New York City is a cultural hub. It’s where dreams come true. From career opportunities that draw in people from across the country, to immigrants searching for a new beginning, our city will always hold a special place in U.S. history. It is one of the core reasons our country has excelled.
With such a rich history, it’s no wonder there are more than 80 museums throughout the five boroughs of New York City to commemorate important events, artists, culinary achievements, and more. The Concorde Hotel New York is just a ten-minute walk from The Museum of Modern Art, and our convenient location near public transportation makes getting to other important NYC landmarks a breeze.
Chances are, you’re not staying in New York City long enough to see all of the amazing museums NYC has to offer. For that reason, we’ve offered a list of our favorite New York City museums:
There is so much art in New York City that it’s impossible to see it all in one lifetime, let alone one visit. From classic art to modern art to the small galleries that line Orchard Street, there is something to fascinate every eye.
If you’re a fan of modern art, we recommend prioritizing a visit to The Museum of Modern Art (MOMA). MOMA offers the opportunity to view diverse, modern art in all forms: paintings, sculptures, installations, mixed media, etc. It has been the place to view contemporary, thought-provoking art for 90 years.
If you’re looking for a museum that includes art through the ages, there is no better choice than The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Here, you’ll find art that dates back 5,000 years, as well as a collection of modern and contemporary art. Notable artists include Rembrandt, Manet, and O’Keeffe.
Fashion has always played an essential role in New York City culture. NYC is the home of New York Fashion Week, the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), and top designers such as Michael Kors and Vera Wang. If you’re a fashion fanatic, FIT has a museum that is free and open to the public. View fashion through the ages by seeing more than 50,000 garments that date from the 18th century to now.
The National Immigration Museum is located on Ellis Island. Especially if you plan to see The Statue of Liberty during your trip, it’s well worth stopping in. Interactive exhibits put you in the shoes of hopeful immigrants. The museum has heirlooms, photographs, and searchable records, and it also covers the evolution of immigration in the U.S.
If you’re looking for a cultural experience that’s lighthearted and fun, you can’t go wrong with the Museum of Ice Cream. They have thirteen interactive installations, a family-friendly daytime visit option, and a 16+ “Night at the Museum” option. Business Insider describes the museum as “a Willy Wonka factory come to life.”
(And, yes, you get free ice cream!)
The events of September 11, 2001 reshaped our country. The United States lost close to 3,000 people that day—and 2,750 of those deaths occurred in our city. Although it may not be the most uplifting experience, a visit to the National 9/11 Memorial and Museum is a must if you truly want to understand New York City.
The Transit Museum in downtown Brooklyn can be found in a decommissioned subway station at 99 Schermerhorn Street. It’s a great opportunity to witness the history of mass transportation in NYC.
If you’d like an all-encompassing overview of New York City culture and history, this museum is one-stop shopping.
The New-York Historical Society Museum & Library holds the title of NYC’s first museum. It opened in 1804 and was organized by founders that lived through the Revolutionary War. It boasts a collection of art and documents, as well as the Center for Women’s History and the Dimenna Children’s Museum.
For some, getting to know the history of the places they visit is important, and the New-York Historical Society is perfect for that. Some of our guests might be looking forward to seeing famous works of art in person, which of course will take them to The Met or MOMA. Still others may be looking for something fun and family-friendly to do during their trip to NYC, and in that respect, you simply can’t go wrong with a museum dedicated to ice cream.
Thank you for letting us share our favorite New York City museums with you. We hope that one of these will become your new favorite, as well.
When you stay at The Concorde Hotel New York, you’re sure to have a comfortable, relaxing, and enlightening New York City experience. Book your stay with us today.