Passing through New York? Discover 7 must-see museums to immerse yourself in the heart of American history.
Summary
With its numerous museums dedicated to American history, New York is a true paradise for history buffs. We present to you 6 essential museums, in the heart of the Big Apple, to delve into the history of the country, from its founding to its cultural and political development. American immigration, the NYPD and modern art will soon have no more secrets for you! So, are you ready to embark on a captivating journey through time?
Also read on the New York guide:
The City Museum, to know everything about New York
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Founded in 1923 by Scottish writer Henry Collins Brown, the Museum of the City of New York is located on the famous Fifth Avenue, opposite Central Park. Its mission is to document and interpret the past, present and future of the city that never sleeps. The building of style Georgia and colonial, which has housed the museum since 1932, contains a impressive collection of more than 750,000 objectsranging from paintings to photographs, sculptures, clothing and even toys.
Among its treasures are the costume worn at George Washington’s inauguration ball as the first President of the United States, as well as a remarkable dollhouse containing a miniature work of art by Marcel Duchamp. In addition to its permanent collections, the Museum of the City of New York regularly offers temporary exhibitions dealing with various themes. To find out about the current program, simply visit the museum’s website!
The Natural History Museum, to see dinosaurs
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Located not far from other museums dedicated to American history, the New York Museum of Natural History contains incredible treasures. By browsing its 150,000 square meters, spread over 5 floors, discover fascinating exhibitions on the fauna, flora, natural sciences, as well as the cultural and anthropological history of the country. The different rooms of the museum address various themes such as biodiversity, Earth sciences, fossils, mammals and the origins of Man and civilizations.
Since May 2023, the Natural History Museum has inaugurated a new wing, the Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education and Innovation. This 22,000 square meter, 6-story extension features an even larger collection of paleontological, zoological, archaeological and geological specimens. Temporary exhibitions and special events are also organized and even offer the possibility of spend a night at the museum !
The National Immigration Museum, to understand the quest for freedom
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Located on the Hudson River, Ellis Island, with the famous Statue of Liberty, was a key entry point for approximately 12 million immigrants between 1892 and 1954. The National Immigration Museum presents an immersive experience through captivating exhibits including photographs, documents and personal items that belonged to the newcomers. Explore the restored examination rooms to better understand the process of welcoming immigrants. Open since 1990, this museum is a moving testimony of the quest for freedom and the history of immigration to the United States.
Also read on the New York guide:
The New York Historical Society Museum & Library, to go back in time
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The New York Historical Society Museum & Library is a captivating museum that will transport you through the history of the United States. With its varied collection, discover unique artifacts such as arrowheads, a model of the bust of Lincoln, a wide selection of historical toys and games, as well as the door of the first fire truck to Ground Zero.
The museum also highlights the identity of New York through original galleries devoted to pop culture, celebrities, theater and American history. Designed for adults and children, it is ideal if you want to deepen your knowledge of the Big Apple and its rich past. And don’t miss the center dedicated to women’s history!
The Tenement Museum, a testimony to the past of immigrants in the USA
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Founded in 1988, the Tenement Museum is located in the district of Lower East Side, at 97 Orchard Street. Dive in the daily life of immigrants of the last century in the United States. Passionate guides will take you through the historical context of the place, where more than 7,000 immigrants from 20 different nationalities lived. Explore six apartments that bear witness to the difficult living conditions of these families. This museum offers a unique perspective on the history of the American melting pot and the mark left by Eastern European and Irish communities in the Big Apple.
The MOMA, for a cultural bath
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MOMA is one of New York’s most iconic museums. Inasmuch as museum of modern and contemporary artit presents artistic movements from the 19th century to the present, providing a rich overview of the cultural and artistic evolution of American society.
During your visit, discover the major artistic movements that have shaped American history, such as modernism, abstract expressionism and pop art, and who left their indelible mark in the history of art. The MOMA collections will allow you to live an immersive and enriching experience, transporting you through time to understand the importance of these movements in the cultural evolution of the USA.
You now know the 6 must-see museums in New York on the theme of American history. All you have to do is plan your visit and discover these cultural treasures! Have you ever visited one of these museums? If so, feel free to share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below. And for those who haven’t been there yet, which museum attracts you the most?
2023-09-26 17:14:06
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