Historical Museums in New York

The museums in New York are as varied as the inhabitants of the city. Some locations ooze fancy molding and expensive lunch. Others are blue-haired and tenacious, clenching at their rest-controlled space with a death grip normally reserved for would-be victims of defenestration. Above all, this list is reserved for the elbow-patch wearing, history-obsessed professor set.

These museums in New York are off-the-beaten-track. Instead of world class art or cinema displays, they focus on the more obscure aspects of the history of the city. For example, if you are curious about turn-of-the-century religious construction on the Lower East Side or the early life of Theodore Roosevelt, you will delight in these locations.

Perhaps more relatable? I find these locations allow an opportunity to consider small moments from the past in a rapidly changing urban space. They provide a peaceful, quiet corner to appreciate all that New York has to offer. If you find yourself below 23rd Street with some time for leisure, I hope you consider a visit.

Tenement Museum:

Address: 97 Orchard Street. Ticket Price: Adults $27 Open 7 days/week.

A stroll on the modern-day Lower East Side has a lot to offer. Artisanal donuts? Definitely. French-themed boutique clothing shops? One on every block. Stores that sell $30 bars of soap? A dime a dozen.

But the neighborhood offers precious few opportunities to consider its history. Enter the Tenement Museum.

This Orchard Street institution owns two historically preserved tenement buildings that transport visitors into the New York of the 19th century. You can arrange a number of different tours including an authentic salon experience and a variety of apartment visits. They also offer neighborhood walking tours and they have excellent book selection in their on-site gift shop.

Pro-tip: Tours sell out in advance. It’s important to book on their website before you visit.

Museum at Eldridge Street

Address: 12 Eldridge Street Ticket Price: Adults $15 Open Sunday-Friday.

The Ashkenazi migration from Eastern Europe to New York City in the late 1800’s was important for several reasons:

First, it was part of one of the largest urban migrations in history. Second, the start of a prevalent Jewish community in NYC. (Currently the Jewish community in New York City is believed to be the second largest in the world outside of Tel Aviv.) Third, it led to the birth of the New York bagel.

You can learn about all of these events at the Eldridge Street Synagogue, currently maintained as the Museum at Eldridge Street.

Visit this museum for a fascinating tour of a New York religious institution more than 100 years old. There’s lots to learn about migration, religion and architecture. For example, one important focal point of the space is certainly the history of the glass work in the windows:

Pro-tip: The museum is best appreciated with one of the hourly tours, where a knowledgable guide can take you through the exhibits and as well as the synagogue. Visit their website for times.

Merchant’s House Museum

Address: 29 East 4th Street Ticket Price: Adults $15 Open Thursday-Monday

There’s lots of important history to uncover at the Merchant’s House Museum. First, the fact that this address on East 4th Street was considered a suburb in 1832 when the home was constructed. Second, the Greek Revival furniture in the drawing room is divine. (see photo)

Third, phantom-seeking New Yorkers question the possibility that the original residents never left. Curious? You can click the link for information on a candlelight ghost tour.

Personally, I preferred to conduct my visit in the daylight hours and leave the apparitions in peace. A twenty-minute, self-led tour allowed for an inspection of the kitchen facilities and various living rooms. The museum provides a binder with relevant information on the building. Also, there are noteworthy artifacts including one of the original cobblestones that lined the streets of downtown New York. Most important, I learned about the current landmark status battle the building is fighting with a boutique hotel slated for construction next door.

As a result, I left feeling like my $15 admission was an instrument for historical preservation. Honestly, I carried this sentiment with more importance than the deep-dive the Museum takes into the history of the Treadwell family. However, there are certainly visitors that will delight in the wealth of information available on Seabury Treadwell. Check their website for more information.

Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site:

Address: 28 E 20th Street. Ticket Price: FREE Open Wednesday-Sunday

Theodore Roosevelt started his long and fascinating life just north of Union Square Park. The original house was torn down, but this replica is full of furniture and memorabilia donated by the Roosevelt Family Foundation. The daily tours detail the involvement of the Roosevelt family in everything from the founding of the Metropolitan Museum to the office of the Presidency. You can even view some of his hunting trophies:

This site is an excellent stop for history buffs, families, and anyone that happens to be grabbing an early cocktail at Gramercy Tavern next door. (No judgement). Best of all? This is one NYC attraction that is 100% free. Check their website for more information.

For other New York tourism ideas from Rhymes with Fabulous click here.

Thanks to The New York Public Library on Unsplash for the banner photo!