Manhattan lays claim to some of the world’s best museums. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or a culture vulture, you have plenty of great choices when it comes to exploring Manhattan’s remarkable historical and cultural riches. Read on to learn more about the best museums in Manhattan.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, often referred to simply as “The Met,” is one of the world’s preeminent art museums. The Met offers comprehensive collections of art from around the world, with art historical narratives and exhibitions that run the gamut from ancient Egyptian monuments to the vibrant works of such contemporaries as Willem de Kooning and Chuck Close. To make the most of your visit, make sure to plan ahead and check to see what special exhibitions and events are happening when you’re in town.
American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History, a National Historic Landmark, is one of the most-visited museums on the planet. Here, visitors can explore the universe and discover how life evolved on our planet. The museum holds more than 32 million specimens from all over the globe, and it offers galleries, exhibitions, and live science demos related to those specimens. Don’t miss the Hall of Human Origins and the interactive dinosaur halls.
The Frick Collection
The Frick Collection is known for its noteworthy and extensive collection of European masterworks by artists such as Bellini, Vermeer, Raphael and Rembrandt. Its enviable midtown location makes it a great option for both tourists and New Yorkers alike. Visitors can enjoy a beautiful view of Central Park from the galleries, as well as learn more about the rich life and times of Henry Frick and the rise of Gilded Age New York.
Museum of Chinese in America
The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) offers visitors a deep dive into the rich history and culture of Chinese-Americans. This family-friendly facility focuses on the work of Chinese-born and Chinese-American artists, and includes interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and stories of Chinese-American immigrants. Don’t miss the 1981 documentary The Color of Honor film, or the current special exhibition, They Called Us Enemy.
The Guggenheim Museum
The Guggenheim Museum offers a unique take on the modern art experience. This iconic New York art museum features works by some of the world’s most renowned modern and contemporary artists. Don’t miss The Brucesers which is currently on display and exhibits the critically acclaimed photography of Bruce Davidson. The Solomon R. Guggenheim Award is also currently being offered to holders of the Guggenheim Museum membership card, so be sure to check it out.
The Whitney Museum of American Art
The Whitney Museum of American Art is widely considered one of the most important American art institutions in the world. From the works of such renowned artists as Jackson Pollock and Edward Hopper to modern-day greats such as Alex Katz and Andy Warhol, the Whitney Museum houses one of the world’s preeminent collections of American art. Make sure to check out the new special exhibit, 30 Americans, which features works by black artists from the end of the 20th century to the present.
El Museo del Barrio
El Museo del Barrio is a vibrant tribute to the art and culture of Latinx and Caribbean communities. The museum hosts an impressive array of rotating exhibitions, family-friendly programming and special events along with an extensive permanent collection of thousands of pieces ranging from traditional folk art to contemporary installation art. El Museo also offers educational classes for youth and adults, as well as Spanish language art classes.
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is as interesting as it sounds. Home to the USS Intrepid aircraft carrier turned museum, this interactive space provides a look at some of the most significant technological advancements of the last century. Highlights include an IMAX theater, a space shuttle pavilion, a warplane pavilion and more.
The Tenement Museum
The Tenement Museum offers an immersive experience into the lives of 19th- and 20th-century immigrant New Yorkers. Located in the heart of the Lower East Side, the museum provides an eye-opening look at the struggles and triumphs of the immigrants who have called the neighborhood home. Don’t miss the guided tours and educational programming which are available year-round.
The Morgan Library & Museum
The Morgan Library & Museum is a one-of-a-kind institution that offers some of the world’s best collections of manuscripts, rare books, drawings, music, and photographs. Visitors can view works by such luminaries as Renoir, Mozart, Stradivarius and Beethoven. Be sure to spend some time exploring the library’s special exhibitions, as well as the gift shop and cafe.
With its world-class museums, Manhattan remains a global cultural capital. From the Metropolitan Museum of Art to the Tenement Museum, there’s no shortage of incredible cultural institutions in the city. Whether you’re interested in ancient artifacts, modern masterpieces, or just looking for a day of exploration, the Big Apple has something for everyone.
