Fodor's Expert Review New-York Historical Society

Manhattan's oldest (and perhaps most under-the-radar) museum, founded in 1804, boasts one of the city's finest research libraries in addition to sleek interactive technology, a children's museum, and inventive exhibitions that showcase the museum's eclectic collections and unique voice. While the permanent collection of more than 6 million pieces of art, literature, and memorabilia sheds light on America's history, art, and architecture, the special exhibitions showcase the museum's fresh insight on all things New York. The Henry Luce III Center for the Study of American Culture includes 100 dazzling Tiffany lamps on display; historic treasures that tell the American story in a novel way; and the Center for the Study of Women's History, with exhibitions that examine the untold stories of women who have impacted and continue to shape the American experience. The DiMenna Children's History Museum on the lower level invites children to become "history detectives" and explore New York's past through interactive displays, hands-on activities, and the stories of iconic New York children through the centuries.

Storico, the light-filled restaurant on the first floor (with a separate entrance), serves upscale Italian food at lunch and dinner; Parliament Coffee & Espresso Bar sells beverages, pastries, and light lunch fare.