All historic houses to visit in New York

Step into the past at 51 historic houses in New York. These preserved homes offer a glimpse into the lives of notable figures and everyday people from different eras.

Are you interested in exploring historic homes? Here are the must-see historic houses in New York:

  1. National September 11 Memorial & Museum1

    National September 11 Memorial & Museum

     New York, NY
    The National September 11 Memorial & Museum, also known as Reflecting Absence, is a monument and museum dedicated to the victims of the terrorist attacks that took place on September 11, 2001 in New York City. It stands as a poignant reminder of the tragic events and the lives lost on that fateful day.
  2. Empire State Building2

    Empire State Building

     New York, NY
    The Empire State Building, a 102-story skyscraper, is a prominent landmark in New York City. It is situated at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and West 34th Street. This iconic structure offers a unique perspective of the city's skyline and is a significant part of New York's architectural heritage.
  3. Fraunces Tavern Museum3

    Fraunces Tavern Museum

     New York, NY
    Fraunces Tavern is a unique combination of a restaurant and museum, situated in the southern part of Manhattan, New York. This establishment offers a unique blend of history and gastronomy, making it an interesting destination for tourists who want to experience a piece of New York's past while enjoying a meal.
  4. Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration4

    Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration

     New York, NY
    Between 1892 and 1954, Ellis Island served as the primary immigration inspection station for approximately 12 million passengers who arrived in the United States through the port of New York. These immigrants were inspected both legally and medically, marking a significant chapter in the history of American immigration. Today, the island's Immigration Museum is dedicated to preserving this history and the stories of those who passed through its doors.
  5. New York Transit Museum5

    New York Transit Museum

     New York, NY
    The New York Transit Museum, located in the heart of Brooklyn, is a unique institution that tells the story of the city's public transportation history, with a particular emphasis on the New York City Subway. It provides a fascinating insight into the development and evolution of the city's subway system, making it a worthwhile destination for anyone interested in urban history and infrastructure.
  6. Museum At Eldridge Street6

    Museum At Eldridge Street

     New York, NY
    The Museum at Eldridge Street is not just a museum, but also a synagogue. It is a unique place where visitors can learn about the congregation of the synagogue and contemporary Jewish culture and practice. The museum is located within the Eldridge Street Synagogue itself, providing an authentic and immersive experience for those interested in Jewish history and culture.
  7. The Morgan Library & Museum7

    The Morgan Library & Museum

     New York, NY
    The Morgan Library & Museum, also known as Pierpont Morgan Library, Morgan Library or The Morgan, is a renowned institution located on Madison Avenue in Manhattan, New York City. It is a place where visitors can explore a vast collection of manuscripts, papyri, incunabula, early prints, illustrated books, music autographs, and graphics.
  8. Lower East Side Tenement Museum8

    Lower East Side Tenement Museum

     New York, NY
    The Lower East Side Tenement Museum is a historical museum situated in the heart of New York City. This museum offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the living conditions and experiences of immigrants who made their homes in the Lower East Side during the 19th and 20th centuries.
  9. General Grant National Memorial9

    General Grant National Memorial

     New York, NY
    The General Grant National Memorial, more commonly known as Grant's Tomb, is a significant historical site in New York. It serves as the final resting place of General Grant, who was the 18th President of the United States and played a pivotal role in the Civil War. This mausoleum is a tribute to his life and contributions to the nation.
  10. Museum of the City of New York10

    Museum of the City of New York

     New York, NY
    The Museum of the City of New York, established in 1923, is dedicated to showcasing the history of New York City and its people. It provides a comprehensive look into the city's past, offering visitors a chance to understand the evolution of the city and its diverse population over the years.
  11. Museum of American Finance11

    Museum of American Finance

     New York, NY
    The Museum of American Finance is a unique institution in the United States. It is the only independent public museum in the country that is dedicated to preserving, exhibiting, and teaching about American finance and financial history. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in understanding the financial history of the country.
  12. South Street Seaport Museum12

    South Street Seaport Museum

     New York, NY
    South Street Seaport is a largely protected district located in Manhattan, New York. This historic district is situated where Fulton Street meets the East River. Despite its small size, it holds significant historical value and is distinct from the neighboring Financial District. It is home to some of the oldest buildings in Downtown Manhattan, including a large collection of early 19th-century commercial buildings.
  13. Frick Collection13

    Frick Collection

     New York, NY
    The Frick Collection is an art collection that was amassed by American coke manufacturer and patron, Henry Clay Frick. The collection is housed in Frick's former residence, which is now a museum. The museum is located on Fifth Avenue, near Central Park in Manhattan, New York. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city.
  14. Edgar Allan Poe Cottage14

    Edgar Allan Poe Cottage

     New York, NY
    The Edgar Allan Poe Cottage, located in the Fordham neighborhood of the Bronx, New York, is the former home of the renowned American writer Edgar Allan Poe. This historic site offers a unique glimpse into the life and times of one of America's most influential literary figures.
  15. New York City Fire Museum15

    New York City Fire Museum

     New York, NY
    The New York City Fire Museum is housed in a renovated firehouse from 1904, located in the SoHo neighborhood of Manhattan, New York. This location gives the museum a unique and authentic feel, as it is situated in a building that was once actively used by the city's firefighters. The museum's location in SoHo, a vibrant and historic neighborhood, also adds to its appeal for tourists.
  16. Museum of the American Gangster16

    Museum of the American Gangster

     New York, NY
    The Museum of the American Gangster is a compact, two-room museum situated at 80 St. Mark's Place in the East Village, Manhattan, New York City. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique insight into the world of organized crime in America.
  17. Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site17

    Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site

     New York, NY
    The Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site is located at 28 East 20th Street, in the Flatiron District of Manhattan, New York City. This site is a recreated brownstone, serving as a replica of the birthplace and childhood home of the 26th president of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the early life of this influential figure in American history.
  18. New-york Historical Society18

    New-york Historical Society

     New York, NY
    The New-York Historical Society is renowned for its large-scale historical exhibitions. These exhibitions cover a wide range of subjects, including the founding father of the United States Alexander Hamilton, New York abolitionist, the Hudson River School, Abraham Lincoln, the Civil War, Louis Comfort Tiffany's stained glass, and the September 11 attacks.
  19. Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial19

    Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial

     New York, NY
    Arlington House, also known as the Robert E. Lee Memorial, is a significant historical site located in Arlington County, Virginia, United States. The house is designed in a neo-Greek style and is named after the county in which it resides. This site offers visitors a glimpse into the past and the opportunity to learn about the life of Confederate General Robert E. Lee.
  20. Hamilton Grange National Memorial20

    Hamilton Grange National Memorial

     New York, NY
    The Hamilton Grange National Memorial is a significant historical site located in northern Manhattan, New York. It was the former home of Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of the United States. Today, the site is managed by the National Park Service, ensuring its preservation and accessibility to the public.
  21. Federal Hall National Memorial Visitor21

    Federal Hall National Memorial Visitor

     New York, NY
    Federal Hall, located at 26 Wall Street in New York City, holds a significant place in American history. It was the first Capitol of the United States and the site of George Washington's inauguration in 1789. This historical landmark offers visitors a glimpse into the early days of the United States, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in American history.
  22. Trinity Church (Manhattan)22

    Trinity Church (Manhattan)

     New York, NY
    Trinity Church, often referred to as 'Wall Street', is one of the most famous churches in New York City. It is strategically located in Lower Manhattan between Broadway and Trinity Place, directly opposite the northwest end of Wall Street. This location makes it easily accessible and a significant landmark for tourists exploring the city.
  23. Merchant's House Museum23

    Merchant's House Museum

     New York, NY
    The Merchant's House Museum, also known as the Old Merchant's House and the Seabury Tredwell House, is a unique attraction in New York City. It is the only nineteenth-century family home in the city that has been preserved in its entirety, both inside and out. This offers visitors a rare glimpse into the past, allowing them to step back in time and experience what life was like for a wealthy family in the 1800s.
  24. Federal Reserve Bank of New York - Museum and Learning Center24

    Federal Reserve Bank of New York - Museum and Learning Center

     New York, NY
    The Federal Reserve Bank of New York has a vault that lies 26m below sea level, just above the Manhattan bedrock. As of 1927, the vault contained 10% of all official gold reserves in the world. It is currently the largest gold repository in the world, holding approximately 5,000 metric tons of gold. The gold is owned by many foreign nations, central banks, and international organizations. The bank is not the owner of the gold, but a guardian of the precious metal.
  25. Angel Orensanz Museum25

    Angel Orensanz Museum

     New York, NY
    The Angel Orensanz Center, located in Manhattan's Lower East Side, is a significant performance and art space. It was originally constructed as a synagogue and continues to be used as one occasionally. The building's history and its transformation into a vibrant art space make it a unique destination for tourists interested in art, architecture, and history.
  26. Castle Clinton National Monument26

    Castle Clinton National Monument

     New York, NY
    Castle Clinton is a significant historical site located in Battery Park, at the southernmost point of Lower Manhattan, New York. This 19th-century fort, which now serves as a museum and an American national monument, offers a glimpse into the city's past. It was designed by architects John McComb Jr. and Jonathan Williams and was completed in 1811.
  27. Queens County Farm Museum27

    Queens County Farm Museum

     New York, NY
    The Queens County Farm Museum, also referred to as Queens Farm, is a historic farm situated on 47 acres within the neighborhoods of Floral Park and Glen Oaks in Queens, New York City. This expansive area provides a unique opportunity to experience a slice of rural life within the urban environment of the city.
  28. Liberty Island Information Center - Statue of Liberty National Monument28

    Liberty Island Information Center - Statue of Liberty National Monument

     New York, NY
    The Statue of Liberty National Monument is a significant landmark in the United States, situated in the New York Harbor. This monument encompasses two key historical sites: the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island and the former immigration station on Ellis Island. These sites offer a glimpse into the country's past, with the Statue of Liberty symbolizing freedom and democracy, and Ellis Island serving as a reminder of the country's rich immigrant history.
  29. Fotografiska New York29

    Fotografiska New York

     New York, NY
    Fotografiska New York is a branch of the renowned Swedish photography museum, Fotografiska. It is located in the Gramercy Park neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. This location allows visitors to explore the rich history and culture of photography from Sweden and around the world, right in the heart of one of the world's most vibrant cities.
  30. Gracie Mansion30

    Gracie Mansion

     New York, NY
    Gracie Mansion, the official residence of the mayor of New York City, is a historical site built in 1799. It is situated in Carl Schurz Park, at the intersection of East End Avenue and 88th Street, in the Yorkville neighborhood of Manhattan. This location offers a unique perspective of the city's history and architecture.
  31. Castle Williams31

    Castle Williams

     New York, NY
    Castle Williams is a unique circular fortification made of red sandstone, located on the northwest tip of Governors Island. This strategic location at the entrance of New York Harbor makes it a significant landmark in the area. The fort is part of a system of forts designed and built in the early 19th century to protect New York City from naval attacks.
  32. Governors Island National Monument32

    Governors Island National Monument

     New York, NY
    The Governors Island National Monument is a part of the United States national park system. It is situated in New York City, covering an area of 22 acres on Governors Island. This location offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a significant part of the country's history and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
  33. Conference House33

    Conference House

     New York, NY
    The Conference House, also known as the Billop House, is a historical stone house located in the Tottenville neighborhood of Staten Island, New York City. This house was built by Captain Christopher Billopp before the year 1680. It carries a significant historical value as it was the site of the Staten Island Peace Conference in 1776, an unsuccessful attempt to end the American Revolutionary War.
  34. Mount Vernon Hotel Museum34

    Mount Vernon Hotel Museum

     New York, NY
    The Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden, previously known as the Abigail Adams Smith Museum, is a historic antebellum building located at 421 East 61st Street, near the East River, in New York City. This museum is one of the few remaining pre-1800 buildings in Manhattan, originally planned in 1795 as an estate for Colonel William S. Smith and his wife, Abigail. However, the Smiths never completed the building; it was ultimately built as a carriage house and stable in 1799 for the nearby estate of William T. Robinson.
  35. Stephen A. Schwarzman Building - New York Public Library35

    Stephen A. Schwarzman Building - New York Public Library

     New York, NY
    The New York Public Library Main Branch, located in the heart of New York City, is a significant landmark and a hub of knowledge. Designed by the architectural firm Carrère and Hastings, it is a National Historic Landmark and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since October 15, 1966. The library is a testament to the city's rich cultural and historical heritage, offering a wealth of resources for both locals and tourists alike.
  36. King Manor Museum36

    King Manor Museum

     New York, NY
    The King Mansion, also known as the Rufus King House, is a significant historical site located in Jamaica, Queens, New York. It is situated at the intersection of 150th Street and Jamaica Avenue. This 18th-century building offers a glimpse into the life of Rufus King, a prominent figure in American history.
  37. The Alice Austen House Museum37

    The Alice Austen House Museum

     New York, NY
    The Alice Austen House, also known as Clear Comfort, is a historic site located at 2 Hylan Boulevard in the Rosebank section of Staten Island, New York City, New York. This was the home of Alice Austen, a renowned photographer, for most of her lifetime. Today, it serves as a museum and is a member of the Historic House Trust.
  38. Dyckman Farmhouse Museum38

    Dyckman Farmhouse Museum

     New York, NY
    The Dyckman House, which is now known as the Dyckman Farmhouse Museum, holds the distinction of being the oldest remaining farmhouse on Manhattan island. This historical structure serves as a reminder of New York City's rural past, providing a stark contrast to the urban landscape that surrounds it today.
  39. Renee and Chaim Gross Foundation39

    Renee and Chaim Gross Foundation

     New York, NY
    The Renee and Chaim Gross Foundation is a non-profit organization that was established in 1989. It is dedicated to the study of the works of modern American sculptor Chaim Gross, his contemporaries, and the history of 20th-century American art. The foundation is a significant resource for those interested in understanding the evolution of American art in the 20th century.
  40. Park Avenue Armory40

    Park Avenue Armory

     New York, NY
    The Park Avenue Armory, also known as the 7th Regiment Armory, is a historic National Guard armory building. It is located at 643 Park Avenue in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan in New York City. This historic building is a significant landmark in the city and offers a unique glimpse into the past.
  41. Museum of Chinese In America41

    Museum of Chinese In America

     New York, NY
    The Museum of Chinese in America, located in New York City, is a cultural institution dedicated to showcasing the history of Chinese Americans. It is a nonprofit organization that presents the living history, heritage, culture, and diverse experiences of Chinese Americans through exhibitions, educational services, and public programs.
  42. National Lighthouse Museum42

    National Lighthouse Museum

     New York, NY
    The National Lighthouse Museum, situated in St. George, Staten Island, New York City, is a unique institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of lighthouses and their keepers. The museum offers a deep dive into the world of lighthouses, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of their historical significance and the role they played in navigation.
  43. Weeksville Heritage Center43

    Weeksville Heritage Center

     New York, NY
    The Weeksville Heritage Center is a historic site located on Buffalo Avenue between St. Marks Avenue and Bergen Street in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, New York City. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore one of America's first free black communities during the 19th century.
  44. Lewis Howard Latimer House Museum44

    Lewis Howard Latimer House Museum

     New York, NY
    The Lewis H. Latimer House, also known as the Latimer House or the Lewis Latimer House, is a historic site located at 34-41 137th Street in Flushing, Queens, New York City. This house served as the home of the African-American inventor Lewis Howard Latimer from 1903 to 1928. Today, it operates as a museum dedicated to the inventor's work and the achievements of other black scientists.
  45. Old Stone House45

    Old Stone House

     New York, NY
    The Old Stone House is a historical site located in the Park Slope neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York City. It is situated within the J. J. Byrne Playground, at Washington Park, making it easily accessible for visitors. The house is a reconstruction of the Vechte–Cortelyou House, which played a significant role in the 1776 Battle of Long Island during the American Revolutionary War.
  46. Nicholas Roerich Museum46

    Nicholas Roerich Museum

     New York, NY
    The Nicholas Roerich Museum in New York City is a unique cultural institution dedicated to showcasing the works of Nicholas Roerich. Roerich was a Russian-born artist known for his focus on nature scenes from the Himalayas. His art is characterized by its vibrant colors and intricate details, capturing the beauty and majesty of the natural world in a way that is both captivating and inspiring.
  47. Seguine Mansion47

    Seguine Mansion

     New York, NY
    The Seguine Mansion, also known as the Seguine-Burke Mansion, is a historic site located on Lemon Creek near the southern shore of Staten Island, New York City. This Greek Revival house is one of the few surviving examples of 19th-century life on Staten Island, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a member of the Historic House Trust.
  48. Newhouse Center For Contemporary Art48

    Newhouse Center For Contemporary Art

     New York, NY
    Sailors Snug Harbor, also informally known as Snug Harbor, is a collection of architecturally significant buildings from the 19th century. These buildings are located on Staten Island, which is part of New York City. The site is a testament to the architectural styles of the past and offers a unique glimpse into the city's history.
  49. Bartow-pell Mansion Museum49

    Bartow-pell Mansion Museum

     New York, NY
    The Bartow-Pell Mansion is a historic house museum situated in the northern part of Pelham Bay Park, in the Bronx, New York. This National Historic Landmark boasts one of the country's finest neoclassical interiors and is the last surviving mid-19th-century mansion in the Pelham Bay area. The mansion and estate date back to 1654 and have passed between the Bartow and Pell families until it was finally sold to the city of New York in 1888.
  50. Museum of Reclaimed Urban Space50

    Museum of Reclaimed Urban Space

     New York, NY
    The Museum of Reclaimed Urban Space (MoRUS) is a unique institution founded by the Times Up! Environmental Organization in 2012. This not-for-profit museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of community-based activism in the Lower East Side neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City.
  51. 51

    Harbor Defense Museum

     New York, NY
    The Harbor Defense Museum, also known as The Caponier, is situated within the grounds of Fort Hamilton in the Bay Ridge section of Brooklyn. This 19th-century fort is New York City's only military museum and is one of only seventy military museums in the United States that is funded and operated by the Defense Department. The museum is housed in a structure known as a caponier, which was originally an outwork designed to protect the main fortress from rear attacks.