Local Guides World
Top Museums in New York, United States
Top Rated Museums in New York
Top Reviewed Museums in New York
New York City Fire Museum
International Center of Photography Museum
Ellis Island Immigrant Building
Fraunces Tavern
Intrepid Museum
Yancey Richardson
Venetian Room
Castle Clinton National Monument
SVA Flatiron Gallery
Cullman Education Center MoMA
New York City, a melting pot of culture and art, is home to some of the world's most renowned museums. From timeless classics to contemporary masterpieces, the city's museums offer a journey through human creativity and history. In this guide, we'll explore the best museums in New York, ensuring that your visit to the Big Apple is a culturally enriching experience.
1. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
At the top of the list stands The Metropolitan Museum of Art, often referred to simply as "The Met." This iconic institution boasts a vast collection spanning 5,000 years of art, from ancient civilizations to modern-day masterpieces. Whether you're interested in Egyptian mummies, European paintings, or Asian artifacts, The Met has it all.
2. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
For lovers of contemporary and modern art, MoMA is a must-visit. With an extensive collection of works by Picasso, Van Gogh, and many other famous artists, it's a haven for those seeking innovative and cutting-edge art.
3. The American Museum of Natural History
Explore the wonders of the natural world at the American Museum of Natural History. From colossal dinosaur skeletons to immersive dioramas of animal habitats, this museum is perfect for families and science enthusiasts.
4. The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
An architectural marvel, the Guggenheim Museum is famous for its spiral design by Frank Lloyd Wright. Inside, you'll discover an exceptional collection of modern and contemporary art, making it an inspiring destination for art aficionados.
5. The Whitney Museum of American Art
Dedicated to American art, the Whitney Museum features works by prominent artists, including Edward Hopper and Georgia O'Keeffe. It's a place to explore the evolution of American art in the 20th and 21st centuries.
6. The Frick Collection
Housed in a Gilded Age mansion, The Frick Collection offers a unique museum experience. It showcases a remarkable collection of European art, including masterpieces by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Goya.
7. The Museum of the City of New York
For a deep dive into the history and culture of New York City, visit the Museum of the City of New York. From photographs and paintings to historical artifacts, it's a journey through the city's vibrant past.
8. The Cloisters
Nestled in Fort Tryon Park, The Cloisters is dedicated to medieval European art and architecture. Its serene gardens and art pieces from the Middle Ages provide a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
9. The Morgan Library & Museum
The Morgan Library & Museum is a treasure trove of literary and artistic works. It houses rare books, manuscripts, and an array of European paintings and drawings, making it a haven for bookworms and art enthusiasts.
10. The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
For a unique experience, explore the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. Located on the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid, it features historic aircraft, a space shuttle, and exhibitions on sea and space exploration.
Conclusion
New York City's museums are a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage and the diversity of human expression. Whether you're passionate about art, history, or science, these museums offer a glimpse into the depths of human creativity and knowledge. So, make your plans, grab your museum pass, and embark on an enlightening journey through New York's vibrant cultural landscape. You're guaranteed to be inspired and enriched by the wealth of art and history that awaits you in the heart of the Big Apple.
Reviews
If I were a member here, I'd chill on this (usually) quiet side of the museum as an alternative to going to the library, coffee shop, or food hall. Except if I wanted to people-watch at scantily clad young women; how I adore 2020s fashion!
Extreme nice people that can answer your question
Excellent museum to visit for all ages, plan to explore for 3-4 hours, there is plenty to learn and see. If you are really into history and planes you might need the whole day or 2 visits! Make sure to visit the command center and say hello to the staff inside, great people.
We visited the Intrepid Museum after being there about 8 or 10 years ago last time. The planes and the rest of the exhibits are getting beat up and not very well maintained. There are some new attractions that are fun, but the real exhibits are in sad shape. We visited on Sunday and although there are not seemingly lots of people, the lines to some of the views are pretty long. We spent about 20-25 minutes un line to get up to the ship’s bridge. The concord exhibit looks like hurricane went through it. The line to the submarine was so long that we decided not to wait and just skip it. If you plan to attend some attractions like the rides, buy tickets online as they are cheaper there. The parking in NY just suck. The museum does not have its own parking anymore and half of parking indicated by google maps are not public despite being marked as such. The kids liked it and its the only reason for 4 stars. Otherwise its 3.
I have been here a few times now. Its quite an interesting place to visit. The castle has a lot of history, starting out as an island fort connected by a wooden bridge, to being landlocked in Battery Park. Its amazing how things have changed around it.
This is well worth doing. There is a lot of history here. There is also a small gift shop with very helpful staff.
This is well worth doing. There is a lot of history here. There is also a small gift shop with very helpful staff.
This was a highlight on our visit to NY. The staff was friendly and informative and really engaged the kids. The planes were cool, the space shuttle was amazing and seeing all the exhibits on the life of the intrepid was interesting. The best part was the interactive area where kids can sit in a cockpit, see the view from air traffic control, try the bunk beds, and even try Morse code. I would suggest adding this to your plans.
This circular sandstone fort is in Battery Park on the southern tip of Manhattan, also known as Castle Clinton or Castle Garden.
Built in 1808, this landmark had held the immigrants before Ellis Island in the 19th century; and went on to serve as beer garden, exhibit hall, theater and reportedly, as an aquarium.
I often stop by when I'm in the area. It's centrally located in lower Manhattan. Today I'm here to catch the ferry to Liberty Island on my island hopping trip.
Built in 1808, this landmark had held the immigrants before Ellis Island in the 19th century; and went on to serve as beer garden, exhibit hall, theater and reportedly, as an aquarium.
I often stop by when I'm in the area. It's centrally located in lower Manhattan. Today I'm here to catch the ferry to Liberty Island on my island hopping trip.
If I lived near here I’d be here every day. Incredible beer list… they had Parabola on tap. My favorite beer in the world. And I got Eagle Rare… I realize it was $16 but well worth it. Amazing place. Historical. Dimly lit and intimate. So my place.
Just…wow! Love the atmosphere! Tried clam chowder, served with WWBread, and a fun cocktail. Excellent service. Loved the candles & wood. Great spot to get out of the rain.
For one of the most historic and wonderfully preserved restaurants in NY, their efforts to make me feel welcome were subpar. I expected more.
But, no sooner had I entered, I was questioned more than once about whether I understood there was a 30$ minimum.( I was going to hear a friend perform in the piano room. )
Then, when I was seated, I noticed at different intervals, there were a few people who came through the dining room stood for a moment to watch me then leave. Not one of them offered water, or spoke a greeting...
Finally, my waitress came over. Her attitude and professionalilsm, in addition to the fact that they had the good sense to book some noteworthy live music, saved this place from getting 1 star from me.
And, I was looking forward to a dessert, you know, to fill out my minimum, and when it arrived...maybe it's my Midwest sensibilitiea kicking in, but when I think of a chocolate-chip brownie, I expect to see some chocolate chips - as advertised. But, not this time. It was a pretty package as anyone can tell by the picture, but lacked heart
Needleas to say, I was disappointed. There were families there, couples, people who seemed to genuinely enjoy themselves. However, I was not among them. Visit for the atmosphere, sure, but there are far more places to get a taste of the historic and some good eats.
But, no sooner had I entered, I was questioned more than once about whether I understood there was a 30$ minimum.( I was going to hear a friend perform in the piano room. )
Then, when I was seated, I noticed at different intervals, there were a few people who came through the dining room stood for a moment to watch me then leave. Not one of them offered water, or spoke a greeting...
Finally, my waitress came over. Her attitude and professionalilsm, in addition to the fact that they had the good sense to book some noteworthy live music, saved this place from getting 1 star from me.
And, I was looking forward to a dessert, you know, to fill out my minimum, and when it arrived...maybe it's my Midwest sensibilitiea kicking in, but when I think of a chocolate-chip brownie, I expect to see some chocolate chips - as advertised. But, not this time. It was a pretty package as anyone can tell by the picture, but lacked heart
Needleas to say, I was disappointed. There were families there, couples, people who seemed to genuinely enjoy themselves. However, I was not among them. Visit for the atmosphere, sure, but there are far more places to get a taste of the historic and some good eats.
What a great time! My family and I had such a great time exploring the ship and looking at all the aircraft! We especially liked the SR-71 Black Bird! The space shuttle exhibit was also really cool!
We are history buffs, and so this tavern was a delight. To think we ate in the same rooms as George Washington himself! The food was delicious, and the atmosphere and service were awesome. There is also a museum upstairs that tells of the history of the tavern. I wasn't expecting much, but it was actually really well done - and much bigger than we expected! There are some really great artifacts up there.
The best place to explore in New York with an amazing experience.
There are two parking spaces near it., which you can utilize it. Definitely you won’t get bored, Not for even a seconds.
There are 3 floor with multiple flights and accessories to watch.
The 4D theater and the G force ride are one of the best things.
And if want you can be able to see inside the submarines.
Very clean place and friendly staff.
If got another chances,will like to do it again.
There are two parking spaces near it., which you can utilize it. Definitely you won’t get bored, Not for even a seconds.
There are 3 floor with multiple flights and accessories to watch.
The 4D theater and the G force ride are one of the best things.
And if want you can be able to see inside the submarines.
Very clean place and friendly staff.
If got another chances,will like to do it again.
An amazing way to pass a few hours. Such an interesting Museum. We got the chance to visit the Intrepid Museum and the Growler submarine located beside it. There is a full compliment of Military Aircraft located on the Flight deck and down below. Staff were very helpful too. Guided Tours are available or you can wander on your own. Highly recommended.
Great meal in a historic and atmospheric venue! Hot apple cider was a fun try, and Serrano and black mission fig and smoked duck and gouda pinxto flights were excellent, as was Scotch egg. Sticky toffee pudding for dessert was very nice as well!
Very good experience - impressive size of the ship. Three different floors with lots of stuff to explore and learn. Additional highlight was the submarine which was very interesting as well! Currently you can get a discount with voucher “winter24”.
Also good views on manhattan skyline. Start your day here and then enjoy a walk down by the Hudson.
Also good views on manhattan skyline. Start your day here and then enjoy a walk down by the Hudson.
A historic treasure. Did you know that the Marquis de Lafayette came back to America in 1824 and the first place he set foot was Castle Clinton?
We visited with Lafayette to tour the historic site for his upcoming bicentennial celebrations. The guides are amazing. The gift shop had some wonderful and affordable gifts. They have detailed historic markers about the site and it is a great place for families. If you like history, make sure to stop here on the way to see Liberty or Fraunces Tavern.
We visited with Lafayette to tour the historic site for his upcoming bicentennial celebrations. The guides are amazing. The gift shop had some wonderful and affordable gifts. They have detailed historic markers about the site and it is a great place for families. If you like history, make sure to stop here on the way to see Liberty or Fraunces Tavern.
We were in NYC to prepare for the bicentennial kickoff of Lafayette’s return to America celebrations and got surprised to lunch at the Tavern. It was an experience. The building is a part of history and is breathtaking. The staff is welcoming and knowledgeable! You can walk around and explore the historic site which is great for history nerds like myself and for families. The menu is diverse for all food preferences as well. Bravo for that at an historic tavern! It’s a must see experience.
Just…wow! Love the atmosphere! Tried clam chowder, served with WWBread, and a fun cocktail. Excellent service. Loved the candles & wood. Great spot to get out of the rain.
Great little squeeze in...or huge squeeze in thing before doing the cruise.
Easy to get in and staff professional and courteous.
Easy to get around and plenty of things to get up close too and see.
Should have spent a little more time walking the carrier to see more of it but we had to get onto the sub before the cruise so maybe leave 3 or 4 hours.
Good to see it all and get a bit of an understanding. Also see how crazy those submarines are to be on them.
Great way to see many eras of aircraft and a bit of history on the cold War and how machines were developing for it.
Easy to get in and staff professional and courteous.
Easy to get around and plenty of things to get up close too and see.
Should have spent a little more time walking the carrier to see more of it but we had to get onto the sub before the cruise so maybe leave 3 or 4 hours.
Good to see it all and get a bit of an understanding. Also see how crazy those submarines are to be on them.
Great way to see many eras of aircraft and a bit of history on the cold War and how machines were developing for it.
I came here because I love historical restaurants and they are hard to find in NYC! This is the cutest historic inn. I only got a very light lunch but was still excited to check it out! Service was great and we were in and out quickly, which is what we wanted. They have a diverse menu and an awesome beer list, if you’re into that! Highly recommend.
Fantastic. The staff here were so helpful. They facilitated and helped me surprise my wife with a Silver Wedding Anniversary blessing
On top of that the exhibitions are fabulous,
On top of that the exhibitions are fabulous,
You’ve got to try the intelligence test some immigrants were put through, putting the pieces of wood together to make a rectangle. It was fun for us, but I imagine quite stressful if it was your one chance to get in.
Geschichte gut geschrieben ( alles auf englisch) aber trotzdem interessant und informativ. Interessierte können her 3-4 Stunden verbringen
A journey into the history of immigration. Very well organized and lots of historical material. Allow at least 3 hours to see the details. Only the restaurant could have a larger area to have a seated meal. Roast Beef very good!
This rating is only for the Castle Clinton monument. It’s a nice sitting area and there are some historical info plaques displayed, but otherwise there is not much here.
Beautiful green space, walking paths, sunsets with Statue of Liberty in the backdrop and excellent dog spaces. People are friendly, squirrels are adorable, gardens are very well tendered and venders selling their goods are very nice and have amazing products.
Ticketing booth for the trip to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. It's also a little museum itself where you can walk around and see some exhibits about the fort and its changing purpose.
I thought it was really cool, the people that worked there were very friendly, and I wish I got to spend more time there. Unfortunately, my 4 year old wasn’t interested at all so I didn’t get to stay long. I thought it would have been more kid friendly with fire trucks that kids could sit in or even a pretend fire truck like the one at the Children’s museum of manhattan on upper west side, which my son loves, but the one kid section was pretty lame for kids of any age.
Good place for the history lovers..
If you are going to Ellis Island and Statue Of Liberty then you would stop by this monument.
It has come great pictures depicting the history of the place.
Though the monument is small and only one room is accessible but you still will like it once you enter the monument.
If you are going to Ellis Island and Statue Of Liberty then you would stop by this monument.
It has come great pictures depicting the history of the place.
Though the monument is small and only one room is accessible but you still will like it once you enter the monument.
It was impactful to be in such a significant historical landmark. The exhibits were separated into different topics so it made it so we could prioritize our visit. This also really helped to disperse each group that came off the ferry rather than routing us all on the same path. I would recommend allocating plenty of time here to see all the exhibits. And definitely buy your tickets in advance.
Castle Clinton National Monument in NYC is a historical treasure. Its rich history and breathtaking harbor views make it a must-visit. A five-star destination that transports you back in time while offering stunning vistas of the city's waterfront.
Small, 2 floor museum. Yet, it it full of history and artifacts. If you love firemen, firehouse, and / or firefighting, this is a must. I think all New Yorkers should go. Not expensive to enter. Not an all day thing but worth the trip. Keep your kids on a leash.
You can’t go wrong visiting a NY Art Gallery.
It's worth the visit! It's not a big fancy museum but it was a good addition to our trip. We enjoyed seeing the history of the fire engines.
See photo which is the QR Code for the Tour. There is a lot of information in this building for such a small space. I took over 100 photos!
This is the former FDNY Engine Company Number 30 in a renovated 1904 Fire House. It's sadly not ADA Compliant. You cannot navigate a wheelchair downstairs as the exhibits are very close to each other. I don't think a walker or wheeled walker can navigate the space. If you use a cane and have good agility the downstairs flooring is not an even, smooth surface. But there is an elevator. However you still have to use stairs to access the bathrooms on floor 1 1/2 landing. The stairs are evenly spaced and have a strong railing that was a banister to the 1st Floor. The bathrooms are not unisex.
They instruct you to tour the bottom floor then go to floor two. Chronologically you should see the pre and Colonial exhibit on Floor 2 first. The 9-11 room is downstairs and while beautifully done there is a jarring disconnect due to the museum's small size to stop on the subject of music then walk straight into the children's interactive exhibit immediately afterwards.
The Museum documents a variety of aspects of life with the predecessor and current FDNY. There are several antique vehicles and currently they have a reproduction on loan from Colonial Williamsburg. The Museum documents Marine Division, Marching Band and even the Emergency Kit for Last Rites in the Catholic Church so a priest just needs to have in person access.
Gift shop was well stocked with unisex sizing and there was a substantial gift items for children.
This is the former FDNY Engine Company Number 30 in a renovated 1904 Fire House. It's sadly not ADA Compliant. You cannot navigate a wheelchair downstairs as the exhibits are very close to each other. I don't think a walker or wheeled walker can navigate the space. If you use a cane and have good agility the downstairs flooring is not an even, smooth surface. But there is an elevator. However you still have to use stairs to access the bathrooms on floor 1 1/2 landing. The stairs are evenly spaced and have a strong railing that was a banister to the 1st Floor. The bathrooms are not unisex.
They instruct you to tour the bottom floor then go to floor two. Chronologically you should see the pre and Colonial exhibit on Floor 2 first. The 9-11 room is downstairs and while beautifully done there is a jarring disconnect due to the museum's small size to stop on the subject of music then walk straight into the children's interactive exhibit immediately afterwards.
The Museum documents a variety of aspects of life with the predecessor and current FDNY. There are several antique vehicles and currently they have a reproduction on loan from Colonial Williamsburg. The Museum documents Marine Division, Marching Band and even the Emergency Kit for Last Rites in the Catholic Church so a priest just needs to have in person access.
Gift shop was well stocked with unisex sizing and there was a substantial gift items for children.
Great place to visit and not far from the subway.
They have several old restored engines and quite a few relics of bygone ages.
The Revolutionary War exhibit is excellent.
1-2 hours is how long to budget for this museum.
They have several old restored engines and quite a few relics of bygone ages.
The Revolutionary War exhibit is excellent.
1-2 hours is how long to budget for this museum.
The Ellis Island Immigrant Building stands as a testament to the rich history of immigration in the United States. Located in New York Harbor, this iconic structure served as the gateway for millions of immigrants arriving in America between 1892 and 1954. The building holds immense historical significance as the primary immigration processing center during the peak years of mass immigration.
The architecture of the Ellis Island Immigrant Building is a blend of grandeur and functionality. Its main building, known as the Main Building or the Great Hall, welcomed and processed thousands of immigrants daily. The Great Hall itself is a marvel, with its soaring ceilings, ornate detailing, and an aura that echoes the hopes, dreams, and struggles of those who passed through its halls.
Today, the Ellis Island Immigrant Building has been transformed into the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, managed by the National Park Service. The museum showcases compelling exhibits that tell the stories of the immigrants who embarked on their American journey, providing a glimpse into the challenges they faced and the contributions they made to the nation.
Visitors to the Ellis Island Immigrant Building can explore interactive displays, view archival photographs, and even research their own family histories. The museum provides a powerful and emotional experience, allowing individuals to connect with the past and gain a deeper understanding of the immigrant experience.
The Ellis Island Immigrant Building stands as a cherished symbol of America's diverse heritage and the resilience of those who sought a better life on its shores. It serves as a vital historical landmark, offering invaluable insights into the immigrant narrative and reminding us of the immeasurable contributions immigrants have made to the United States.
The architecture of the Ellis Island Immigrant Building is a blend of grandeur and functionality. Its main building, known as the Main Building or the Great Hall, welcomed and processed thousands of immigrants daily. The Great Hall itself is a marvel, with its soaring ceilings, ornate detailing, and an aura that echoes the hopes, dreams, and struggles of those who passed through its halls.
Today, the Ellis Island Immigrant Building has been transformed into the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, managed by the National Park Service. The museum showcases compelling exhibits that tell the stories of the immigrants who embarked on their American journey, providing a glimpse into the challenges they faced and the contributions they made to the nation.
Visitors to the Ellis Island Immigrant Building can explore interactive displays, view archival photographs, and even research their own family histories. The museum provides a powerful and emotional experience, allowing individuals to connect with the past and gain a deeper understanding of the immigrant experience.
The Ellis Island Immigrant Building stands as a cherished symbol of America's diverse heritage and the resilience of those who sought a better life on its shores. It serves as a vital historical landmark, offering invaluable insights into the immigrant narrative and reminding us of the immeasurable contributions immigrants have made to the United States.
The lady behind the counter wanted me to understand the Kids CAN NOT TOUCH ANYTHING. ABSOLUTELY NO TOUCHING OF ANYTHING." Nothing is cordoned btw and the guy, her colleague who showed us a few things DID TOUCH everything he showed, THE REBEL. I clinged a large bell with my wedding band. She flew out of her cave to make sure I know NO KIDS NOR ADULTS can touch anything. I get the protection part of it but if everything is out on the floor, dont let kids under 10 inside. Update she just sent me a message telling me to die and then blocked me. She truly is a gem.
Ellis Island is a federally owned island in New York Harbor, situated within the U.S. states of New Jersey and New York, that was the busiest immigrant inspection and processing station in the United States. From 1892 to 1954, nearly 12 million immigrants arriving at the Port of New York and New Jersey were processed there under federal law.[6] Today, it is part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument and is accessible to the public only by ferry. The north side of the island is the site of the main building, now a national museum of immigration. The south side of the island, including the Ellis Island Immigrant Hospital, is open to the public only through guided tours.
Excellent. Very informative. Perhaps it could do with a view more tele-visual aids, that said the audio tour is very good and I enjoyed it.
A great building with such an interesting history and like so many government buildings the world over, once it came to the end of it's useful operational life it was abandoned and left to fall into disrepair and and to be forgotten. But now it's back, like so many other monuments and buildings, back to tell its all too important and necessary story of its history, of the history of the USA 🇺🇸 and for so many who entered the USA via this small and almost forgotten island.
How many gems like this have been forgotten and may or will never return to tell their story, so very sad. A good visit, an interesting visit and one and also a very important one. It was a little piece of history that I knew very little about. I am very glad that we visited as part of our day visiting Liberty Island & the Statue of Liberty🗽.
You can expect queues for the ferry to and from the island.
A great building with such an interesting history and like so many government buildings the world over, once it came to the end of it's useful operational life it was abandoned and left to fall into disrepair and and to be forgotten. But now it's back, like so many other monuments and buildings, back to tell its all too important and necessary story of its history, of the history of the USA 🇺🇸 and for so many who entered the USA via this small and almost forgotten island.
How many gems like this have been forgotten and may or will never return to tell their story, so very sad. A good visit, an interesting visit and one and also a very important one. It was a little piece of history that I knew very little about. I am very glad that we visited as part of our day visiting Liberty Island & the Statue of Liberty🗽.
You can expect queues for the ferry to and from the island.
Simply one of the most preeminent photography-driven galleries in the galaxy. But you already know that.
My only regret is I didn't allocate enough time to thoroughly enjoy the museum or read thru each exhibit but for the short time I was here I enjoyed it. Make sure you stop by and get one of the voice recorded gadgets to walk thru the museum that helps explain each part and enjoy
The Yancey Richardson Gallery has visually striking works of photography. Well-curated and thoughtfully designed gallery space that enhances the viewing experience. Engaging exhibitions.
The best Photo Gallery in NYC
A beautifully laid out art gallery with kind staff.
This is a very nice museum! The staff is very knowledgeable and very friendly almost like your not in Nee York LOL just kidding. They have amazing artifacts here dating way back. I wished I had planned for a longer stay you need at least 2 hours to see everything.
Not trash
First floor space with natural light that had a terrific photography show hanging and easy-to-use on-line appointment tool but it seemed like walk-in on a snowy weekday morning would have been okay.
So impressed. Fantastic use of space and such compelling exhibits spotlighting unique cultural phenomenons we should all be learning more about. These artists deserve the spotlight.
Great gallery