The Waterfront Museum is housed on a restored 1914 wooden railroad barge docked at 290 Conover Street in Red Hook, Brooklyn. Step aboard to explore the vessel’s maritime history, see its Rube Goldberg machines designed by George Rhoads and hear stories about the barge and the waterfront. The small museum also has views across the harbor, including the Statue of Liberty. Entry is free, with donations welcome. It opens on Thursdays and Saturdays, so check its website for special events and any changes before setting out.
A museum aboard a working vessel’s successor
The Waterfront Museum occupies Lehigh Valley Railroad Barge No. 79, a wooden barge built in 1914. It carried goods as part of the railroad’s transport network and is now docked on Conover Street in Red Hook. The vessel was transformed into a museum in 1986, and it has been at its current location since 1994.
The barge preserves a part of New York Harbor’s maritime history. Its former role gives the exhibits a setting closely tied to the movement of goods by water and the work carried out aboard the vessel.
What to see aboard
The museum’s displays include the history of the barge and the waterfront. Visitors can also see the vessel’s original living quarters and materials used by maritime staff. A large collection of bells is among the objects on display.
Look for the Rube Goldberg machines designed by George Rhoads. The machines can be seen in action, adding a moving exhibit to the small museum. The deck house also holds the exhibit “Showboat: ‘Round the Bend,” about water-borne vaudeville.
Visiting in Red Hook
The museum is at 290 Conover Street, on the water in Red Hook. The limited weekly opening schedule means it is sensible to check the museum’s website before travelling, especially if you are planning around a special event. Events are listed from May onward.
Entry is free, and donations are welcome. The museum offers tours, and the barge’s outdoor setting gives you views across the harbor toward the Statue of Liberty. Red Hook Winery is nearby if you want to stop for a snack or a rest after your visit.
Perguntas frequentes
Is the Waterfront Museum free to visit?
Yes. Entry is free, and donations are welcome.
When is the Waterfront Museum open?
It opens on Thursdays and Saturdays. Check its website before travelling for current details and special events.
What can you see at the Waterfront Museum?
The exhibits cover the barge and New York’s maritime history. You can also see original living quarters, maritime equipment, bells and Rube Goldberg machines designed by George Rhoads.
Where is the Waterfront Museum?
It is aboard a historic barge at 290 Conover Street in Red Hook, Brooklyn.
