The Gallery of Tiffany Lamps displayed in the New-York Historical Society Museum & Library in New York City.

New York Historical Society Museum & Library: NYC’s Hidden Gem

Tucked away on Manhattan’s Upper West Side is a gallery full of the city’s best historic treasures. The New York Historical Society is one of the city’s most compact museums. It offers a less intimidating gallery experience than typically found in Manhattan. Established in 1804, this Manhattan landmark was the first New York City museum, hence the original spelling of the city which includes the hyphen.

The eleven original founders lived through such memorable historic events as the American Revolution and the British Occupation of New York. The founders set up the society as a way of preserving the rich history of not only New York City but the entire country.

Both the museum and the library offer exciting displays. Guests can enjoy an interesting collection of permanent and rotating exhibits so be sure to see what delights are on display during your time in the city.

Among the museum’s most popular permanent exhibits is the Gallery of Tiffany Lamps located on the museum’s 4th floor. This exhibit is an extraordinary showcase of these decorative fixtures. Guests can view examples of Tiffany glass and see the tools used to create these lighting masterpieces. This landmark building is also home to Storico, the museum’s decedent dining venue. It provides the perfect stop for a mealtime gourmet treat. Guests can also visit the Espresso Bar for a cup o’ joe, homemade pastry or light fare.

The Patricia D Klingenstein Library

This library is one of the oldest in the nation. It offers over 3 million books, maps, atlases, newspapers, and photographs for museums visitors to peruse.

DiMenna Children’s History Museum

DiMennna’s the first history museum specifically designated with children in mind. It was founded in 2011. Young visitors from toddlers to preteens can learn the history of America through interactive exhibits and digital games.

Center for Women’s History

This museum, dedicated to the role of women in history, was founded in 2017. It tells the tales of women who have made great strides in shaping the history of American. It honours the remarkable achievements woman made during times in our history when they had little to no voice.

Dining

Storico

Storico welcomes not only visitors to the museum but anyone in the area that is looking to grab a bite to eat. Storico’s bright and airy venue is the perfect stop. Expert Chef Julian Alonzo will prepare you a seasonally-themed entry. Storico is open for lunch and dinner. Patrons can also enjoy a weekend brunch. Reservations can be made online.

Parliament Espresso and Coffee

The New York historical society home to a delightful espresso bar. It’s a great spot to grab that Latte and a house-made pastry or light fare meal. The cafe is open to the public whether or not you plan to tour the museum.

Hours and tickets:

Hours:

Mon – Closed

Tue – Thurs 10-6

Fri 10-8

Sat 10-6

Sun 11-5

*Free daily tours are offered at 2pm and 3:30pm

Patricia D. Klingenstien Library Hours

Tue – Sat 11-4:45

Sun – Mon – Closed

Admission:

Adults $21

Seniors/Educators?Active Military $16

Students: $13

Kids 5-13 $6

Kids 4 and under are Free

For more unmissable things to do and see, check out our guide to the best New York tours.

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