All ethnology museums to visit in New York State

Explore the cultural diversity and heritage at 61 ethnology museums in New York State. These museums offer insights into the traditions, customs, and ways of life of various communities.

Are you interested in learning about different cultures and their histories? Here are the ethnology museums to visit in New York State:

  1. Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration1

    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.
  2. Museum of Sex2

    Museum of Sex

     New York, NY
    The Museum of Sex, colloquially known as MoSex, is situated at 233 Fifth Avenue, at the intersection of East 27th Street in Manhattan, New York City. This location is easily accessible and central, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.
  3. Lower East Side Tenement Museum3

    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.
  4. Brooklyn Museum4

    Brooklyn Museum

     New York, NY
    The Brooklyn Museum, situated at 200 Eastern Parkway in the borough of Brooklyn, is a significant art museum in New York City. It holds the position of being the second most important art museum in the city, following the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This museum is a part of the Cultural Institutions Group (CIG) and is a notable destination for art enthusiasts visiting the city.
  5. Rubin Museum of Art5

    Rubin Museum of Art

     New York, NY
    The Rubin Museum of Art in New York City is a unique institution dedicated to showcasing the art and cultures of the Himalayas, the Indian subcontinent, Central Asia, and other regions within Eurasia. The museum's permanent collection is particularly focused on Tibetan art, offering visitors a chance to explore this rich and diverse cultural heritage.
  6. Online discount!Statue of Liberty6

    Statue of Liberty

     New York, NY
    Poverty Point, a prehistoric earthwork of the Poverty Point culture, is a historical monument and World Heritage site located in the southern United States. It is situated approximately 25 kilometers from the Mississippi River in Louisiana. The site features several earthworks and mounds built between 1650 and 700 BC during the Archaic Period in the Americas by a group of Native Americans from the Poverty Point culture. The culture extended 160 kilometers through the Mississippi delta.
  7. New-york Historical Society7

    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.
  8. The Jewish Museum8

    The Jewish Museum

     New York, NY
    The Jewish Museum in New York City is recognized as the leading institution for Jewish art and culture in the United States. It offers a comprehensive collection of Jewish art, culture, and history, making it a significant destination for those interested in exploring Jewish heritage.
  9. Rockwell Museum9

    Rockwell Museum

     Corning, NY
    The Rockwell Museum, located in downtown Corning, New York, is a Smithsonian Affiliate museum of American art. This prestigious affiliation signifies the museum's commitment to preserving, interpreting, and sharing the rich history and culture of America through its diverse collections. The museum is situated in the Southern Tier region of New York, making it easily accessible for visitors from various locations.
  10. African Burial Ground National Monument10

    African Burial Ground National Monument

     New York, NY
    The African Burial Ground National Monument is a significant historical site located in Duane Street in lower Manhattan, New York. This monument houses the remains of over 400 Africans who were buried here between the 17th and early 19th centuries. It serves as a poignant reminder of the history of slavery in the United States and the contributions of African people to the development of New York City.
  11. The Jewish Museum11

    The Jewish Museum

     New York, NY
    Today, the Jewish Theological Seminary of America (JTS) serves as the academic and spiritual center of Conservative Judaism in the United States and, according to its own claim, the whole world. This makes the museum an important destination for those interested in understanding the development and current state of Conservative Judaism.
  12. El Museo Del Barrio12

    El Museo Del Barrio

     New York, NY
    El Museo del Barrio is a museum located in East Harlem, Manhattan, New York City. It is dedicated to showcasing art from Latin America and the Caribbean. The museum was founded in 1969 as a response to the lack of cultural diversity in New York City's educational offerings. It is situated on Fifth Avenue and 104th Street at the northern end of the Museum Mile.
  13. Tibet House13

    Tibet House

     New York, NY
    Tibet House was initially set up in New York, United States, and continues to be based there. This makes it a significant cultural landmark in the city, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore and understand the rich Tibetan culture without having to travel halfway across the world.
  14. American Irish Historical Society14

    American Irish Historical Society

     New York, NY
    A cultural center focused on Irish American history, art, values and community. It also organizes several events and exhibitions.
  15. Schomburg Center For Research In Black Culture15

    Schomburg Center For Research In Black Culture

     New York, NY
    The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture is a significant cultural institution situated in Harlem, New York. It operates as a branch of the New York Public Library, making it a part of one of the most extensive library systems in the world. The center's location in Harlem, a neighborhood rich in African American history and culture, adds to its significance and appeal.
  16. The Africa Center16

    The Africa Center

     New York, NY
    The Museum for African Art is situated in the Long Island City neighborhood of Queens, New York City. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city. The museum is dedicated to the arts and cultures of Africa and the African diaspora, promoting public understanding and appreciation since its establishment in 1984.
  17. The Ukrainian Museum17

    The Ukrainian Museum

     New York, NY
    The building housing The Ukrainian Museum is a work of art in itself, designed by Ukrainian-American architect George Sawicki of Sawicki Tarella Architecture + Design. The construction of the museum was made possible through the generous contributions of the Ukrainian-American community, reflecting their commitment to preserving and showcasing their cultural heritage.
  18. Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts18

    Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts

     Brooklyn, NY
    The Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts (MoCADA) is a unique institution located in the heart of Brooklyn, New York City. Situated at 80 Hanson Place in Fort Greene, this museum is dedicated to showcasing contemporary art from the African diaspora. It offers a unique perspective on the diverse identities and experiences of the African diaspora through its various exhibitions held throughout the year.
  19. George Gustav Heye Center19

    George Gustav Heye Center

     New York, NY
    The George Gustav Heye Center, a branch of the National Museum of the American Indian, is located at the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House in Manhattan, New York City. This museum is part of the Smithsonian Institution and features both contemporary and historical exhibits of art and artifacts by and about Native Americans.
  20. Interference Archive20

    Interference Archive

     Brooklyn, NY
    Interference Archive is a unique institution located in the Park Slope neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York City. It operates as a library, gallery, and archive, focusing on historical materials related to social and political activism and movements. The archive is run by volunteers and is a valuable resource for those interested in the history and culture of activism.
  21. Hart Cluett Museum21

    Hart Cluett Museum

     Troy, NY
    The Rensselaer County Historical Society (RCHS) is a non-profit organization that operates as a museum and promotes the study of the history of Rensselaer County, New York. Founded in 1927, the society initially operated out of a single room in the Troy Public Library, collecting manuscripts and published materials related to the county's history. Today, it is located in the Central Troy Historic District in Troy, NY, and offers public programs from its location at 57 Second Street.
  22. Center for Jewish History22

    Center for Jewish History

     New York, NY
    The Center for Jewish History in New York City is a unique collaboration of five organizations dedicated to Jewish history, scholarship, and art. These include the American Jewish Historical Society, American Sephardi Federation, Leo Baeck Institute New York, Yeshiva University Museum, and YIVO Institute for Jewish Research. Each organization brings a different perspective and approach to Jewish history and culture, making the center a rich and diverse resource for visitors.
  23. Buffalo History Museum23

    Buffalo History Museum

     Buffalo, NY
    The Buffalo History Museum is situated at 1 Museum Court in Buffalo, New York. It is nestled in the northwest corner of Delaware Park, a location that is easily accessible and offers a serene environment for visitors. The museum's location is not only strategic but also historical, adding to the rich tapestry of Buffalo's past.
  24. Lefferts Historic House24

    Lefferts Historic House

     Brooklyn, NY
    The Lefferts Historic House, a significant landmark in Brooklyn, New York City, is situated within the beautiful surroundings of Prospect Park. The house, which was constructed around the year 1783, offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the rich history and heritage of the region.
  25. Niagara Falls History Museum25

    Niagara Falls History Museum

     Niagara Falls,
    The Niagara Falls History Museum is a local history museum located in the city of Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the region and its connection to the world-famous waterfall. The museum is a great place for tourists who are interested in learning more about the history of Niagara Falls and its surrounding areas.
  26. Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center26

    Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center

     Niagara Falls,
    The Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center is a museum located in Niagara Falls, New York. The museum's primary focus is on the history and legacy of the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses established in the United States during the early to mid-19th century, and used by enslaved African-Americans to escape into free states and Canada. The museum provides an in-depth look into this significant part of American history.
  27. Center for Brooklyn History27

    Center for Brooklyn History

     Brooklyn, NY
    The Center for Brooklyn History, previously known as the Brooklyn Historical Society, is a multifaceted institution that was established in 1863. It serves as a museum, library, and educational center, with a mission to preserve and promote the study of Brooklyn's rich 400-year history. This institution is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning about the historical development of Brooklyn.
  28. The City Reliquary28

    The City Reliquary

     Brooklyn, NY
    The City Reliquary, situated in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, is a community museum that offers a unique perspective on the history of New York City's five boroughs. The museum showcases a variety of cultural ephemera and relics, providing a tangible connection to the city's past. As a not-for-profit organization, the City Reliquary is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of New York City with locals and tourists alike.
  29. Ganondagan State Historic Site29

    Ganondagan State Historic Site

     Victor, NY
    Ganondagan State Historic Site, also known as Boughton Hill, is a significant Native American historic site located in Ontario County, New York. In the 17th century, it was the site of the largest Seneca village, making it a place of great historical and cultural importance. Visitors to the site can learn about the rich history of the Seneca people and their way of life during that period.
  30. Historic Richmond Town30

    Historic Richmond Town

     Staten Island, NY
    Historic Richmond Town is an authentic town and farm museum complex located in the neighborhood of Richmondtown, Staten Island, in New York City. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and culture of the area, with more than 30 historic buildings and sites dating from the late 17th to the early 20th centuries. The museum complex is a testament to Staten Island's rich history and is a joint project of the Staten Island Historical Society and the City of New York.
  31. Seneca Iroquois National Museum31

    Seneca Iroquois National Museum

     Salamanca, NY
    Buy yourself and your relatives some original souvenirs made by native American people. Their craft is amazing.
  32. Crailo State Historic Site32

    Crailo State Historic Site

     Rensselaer, NY
    The Crailo State Historic Site, also known as Fort Crailo and Yankee Doodle House, is a significant landmark in Rensselaer, New York. This fortified brick manor house, constructed in 1707, stands as a testament to the region's rich history. Its architecture and fortifications provide a glimpse into the past, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore and understand the historical context of the area.
  33. Yeshiva University Museum33

    Yeshiva University Museum

     New York, NY
    The Yeshiva University Museum houses a vast collection of over 8,000 artifacts. These include fine and folk art, ethnographic and archaeological artifacts, clothing and textiles, Jewish ceremonial art objects, documents, books, and manuscripts. This diverse collection offers a comprehensive insight into Jewish culture and history.
  34. Museum of Chinese In America34

    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.
  35. Weeksville Heritage Center35

    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.
  36. Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art36

    Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art

     New York, NY
    The Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art is situated in the residential area of Lighthouse Hill in Staten Island, New York City. This location offers a serene environment that complements the museum's focus on the rich cultural traditions of Tibet and the Himalayan region.
  37. Suffolk County Historical Society37

    Suffolk County Historical Society

     Riverhead, NY
    The Suffolk County Historical Society Building is a museum and library that is dedicated to preserving the historic artifacts of Suffolk County, New York, and other parts of Long Island. It is a place where visitors can explore the rich history of the region through a variety of exhibits and collections.
  38. Fenimore Art Museum38

    Fenimore Art Museum

     Otsego, NY
    The Fenimore Art Museum is situated in the picturesque town of Cooperstown, New York. It is located on the west side of Otsego Lake, offering visitors a serene and beautiful environment to explore the museum's collections. The museum's location adds to the overall experience, making it a unique destination for art and history enthusiasts.
  39. Columbia County Historical Society39

    Columbia County Historical Society

     Kinderhook, NY
    The Columbia County Historical Society and CCHS Museum & Library, established in 1916, serves the residents of all eighteen Columbia County towns and the city of Hudson. This institution is dedicated to collecting, preserving, interpreting, and presenting the history, heritage, and culture of Columbia County, New York.
  40. Vanderbilt Museum, Mansion, and Planetarium40

    Vanderbilt Museum, Mansion, and Planetarium

     Centerport, NY
    The Vanderbilt Museum is situated in the scenic locale of Centerport, on the North Shore of Long Island, Suffolk County, New York, USA. This location is not only easily accessible but also offers visitors a chance to explore the beautiful surroundings of the North Shore.
  41. Museum of Food and Drink41

    Museum of Food and Drink

     New York, NY
    The Museum of Food and Drink (MOFAD) is an educational non-profit organization based in New York City. The museum's mission is to alter the way people perceive food and drink. It does this by exploring the impact of food and beverages on our culture, politics, economy, history, and more.
  42. Ossining Historical Society Museum42

    Ossining Historical Society Museum

     Ossining, NY
    The Richard Austin House, situated on Croton Avenue New York State Route 133 in the village of Ossining, New York, is a historical gem dating back to the 1870s. This wood frame structure is a testament to the architectural style of the time and offers a glimpse into the past. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1989, further cementing its historical significance.
  43. Dr. Edgar R. Cofeld Judaic Museum43

    Dr. Edgar R. Cofeld Judaic Museum

     Buffalo, NY
    Temple Beth Zion, located at 805 Delaware Avenue in Buffalo, New York, is a Reform synagogue. It is a significant religious site that offers a unique insight into the Jewish faith and its practices. Visitors can appreciate the architectural design of the synagogue and learn about its history and significance in the Jewish community.
  44. 44

    Derfner Judaica Museum

     Bronx, NY
    The Derfner Judaica Museum serves as a cultural and educational center, offering exhibitions that delve into Jewish history and contemporary Jewish culture. Visitors can expect to gain a deeper understanding of Jewish traditions, practices, and the evolution of Jewish culture over time.
  45. 45

    Yates County History Center

     Penn Yan, NY
    The Yates County Genealogical and Historical Society is responsible for the operation of the Yates History Center, a collection of three distinct museums located in the village of Penn Yan, New York. These include the Oliver House Museum, a 19th-century period house; the L. Caroline Underwood Museum, which showcases historic decorative arts items and displays of local history; and the Scherer Carriage House, which features exhibits about a local evangelist known as the Public Universal Friend.
  46. 46

    Sandy Ground Historical Society

     Staten Island, NY
    The Sandy Ground Historical Museum is situated in the Sandy Ground community of Rossville, Staten Island. This museum is dedicated to the oldest continuously inhabited free black settlement in the United States. It provides a unique opportunity to learn about the history and culture of this significant community.
  47. 47

    Art Museum at SUNY Potsdam

     Potsdam, NY
    The Art Museum at SUNY Potsdam boasts a permanent collection of approximately 1,900 objects. These objects span a wide range of art forms including post-war American and European art, contemporary art, ethnographic art, and early American and European art. This diverse collection offers something for every art enthusiast.
  48. 48

    Hofstra University Museum of Art

     Hempstead, NY
    The Hofstra University Museum, situated in Hempstead, New York on Long Island, serves as the art museum for Hofstra University. This location is ideal for tourists who are interested in exploring the rich art culture of the region.
  49. 49

    Polish American Museum

     Port Washington, NY
    The Polish American Museum, situated at 16 Belleview Avenue in Port Washington, New York, USA, was established on January 20, 1977. This location is a significant cultural hub that showcases the rich history and contributions of the Polish community in America.
  50. 50

    Joysetta and Julius Pearse African American Museum of Nassau County

     Hempstead, NY
    Located at 110 North Franklin Street in Hempstead, New York, the Joysetta and Julius Pearse African American Museum of Nassau County is a key cultural organization in the region. Visitors to the museum can learn about the significant role of African Americans in Long Island's history through its various exhibits and programs.
  51. 51

    Irish American Heritage Museum

     Albany, NY
    The Irish American Heritage Museum, located in Albany, New York, is a significant cultural institution that was organized in 1986. In an effort to increase visitor traffic, the museum was relocated to downtown Albany in 2012. This move has made the museum more accessible to tourists and locals alike, offering a deeper understanding of the contributions of the Irish people and their culture in America.
  52. 52

    Shaker Museum

     New Lebanon, NY
    The Mount Lebanon Shaker Village is a historic site that holds significant relevance to the Shakers, a Protestant religious denomination. This site provides a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the history and culture of this religious group, offering a rich and immersive experience.
  53. 53

    Seneca Falls Heritage & Tourism Center

     Seneca Falls, NY
    Learn about the first inhabitants in the Finger Lakes region and the canal history and industry. You can visit also a Visitor center there.
  54. 54

    Yager Museum of Art & Culture

     Oneonta, NY
    The Yager Museum of Art & Culture is situated within the premises of Hartwick College in Oneonta, New York. The museum is accessible to the public throughout the academic year, with varying hours during the summer season. This information is crucial for tourists planning their visit to the museum, as it helps them to schedule their visit accordingly.
  55. 55

    Akwesasne Cultural Center

     Akwesasne, NY
    The Akwesasne Cultural Center is a significant location that provides insight into the Mohawk Nation community of Akwesasne. It houses both a library and a museum, offering a comprehensive understanding of the community's history, culture, and traditions.
  56. 56

    Native American Museum of Art

     Sanborn, NY
    Visit this museum and get to know the life of Iroquois natives from an unusual artistic point of view.
  57. 57

    Niagara County Historical Society Museum

     Lockport, NY
    This historical association preserves the history of the Niagara Falls and the region. You can see various artifacts on display here.
  58. 58

    Walter Elwood Museum

     Amsterdam, NY
    The Walter Elwood Museum, a museum of local history, is situated in Amsterdam, New York. It is currently housed at 100 Church Street in the historic Sanford & Sons Carpet Mills building, which was formerly known as the Noteworthy Complex. This location adds a layer of historical significance to the museum, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in local history and architecture.
  59. 59

    Das Haus Museum

     Wheatfield, NY
    Das Haus Museum, also known as Das Haus und Der Stahl, is a small campus of buildings that house artifacts representing the early years of German Lutheran settlers in Western New York, who originated from Prussia in northern Germany. These artifacts provide a glimpse into the lives and culture of these early settlers, making it a significant destination for those interested in history and heritage.
  60. 60

    Town of Porter Historical Society Museum

     Youngstown, NY
    Located in Niagara County, this museum presents the history of the US and Canada around the Niagara Falls.
  61. 61

    Schenectady County Historical Society

     Schenectady, NY
    The Schenectady County Historical Society operates at three sites: the Mabee Farm Historic Site, the Grems-Doolittle Library, and the Schenectady History Museum, and the historic Brouwer House Creative. These sites offer a variety of exhibits, talks, workshops, concerts, programs, and community events that bring the region's history to life.