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History Museums

History Museums

Fascinating museums showcasing NYC and world history

American Museum of Natural History
#1

American Museum of Natural History

200 Central Prk W, New York, NY 10024, United States

From towering dinosaur skeletons to immersive space shows, this museum never gets old. It’s massive, magical, and perfect for curious minds of all ages. Whether you’re into ancient mammals or meteorites, there’s always something that blows your mind.
The Museum of Interesting Things
#2

The Museum of Interesting Things

Georgetown Plaza, 60 E 8th St, New York, NY 10003, United States

A total hidden gem. You book an appointment, walk into a downtown apartment, and suddenly you’re time-traveling through typewriters, vintage cameras, and odd gadgets you didn’t even know existed. It’s weird, wonderful, and wildly memorable.
Museum of the City of New York
#3

Museum of the City of New York

1220 5th Ave, New York, NY 10029, United States

This place tells the story of NYC itself—from its roots to its ever-changing skyline. With exhibits on everything from hip hop to housing, it captures the city’s heart and contradictions in one smart, stylish space.
The New York Historical
#4

The New York Historical

170 Central Prk W, New York, NY 10024, United States

If NYC had a memory, it’d live here. From Hamilton’s desk to suffragette banners, this museum brings the city’s past to life with care and craft. Plus, the DiMenna Children’s History Museum makes it extra great for families.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
#5

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028, United States

Yes, it’s an art museum—but its history collections are next level. Ancient armor, Egyptian tombs, and world-spanning artifacts make The Met feel like a global time capsule. You’ll leave feeling small in the best possible way.
The Frick Collection
#6

The Frick Collection

1 E 70th St, New York, NY 10021, United States

Step into a Gilded Age mansion frozen in time. The Frick is quiet, refined, and rich in European history. Every room tells a story, with old master paintings and antique furniture set exactly as the collector left them.
SPYSCAPE
#7

SPYSCAPE

928 8th Ave, New York, NY 10019, United States

A history museum with a secret identity. SPYSCAPE dives into real-world espionage—from codebreakers to cyberwarfare. With interactive missions and slick design, it’s like being inside a Bond movie—but everything you learn is true.
National Museum of the American Indian
#8

National Museum of the American Indian

1 Bowling Green, New York, NY 10004, United States

Set in a stunning Beaux-Arts building, this museum centers the stories of Indigenous peoples from across the Americas. The exhibits are powerful, detailed, and often overlooked. A must-visit for a deeper, more honest history.
Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation
#9

Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation

415 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024, United States

The newest addition to the Natural History Museum feels like stepping into the future. With live insects, glass-walled research labs, and a butterfly pavilion, it blends science and storytelling in a way that feels alive and evolving.
Museum of Reclaimed Urban Space (MoRUS)
#10

Museum of Reclaimed Urban Space (MoRUS)

155 Loisaida Ave, New York, NY 10009, United States

This scrappy East Village spot tells the story of squats, community gardens, and activism. It’s grassroots, low-budget, and full of heart—just like the movements it celebrates. A perfect place to see history from the street level.

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Art Museums

Art Museums

World-class art collections and exhibitions