New York is known for its iconic sights and sounds, from the towering Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty to the busy hustle and bustle of Times Square. But the bustling metropolis also offers an array of off-the-beaten-path experiences for those who seek the quirkier side of the city. Read on for a list of some of the city’s quirkiest museums.
The Museum of Sex
The Museum of Sex, located in Manhattan’s vibrant NoHo district, offers visitors an intensely educational and thought-provoking experience that covers a broad range of topics related to human sexuality. The space is divided up into permanent and rotating exhibits that take an up close and personal look at the historical, technological and social aspects of sex—everything from the “Rabbit Hole” interactive installation that explores visuals and sounds, to the “Deviance: Sexual Chains and Shackles” exhibition that investigates bondage and captive play.
The Museum of the Moving Image
A one-of-a-kind interactive museum located in Astoria, Queens, The Museum of the Moving Image focuses on the history of the moving image—that is, movies, television, digital media, and all kinds of visuals made to move. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibitions covering a wide range of topics from media studios to major directors like the Jim Henson exhibit or even the rare opportunity to see certain vintage television shows, like a restored version of the original production boards for “Sesame Street”.
The Museum of Mathematics
The only museum of its kind in the U.S., the Museum of Mathematics or MoMath is devoted specifically to the subject of mathematics. The two-level open plan museum acts as a leader in the field for its mission of educating the public about the ever-changing and developmental facet of mathematics. In addition to its diverse collection of interactive exhibits, special events, and programs that explore math-related topics, “Math Square” is the museum’s signature interactive exhibit that allows children and adults alike to create and draw shapes on a cut-out-like board.
The American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History not only provides guests with a lot of exhibits to explore (including interactive works), but it also enables visitors to unfold the secrets of the natural world. From the thousands of specimens to special events such as annual exhibits, this museum caters to every interest level as it delves into topics like ancient dinos, the expansive universe, and human biology. Guests can even explore touchable artifacts like an African elephant hide or tour a live bee exhibit.
The Morbid Anatomy Museum
A crowd favorite, the Morbid Anatomy Museum was created to integrate art, science, and humanities. The two-level museum located in Brooklyn hopes to evoke awareness of the many phenomena that put life into perspective. Exhibitions delve into topics like death and the macabre, while offering unique insight into the darker side of life. The museum also offers workshops on subjects such as the psychology of death and crafts like book binding.
The Grolier Club
The Grolier Club provides a different kind of experience for those seeking an in-depth look into the printed-material world. Guided tours showcase the rare book collection held within this Union Square institution, some of which date back a few centuries. With an ever-evolving and diverse collection, the club offers an exclusive array of public lectures and special events that celebrate and explore their rich archive.
The Staten Island Museum
The Staten Island Museum, located in the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, offers visitors a look into an extensive array of historical objects, artifacts, and natural history pieces representing the local and global ecosystem. The museum is also dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and teaching the physical sciences and humanities (from geology to anthropology) with dynamic collections, exhibits and programs that offer a unique perspective on the borough.
New York is a diverse and ever-evolving city that offers something new to explore around every corner. Whether you’re looking for intellectual enrichment or an unusual exploration of the quirkiest and most unusual attractions, these museums are sure to have something to satisfy all your unconventional curiosities.
