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Museum of the City of New York

There are 3 different ways to get in. Start with the one that needs the least from you.

Manhattan6 to 103rd St; or 2/3 to 110th St; or buses M1, M2, M3, M4
The ruined gothic facade of the Roosevelt Island smallpox hospital against a blue sky

Show almost any ID

“I'm a New York City resident — I'd like pay-what-you-can admission please”

Every way in

Ordered by how much work it takes.

  1. Show almost any ID

    Walk in today

    Needs: Any ID

    Pay-what-you-can for NYC residents (in-person only); Free for everyone on Wednesdays

    Bring: NYC resident ID (driver's license, State ID, IDNYC, etc.) required for pay-what-you-can

  2. Library card → Culture Pass

    A little setup

    Needs: Library card

    General admission to all exhibitions

    • The museum about NYC itself. Always free for NYC residents anyway. The NYC at Its Core exhibition is essential. Amazing view of Central Park.
    Reserve a pass (opens in new tab)

  3. IDNYC — as a membership

    Set up first

    Needs: IDNYC

    Free unlimited yearly admission for 1, discounts on public programs (lectures, performances, walking tours), e-newsletter and e-calendar subscription, 15% discount in Museum Shop and Chalsty's Café

    Worth: $60/year individual membership

    1. Get your IDNYC card
    2. Visit Museum of the City of New York admissions desk in person
    3. Present your IDNYC card
    4. Ask to register for IDNYC membership
    Watch out: Not eligible if you were a member whose membership lapsed since January 1, 2014. Once redeemed, not eligible for second free year. 5-year rule applies.

What no route covers

These cost extra however you get in.

  • Special events or programs may have separate fees. Must purchase tickets IN PERSON at the ticket counter for PWYW (online tickets are full price).
  • Special events, programs
Official site (opens in new tab)