New-York Historical Society, New York City - A red sign hanging from the side of a building
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New-York Historical Society

4.5
·680 reviews·New York, United States

Explore NYC's rich past through art, artifacts, and captivating exhibits at the New-York Historical Society.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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New-York Historical Society, New York City - A red sign hanging from the side of a building

New-York Historical Society

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore NYC's rich past through art, artifacts, and captivating exhibits at the New-York Historical Society.

4.5
(680 reviews)

"A must-visit for history lovers, featuring stunning Tiffany lamps and deep dives into NYC's past."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Budget Your Time

Most visitors find 2-3 hours sufficient to see the main exhibits. Don't overschedule yourself!

📱 Use Your Phone's Camera

Translate signs to Spanish instantly with your iPhone camera for a more accessible visit.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tiffany Lamps Collection

Tiffany Lamps Collection

First floor

Marvel at over 130 exquisite lamps by Louis C. Tiffany and Clara Driscoll, a dazzling display of artistry.

Gilded Age Mansions

Gilded Age Mansions

Various exhibits

Discover the opulent history of NYC's Gilded Age mansions, many of which have since disappeared.

Robert Caro's 'The Power Broker' Installation

Robert Caro's 'The Power Broker' Installation

Museum store

Get a copy of Robert Caro's seminal work signed by the author himself, a unique collector's item.

Pinkster Holiday Exhibit

Pinkster Holiday Exhibit

Special exhibits

Learn about Pinkster, NYC's oldest African American holiday, with insights from historians.

Planning Your Visit

Time Your Visit Wisely

Avoid peak crowds by visiting on weekdays, especially mid-morning. Weekends can get busy, particularly during special exhibits. Consider booking tickets online in advance to save time.

Explore Beyond the Exhibits

The New-York Historical Society offers more than just artifacts. Look for unique events, lectures, and even signed books by renowned authors like Robert Caro. Check their schedule before you go.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
During special exhibits
Why
Unique experiences await
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Washington crossing the deleware except it’s lowkey fake #themet #metmuseum #newyorkcity #nychistory #tourguide #washingtoncrossesthedelaware
@lizabanks11
80K likes • 488K views

🎯 Budget Your Time

Most visitors find 2-3 hours sufficient to see the main exhibits. Don't overschedule yourself! Reddit

📱 Use Your Phone's Camera

Translate signs to Spanish instantly with your iPhone camera for a more accessible visit. Instagram

My first stop on this trip to NYC was to the cathedral of St John the Divine to view a piece of sculpture that took my father Simon Verity 13 years to finish. #nyc #history #london #fyp
@johnoverity
54.2K likes • 257K views
One Thing To Try In NYC: New York Historical Society Visit @nyhistory for interesting and diverse exhibits covering NYC and American history!
exploring_manhattan
113 likes • 4.7K views

🧥 Coat Check Available

Stay comfortable year-round with the convenient coat check service located in the lobby. Instagram

📚 Signed Books Available

Purchase signed copies of Robert Caro's 'The Power Broker' and other works in the museum store. Instagram

Thinking of finally reading “The Power Broker”? You can get any of Robert Caro’s books (@robertcaroofficial) from the New-York Historical Society signed by Caro himself! See the special installation...
nyhistory
3.7K likes • 125.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Budget Your Time

Most visitors find 2-3 hours sufficient to see the main exhibits. Don't overschedule yourself! Reddit

📱 Use Your Phone's Camera

Translate signs to Spanish instantly with your iPhone camera for a more accessible visit. Instagram

🧥 Coat Check Available

Stay comfortable year-round with the convenient coat check service located in the lobby. Instagram

📚 Signed Books Available

Purchase signed copies of Robert Caro's 'The Power Broker' and other works in the museum store. Instagram

🌳 Recharge Nearby

Take a break in nearby Central Park after your visit to relax and reflect. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(680 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the New-York Historical Society for its stunning Tiffany Lamps collection and insightful exhibits on NYC and American history, particularly the Gilded Age. Some find the museum's size manageable for a few hours, while others suggest it's best for those with a deep interest in the subject matter.

"I came here just to see the Tiffany Gallery WOW, and was pleasantly surprised by the the other exhibitions. Hardly anyone here and its not far from the museum of natural history and the Dakota bldg."

Margaret Macken

"We didn't want to go to a big museum and this was perfect. Great photography of New York, several exhibits on photography, women's clothing through the ages, Tiffany Lamps, and more. It is next to Central Park, so it a beautiful location."

Vida by Vivian

"Nice small museum. Not so crowded. Tiffany lamps are amazing. The exhibitions are small but interesting. Nice time"

Juan Jose Arroyo

What People Like

Beautiful Tiffany lamps
Engaging historical exhibits
Manageable museum size

What People Dislike

Can be niche for some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The New-York Historical Society is easily accessible by public transportation. The closest subway stations are 77th Street (1, 2, 3 trains) and 81st Street–Museum of Natural History (B, C trains). Several bus lines also stop nearby. Reddit

While street parking can be challenging in the area, there are several parking garages within walking distance of the museum. It's often more convenient to use public transport. Reddit

Yes, it's located on the Upper West Side, close to the American Museum of Natural History and Central Park. This makes it easy to combine with other sightseeing. Reddit

From Midtown, you can take the 1, 2, or 3 subway lines uptown to the 77th Street station, which is a short walk from the museum. Alternatively, several bus routes run along Central Park West. Reddit

Walking from Times Square would take approximately 45-60 minutes. Taking the subway is a much quicker option, usually under 15 minutes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary, but general admission typically ranges from $21 for adults to $12 for seniors and students. Children under 12 are often free. Check their official website for current pricing and any discounts. TikTok

It's highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance, especially for popular exhibits, to guarantee entry and avoid long queues. Instagram

The museum is typically open Tuesday through Sunday, with varying hours. It's best to check the official New-York Historical Society website for the most up-to-date hours of operation. [^NYHS Website]

While not always available, the museum sometimes offers free admission days or special discounts. Keep an eye on their website or social media for announcements. [^NYHS Website]

Yes, many visitors find it helpful to use their phone's camera feature to translate signs into different languages, including Spanish. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Most visitors spend around 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits. If you plan to attend a special program or deeply engage with the collections, you might need 4-5 hours. Reddit

Don't miss the stunning Tiffany Lamps collection, exhibits on the Gilded Age, and any temporary exhibitions. The Robert Caro installation is also a unique draw. Instagram+1

Yes, the museum offers engaging exhibits that can appeal to older children and teens interested in history. Look for family-friendly programming. TikTok

Yes, the museum has a gift shop where you can find books, souvenirs, and unique items related to New York history. [^NYHS Website]

Photography is generally allowed for personal use in most galleries, but flash photography and tripods are usually prohibited. Always check signage in specific galleries. [^NYHS Website]

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum typically has a cafe or dining area where you can purchase snacks, light meals, and beverages. Check their website for current offerings. [^NYHS Website]

The Upper West Side offers a wide array of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. You can find many choices along Columbus Avenue and Amsterdam Avenue. Reddit

Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the museum galleries. It's best to consume your own food in designated areas or before/after your visit. [^NYHS Website]

This exhibit explores the history and cultural impact of Jewish deli food in America, showcasing iconic dishes and their evolution. Instagram

While not directly at the museum, you can find historic dining spots in the city, like Keen's Steakhouse, which has a long-standing reputation. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Tiffany Lamps collection is incredibly photogenic. The architecture of the building itself and exhibits on Gilded Age mansions also offer great visual appeal. Instagram

Yes, personal photography with phone cameras is generally allowed in most galleries. However, always be mindful of others and avoid flash photography. [^NYHS Website]

Flash photography, tripods, and selfie sticks are typically not permitted to protect the artifacts and ensure a comfortable experience for all visitors. [^NYHS Website]

Weekday mornings or late afternoons tend to be less crowded, allowing for more unobstructed shots. The natural light can also be quite beautiful in certain galleries. Instagram

The 'I'll Have What She's Having' exhibit on Jewish deli food and the displays related to Gilded Age mansions offer unique and visually rich opportunities for photography. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the New-York Historical Society is primarily focused on adult history enthusiasts, it can still be an engaging visit for families with older children and teens. The Tiffany Lamps collection is visually stunning and can capture a child's imagination. Exhibits on Gilded Age mansions can also spark interest in architecture and historical lifestyles. TikTokInstagram

Look for any family-specific programming or tours that might be available during your visit. Consider focusing on exhibits that have strong visual elements or relatable themes, such as the history of food or iconic New York landmarks. It's a good idea to check the museum's website for any kid-friendly guides or activities before you go. TikTok

📚 History Buffs & Researchers

For serious history lovers, the New-York Historical Society is a treasure trove. Beyond the public exhibits, the Library houses extensive collections of manuscripts, books, and photographs, offering unparalleled research opportunities. The museum's commitment to preserving and presenting New York and American history makes it a vital resource. Reddit [^NYHS Website]

Don't miss the chance to explore special installations like the one featuring Robert Caro's 'The Power Broker', where you can even get signed copies. The museum frequently hosts lectures, symposia, and special exhibitions that delve deeply into specific historical topics, making it a dynamic place for continuous learning and discovery. InstagramReddit

🖼️ Art & Design Enthusiasts

The Tiffany Lamps collection is a major draw for art and design aficionados, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and the beauty of stained glass. Instagram Beyond lamps, the museum's holdings include significant collections of American paintings, decorative arts, and furniture, particularly those reflecting the Gilded Age and earlier periods. TikTok+1

Visitors interested in architectural history will find the exhibits on historic mansions particularly compelling. The museum offers a rich visual experience, highlighting the artistic trends and design sensibilities that shaped New York's past. It's a place where history and art beautifully intersect. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Tiffany Lamps

The New-York Historical Society boasts a remarkable permanent collection of over 130 lamps created by Louis Comfort Tiffany and his talented female designers, most notably Clara Driscoll. These lamps are not just sources of light; they are intricate works of art, showcasing the innovative use of stained glass and the Art Nouveau aesthetic. Visitors are often captivated by the vibrant colors, delicate patterns, and the sheer craftsmanship evident in each piece. The collection provides a fascinating glimpse into the decorative arts of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Instagram

Exploring this collection offers a chance to appreciate the legacy of Tiffany Studios and understand the significant contributions of artists like Driscoll, whose role in designing many iconic lamps was historically overlooked. The way the light filters through the glass creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a truly memorable part of any visit. Instagram

Tips for Viewing the Tiffany Lamps:



* Go early: To best appreciate the detail without crowds, try to visit this gallery earlier in your visit or on a weekday. Instagram
* Look for details: Take your time to observe the intricate designs and the variety of motifs, from floral patterns to geometric shapes.
* Consider the context: Imagine these lamps illuminating homes during the Gilded Age, adding a touch of luxury and artistry. TikTok

Uncovering New York's Gilded Age

New York City's Gilded Age (roughly 1870s to 1900) was a period of immense wealth, industrialization, and extravagant lifestyles for the elite. The New-York Historical Society delves into this fascinating era, showcasing the history of the grand mansions that once lined Fifth Avenue and other prestigious streets. Many of these architectural marvels have since been demolished, making the museum's collections and exhibits crucial for understanding this opulent past. TikTok+1

The museum's exhibits often feature photographs, architectural drawings, and personal artifacts that bring the lives of Gilded Age families to life. You can learn about the social customs, the economic boom, and the stark contrasts between extreme wealth and poverty that defined this era. It's a chance to step back in time and visualize the grandeur of a bygone New York. TikTok

Key Aspects of the Gilded Age Experience:



* Architectural Heritage: Explore the stories behind the mansions, their builders, and their eventual fates. TikTok
* Social History: Understand the dynamics of the wealthy elite and the societal changes of the period. TikTok
* Art and Design: Discover the decorative arts and interior design trends that characterized Gilded Age homes. TikTok

The Significance of Pinkster

The New-York Historical Society sheds light on Pinkster, a holiday with deep roots in New York's African American history. Originating from the Dutch celebration of Pentecost, Pinkster evolved in 17th and 18th century New York into a significant cultural event for enslaved and free Black New Yorkers. It was a rare occasion for community gathering, celebration, and cultural expression, often involving music, dancing, and feasting. TikTok

This holiday offers a unique perspective on the diverse cultural tapestry of early New York, highlighting the resilience and creativity of its Black population. By exploring Pinkster, visitors gain a more nuanced understanding of the city's history beyond the commonly known narratives. The museum's efforts to educate the public about Pinkster are vital for recognizing and preserving this important heritage. TikTok

Understanding Pinkster:



* Historical Roots: Learn about its origins in Dutch colonial New York. TikTok
* Cultural Importance: Discover its role as a celebration of freedom and community for African Americans. TikTok
* Modern Observance: See how this historic holiday is honored today. TikTok

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