation with Flytographer . Flytographer has a network of incredible professional photographers ready to come to you and help your family create the ultimate souvenir of your special trip in places like the High Line. Trekaroo is proud to be a Flytographer customer and affiliate.

Teens Love to Shop Until They Drop in NYC

Teens love to shop! A trip to the Soho neighborhood is essential when shopping with teens in NYC. Stick to the well-known shops on Broadway, and you will have guaranteed happiness.

Williamsburg, Brooklyn is another great place to place for teenagers to shop for vintage clothing, records, accessories, and other beloved teen items.

The Brooklyn Flea is a great market for crafts, vintage clothing, and other quirky finds, held on weekends in Brooklyn, featuring goods from over 100 local vendors. It’s a great place teenagers can find vintage jewelry, handbags, and vinyl for music fans.

If you’re in NYC on a Saturday, don’t miss Shmorgesburg for encounters with some serious food vendors. Times Square is also a place for shopping, with a fair amount of chains that teens love such as Forever 21 and American Eagle.

Looking for more fun with your teenagers? Here are 10 great vacations for teens .

Head Downtown

Downtown Manhattan’s Wall Street has changed significantly since 9/11. One World Trade Center became the Freedom Tower, which demands a visit. The 9/11 Memorial is heavy (as in sad), but teenagers will appreciate learning about this important part of NYC history . It’s free to walk around outside and view the memorial fountains, where the names of the victims are etched in the place where the two towers once stood.

South Street Seaport has been revitalized with many new restaurants and it’s a great place to watch boats during sunset. There’s often live music, too!

Take your kids to see the NY Stock Exchange , Federal Hall National Memorial , and the Fearless Girl statue (a must for young girls). For a snack or meal, pop into Eataly for fresh Italian pasta and gelato.

Are your teens athletes that need to stay conditioned while on vacation? Then you might want to book one of these NYC hotels with gyms .

Take a Ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

If your heart is set on climbing Lady Liberty, plan well in advance and book your tickets online, particularly on holidays or weekends which happen to be peak tourist times. The views from the top are stunning and well worth the trip up.

If you can’t secure tickets to climb the monument, the Statue of Liberty is still worth visiting. Arrive at National Park headquarters early in the day to secure your ferry ticket and get through security. Once on the island you will find a visitor center, free audio tour, and concessions. 

Ellis Island is also a must-visit for teens on a visit to NYC. Ferries leave from Liberty Island for Ellis Island every 25 minutes. The island hosts the Immigration Museum, and is a wonderful education on the history of immigration to NYC over the past century. Both monuments have Junior Ranger programs. 

Trekaroo Tip : We highly recommend purchasing a New York CityPASS for everyone in your group when heading to NYC. CityPASS will allow you to save 44% on some of our favorite NYC attractions including the Met, American Museum of Natural History, Empire State Building, the 9/11 Memorial, Ferry to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, and so much more. 

Spend Time on the Upper West Side

Rent bikes and ride through Central Park with your teenagers . Be sure to stop at Strawberry Fields, the area of the park dedicated to the memory of John Lennon. You and your teens will often find musicians strumming Beatles tunes. The Central Park Zoo, the Great Lawn, and free Shakespeare in the Park at the Delacorte Theater are also worthy of your “to do” list. 

The American Museum of Natural History , located on Central Park West, is the largest natural history museum in the world . There is truly something for everyone in this museum, from massive dinosaur skeletons to an exhibit filled with precious gems from around the world.  

Stop By the Studio of Your Favorite Morning Talk Show

Stop by one of the TV networks to get a glimpse of you and your teen’s favorite morning talk shows. CBS This Morning , The View , and Live with Kelly and Ryan film in NYC with a live studio audience. Apply early for each, or else get in a stand-by line.

All you have to do to get on Good Morning America and TODAY is stand outside (but arrive early!). During the summer, several of these shows have live music performers.

Heading to the city for the holidays? Don’t miss our article covering the best Christmas events in NYC !

Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most iconic symbols in NYC. It reaches across the famous East River, from lower Manhattan to Dumbo. It’s a 1.3-mile walk across the bridge, but don’t worry – your teens will love it.

The views are incredible, so have them take photos galore while walking across. The bridge will take you to DUMBO (which stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) on the Brooklyn side where your kids can enjoy food vendors at Time Out Market or check out one of the many Brooklyn pizza shops. Be sure to get ice-cream at OddFellows while you’re there.

Another great option is to rent bikes and peddle across the Brooklyn Bridge, although you can no longer do this from the top deck. There are several vendors that rent bikes near the bridge.

See NYC with Teens from Above

There is no better way to take in the skyscrapers and and sprawling cityscape of Manhattan than heading to the top of one of iconic buildings and checking out the view from above.

If you are seeking out spectacular views of downtown and midtown, head to the Empire State Building . There are several interesting exhibits about the building of this iconic structure which you will pass on your way up. 

If you are seeking an epic view of Central Park and uptown, go to the Top of the Rock in Rockefeller Center. There are three different observation decks included with your admission, along with an interactive Beam Walk which simulates walking on a construction beam 69 floors above Manhattan!

Tip: Avoid the crowds by arriving when these attractions open. There were zero lines or crowds on our Sunday morning visit to the Empire State Building. 

Go to Madame Tussauds

You can’t go wrong with a trip to Madame Tussauds with teenagers. In this museum, there are six themed, interactive environments showcasing nearly 200 masterfully crafted, lifelike wax figures, that include Taylor Swift and Jimmy Fallon. The tour is historical and interesting for pop-culture lovers and teens alike. 

Go on a Culinary Adventure around NYC with Teens

The list of places to eat in NYC for teens is endless, and it’s very hard to go wrong. People come here from all over the world to open restaurants, and they generally know their food .

Teen favorites include the Joe’s Shanghai in Chinatown, Sugar Factory in Times Square, Cafe Mogador in the East Village, Totto Ramen in Flushing for a bowl of ramen, Two Boots Pizza in the East Village, RA Sushi for sushi on the Upper West Side, Telly’s Taverna in Astoria, Queens, and Bubby’s in Tribeca for a bowl of macaroni & cheese. 

Or hop on a ferry to the Rockaways in Queens and have a taco dinner at Rockaway Beach Surf Club or head to Arthur Avenue in the Bronx for a heaping bowl of pasta.

Here is a guide we created filled with over 30 kid-friendly restaurants in NYC you won’t want to miss!

And Don’t Forget Dessert!

For dessert, head to Big Gay Ice Cream Shop in the East or West Village, Milk & Cream in Soho, DŌ in the West Village for a bowl of cookie dough (yes, cookie dough!), or Schmackery’s for the best cookies on the East Coast. Eataly also has great gelato and sweets. Teenagers (and adults, too) flock to Carlo’s Bakery Times Square for cupcakes.  

Take in a Different View of NYC with Teens from a Boat

Go on a Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise to see the city in its glory from several perspectives. You’ll get a bird’s eye view of the Statue of Liberty, United Nations, and the Empire State Building.

Expect to be boating under bridges, passing the Freedom Tower and Governor’s Island. Then head to Gotham Market on 45th Street and 11th Avenue afterward for amazing, reasonably priced food from food vendors.

See a Broadway Show

Book ahead to find tickets to a family-friendly show such as Dear Evan Hansen, Wicked, or Hamilton, three shows that teens love. While tickets can be expensive in NYC, opt for half-price tickets at TKTS , found on 46th and Broadway.

There are also discount tickets on TodayTix , an app found on the iPhone. Get student rush tickets for your teenagers, or go right to the box office and ask for cheaper tickets. You never know what the ticket seller will offer closer to the time of the show.

Head to Coney Island to Ride the Cyclone

If you have good weather, head to Luna Park in Coney Island for good, old-fashioned rides like the legendary wooden coaster Cyclone.  In addition to the dozens of attractions and games at Luna, you’ll also want to check out the nearby beach and Nathan’s Famous for a loaded hot dog.

Stay in the Heart of the Action in Times Square

Teens will love staying in the heart of Times Square at Aliz Hotel Times Square . It’s walking distance to Hudson Yards, the Theater District, Bryant Park, and the High Line. The Aliz is cozy, has an onsite farm to table restaurant, and features a Peloton studio. Read about more of our picks for the best hotels for families in New York City .  If you are looking for a good option uptown, check out the colorful Radio Hotel .

Trekaroo tip: The Aliz Hotel is steps away from the theater where “Hamilton” is playing, and any Broadway buff will love the close proximity to that theater and others. 

Disclosure: The author was hosted by Aliz Hotel Times Square. All opinions are her own.