History

A vintage postcard that reads 'Greetings from New York' with featured New York City skyscrapers.

Through February 17, 2025

Art Deco City: New York Postcards from the Leonard A. Lauder Collection

Called a "must-see" by the Associated Press, and featuring over 250 postcards as well as decorative arts, fashion, photography, and architectural models, Art Deco City immerses visitors in the dazzling style which defined the modern city.

A Woman in glasses speaks at a conference table with two men next to her and microphones in front of them.

Through July 20, 2025

Changing the Face of Democracy

Explore the life and legacy of barrier-breaking Brooklyn-born politician Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to US Congress.

A graphic image of various objects including a teapot, a bench and a dress.

October 13, 2023 - April 21, 2024

People, Place, and Influence

Delve into the founding mission for the Museum by highlighting key aspects of this unique collection.

Painting of person sitting on M Train going over the Williamsburg Bridge

May 26, 2023 - July 21, 2024

This Is New York

In honor of the Museum’s centennial, this exhibition, which spans a full city block, is organized around the types of urban spaces where the stories of New York are told.

May 20, 2022 - January 8, 2023

Analog City

Uncover the array of tools, technologies, and lost professions that supported New York City as it exploded into a global metropolis in the pre-digital era.

Five-piece silver tea service. Lids are shaped like architectural buildings/structures.

January 22, 2020 - May 15, 2022

Collecting New York's Stories

How can objects tell the dynamic and eclectic stories of New Yorkers? Find out through select items from the Museum's collections.

Lamb Chop at the Rockefeller Center observation deck

August 13, 2021 - April 3, 2022

Puppets of New York

Puppets of New York explores the extraordinary, surprising, and diverse history of New York City’s quirkiest residents. Puppets traveled with migrant communities from across the globe as they made their way to the city.