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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of US

History museums

Made for those who crave intellectual stimulation and want to spend their weekends uncovering the stories behind the artifacts.

Based on 469 Opinions
+466
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Updated April 2026
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Martial Arts History Museum image 1
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Museum showcases martial arts history through unique exhibits and real artifacts with video references enhancing understanding. Layout supports smooth flow, creating an engaging and informative atmosphere. Space feels like a hidden gem packed with rich culture and connections to the movie industry.

Small size makes it easy to explore. Offers fun and informative exhibits for martial arts enthusiasts.

Extensive exhibits showcase the evolution and impact of martial arts. Visitors gain deep insights into its history and culture through well-curated displays.

People are saying

"I found the martial arts exhibits filled with rich history and culture."

"I learned so much at the Martial Arts History Museum."

"I found the fun activities here very informative and fun."

Good to know

1

The museum is located underground next to a bakery; enter on Wilson and go downstairs.

2

Parking is available nearby with free 90 minutes and $1 for every additional 30 minutes.

3

Admission is by donation, so bring cash for the donation jar.

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Museum of the City of New York image 1
Local history museum

Museum blends Georgian Colonial-Revival architecture with modern tech and live shows. History exhibits offer a solid look at the city's past. Fun comes alive with dancing during Urban Stomp and engaging tours.

Movies and musical entertainment add a creative dimension to exhibits. The tour guide shares amazing knowledge and keeps things fun. Dancing during the Urban Stomp exhibit brings a blast of fun.

Exhibits focus on local history with a mix of permanent and temporary displays. The museum offers a solid look at the city's past, standing out among other historical museums.

People are saying

"The exhibits here are really interesting and informative about the city's history."

"It's a fun place to learn about New York's history and culture."

"This history museum offers extensive coverage of the city's past."

Good to know

1

Through July 2024, there is an interesting exhibit about New York in art and pop culture.

2

Wednesday has free entrance to the Movie in the Basement.

3

Tickets are $20 for adults, and CUNY college students have free admission.

03
American Museum of Natural History image 1

Natural history museum showcases magnificent architecture and iconic taxidermy displays that create a majestic atmosphere. Crowds and noise from school groups often fill the large, well-organized spaces. Interactive exhibits and a planetarium with space simulations add engaging elements to the experience.

Combines education, entertainment, and inspiration in one visit. Offers more fun and enjoyment than the Museum of Modern Art.

Spanning four floors, this museum ranks among the largest and most complete natural history museums worldwide. Its beautiful architecture and extensive exhibits make it a standout destination for history enthusiasts.

People are saying

"The dinosaur exhibits at the Museums are breathtaking, especially the T. rex."

"It's like walking through eras at these historical sites."

"This History Museum is a journey through time and the universe."

Good to know

1

Buying tickets ahead of time saves a lot of time.

2

You have to reserve a time to enter the museum.

3

Entry to the museum is free during the last hour.

04
Tenement Museum image 1
History museum

Five-story tenement buildings from the 1800s showcase preserved architecture and authentic interiors with well-researched props. Tours feel like immersive guided discussions that bring immigrant family stories to life in cramped, atmospheric spaces.

Guided tours offer fun and knowledgeable narration with perfect timing. Immersive and experiential exhibits create an enjoyable way to learn about history.

Offers a living history experience focused on immigrant families in the Lower East Side during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Provides an immersive look into daily life rather than a typical history museum setup.

People are saying

"These historical sites bring immigrant families' stories to life."

"It's a fun and interactive way to learn history."

"The History Museum tour guides are so enthusiastic and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

A guided tour is required to visit the museum.

2

Tours can sell out quickly, so it’s recommended to book in advance.

3

The tour lasts almost two hours and provides extensive information about tenement living.

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The New York Historical image 1

Museum showcases Tiffany lamps and a replica Oval Office with interactive photo opportunities. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and peaceful to noisy during school visits. Layout features exquisite stained glass rooms and a well-designed gallery with minimal reflections.

Interactive children's section offers engaging displays that make learning fun for young history buffs. A fun Oval Office installation lets visitors sit at the President's Desk for photos, while docents share many fun facts about US presidents.

Historic building hosts an interesting collection with some nice touches. Admission matches the nearby Natural History Museum, which offers a more extensive experience and draws larger crowds.

People are saying

"The Tiffany lamps display is amazing and a must-see."

"The basement has interactive exhibits and a fun kids' area."

"The Tiffany lamps here are stunning and beautiful."

Good to know

1

The museum offers free entry every Friday evening.

2

On Fridays from 18:00 to 20:00, the museum operates a pay-what-you-wish policy.

3

Jazz and cocktails are available in the lobby on Friday evenings until the end of June.

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