New-York Historical Society Museum

Page Index – New-York Historical Society Museum

1. - 1. The Founding of the New-York Historical Society
2. - 2. What to See and Who It’s For
3. - 3. Location and Nearby Attractions
4. - 4. How to Get There
5. - 5. Hours, Admission, and Pass Access
6. - 6. Special Events and Temporary Exhibits
7. - 7. Family Tips and Kids' Activities
8. - Explore NYC with your PASS

1. The Founding of the New-York Historical Society

Founded in 1804, the New-York Historical Society is the oldest museum institution in New York City and one of the longest-standing in the United States. It was established by a group of patriots and scholars concerned about preserving the historical memory of the young American nation. Their goal was to create a place to safeguard documents, objects, and testimonies of the past. Originally housed in a modest venue, the museum has significantly expanded over the years and is now a key reference point for the history of New York and the country.

Today, the museum is located in a grand neoclassical building built in 1908 on Central Park West, directly across from Central Park. The building underwent major renovations, the most recent completed in 2011, and continues to play an active role in education through exhibitions, lectures, and public programs.

2. What to See and Who It’s For

The museum holds over 1.6 million items including paintings, photographs, furniture, clothing, maps, and archival documents. One of its most celebrated permanent exhibits covers the History of New York City from colonial times to the present day. Highlights include:

• Hudson River School paintings: one of the most valuable parts of the collection.
• Founding documents: original letters and writings by George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Alexander Hamilton.
• Center for Women’s History: the first museum center dedicated to women’s history in the U.S., featuring exhibits and programs.
• Tiffany Gallery: a stunning room filled with stained glass, lamps, and decor by Louis Comfort Tiffany.
• Interactive and multimedia exhibits exploring social movements, urban transformations, and immigration.

This museum is ideal for students, families, history enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the cultural and political evolution of New York and the United States.

3. Location and Nearby Attractions

The New-York Historical Society is located in the Upper West Side at 170 Central Park West, between 76th and 77th Streets. Its prime location makes it easy to combine with nearby attractions:

• Central Park, right across the street, perfect for a stroll or picnic.
• American Museum of Natural History, just a short walk away.
• Beacon Theatre and Lincoln Center for music and performance lovers.
• Charming cafes and restaurants along Columbus Avenue.

4. How to Get There

The museum is easily accessible by public transportation:

• Subway: B and C lines to 81st Street – Museum of Natural History.
• Buses: M7, M10, M11, M79, and M86 serve the nearby area.
• Bikes: CitiBike stations and bike lanes are available along Central Park West.

We recommend arriving early on weekends to avoid lines, especially on free admission days or during special events.

5. Hours, Admission, and Pass Access

• Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Closed on Mondays.
• Admission: Adults $24 – Seniors and students $19 – Children ages 5–13 $6 – Free under 5.
• Free admission: Fridays from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM (pay-what-you-wish).
• Included in: New York Pass and Explorer Pass.

Tickets can be purchased online or on-site. Advance reservations are recommended for weekends and holidays.

6. Special Events and Temporary Exhibits

In addition to permanent collections, the museum regularly hosts high-profile temporary exhibitions, often in collaboration with international institutions. Notable events include:

• Photography and contemporary art exhibits
• Talks and lectures by American historians and authors
• Historical film screenings

We suggest checking the museum’s official website before visiting to view the current calendar and reserve tickets for special events.

7. Family Tips and Kids' Activities

The New-York Historical Society is one of the city’s most family-friendly museums. Inside, you’ll find the DiMenna Children's History Museum, a museum-within-a-museum designed for children aged 4 to 12. It offers fun, interactive, and educational experiences to learn about history in an engaging way.

• Kid-friendly historical characters: children can meet New York historical figures via exhibits, audio, video, and digital games.
• Creative workshops: drawing, collage, letter writing with quills, and model-building inspired by 19th-century New York. Activities change monthly.
• Storytelling sessions: every weekend, staff host readings and themed craft activities.
• Treasure hunts: kids can use maps and scavenger games to explore the museum and earn small prizes.
• School visits and summer camps: available by reservation, even for visiting families.

Practical family tips:

• Baby-changing stations, elevators for strollers, and quiet spaces are available.
• The on-site cafe has kid-friendly menus and healthy snacks.
• Arrive early on weekends to enjoy the children’s areas before they get crowded.

For families looking to combine learning and fun, this museum offers an accessible, enriching, and welcoming environment.

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