Museum of the City of New York

The Basics

Before heading inside the museum, admire its 1930s red-brick exterior, which is adorned with neo-Georgian detail. Inside, galleries showcase New York's past through art objects, images, and archival documents. Explore exhibitions covering topics from New York sports teams to architecture and activism, and watch an award-winning documentary on the city's evolution.

Since the museum is a popular destination, it's a good idea to purchase tickets—or a city pass that includes admission—before arriving. Neighborhood walking tours typically pass the museum, with some offering free admission.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Museum of the City of New York is a must-visit place for lovers of culture and history.

• There is free Wi-Fi throughout the museum and you can take photographs throughout.

• The museum offers kid-friendly events and classes during the day, so check the calendar before you arrive.

• The museum is completely accessible to travelers using wheelchairs and strollers.

How to Get There

The museum is located at 1220 5th Avenue. A great way to reach the museum is by public transit. By subway, take the 6 train to the 103rd Street Station. You can also take M1, M2, M3, M4 or M106 bus along 5th Avenue and get off in front of the museum. Additionally, citywide hop-on hop-off sightseeing tours typically pass the museum.

When to Get There

The museum is open daily from 10am to 6pm, and closed on major holidays including Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Consider a weekday visit to avoid the crowds; you may want to visit a couple museums on the same day, since you'll be on New York's famous Museum Mile.

Exploring the Conservatory Garden

Enjoy a taste of the outdoors after your trip to the museum at Central Park's Conservatory Garden. Located on 5th Avenue, just one block north of the Museum of the City of New York, the formal garden presents flower beds, stone walking paths, and seasonal floral displays. The Conservatory Garden is a family-friendly, quiet space that's open year-round.

Ways to explore

In a city packed with museums, the Museum of the City of New York might fly under the radar, but it’s well worth a visit. The museum traces the rich, complex history of all five boroughs, from the Lenape people who originally inhabited Manhattan to the Dutch colonial era and beyond. Plan to spend at least a few hours here to take in the full experience. There’s no big trick to visiting—just grab an admission ticket and dedicate a morning or afternoon to exploring.

Accessibility

Wheelchair access is via the East 104th Street entrance, and all levels can be reached via elevator. Carers enter for free. There is an accessible restroom, and wheelchairs are available for visitor use. The museum also provides accommodations for visitors who are hard-of-hearing and visually impaired. Service animals are welcome.

Age limits

None; under 18s enter for free with a valid ID. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

What to pack

MetroCard, valid ID for visitors 18 and under, sketchbook and pencils

What to wear

Comfortable walking shoes, layers in case of chilly AC

Not allowed

Eating or drinking in the galleries, large backpacks or bags, talking on your phone in galleries, tripods, selfie sticks, flash photography

Amenities

Free Wi-Fi, restrooms, café, coat check, water fountains

Address

The Museum of the City of New York sits on the northeastern edge of Central Park. While it’s quite far from the attractions of Midtown and Lower Manhattan, it’s easy to reach by subway, bus, or bike.

Driving

While driving is possible, parking in Manhattan can be challenging and expensive. If you do drive, head straight up Madison Avenue to the northern edge of Central Park near 103rd or 104th Street, then turn west toward Museum Mile on Fifth Avenue and look for parking nearby.

Public transportation

Take the 6 train to 103rd Street, or the 2 or 3 to Central Park North - 110th Street; both stations are around a 10-minute walk away. Buses M1, M2, M3, M4, and M106 also stop nearby.

Best times to visit

To avoid crowds, visit around opening time—typically 10am—or shortly after.

Best days to visit

Visit on Wednesdays for free admission. The museum is open daily.

Best months to visit

Spring and fall bring pleasant weather to New York City, making it easy to pair a museum visit with a walk along leafy Museum Mile and through Central Park.

Special events

In June, the Museum Mile Festival transforms Fifth Avenue into a pedestrian-only cultural celebration with live music, art activities for kids, and free evening admission to the Museum of the City of New York and other institutions.