Discover the best museums in New York City for history, art, and science

Exploring the best museums in New York City is a must for anyone eager to experience the city’s rich culture and history. The best art museums in NYC, like The Met’s vast collection and the Guggenheim’s architectural brilliance, offer a unique glimpse into NYC’s artistic and historical essence. Interactive venues like the American Museum of Natural History inspire visitors of all ages, while SPYSCAPE adds a modern twist. This local guide highlights 21 fun things to do in NYC, ensuring you don’t miss the stories and innovations that have shaped The Big Apple.

New York City’s best museums at a glance

Best museums for art: The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Best museums for history: The Tenement Museum

Best museums for families: American Museum of Natural History

1. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Best for fine art lovers

Why should I visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art?

Did you know The Met boasts a collection of over two million items and is the largest museum in the Western Hemisphere? Inside this international landmark, which happens to be one of the top NYC tourist attractions, you’ll find an extensive collection of Egyptian artifacts, European masterpieces, a weapons and armor gallery, and a vast array of Asian art.

How long can I spend at the Metropolitan Museum of Art?

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the best things to do in Manhattan, is and one of the best museums in New York City, so you’re going to want to give yourself plenty of time to explore. The average visit lasts around three to four hours. But many visitors spend a whole day there, as the museum is enormous, with more than two million works of art.

Insider guide

During the summer, enjoy the rooftop exhibit, which offers a stellar view of Central Park and includes a coffee, cocktail, and snack stand.

Address and opening hours

1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028. Open Sunday-Tuesday and Thursday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM, and Friday-Saturday, 10:00 AM-9:00 PM.

2. The Met Cloisters

Best for architecture fans

Why should I visit The Met Cloisters?

The Met Cloisters, accessible with a Met ticket, offer a European-like experience with beautiful gardens, stunning views, and a rich collection of medieval and Gothic art and artifacts. It provides a unique New York City museum experience, focusing on the architecture and art of the Middle Ages.

How long can I spend at The Met Cloisters?

You can typically spend two to three hours exploring the collection. The museum is smaller than the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and its peaceful setting in Fort Tryon Park has lovely Hudson River views — it’s a great place to enjoy NYC in spring, with flowers blooming all around.

Insider guide

Take a stroll through Fort Tryon Park before or after the visit. The park has spectacular views of the Hudson River and the George Washington Bridge. It’s one of the less-frequented parks in NYC.

Address and opening hours

99 Margaret Corbin Dr, New York, NY 10040. Open 10:00 AM-5:00 PM every day except Wednesday.

3. The Guggenheim

Best for modern art lovers

Why should I visit The Guggenheim?

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Guggenheim Museum is a must-visit for its architectural brilliance and outstanding modern and contemporary art collections.

How long can I spend at The Guggenheim?

Spend at least 3 hours exploring its unique spiral structure and diverse art displays.

Insider tip

Head to the museum’s cafe for the best view, which overlooks Central Park.

Address and opening hours

1071 5th Ave, New York, NY 10128. Open 10:30 AM-5:30 PM every day.

4. The Whitney Museum of American Art

Best for American art fans

Why should I visit The Whitney Museum of Art?

The Whitney Museum offers an extensive collection of American art, including works by Edward Hopper and Mark Rothko.

How long can I spend at The Whitney Museum of Art?

You can comfortably spend two to three hours at the museum. The Whitney’s collection features 50,000 square feet of gallery space, plus multiple outdoor terraces with views of the Hudson River.

Insider tip

Right next to the museum is The High Line, a public park built on a historic, elevated rail line. Go there in the early morning before you head to the museum, for a less crowded experience.

Address and opening hours

99 Gansevoort St, New York, NY 10014. Open Saturday-Thursday (closed Tuesday), 10:30 AM-6:00 PM; and Friday, 10:30 AM-10:00 PM.

5. MoMA

Best for contemporary art lovers

Why should I visit MoMA?

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is a Midtown highlight featuring Pop Art, Surrealism, and Cubism, with iconic pieces like Salvador Dalí’s “The Persistence of Memory.” As one of the most influential modern art museums in the world, MoMA offers visitors a deep dive into revolutionary artistic movements.

How long can I spend at MoMA?

You can typically spend two to four hours at MoMA. The museum has six floors. If you’re short on time, focus on the must-see pieces and leave a little time for a break in the garden.

Insider tip

Don’t miss Van Gogh’s “The Starry Night” for an art experience that most only dream of.

Address and opening hours

11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019. Open Monday-Friday and Saturday, 10:30 AM-5:30 PM, and Sunday, 10:30 AM-8:00 PM. Open until 8:00 PM on the first Friday of each month.

6. MoMA PS1

Best for experimental art lovers

Why should I visit MoMA PS1?

MoMA PS1, housed in a repurposed school in Long Island City, showcases contemporary art with massive installations and an inviting outdoor courtyard. MoMA PS1’s experimental exhibitions and artist residencies make it a cutting-edge venue for modern art.

How long can I spend at MoMA PS1?

You can spend one to three hours at MoMA PS1. It features rotating installations and experimental works. It's smaller than the MoMA in Manhattan.

Insider tip

If you’re visiting in the summer, check out the museum’s Warm Up summer music series. During this series, the museum turns into a dance party, and DJs spin electric music.

Address and opening hours

22-25 Jackson Ave, Queens, NY 11101. Open Sunday, Monday, Thursday, and Friday, 12:00 AM-6:00 PM; and Saturday, 12:00 PM-8:00 PM.

7. American Museum of Natural History

Best for earth science fans

Why should I visit the American Museum of Natural History?

The American Museum of Natural History in New York has more than 40 galleries of permanent exhibitions, highlighting the earth’s incredible diversity, ocean life, birds, and plants, as well as objects depicting human origins and culture over millions of years.

How long can I spend at the American Museum of Natural History?

You can spend three to five hours at the American Museum of Natural History. If you want to see the highlights, like the dinosaur fossils, the Blue Whale model, and the Rose Center for Earth and Space, spending half a day there is better. The museum is so massive that it is a great rainy-day activity in NYC.

Insider tip

Don't miss the hidden gem dioramas in the Hall of North American Mammals on the first floor. These detailed displays of animals in their natural habitats are often less crowded than other popular sections.

Address and opening hours

200 Central Park W, New York, NY 10024. Open 10:00 AM-5:30 PM every day.

8. Morgan Library and Museum

Best for literary lovers

Why should I visit the Morgan Library and Museum?

You might have seen the Morgan Library pop up on social media, popular due to its colorful decor and its sky-high bookshelves, with marble hallways and painted ceilings. It’s the New York equivalent of the Beauty and the Beast library.

How long can I spend at the Morgan Library and Museum?

You can comfortably spend one to three hours at the Morgan Library and Museum. Highlights include J.P. Morgan's stunning private library, with its vaulted ceilings and rare manuscripts.

Insider tip

The museum offers free admission every Friday from 5 to 7 PM. You'll have access to the main galleries, as well as the rotunda, which is an architectural gem.

Address and opening hours

225 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016. Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, 10:30 AM-5:00 PM, and Friday from 10:30 AM-7:00 PM.

9. Brooklyn Museum

Best for Egyptian art lovers

Why should I visit the Brooklyn Museum?

The Brooklyn Museum houses Egyptian and African art alongside paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the 17th to the 20th century. Its Beaux-Arts building is one of the most famous landmarks in NYC.

How long can I spend at the Brooklyn Museum?

You can spend about two to four hours at the Brooklyn Museum to see its exhibits, the garden, and stop at the cafe.

Insider tip

Check out the Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art. It features important works and exhibitions that explore women’s contributions to art and culture.

Address and opening hours

200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11238. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 11:00 AM-6:00 PM. Open 5:00 PM-11:00 PM on the first Saturday of each month.

10. Tenement Museum

Best for history buffs

Why should I visit the Tenement Museum?

The Tenement Museum lets you travel back to NYC in the late 1800s. It’s set out over two historic buildings — at 97 and 103 Orchard Street — giving you a chance to see what life was really like for tenement residents in New York City. The museum recreates the living conditions of immigrants who lived in the Lower East Side tenements, offering insight into their daily struggles and triumphs.

How long can I spend at the Tenement Museum?

You can spend two to three hours at the Tenement Museum. The museum offers guided tours that last around an hour.

Insider tip

Book your tickets in advance for popular tours like “Getting By” or the “Immigrants Experience.” These two tend to sell out.

Address and opening hours

103 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002. Open 10:00 AM-6:00 PM every day.

11. Queens Museum

Best for culture fans

Why should I visit the Queens Museum?

The Queens Museum is one of the city’s most underrated museums and also one of the top cheap things to do in NYC. Located at the site of two World’s Fairs, it features exhibits that delve into New York City’s history. The museum also focuses on the diverse cultural history of Queens, reflecting the borough’s vibrant and multicultural community as one of the most diverse places on the planet.

How long can I spend at the Queens Museum?

You can spend about two to three hours at the Queens Museum. Rotating exhibitions focus on contemporary art, community projects, and historical artifacts.

Insider tip

The Panorama of the City of New York, a detailed scale model of the five boroughs, has one of the most impressive bird’s-eye views of NYC.

Address and opening hours

Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Building, Queens, NY 11368. Open Wednesday-Friday, 12:00-5:00 PM, and Saturday-Sunday, 11:00 AM-5:00 PM.

12. The Noguchi Museum

Best for sculpture lovers

Why should I visit The Noguchi Museum?

One of New York City’s hidden gems is The Noguchi Museum in Long Island City. Featuring the largest collection of Isamu Noguchi’s sculptures and designs, the peaceful gardens provide a zen-like retreat from the buzzy energy of NYC.

How long can I spend at The Noguchi Museum?

You can spend about one to two hours at The Noguchi Museum. The museum is relatively small and has both indoor galleries and an outdoor sculpture garden.

Insider tip

Thursdays from 5 to 8 PM are the museum's free admission hours. It also tends to be less crowded during this time. Visiting the museum is a fun solo activity in NYC, too.

Address and opening hours

9-01 33rd Rd, Queens, NY 11106. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 11:00 AM-6:00 PM.

13. Cooper Hewitt

Best for design lovers

Why should I visit Cooper Hewitt?

The Cooper Hewitt is a Smithsonian Design Museum that lives in the historic Andrew Carnegie Mansion. Visitors come for its dizzying collection of textiles, furniture, and digital art, all while engaging with technology that allows them to create and personalize their own design pieces.

How long can I spend at Cooper Hewitt?

You can spend two to four hours at the Cooper Hewitt’s many design-focused galleries. There are also lovely gardens and a cafe.

Insider tip

Take advantage of the design and color tools available throughout the museum. These interactive features allow you to collect designs and create your own digital scrapbook.

Address and opening hours

2 E 91st St, New York, NY 10128. Open 10:00 AM-6:00 PM every day.

14. Museum of the City of New York

Best for New York City history buffs

Why should I visit the Museum of the City of New York?

It may not be the best-known museum in NYC among tourists, but locals love this museum for its deep dive into the city’s past. The Museum of the City of New York will have you traveling through NYC’s history from the early Dutch settlement to the present day.

How long can I spend at the Museum of the City of New York?

You can spend one to three hours at the Museum of the City of New York. The museum has a range of exhibits including photography, historical artifacts, and interactive displays.

Insider tip

Check out the view from the museum’s terrace. It offers a fantastic perspective of the city skyline, especially at sunset.

Address and opening hours

1220 5th Ave, New York, NY 10029. Open Monday, Thursday, and Friday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM; and Saturday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM.

15. El Museo del Barrio

Best for Latinx culture fans

Why should I visit El Museo del Barrio?

Just down the street from the Museum of the City of NY, you’ll find El Museo del Barrio. It’s filled with colorful Puerto Rican and Latin art, special exhibits, and photography. It’s undoubtedly one of New York City’s hidden treasures. The museum’s huge collection of more than 6,500 pieces spans over 800 years.

How long can I spend at El Museo del Barrio?

You can spend two to three hours at El Museo del Barrio exploring its contemporary and traditional works. Check the schedule for any performances or events that may be happening during your visit.

Insider tip

Directly across from the museum is the Conservatory Garden, one of Central Park’s most beautifully landscaped gardens.

Address and opening hours

1230 5th Ave, New York, NY 10029. Open Thursday-Sunday, 11:00 AM-5:00 PM.

16. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Best for military history fans

Why should I visit the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum?

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum has hands-on exhibits that take you from WWII bombers and submarines to a spacecraft. Visitors can tour the Aircraft Carrier Intrepid, explore the Space Shuttle Pavilion, and learn about the history of aviation and space exploration.

How long can I spend at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum?

Plan to spend about two to four hours at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. This will leave time to experience the submarine Growler and space shuttle Enterprise.

Insider tip

Start your visit on the flight deck. This area offers stunning views of the Hudson River and the city skyline.

Address and opening hours

Pier 86, W 46th St, New York, NY 10036Pier 86, W 46th St, New York, NY 10036. Open Monday-Friday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM, and Saturday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM.

17. Museum of the Moving Image

Best for movie buffs

Why should I visit the Museum of the Moving Image?

The Museum of the Moving Image houses the nation’s largest collection of artifacts related to moving pictures, presented in hybrid exhibitions. Here, you can explore the evolution of film and television technology and enjoy hands-on activities like creating your very own stop-motion animations.

How long can I spend at the Museum of the Moving Image?

Budget one to three hours to visit the Museum of the Moving Image and see its film, television, and digital media exhibits. If you plan to catch a film screening, you may want to allocate more time.

Insider tip

The Jim Henson exhibit is one of the museum’s most fun sections, featuring real-life muppets like Kermit the Frog, Rowlf, and the Swedish Chef.

Address and opening hours

36-01 35th Ave, Queens, NY 11106. Open Thursday, 2:00 PM-6:00 PM; Friday, 2:00 PM-8:00 PM; and Saturday-Sunday, 12:00 PM-6:00 PM.

18. SPYSCAPE

Best for families

Why should I visit SPYSCAPE?

If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a spy, SPYSCAPE is your chance to try it out. The whole museum is darkly lit and totally interactive. You can play games, crack codes, try on cool gadgets, and take part in a personalized spy profile test to discover your own spy skills and aptitudes.

How long can I spend at SPYSCAPE?

It can take up to three hours to experience all the exhibits at SPYSCAPE. The museum is designed to be engaging, with various hands-on activities to test your spy skills.

Insider tip

Your entry ticket allows you to create a spy profile, which personalizes the museum experience based on your skills and interests.

Address and opening hours

928 8th Ave, New York, NY 10019. Open Monday-Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:00 PM; and Sunday, 10:00 AM-8:00 PM.

19. Museum of Ice Cream

Best for sweet tooths

Why should I visit the Museum of Ice Cream?

One of the most fun museums in New York City, the Museum of Ice Cream is a great place to unleash your inner child. Playful, multi-story exhibits themed around ice cream are your ticket to a fun and whimsical time and cute photo memories. Each room offers a different interactive experience, and visitors can indulge in various ice cream flavors as they explore.

How long can I spend at the Museum of Ice Cream?

You can typically spend about two hours at the Museum of Ice Cream. The experience is designed to be interactive, with various themed rooms and activities related to ice cream.

Insider tip

Dive into the sprinkle pool for a unique and fun photo opportunity you can’t find anywhere else.

Address and opening hours

558 Broadway, New York, NY 10012. Open Monday, 10:00 AM-7:00 PM; Wednesday-Thursday, 10:00 AM-7:00 PM; Friday, 10:00 AM-8:30 PM; Saturday, 9:30 AM-8:30 PM; and Sunday, 9:30 AM-7:30 PM.

20. Color Factory

Best for immersive art lovers

Why should I visit the Color Factory?

The Color Factory is a trippy and colorful attraction that awakens your perception of color. The museum’s interactive installations invite visitors to explore color through sight, touch, and taste. All 16 exhibits have their own themes, all meant to represent the colors and perspectives of New York City.

How long can I spend at the Color Factory?

Plan up to an hour and a half for the Color Factory's immersive installations and activities that celebrate color.

Insider tip

Cameras, placed in the exhibits, take photos and send them to you for free, but you’ll need a smartphone to scan the QR code.

Address and opening hours

251 Spring St, New York, NY 10013. Open Sunday-Thursday (closed Tuesday), 9:00 AM-7:00 PM; and Friday-Saturday, 9:00 A-8:00 PM.

21. The City Reliquary

Best for New York culture

Why should I visit the City Reliquary?

The City Reliquary in Brooklyn is all about the strange and weird in New York City. The relics, memorabilia, and everyday items have been donated and loaned by people in the community to celebrate and share the life and history of the people who call NYC home. The museum might be small, but it gives you a raw and real glimpse into life in this iconic city over many years of growth and change.

How long can I spend at the City Reliquary?

You can spend about two hours at the City Reliquary. The community museum’s quirky artifacts, memorabilia, and exhibits are housed in an intimate space and you can enjoy at a leisurely pace.

Insider tip

Check the City Reliquary events calendar for special events like community talks and workshops. These help provide deeper insight into the local history of New York.

Address and opening hours

370 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211. Open Saturday-Sunday, 12:00 PM-6:00 PM.

FAQs

What are the most famous museums in New York City?

NYC has some of the world’s most renowned museums. The most famous museums in New York City include The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), The American Museum of Natural History, and The Whitney Museum of American Art.

Are there any free museums in NYC?

There are several free museums in New York City. The American Museum of Natural History, the Bronx Museum of the Arts, and the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology are among those that offer free admission or entry by donation. Additionally, many museums have specific free hours or days each week, so it’s worth checking their schedules in advance.

What’s the most interesting museum in New York City if I only have time for one?

If you can only visit one museum in New York City, the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) is often considered the most interesting choice. Its vast and diverse collection spans over 5,000 years of art from cultures around the world, including everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to European masters and contemporary works.

Are there any fun museums in New York City for families and children?

There are several cool museums in New York City with kid-friendly interactive exhibits. The American Museum of Natural History is a favorite with its dinosaur exhibits and planetarium. The Children’s Museum of Manhattan and the New York Hall of Science also provide hands-on activities that are both fun and educational for kids.

For which museums in NYC are guided tours recommended?

Guided tours are recommended for several museums in New York City to enhance the visitor experience. The Tenement Museum offers immersive tours that bring historical stories to life, and the American Museum of Natural History’s tours provide in-depth insights into the exhibits. Additionally, guided tours at the Metropolitan Museum of Art can help visitors navigate its vast collection and highlight key pieces and historical contexts.

Are there any museum passes or discount cards available for visiting multiple museums in NYC?

The New York City PASS provides admission to six major attractions, including the American Museum of Natural History, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Statue of Liberty. You can also get the Explorer Pass, which is a flexible pass that allows you to choose from more than 90 attractions, including museums.