From fine art to cultural heritage, NYC’s world-class museums are a great resource for families. While no one should miss a visit to the biggies (Met, MoMA, and AMNH), don’t skip some of these lesser-known gems.
NEW MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART
Manhattan’s only all-contemporary art museum, the New Museum offers First Saturdays for Families with special hands-on programs designed for families with children ages 3-10. newmuseum.org
MUSEUM OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK
At the Museum of the City of New York, Sunday family programs (for kids 6-12, free with museum admission) offer children and their caregivers a fun way to learn about NYC’s history through hands-on activities. Explore the museum through scavenger hunts designed for families to experience the museum together. mcny.org
THE JEWISH MUSEUM
Housed in the former Warburg Mansion, the Jewish Museum offers Sunday family programs free with museum admission. Drop-in art workshops, family audio guides, kids’ concerts, and even special programs during vacation weeks to keep the kids busy during school breaks are all offered. thejewishmuseum.org
EL MUSEO DEL BARRIO
Specializing in Latin American and Caribbean art, El Museo offers “Super Sabado” (third Saturday of every month). Latino art lovers of all ages enjoy free concerts, exhibitions, gallery tours, art workshops, and film screenings. elmuseo.org
NEW YORK TRANSIT MUSEUM
Explore the cultural, social and technological history of one of the world’s biggest public transportation systems. Every Saturday and Sunday, programs for young transit fans are offered free with museum admission. There are Grand Central Scavenger Hunts, and children and family programs—including “Fantastic Tunnels,” “Miles of Tiles,” and “Travelin’ Treats.” mta.info/mta/museum
To read our 2014 Winter Classes Guide, click here.