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Museum of the City of New York in New York, NY

1220 Fifth Avenue • New York, NY 10029

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Museum of the City of New York in New York, New York

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Based on 1,078 reviews

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Overview

Peel back the layers of New York City’s vibrant history at the Museum of the City of New York! Wander through the award-winning New York at Its Core exhibition, journey through 400 years in the 28-minute Timescapes documentary, and treat yourself at the on-site café. The city's past, present, and future await—all under one roof.

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Good To Know

The museum is housed in a beautifully renovated 1932 Georgian Colonial Revival building.
Featuring approximately 750,000 objects, including photographs, costumes, paintings, sculptures, and more.
Discover a variety of rotating special exhibitions on the second and third floors.
Large bags (over 11” x 17”) and luggage are not permitted. Wear backpacks in front of your body.
Enjoy free WiFi access available throughout the building.
Visit the on-site café by Amy's Bread for sweet treats and savory snacks.
Browse the museum shop for NYC-centric gifts and souvenirs, perfect for souvenirs or special keepsakes.
The museum is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day; plan your visit accordingly.

Description

The Museum of the City of New York celebrates and interprets the city, educating the public about its distinctive character, especially its heritage of diversity, opportunity, and perpetual transformation. Founded in 1923 as a private, nonprofit corporation, the Museum connects the past, present, and future of New York City. It serves the people of New York and visitors from around the world through exhibitions, school and public programs, publications, and collections.

Our History:
The Museum of the City of New York was founded in 1923 by Henry Collins Brown, a Scottish-born writer with a vision for a populist approach to the city. The Museum was originally housed in Gracie Mansion, the future residence of the Mayor of New York. Hardinge Scholle succeeded Henry Brown in 1926 and began planning a new home for the Museum. The City offered land on Fifth Avenue on 103rd-104th Streets and construction for Joseph H. Freedlander’s Georgian Colonial-Revival design for the building started in 1929 and was completed in 1932. During the next few decades, the Museum amassed a considerable collection of exceptional items, including several of Eugene O’Neill’s handwritten manuscripts, a complete room of Duncan Phyfe furniture, 412 glass negatives taken by Jacob Riis and donated by his son, a man’s suit worn to George Washington’s Inaugural Ball, and the Carrie Walter Stettheimer dollhouse, which contains a miniature work by Marcel Duchamp. Today the Museum’s collection contains approximately 750,000 objects, including prints, photographs, decorative arts, costumes, paintings, sculptures, toys, and theatrical memorabilia.

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Museum of the City of New York is located at 1220 Fifth Avenue • New York, NY 10029

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Frequently Asked Questions about Museum of the City of New York

Is there parking available at the museum?

The museum does not have a dedicated parking lot. Street parking and nearby parking garages are available.

Is the tour guided?

No, the tour is self-guided, so you can explore the museum at your own pace.

Is the museum open on holidays?

The museum is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Please plan your visit accordingly.

Is the museum recommended for children?

Yes, the museum offers free admission to minors. Please note that children under age 12 must remain with adults at all times.

Is photography allowed inside the museum?

Photography for personal use is generally permitted; however, flash photography, selfie sticks, and tripods are not allowed.

What is the museum’s bag policy?

Luggage or any bag larger than 11” x 17” will not be permitted. The museum will not hold or store luggage. All bags are subject to inspection.

Does the museum have a coat check?

Yes. You can find the coat check on the first floor.

Can I bring food and drinks into the museum?

Outside food and drinks are not permitted; however, the on-site café offers a variety of options.

Can I bring a pet?

Only ADA-defined service animals are allowed inside the museum.

Is the museum wheelchair accessible?

The museum offers an accessible ramp entrance on East 104th St. and elevator access to all levels, including Ronay Menschel Hall. Motorized wheelchairs are welcome, and manual wheelchairs are available for complimentary use (subject to availability)—ask the Security Desk for assistance.