Museum of the City of New York

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At a Glance

Time Needed: 120 min.

Ages: All

Allows Food/Drink: No

Luggage Storage: No

The Museum of the City of New York is a must-visit destination for any tourist interested in the history, culture, and development of New York City. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that showcase the city's past, present, and future. Visitors can explore the various exhibits that cover topics such as immigration, fashion, music, and art, and gain a deeper understanding of the city's diverse communities. One of the highlights of the museum is the New York at Its Core exhibit, which tells the story of the city's evolution from a small Dutch trading post to a bustling metropolis. The exhibit is interactive and engaging, featuring immersive installations, multimedia displays, and oral histories that bring the city's history to life. In addition to the exhibits, the museum also hosts a variety of events, lectures, and workshops throughout the year, making it a dynamic and ever-changing destination. Overall, the Museum of the City of New York is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in exploring the rich history and culture of New York City.

1220 5th Ave, New York, NY 10029 Get Directions





Museum of the City of New York Videos

Matthew Broderick talks about what it means to be a true New Yorker. Introducing the Museum's latest videos series— NYC as MUSE, where we talk to some of the city's most celebrated New Yorkers share what they love about living in New York City. #matthewbroderick #mcny #museum #newyork #nyc #interview #thisisnewyork #film

In honor of the Museum's centennial, "This Is New York," an exhibition and 16-screen immersive film, explores the many ways that the city has inspired storytelling in film and television, song and poetry, literature, visual and performing arts, and fashion. Focusing on where these stories are told—from the curb to the club to the couch—see how NYC has captured the imagination of the world for the last century. #ThisIsNewYork #thisisnewyorkcity Stay tuned for an exciting array of events, exhibitions, and programs marking the Museum’s 100th birthday and its role in connecting the past, present, and future of the city. #MCNY100 For a full list of supporters of "This Is New York" and our Centennial year, please visit the exhibition webpage.

Photographer, Nolan Trowe, describes his work in three words. You can find Trowe's work in our newest exhibition, New York Now: Home, now on view. #interview #mcny #museum #newyork #artist #photography #nyc #museums

Photographer, Maureen Drennan, describes her work in three words. You can find Drennan's work in the Museum's exhibition, New York Now: Home, now on view. #interview #mcny #museum #newyork #artist #photography #nyc #museums

June 5, 2023. An evening with Brooklyn-born actor and director John Turturro, whose brilliant and original performances on stage and screen have delighted audiences for over four decades. From his roles in myriad Spike Lee's films starting with Do the Right Thing, to his work in Romance and Cigarettes and Fading Gigolo, which he also wrote and directed, Turturro has breathed life into a rich pageant of unforgettable New York characters. In this intimate conversation with journalist and WNYC host Alison Stewart, Turturro discusses his wide-ranging body of work set in and about New York, and what the city means to him as an artist.

New York on Film: Decade by Decade invites audiences on a cinematic journey through NYC history from the 1920s to the 2020s. The 12-month series explores how New York has been imagined both by Hollywood studios and a diverse range of documentary, independent, and experimental filmmakers. From beloved classics and indie favorites to rarely-seen gems, the series celebrates the city’s singular mix of influences and aesthetics, peoples and environments. The New York on Film series starts 6/15/23 and is programmed by Jessica Green. Trailer by Will Mustin #museum #mcny #newyork #nyc #film #newyorkonfilm #trailer #museums

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Museum of the City of New York News

THE SCRIPT IN THE CLOSET Comes to La MaMa in March

'The Script in the Closet,' a new farce written and directed by Joyce Griffen, follows the misadventures and jealousies of a Pulitzer Prize-winning, husband-and-wife writing team who discover untitled pages of a mystery screenplay on their shared laptop.  Catch the show from March 1 to 17, 2024 at La MaMa E.T.C. (Downstairs Theatre), 66 East Fourth Street.

Photos/Video: Tony-Winner Susan Stroman Receives 2023 Louis Auchincloss Prize

Museum of the City of New York has presented with the 2023 Louis Auchincloss Prize to award-winning director and choreographer Susan Stroman. See photos from inside the event including a special video message from Stro's The Producers collaborator, Mel Brooks.

Susan Stroman to Receive 2023 Louis Auchincloss Prize From Museum of the City of New York

Museum of the City of New York to present the 2023 Louis Auchincloss Prize to award-winning director and choreographer Susan Stroman.

Perelman Performing Arts Center to Present IS IT THURSDAY YET? & More Dance Programming

The Perelman Performing Arts Center will present Is It Thursday Yet?, The March, and Motion/Matter: Street Dance Festival at the new performing arts center at the World Trade Center site in Lower Manhattan. 

Student Blog: Conquering the First Month of College

Ever wondered what life would be like while pursuing a major in theatre? Here's a glimpse into my life as I pursue a BA in Theatre Performance in NYC. In this post, I'll give insight about my schedule, advice about the first month of college, and hopefully make you laugh! Enjoy!

South Street Seaport Museum Announces Trivia Aboard A Tall Ship

South Street Seaport Museum announces Trivia Aboard a Tallship on September 13, 2023, at 6:30pm. Come aboard the 1885 tall ship Wavertree to enjoy a delightful evening of New York City trivia with the Seaport Museum and the Guides Association of New York City (GANYC).

Annette Bening, Jason Alexander, Jean Smart & More to Join STARS IN THE HOUSE Labor Day Special

Join Annette Bening, Jason Alexander, Jean Smart, and other celebrated actors for a star-studded Labor Day Special on STARS IN THE HOUSE. Don't miss this exclusive event streaming live. Tune in for an unforgettable performance and support a great cause.

Original AVENUE Q Stars To Reunite For STARS IN THE HOUSE FOR MAUI

Seth Rudetsky and James Wesley will welcome members of the original, Tony Award-winning company of the musical Avenue Q for a special edition of their lockdown roundtable series, Stars in the House.

The Road Theatre Company Unveils 2023-2024 Season of Plays

Get a sneak peek into the upcoming 2023-2024 season at The Road Theatre Company. Discover the exciting lineup of plays you won't want to miss, and mark your calendars for an unforgettable experience. From thrilling dramas to captivating comedies, The Road Theatre Company has something for everyone.

STARS IN THE HOUSE To Host 20th Anniversary Reunion Of Todd Graff's Film CAMP

Join the STARS IN THE HOUSE livestreamed concert and reunion as they host the 20th Anniversary Reunion of Todd Graff's film CAMP. Featuring the film's writer and director, Todd Graff, along with cast members Daniel Letterle, Joanna Chilcoat, Robin de Jesus, and more.

Norm Lewis, Krysta Rodriguez, Patina Miller & More to Join 9th Annual VOICES: STARS FOR FOSTER KIDS

Get all the details about the star-studded 9th Annual VOICES: STARS FOR FOSTER KIDS event, including the latest lineup additions and information on the date and location. Don't miss out on this amazing event in support of foster kids.

Rio Sofia and L Marmon Become Interim Co-Directors of Queer|Art; Organization to be Trans-Led for the First Time

Queer|Art, New York City's home for the creative and professional development of LGBTQ+ artists, has announced a new era of shared leadership for the organization. After six years as QA's Executive Director, Travis Chamberlain has accepted a new position as Director of Washington Project for the Arts, one of the oldest alternative arts spaces in the country.

New Photography And Media Arts Curator Appointed At Milwaukee Art Museum

The Milwaukee Art Museum has announced that it has appointed Kristen Gaylord as the Herzfeld Curator of Photography and Media Arts, overseeing its collection of photography and media works. Gaylord comes to the Museum, among the first American institutions to collect photography, from the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, where she is currently the Associate Curator of Photographs. She will assume her new role beginning in September.  

Photos: Christine Baranski, Brian Stokes Mitchell, and More Attend Museum of the City of New York's Centennial Gala

On Wednesday, May 24, the Museum of the City of New York held its  CENTENNIAL GALA -- an evening of dinner, dancing, and the unveiling of its new exhibition, This Is New York: 100 Years of the City in Art and Pop Culture. 

Cummer Museum Of Art & Gardens Awarded $650K From Ford Foundation, Mellon Foundation, Alice L. Walton Foundation, and Pilot House Philanthropy Partnership Initiative

The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens announced that it has been awarded a $650,000 grant from the Leadership in Art Museums (LAM) initiative, a partnership between the Ford Foundation, Mellon Foundation, Pilot House Philanthropy and Alice L. Walton Foundation.


Museum of the City of New York Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest subway stops to Museum of the City of New York

The closest subway stops to the Museum of the City of New York at 1220 5th Ave are:

1. 103rd Street Station: Located on the Lexington Avenue Line (6 train), this station is just a short walk from the museum. Exit the station and head north on Lexington Avenue, then turn right onto East 104th Street. Continue walking until you reach 5th Avenue, where the museum is located.

2. 110th Street Station: This station is served by the Central Park North–110th Street Station on the 2 and 3 trains. After exiting the station, walk south on Lenox Avenue (also known as Malcolm X Boulevard) until you reach East 104th Street. Turn left onto East 104th Street and continue until you reach 5th Avenue.

Both subway stops provide convenient access to the Museum of the City of New York, allowing you to explore the exhibits and learn about the fascinating history of the city.

While you're in the area, consider visiting other nearby attractions such as Central Park, which is just a short walk away. You can take a leisurely stroll through the park, rent a bike, or even enjoy a picnic on the Great Lawn. Central Park is a beautiful oasis in the heart of Manhattan and offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages.

For the latest subway updates and service changes, you can visit the official website of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) at https://new.mta.info. This website provides real-time information on subway schedules, delays, and service disruptions, ensuring that you can plan your visit to the museum with ease.

Enjoy your visit to the Museum of the City of New York and have a fantastic time exploring the city's rich history and culture!


What's the best way to get to Museum of the City of New York by bus?

The closest bus stops to the Museum of the City of New York at 1220 5th Ave are:

1. Madison Ave/E 103 St - served by the M1, M2, M3, and M4 buses. You can check for updates on these bus routes [here](http://bustime.mta.info/).

2. 5 Av/E 103 St - served by the M2 and M3 buses. You can check for updates on these bus routes [here](http://bustime.mta.info/).

Please note that bus schedules and routes are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for updates before your visit. Enjoy your time at the Museum of the City of New York!


How much time should I plan to spend at Museum of the City of New York?

The ideal length of time to plan for a visit to the Museum of the City of New York depends on your level of interest in the exhibits and your schedule. On average, visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the museum. However, if you are a history buff or have a deep interest in New York City's culture and heritage, you may want to allocate more time to fully immerse yourself in the exhibits. Additionally, the museum often hosts special exhibitions and events, so it's worth checking their website to see if there's anything specific you'd like to experience during your visit.


Can I bring food and drinks into Museum of the City of New York?

The Museum of the City of New York does not have a strict food and drink policy. However, they do ask visitors to be mindful and respectful of the museum's exhibitions and artifacts. If you bring food or drinks with you, it is recommended to consume them in designated areas such as the museum's café or outdoor spaces. Additionally, please remember to dispose of any trash properly to help maintain the cleanliness of the museum. Enjoy your visit to the Museum of the City of New York!


Does Museum of the City of New York offer luggage storage?

The Museum of the City of New York does not offer luggage storage facilities on its premises. However, there are several options available nearby where you can securely store your belongings while you explore the museum and the city. One popular choice is to use a luggage storage service like LuggageHero or Vertoe, which have multiple locations throughout the city, including near the museum. These services allow you to drop off your bags for a few hours or even a whole day, giving you the freedom to explore without the burden of carrying your luggage. Another option is to check with your hotel if they offer luggage storage services for their guests, even after check-out. This way, you can leave your bags with them and pick them up later when you're ready to move on to your next destination.


Is Museum of the City of New York a good place to visit for foreign travelers who are not native English speakers?

Yes, the Museum of the City of New York is a great destination for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. While the museum's exhibits are primarily in English, they are visually engaging and offer a fascinating insight into the history and culture of New York City.

The museum also provides audio guides in multiple languages, including Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Mandarin. These guides offer detailed explanations of the exhibits, ensuring that non-English speakers can fully enjoy their visit.

Additionally, the museum frequently hosts special exhibitions that cover a wide range of topics, from art and photography to fashion and music. These exhibits often feature multimedia presentations and interactive elements, making them accessible and enjoyable for all visitors, regardless of language proficiency.

Overall, the Museum of the City of New York is a welcoming and inclusive institution that caters to a diverse audience. It offers a rich and immersive experience that can be enjoyed by visitors from all around the world.


What ages are appropriate for Museum of the City of New York?

The Museum of the City of New York is a fantastic destination for visitors of all ages. While it does not have a specific recommended age range, the museum offers a wide range of exhibits and programs that cater to different interests and age groups. Families with children will enjoy the interactive exhibits designed for kids, such as the "New York at Its Core" exhibition, which explores the city's history through engaging multimedia displays. Additionally, the museum often hosts family-friendly events and workshops that are perfect for younger visitors. However, adults and history enthusiasts will also find plenty to explore and learn about at the museum. So, whether you're traveling with kids or visiting on your own, the Museum of the City of New York is a must-visit cultural institution that offers something for everyone.


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