170 Central Park West (between West 76th and West 77th streets)

West 81st Street station (B or C train)

212-873-3400

www.nyhistory.org

Founded in 1804, when “New-York” was still hyphenated, “New York's First Museum” houses millions of examples of Americana, including books, newspapers, maps, manuscripts, photographs, silverware, antique toys, posters, political cartoons, architectural drawings, carriages, furniture, and much, much more. The society also houses one of the most extensive American history research libraries you'll ever encounter.

The second oldest historical society in the country, the society's goal is to preserve all kinds of materials related to the city of New York. You can find everything from George Washington's inaugural chair to the world's largest collection of Tiffany lamps. Furniture is displayed chronologically so you can take notice of the changes in design and style through the centuries. Two must-see artistic highlights are the gallery of 1830s paintings from the collection of Luman Reed and the watercolors by John James Audubon — 432 of them! — for his book Birds of America.

The historical society has a gift shop. The Café, catered by Eli Zabar, is open for lunch, snacks, and beverages 11 A.M. to 5 P.M. Tuesday to Sunday.

Parking, Hours, and Fees

Parking is difficult, so unless you want to pay for a neighborhood garage (if they have room), take public transportation.

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 A.M. to 6 P.M. and selected holiday Mondays. On Friday the museum is free after 6 P.M. and closes at 8 P.M. The library is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 A.M. to 5 P.M. An adult must accompany any children. You can cover the museum in half a day at a leisurely pace. Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for seniors (sixty-five and older) and educators, $6 for students, and free for children under twelve. Guided tours are held several times a day. Tours generally focus on certain sections of the museum, so ask beforehand if a tour covers the area(s) of interest to you. The museum is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and aids for the visually and/or hearing impaired are available.