21 Cool and fun museums in NYC: a local’s guide

Exploring the best museums in New York City is essential for anyone looking to soak in the city’s rich culture and history. From visiting NYC’s best art museums like The Met, boasting over 2 million items, to the architectural brilliance of the Guggenheim, each museum, big or small, gives a memorable glimpse into the artistic and historical core of NYC.

Then there are NYC’s interactive museums, like the American Museum of Natural History, which provide engaging exhibits that inspire all ages, while museums like SPYSCAPE give a cool modern twist on the traditional museum experience. This local guide fills you in on 21 fun museums that you should not miss so you can properly experience the stories and innovations that have shaped The Big Apple.

1. The Met

Art Museum

Did you know The Met boasts a collection of over 2 million items and is the largest museum in the Western Hemisphere? Inside this NYC must, you’ll find an extensive collection of Egyptian artifacts, European masterpieces, a weapons and armor gallery, and a vast array of Asian art. During the summer, enjoy the rooftop exhibit with a stellar view of Central Park, complete with a coffee, cocktail, and snack stand.

Moments not to miss:

Visit the Anna Wintour Wing for an insightful look at fashion history.

Address and opening hours:

1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028. Open Sunday-Tuesday and Thursday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM, and Friday-Saturday, 10:00 AM-9:00 PM.

2. The Met Cloisters

Art Museum

The Met Cloisters, accessible with a Met ticket, offer a European-like experience with beautiful gardens, stunning views, and a rich collection of medieval and Gothic art and artifacts. It provides a unique NYC museum experience, focusing on the architecture and art of the Middle Ages.

Moments not to miss:

Explore the lush medieval gardens for a serene stroll that feels like you’ve taken a time machine to the past.

Address and opening hours:

99 Margaret Corbin Dr, New York, NY 10040. Open 10:00 AM-5:00 PM every day except Wednesday.

3. The Guggenheim

Art Museum

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Guggenheim Museum is a must-visit for its architectural brilliance and outstanding modern and contemporary art collections. Spend at least 3 hours exploring its unique spiral structure and diverse art displays. Ensure to book tickets early, as lines can be long.

Moments not to miss:

Check out the view from their cafe, which overlooks Central Park.

Address and opening hours:

1071 5th Ave, New York, NY 10128. Open 10:30 AM-5:30 PM every day.

4. The Whitney Museum of American Art

Art Museum

The Whitney Museum offers an extensive collection of American art, including works by Edward Hopper and Mark Rothko. It's perfect to explore before visiting The High Line, a public park built on a historic, elevated rail line that starts just beside the museum.

Moments not to miss:

Explore Edward Hopper's renowned works for a glimpse into American realism.

Address and opening hours:

99 Gansevoort St, New York, NY 10014. Open Saturday-Thursday (closed Tuesday), 10:30 AM-6:00 PM; and Friday, 10:30 AM-10:00 PM.

5. MoMA

Art Museum

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is a Midtown highlight featuring Pop Art, Surrealism, and Cubism, with iconic pieces like Salvador Dalí’s “The Persistence of Memory.” As one of the most influential modern art museums globally, MoMA offers visitors a deep dive into revolutionary artistic movements. Its innovative exhibitions and interactive installations make it a vibrant cultural hub in NYC.

Moments not to miss:

Don’t miss Van Gogh’s “The Starry Night” for an art experience that most only dream of.

Address and opening hours:

11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019. Open Monday-Friday and Saturday, 10:30 AM-5:30 PM, and Sunday, 10:30 AM-8:00 PM. Open until 8:00 PM on the first Friday of each month.

6. MoMA PS1

Art Museum

MoMA PS1, housed in a repurposed school in Long Island City, showcases contemporary art with massive installations and an inviting outdoor courtyard. MoMA PS1's experimental exhibitions and artist residencies make it a cutting-edge venue for modern art. With a mixture of indoor and outdoor installations, this museum will appeal to both kids and adults.

Moments not to miss:

While there, check out special exhibitions and enjoy their bookstore and cute cafe.

Address and opening hours:

22-25 Jackson Ave, Queens, NY 11101. Open Sunday, Monday, Thursday, and Friday, 12:00 AM-6:00 PM; and Saturday, 12:00 PM-8:00 PM.

7. American Museum of Natural History

Science Museum

The American Museum of Natural History in NYC has more than 40 galleries of permanent exhibitions, highlighting the earth’s incredible diversity, ocean life, birds, and plants, as well as objects depicting human origins and culture over millions of years. To ensure a proper visit to the American Museum of Natural History, explore dioramas of natural habitats, the Hall of Ocean Life, and interactive displays on human evolution and the universe. The museum is a staple in almost every New York City travel guide.

Moments not to miss:

The Hayden Planetarium offers immersive space shows so visitors can engage with science in a hands-on way.

Address and opening hours:

200 Central Park W, New York, NY 10024. Open 10:00 AM-5:30 PM every day.

8. Morgan Library and Museum

Cultural Museum

Chances are, if you’re on Instagram, you’ve seen the Morgan Library featured in at least one photo. It’s a colorful museum filled with bookshelves that stretch from floor to ceiling, with marble hallways and painted ceilings. It’s the real-life equivalent of the Beauty and the Beast library.

Moments not to miss:

The museum houses an impressive collection of ancient manuscripts and original musical scores, including works by Mozart and Beethoven.

Address and opening hours:

225 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016. Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, 10:30 AM-5:00 PM, and Friday from 10:30 AM-7:00 PM.

9. Brooklyn Museum

Art Museum

The Brooklyn Museum houses an extensive collection of Egyptian and African art, as well as 17th-, 18th-, 19th-, and 20th-century paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts across five floors of galleries. The museum’s Beaux-Arts building itself is a historic landmark.

Moments not to miss:

Special exhibitions at the museum showcase intriguing topics like the history of Dior.

Address and opening hours:

200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11238. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 11:00 AM-6:00 PM. Open 5:00 PM-11:00 PM on the first Saturday of each month.

10. Tenement Museum

History Museum

The Tenement Museum lets you travel back to New York in the late 1800s. It’s set out over two historic buildings — at 97 and 103 Orchard Street — giving you a chance to see what life was really like for tenement residents in NYC. The museum recreates the living conditions of immigrants who lived in the Lower East Side tenements, offering insight into their daily struggles and triumphs.

Moments not to miss:

Tours of restored apartments and interactive storytelling sessions bring the past to life.

Address and opening hours:

103 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002. Open 10:00 AM-6:00 PM every day.

11. Queens Museum

Cultural Museum

The Queens Museum is one of the city's most underrated museums and also one of the top cheap things to do in NYC. The Queens Museum, located at the site of two World’s Fairs, features a fascinating panorama of the city and exhibits that delve into NYC’s rich history. The museum also focuses on the diverse cultural history of Queens, reflecting the borough's vibrant and multicultural community.

Moments not to miss:

The Panorama of the City of New York, a detailed scale model of the five boroughs, is one of the most breathtaking views of NYC.

Address and opening hours:

Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Building, Queens, NY 11368. Open Wednesday-Friday, 12:00-5:00 PM, and Saturday-Sunday, 11:00 AM-5:00 PM.

12. The Noguchi Museum

Art Museum

The Noguchi Museum in Long Island City holds the most extensive collection of Isamu Noguchi’s sculptures and designs, set in a tranquil garden that offers a peaceful escape from the fast-paced city life. The museum’s galleries are designed to complement the serene aesthetic of Noguchi’s work for a harmonious viewing experience. Visitors can admire a range of art pieces, from sculptures to furniture, highlighting Noguchi’s versatility as an artist.

Moments not to miss:

Wander through Noguchi’s garden for a beautiful blend of art and nature.

Address and opening hours:

9-01 33rd Rd, Queens, NY 11106. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 11:00 AM-6:00 PM.

13. Cooper Hewitt

Design Museum

Cooper Hewitt, located on Museum Mile, focuses on innovative modern design and architecture with rotating special exhibits and a green garden space. This interactive museum in NYC has a “Pen” section that allows visitors to create their own designs. Its rich collection includes textiles, wall coverings, and product design, inspiring designers and art lovers alike.

Moments not to miss:

The museum’s garden is the perfect spot to enjoy something from their cafe after a long day of sightseeing.

Address and opening hours:

2 E 91st St, New York, NY 10128. Open 10:00 AM-6:00 PM every day.

14. Museum of the City of New York

History Museum

Although it may not be the best-known museum for tourists, visiting the Museum of the City of New York will make your trip a more extraordinary experience. The museum gives a comprehensive look at the city's past and present through engaging exhibits and historical memorabilia.

Moments not to miss:

The “New York at Its Core” exhibit provides a deep dive into the city’s 400-year history through artifacts, multimedia presentations, and interactive displays.

Address and opening hours:

1220 5th Ave, New York, NY 10029. Open Monday, Thursday, and Friday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM; and Saturday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM.

15. El Museo del Barrio

Cultural Museum

Just down the street from the Museum of the City of New York, you’ll find El Museo del Barrio. It’s filled with colorful Puerto Rican and Latin art, special exhibits, and photography. It’s undoubtedly one of New York’s hidden treasures. The museum's huge collection of more than 6,500 pieces spans over 800 years.

Moments not to miss:

Attend one of El Museo del Barrio's cultural events for an immersive experience.

Address and opening hours:

1230 5th Ave, New York, NY 10029. Open Thursday-Sunday, 11:00 AM-5:00 PM.

16. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Science and History Museum

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum has hands-on exhibits that take you from WWII bombers and submarines to spacecraft and everything in between. Visitors can tour the Aircraft Carrier Intrepid, explore the Space Shuttle Pavilion, and learn about the history of aviation and space exploration.

Moments not to miss:

Engage with simulators that recreate the experience of flying a jet or landing a space shuttle.

Address and opening hours:

Pier 86, W 46th St, New York, NY 10036. Open Monday-Friday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM, and Saturday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM.

17. Museum of the Moving Image

Cultural Museum

The Museum of the Moving Image houses the nation’s largest collection of artifacts related to moving pictures, presented in hybrid exhibitions. Here, you can explore the evolution of film and television technology and enjoy hands-on activities like creating your very own stop-motion animations.

Moments not to miss:

Try to fit in one of the screenings at the museum’s cinema, where you can watch both old and new classics, with introductions by industry experts.

Address and opening hours:

36-01 35th Ave, Queens, NY 11106. Open Thursday, 2:00 PM-6:00 PM; Friday, 2:00 PM-8:00 PM; and Saturday-Sunday, 12:00 PM-6:00 PM.

18. SPYSCAPE

Interactive Museum

If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a spy, SPYSCAPE is your chance to try it out. The whole museum is darkly lit and totally interactive. You can play games, crack codes, try on cool gadgets, and take part in a personalized spy profile test to discover your own spy skills and aptitudes.

Moments not to miss:

SPYSCAPE was designed to look like a small town within a huge building. It’s full of twists and turns that look different every time you visit.

Address and opening hours:

928 8th Ave, New York, NY 10019. Open Monday-Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:00 PM; and Sunday, 10:00 AM-8:00 PM.

19. The Museum of Ice Cream

Interactive Museum

The Museum of Ice Cream is a great place to unleash your inner child. Playful, multi-story exhibits themed around ice cream are your ticket to fun and whimsical Instagrammable photos. Each room offers a different interactive experience, and visitors can indulge in various ice cream flavors as they explore.

Moments not to miss:

Dive into the sprinkle pool for a unique and fun photo opportunity you can’t find anywhere else.

Address and opening hours:

558 Broadway, New York, NY 10012. Open Monday, 10:00 AM-7:00 PM; Wednesday-Thursday, 10:00 AM-7:00 PM; Friday, 10:00 AM-8:30 PM; Saturday, 9:30 AM-8:30 PM; and Sunday, 9:30 AM-7:30 PM.

20. Color Factory

Interactive Museum

The Color Factory is a trippy and colorful attraction that awakens your perception of color. The museum’s interactive installations invite visitors to explore color through sight, touch, and taste. All 16 exhibits have their own themes, all meant to represent the colors and perspectives of New York City.

Moments not to miss:

Cameras are placed in the exhibits that take photos and send them to you for free, but you’ll need a smartphone to scan the QR code.

Address and opening hours:

251 Spring St, New York, NY 10013. Open Sunday-Thursday (closed Tuesday), 9:00 AM-7:00 PM; and Friday-Saturday, 9:00 A-8:00 PM.

21. The City Reliquary

Cultural Museum

The City Reliquary in Brooklyn is all about the strange and weird in New York City. The relics, memorabilia, and everyday items have been donated and loaned by people in the community to celebrate and share the life and history of the people who call New York home. The museum might be small, but it gives you a raw and real glimpse into life in this iconic city over many years of growth and change.

Moments not to miss:

The City Reliquary hosts community events and temporary exhibitions, making it a dynamic and evolving space for local history.

Address and opening hours:

370 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211. Open Saturday-Sunday, 12:00 PM-6:00 PM.

FAQs

How many museums should I visit in New York City?

The number of museums in New York can be overwhelming, and it’s unlikely that all can be visited during a single trip, especially if you are planning to spend 48 hours in NYC or less. Plan to visit one or two large museums and at least one of the city’s smaller ones. This way, you can enjoy New York City’s best museums without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Do I need to book tickets early for NYC museums?

Booking NYC museum tickets early is recommended, especially for special exhibits and popular museums that are always busy. Things sell out fast in New York, and booking ahead ensures access to museums and exhibits without long waits. Planning in advance can also provide better availability for guided tours and special events.

Are there any free museums in NYC?

There are several free museums in NYC. The American Museum of Natural History, the Bronx Museum of the Arts, and the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology are among those that offer free admission or entry by donation. Additionally, many museums have specific free hours or days each week, so it's worth checking their schedules in advance.

What are some fun museums in NYC for kids and families?

There are several cool NYC museums with kid-friendly interactive exhibits. The American Museum of Natural History is a favorite with its dinosaur exhibits and planetarium. The Children’s Museum of Manhattan and the New York Hall of Science also provide hands-on activities that are both fun and educational for kids.

For which museums in NYC are guided tours recommended?

Guided tours are recommended for several museums in NYC to enhance the visitor experience. The Tenement Museum offers immersive tours that bring historical stories to life, and the American Museum of Natural History’s tours provide in-depth insights into the exhibits. Additionally, guided tours at the Metropolitan Museum of Art can help visitors navigate its vast collection and highlight key pieces and historical contexts.

Are there any fun museums in NYC to take pictures?

While most of the museums mentioned provide interesting and fun backdrops for photos, the best museums for photos in NYC are The Met Cloisters, The MoMA, The Museum of Ice Cream, and The Color Factory.