Museums In New York City

New York City certainly has no shortage of museums. Whether you’re in the mood for art, history, culture or even the origins of ice cream, there’s a museum in the Big Apple that’s perfect for you.

American Folk Art Museum- The American Folk Art Museum, established in 1961, houses an unparalleled collection of over 7,000 works that celebrate the creativity and ingenuity of American folk artists from the 18th century to the present day. This esteemed facility showcases diverse forms of artistic expression and engages the public through educational programs and exhibitions. 2 Lincoln Square, 212.595.9533, folkartmuseum.org

American Museum Of Natural History- The American Museum of Natural History houses an extensive collection of over 34 million specimens and artifacts that encapsulate the world’s rich biodiversity, scientific legacy and cultural heritage. With prominent exhibits like the 94-foot-long blue whale model, the colossal Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton, and the Hayden Planetarium, the museum offers a plethora of educational experiences. Central Park West, at W. 79th St., 212.769.5100, amnh.org

Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum- The Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, located in New York City’s historic Andrew Carnegie Mansion, features an extensive collection of over 210,000 design objects spanning 30 centuries. The museum delves into the intersections of design, innovation and creative processes, fostering an environment of inspiration and education. 2 E. 91st St., 212.849.8400, cooperhewitt.org

El Museo del Barrio- El Museo del Barrio, located in New York City’s vibrant East Harlem neighborhood, boasts an extensive collection of over 8,000 pieces, focusing on Puerto Rican, Caribbean and Latin American art. Established in 1969, this institution combines visual arts, interactive workshops and engaging performances to educate and celebrate the Latinx community. 1230 5th Ave., 212.831.7272, elmuseo.org

Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration- The Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration narrates the stories of over 12 million immigrants who began their American journey through this historic entryway between 1892 and 1954. Rich in historical and cultural significance, the museum houses an extensive collection of photographs, documents and artifacts that allows visitors to traverse the diverse layers of immigrant experiences. Ellis Island Bridge, Jersey City, NJ, 832.960.0009, libertyellisfoundation.org/immigration-museum

The Frick Collection- The Frick Collection is a prominent art museum that houses numerous European masterpieces featuring artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer and Goya. Established by Henry Clay Frick, this renowned institution resides within the opulent Gilded Age mansion, boasting remarkable artwork, exquisite architecture and interior design. 1 E. 70th St., 212.288.0700, frick.org

Fotografiska- Fotografiska, features ever-changing photography exhibits that showcase diverse global narratives. This cultural hub offers immersive experiences, including inspiring artist talks, workshops and culinary exploration at inhouse restaurant, Veronika. 281 Park Ave. S., 212.433.3686, fotografiska.com/nyc

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum- The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space

Museum showcases the legendary aircraft carrier Intrepid, which served in World War II, the Cold War and the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore multiple exhibits, including the Space Shuttle Pavilion housing the Enterprise, a Concorde supersonic jet and a nuclear submarine, highlighting technological innovations and American naval history. Pier 86, W. 46th St., 212-2450072, intrepidmuseum.org

Jewish Museum- The Jewish Museum, founded in 1904, houses an impressive collection of over 30,000 artifacts, which artistically and historically represent the diverse cultural heritage of the Jewish people from around the world. Its exhibits showcase a range of items, from ancient Jewish artifacts and ceremonial objects to modern works by prominent Jewish artists. 1109 Fifth Ave., 212.423.3200, thejewishmuseum.org

The Morgan Library & MuseumThe Morgan Library & Museum, a magnificent architectural masterpiece built in 1906, houses an extensive collection of rare books, manuscripts and artworks collected by the legendary financier J.P. Morgan. This esteemed cultural institution showcases works such as an original Gutenberg Bible, ancient Near Eastern seals, and masterpieces by Rembrandt and Picasso, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the realms of literature, history and art. 225 Madison Ave., 212.685.0008, themorgan.org

Museum of Chinese in AmericaThe Museum of Chinese in America boasts a vast collection of nearly

65,000 artifacts portraying the dynamic and multilayered Chinese-American heritage. Established in 1980, the museum offers a unique experience that illuminates the impactful history and diverse culture of Chinese immigrants throughout America. 215 Centre St., 212.619.4785, mocanyc.org

Museum of Modern Art- The Museum of Modern Art, established in 1929, boasts an unrivaled collection of over 200,000 modern and contemporary masterpieces, including works by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Warhol. MoMA fosters creative innovation and intellectual stimulation, attracting over three million visitors annually. 11 W. 53rd St., 212.708.9400, moma.org

The National Jazz Museum in Harlem- The National Jazz Museum in Harlem houses a vast collection of artifacts, recordings and memorabilia from jazz legends, showcasing the rich cultural history of this iconic American musical genre. The museum highlights significant contributions of jazz to artistic expression and preservation efforts. 58 W. 129th St., 212.348.8300, jazzmuseuminharlem.org

National September 11 Memorial & Museum- The National Sep- tember 11 Memorial & Museum commemorates the tragic events of September 11, 2001, with poignant exhibits and artifacts that reflect the resilience of both the survivors and the nation. With nearly 3,000 names etched into bronze parapets surrounding the site’s reflective twin pools, the memorial and museum serve as a powerful tribute to those who perished and provide insights into the global impact of terrorism. Memorial: Open daily, admission to the Memorial is free. Museum entrance: 180 Greenwich St., 212.266.5211, 911memorial.org

Rubin Museum of Art- The Rubin Museum of Art houses an extensive collection of over 3,800 exquisite Himalayan and Tibetan art pieces, including paintings, sculptures and textiles that date back to the 1st century. As a hub for cultural and educational programs, this six-story museum offers visitors a glimpse into the diverse artistic traditions and provides enriching programs. 150 W. 17th St., 212.620.5000, rubinmuseum.org

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum- The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, features a remarkable spiral-shaped building that showcases a variety of modern and contemporary art. The museum’s vast collection includes beautiful works from world-famous artists such as Pablo Picasso, Wassily Kandinsky and Jackson Pollock. 1071 Fifth Ave., 212.423.3500, guggenheim.org

Tenement Museum- The Tenement Museum offers a glimpse into the lives of working-class immigrants who lived in the Lower East Side from the 1800s to the early 1900s. Through guided tours, restored apartments and personal stories, the museum provides an immersive and experience for visitors to understand the struggles and contributions of these communities in shaping American history. 103 Orchard St., 877.975.3786, tenement.org

Whitney Museum Of American Art- The Whitney Museum of American Art, founded in 1930 by Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, showcases a beautiful selection of 20th and 21st-century American art. Boasting a collection of over 25,000 pieces, the museum epitomizes artistic innovation and creativity, celebrating diverse artists and disciplines, from painting and sculpture to photography, film and digital media. 99 Gansevoort St., 212.570.3600, whitney.org

MUSEUM SPOTLIGHT: Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the most magnificent cultural institutions in the world. The Met covers over 2 million square feet of gallery space and has over 5,000 years of art from every corner of the world. The museum’s collections include everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Renaissance paintings, from contemporary photographs to musical instruments. Visitors can enjoy some of the world’s most famous masterpieces like Vincent van Gogh’s “Starry Night.”

1000 Fifth Ave., at 82nd St., 212.535.7710, metmuseum.org