Frequently Asked Questions

How can I visit New-York Historical?

Welcome! New-York Historical is open to visitors. We encourage you to purchase timed-entry tickets now. Walk-up tickets are also available.

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New-York Historical’s Museum hours are Wednesdays and Thursdays, 11 am – 5 pm; Fridays, 11 am – 8 pm; and Saturdays and Sundays, 11 am – 5 pm. (Fridays, 6 – 8 pm, are pay-as-you-wish.) 

Are vaccinations required to enter the Museum?

As part of New York City’s Key to NYC program, all visitors to New York City museums ages 5–11 are required to show proof of at least one dose of vaccination against COVID-19.  All visitors ages 12 and older must show proof of full vaccination and a matching photo ID. Proof of vaccination may include a valid paper vaccination record, a photo of a valid vaccination record, the NYC COVID Safe App, or the New York State Excelsior Pass.   

Face masks are required for all employees and visitors older than age 2. Face masks are available, without charge, to anyone requesting them. 

What exhibitions are on view?

New-York Historical has a full slate of permanent and special exhibitions that are on view. 

Screenings of our short films, We Rise and New York Story, are free with Museum admission and take place in the Robert H. Smith Auditorium. We Rise screens every hour on the half hour, and New York Story screens every hour on the hour.

What safety protocols are in place for onsite public programs and gallery tours?

Public programs in the Robert H. Smith Auditorium will be sold to 100% capacity. Proof of full vaccination for visitors ages 12 and over, in combination with a matching photo ID, is required to be presented on site for admission to public programs presented in the Robert H. Smith Auditorium, the Patricia D. Klingenstein Library, and other New-York Historical gallery spaces. Proof of vaccination may include a valid paper vaccination record, a photo of a valid vaccination record, the NYC COVID Safe App, or the New York State Excelsior Pass.

Face masks are required for all employees and attendees older than age 2. Face masks are available, without charge, to anyone requesting them. 

What are the cleaning protocols in the building?

The entire building has been decontaminated and disinfected with museum-appropriate cleaning materials in accordance with best practices. Hand sanitizers are available throughout the building. Maintenance staff performs enhanced cleaning throughout the day.

Are there health screenings for visitors and staff?

All staff are screened regarding their health daily prior to entering the building. Any staff member who has any COVID-19 symptoms, has tested positive, or has been in contact with someone who has tested positive within the past 14 days is required to stay home and seek medical assistance. Visitors are advised by posted signage not to enter the building if they have experienced COVID-19 symptoms, tested positive, or been in contact with someone who has tested positive within the past 14 days. A reminder: Visitors who've arrived from another state or country should consult New York's updated travel guidelines. 

What are the safety protocols for visitors?

Face masks are required for all employees and visitors older than age 2 inside our building and in our courtyard. Face masks are available, without charge, to anyone requesting them. The museum has implemented a no-touch or low-touch visitor experience. A free, disposable stylus will be offered at Admissions so visitors can safely interact with touchscreens. 

An inherent risk of exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19) exists in any public place where people are present. People visiting the New-York Historical Society do so at their own risk.  

What happens if a visitor refuses to wear a face mask or comply with safety guidelines?

We reserve the right to refuse entry to anyone who declines to wear a face mask or comply with guidelines.

What are the current admission procedures?

Advanced, timed-entry admissions for visitors are encouraged, as well as cashless payments to the extent permitted by law. Purchase your timed-entry tickets to the Museum now. Walk-up tickets are also available.

I’m a New-York Historical Member. Do I need a timed-entry entry ticket?

Members do not need to book timed-entry tickets—just show your membership card at the entry desk and you'll be admitted whenever you arrive. 

Do you enforce social distancing?

Social distancing is required and enforced; parties may remain together; children must stay with adults at all times. Signage has been placed throughout the building—upon approaching the entrance, in each of the galleries, and in public and office spaces—reminding people to maintain social distancing (floor decals will be placed to facilitate), to cough or sneeze in the crook of their elbows, to leave the building if they are not feeling well, and to use hand sanitizer canisters located throughout the building. Access to spaces, including specific galleries and the elevator, is limited to help facilitate social distancing.

Are restrooms available?

Yes, all of our regular restrooms are open and sanitized on an enhanced schedule. 

What happens if there’s a case of COVID-19 connected to the Museum?

In the event there’s a confirmed case of COVID-19 at New-York Historical, immediate steps will be taken to disinfect the affected area and notification will be made to potentially exposed staff members.

Are all the Museum facilities open?

Coat check is currently not available.  

Is the NYHistory Store open?

Yes, the NYHistory Store is open with enhanced cleaning protocols in place. You can also continue to shop at the online store.

Is there food available?

Parliament Espresso and Coffee Bar is open Wednesday – Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm; Storico restaurant is open for lunch, Wednesday – Sunday, 11 am – 3 pm and for dinner, Friday and Saturday, 5 – 8 pm.