Museum of the City
of New York
1220 Fifth Avenue (at 103rd
Street)
Manhattan
(212) 534-1672
Summary:
Ongoing displays include period rooms and
a gallery of marine paraphernalia, but
the real fun stems from the changing
exhibits.
Given New York City's rich
and exciting history, it should come as
no surprise that there are two museums
dedicated to exploring the Big Apple's
past: the New-York
Historical Society and the Museum of the City of New York
(MCNY). Though larger and somewhat less
manageable than the Historical Society,
the MCNY is similar in its focus on a few
large and extremely thorough exhibits
rather than an abundance of smaller, less
comprehensive presentations.
Ongoing Exhibits
While the real strength of MCNY
is its special exhibits, there are a few
ongoing displays we enjoy turning to
again and again. For example, we
recommend the Fire Gallery, which is a
good, compact version of the New York City Fire
Museum. You will see old
fire carts, many paintings, fire engine
models, and memorabilia.
We also like the
permanent installation called "New
York Toy Stories." This collection
of antique dolls, doll houses, and other
playthings is especially fun for kids who
will enjoy recognizing classic toys (but
may wonder a bit what happened to the
GameBoys and other electronic gadgets).
Note that this exhibit is shown in an
abbreviated form while its regular
galleries are being renovated.
Into American (specifically
New York) furniture? Look for the
galleries displaying typical interiors
during periods of early American history,
but note that while these exhibits may be
of interest to those with a strong
affinity for the decorative arts, there
are many other museums and historical
sites in New York that make more
compelling presentations on this topic
(for example, the Metropolitan Museum
of Art's American wing and
the Theodore
Roosevelt Birthplace both offer stunning period pieces).
Films and Special
Events
The museum often presents
documentaries in their theater. Although
they are good, you may want to avoid them
if you are in a hurry. During our last
trip, we watched several of the films
that were available (including a
documentary on the construction of the
Empire State Building), adding well over
an hour to our day at the museum.
The museum offers a series
of walking tours throughout the city. Be
sure to pick up a schedule at the front
desk.
When To Go
Saturdays are the busiest,
although school groups can make the
museum crowded during the week, too.
Logistics
For hours, admission fees, and
updated exhibit information, visit the
museum's web
site.
To get their by subway, take
the #6 train to 103rd Street. Walk west
three blocks until you get to Fifth
Avenue. The museum is on Fifth and 103rd.
By bus, take the M1, M3 or M4 to 104th
Street; or the M2 to 101st Street. While
you are in the neighborhood, we also
recommend that you check out the Conservatory
Garden across the street.
by Andrew Roche
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