New-York Historical Society

The New-York Historical Society is a museum with exhibitions on the history of New York and America. The New-York Historical Museum opened its doors in 1804, making it the oldest museum in New York. This Upper West Side museum has permanent and changing exhibitions on topics such as slavery, women’s rights and politics, making it both an interesting and educational place to visit.

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New-York Historical Society

At the New-York Historical Society, 400 years of history are shown through sculptures, drawings, statues and more. The museum is also fun for children as there is a special wing where they can learn more about history through play, and an impressive auditorium showing short films that give a clear picture of history.

I recommend starting at the top of the museum and working your way down. A visit to the museum combines well with the American Museum of Natural History, which is right next door.

Gallery of Tiffany Lamps

The Gallery of Tiffany Lamps showcases more than 100 different Tiffany lamps. The lamps have shades made of curved glass and are displayed in a beautifully lit room that’s unique and mesmerising to walk through.

Meet the Presidents and the Oval Office

Take a photo in the White House Oval Office, the office of the President of the United States, which has been recreated in detail. Here you can see how the presidents performed their roles, as well as some iconic objects related to them. For instance, you can see the Bible used during George Washington’s inauguration in 1789.

Objects Tell Stories

The North Gallery showcases New York’s history through curated objects from the museum’s permanent collection. You can see memorabilia from 9/11, items from slavery and a drawing by Keith Haring related to HIV, among other things.

Center for Women’s History

As well as its various exhibitions, the museum also has a separate centre for women’s history. The Center for Women’s History illustrates how women of all races, classes and cultures have brought about change and equality in New York and all of America.

DiMenna Children’s History Museum

The children’s wing of the museum, the DiMenna Children’s History Museum, is on the ground floor. Children can play and learn more about history at the same time here, and also see how children lived in different periods, as well as their clothes, toys, and more.

Eric’s Tip: “The NY Historical Society is ideally located as it is right next to the American Museum of Natural History. It would be a real shame not to have a look in here if you’re in the area, especially if you have a discount pass, such as the New York Pass or the Sightseeing Day Pass, that grant you free entry.”