The New York Historical

The basics

Established in 1804 as New York's first museum, the New York Historical offers a window into the city's storied past. Visit the historical society via a hop-on hop-off bus tour, and get transportation to top attractions around the city. Tours typically pass the historical society, and may offer a great value, with optional ticket upgrades. If visiting on your own, purchase tickets in advance to avoid weekend ticket lines.

Things to know before you go

• The New York Historical is a must-see for history enthusiasts.

• Kids and families shouldn't miss the DiMenna Children’s History Museum, located within the historical society, which offers a kid-friendly take on American history.

• Those with limited time should prioritize the 18-minute film on the history of the city, from outpost to metropolis.

• For a great value, purchase a city pass for free entry at the New York Historical and dozens of museums around the city.

• Free afternoon guided tours are offered twice daily.

How to get there

Though a hop-on hop-off bus tour is the easiest way to reach the historical society, independent travelers typically opt to take the subway. Hop on the A, B, or C train to the 81st Street-Museum of Natural History Station, or the 1 or 2 train to the 79th Street Station. Find the New York Historical located across from Central Park.

When to get there

The New York Historical is open Tuesday to Sunday, with later evening hours on Friday and shorter hours on Sunday. For a free guided tour of the collection, arrive at 2pm or 3:30pm, daily. To avoid crowds, visit earlier in the week, as weekends tend to be busiest.

Visiting the Children’s History Library

A family-friendly destination inside the New York Historical, the Children’s History Library is a great place to take a break with the kids. Rest on the bench seats and flip through a picture book, root around the History Hunt drawers, or check out the collection of kid-friendly maps. Weekend visitors shouldn't miss the library's Sunday Story Time, held weekly at 11:30am.

Ways to explore

Being a popular Manhattan museum, particularly among history fans, the museum can draw large crowds on the weekends. To avoid long lines and make the most of your visit, it’s a good idea to book tickets in advance. Many travelers visit the museum using a special New York City pass, which includes entry to over 90 attractions in the city. Others may come across the museum during a guided walking tour or scavenger hunt, or during a whistlestop pedicab tour to see more sights in less time.

Accessibility

The museum is wheelchair accessible, with accessible restrooms on each floor and free wheelchair rental.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Reusable water bottle, sketch book with graphite pencil, small bag

What to wear

Comfortable footwear, layers

Not allowed

Selfie sticks, food, pens, large backpacks

Amenities

Coat check, restaurant, restrooms

Address

The New York Historical is on Central Park West on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. It’s easy to reach by subway, bus, or taxi, or by walking over if you’re staying nearby.

Driving

While you could drive to the museum, street parking is limited on 76th Street, 77th Street, and Central Park West, so it’s far better to hail a cab or use public transit.

Public transportation

Take the B train on weekdays or the C train any day to 81st Street, near the museum. Note that the 81st Street station isn’t wheelchair accessible—the nearest accessible stop is at 72nd Street.

Best times to visit

Arriving early, ideally close to when the museum opens at 11am, is a great way to avoid the larger afternoon crowds. Most days it closes at 5pm, but on Fridays it’s open until 8pm.

Best days to visit

The museum is typically closed on Mondays. Aim to come between Tuesday and Thursday for the most relaxed way to visit.

Best months to visit

The spring and fall months bring fewer crowds than the peak summer season.

Special events

Check the events calendar before visiting—there are year-round talks, tours, and members-only events. Keep an eye out for nearby performances in Central Park, such as SummerStage concerts from May to September.