What better way to learn about New York City than to go to a museum about it? Sure, you could spend several weeks walking around and visiting attractions, but you will be hard pressed to find a musical tribute to Yiddish theatre on Broadway. You won't be able to learn about New York City's hip-hop fashion revolution from the Garment District. And you certainly can't discover childhood playthings New York children have owned over the ages by visiting Toys R Us in Times Square. Even the new Yankee Stadium will teach you little about the golden age of New York baseball. If you are interested in getting an inside look at specific—and often obscure—aspects of the Big Apple, head over to the Museum of the City of New York, located at the northern end of the Museum Mile.
The mission of the museum is to explore the past, present and future of New York City through its many exhibitions, public programs and publications. It functions as both an art gallery and history museum. Photographs and paintings by New York City artists are often hanging in the gallery, offering a personal perspective on the city.
The Museum, a private, non-profit organization that receives government support, occupies a recreated Colonial American mansion. The red brick façade is flanked by limestone columns and accents, recreating a classic Georgian style home. The Museum of the City of New York was founded in 1923 and moved into the current Fifth Avenue building in 1930. Expansion and renovation are currently underway in an $80 million project.
Attraction Information
- Hours:
- Tuesday through Sunday: 10am to 5pm
- Closed Mondays (except holiday Mondays)
- Admission:
- Adults: $10
- Seniors and Students: $6
- Families: $20
- Children 12 and under and Members: Free
- Subway Stop:
- 6 train to the 103rd Street Station
- Contact:
- Location: 1220 Fifth Avenue at 103rd St., New York, NY
- Phone: 212-534-1672
- Website: www.mcny.org
