The New York Historical is a museum and research library on Central Park West, devoted to New York and American history. Founded in 1804, it brings together art, photographs, documents and objects across changing exhibitions and permanent displays. Look for the Tiffany lamps, hear historic figures through interactive audio displays, and take a seat at the desk in a replica Oval Office. The DiMenna Children’s History Museum adds hands-on activities for younger visitors, and an on-site cafe and restaurant make it easy to pause during a longer visit.
A museum founded in 1804
The New York Historical began in 1804 as New York’s first museum. Its collections document the city and the United States through art, objects, photographs, manuscripts and other records. The museum is at 170 Central Park West, beside Central Park, in a landmark granite building designed by York & Sawyer in a Roman Eclectic style.
New York’s past is the connecting thread, but the displays range across subjects and formats. Exhibitions use photographs, documents, works of art and multimedia presentations to tell different stories. The focus can shift with the temporary exhibitions, so the galleries you see depend on what is on view during your visit.
Tiffany lamps and interactive displays
The Tiffany lamp collection is a highlight. The lamps are displayed in a glass gallery, where you can look closely at the coloured glass and the craftsmanship. Other collections include silver, furniture, paintings, historic documents and everyday objects. The fourth floor has open-storage displays, giving a closer look at objects held by the museum.
Some exhibits invite you to take part. Pick up an old-style phone or headphones to hear stories connected to historic figures. A replica Oval Office lets visitors sit behind the president’s desk and take a photograph. An introductory film provides context before you start exploring the galleries.
Exhibitions can also centre on particular people, communities or periods. Past displays have included the Gay Harlem Renaissance and the history of the sari, using material such as photographs, documents and music. Check what is currently on view if you are visiting for a specific subject.
A visit with children
The DiMenna Children’s History Museum is on the lower level and focuses on New York’s past through hands-on exhibits. Its displays include stories about orphan trains and an interactive tabletop baseball game. Family programming has included cooking classes, scavenger hunts, games and story time.
The museum’s cafe and restaurant provide places to take a break, and there is also a gift shop. The building has several floors of galleries, so a visit can stretch beyond the children’s area or the Tiffany collection. If you want to explore the full range of displays, plan time for the introductory film, interactive exhibits and the galleries upstairs.
Häufige Fragen
Is admission free at The New York Historical?
The visit information provided says admission is free on Fridays after 5pm.
How long should you spend at The New York Historical?
Allow about 2 to 4 hours to explore the galleries, Tiffany lamps and interactive displays, with extra time if you are visiting the children’s museum.
What should you see at The New York Historical?
Look for the Tiffany lamp collection, the replica Oval Office, interactive audio displays and the DiMenna Children’s History Museum.
Is The New York Historical suitable for children?
Yes. The DiMenna Children’s History Museum has hands-on exhibits, including an interactive tabletop baseball game and displays about orphan trains.
