All industrial & heritage museums to visit in New York State

Explore the impact of industry on society at 69 industrial heritage museums in New York State. These museums showcase the history of manufacturing, technology, and labor.

Are you curious about the history of industry and innovation? These are the top industrial heritage museums in New York State:

  1. New York Transit Museum1

    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.
  2. South Street Seaport Museum2

    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.
  3. Corning Museum of Glass3

    Corning Museum of Glass

     Corning, NY
    The Corning Museum of Glass, also known as CMoG, is situated in Corning, New York. It was inaugurated in 1951 and holds the title of being the largest glass museum in the United States. This museum is a testament to the rich history and evolution of glass, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in this unique material.
  4. New York City Fire Museum4

    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.
  5. The Long Island Museum5

    The Long Island Museum

     Stony Brook, NY
    The Long Island Museum, also known as LIM, is a significant cultural institution located in Stony Brook, New York. Spanning across nine acres, the museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing a diverse collection of art, historical artifacts, and carriages. The museum's mission is to inspire people of all ages with an understanding and enjoyment of American art, history, and carriages, as expressed through the heritage of Long Island and its diverse communities.
  6. National Bottle Museum6

    National Bottle Museum

     Ballston Spa, NY
    The National Bottle Museum is situated in the heart of downtown Ballston Spa, New York, on Milton Avenue. This location is easily accessible and provides a central point for tourists visiting the area. The museum's location adds to the charm and historical significance of the town, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in history, culture, and unique collections.
  7. Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum - Buffalo, NY7

    Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum - Buffalo, NY

     Buffalo, NY
    Discover history firsthand at the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museums, founded by David and Marsha Karpeles. Our museums across the United States preserve and showcase a diverse range of original manuscripts and historical documents, from handwritten letters and historical treaties to scientific pap
  8. Philipsburg Manor8

    Philipsburg Manor

     Sleepy Hollow, NY
    In addition to the historic house, Philipsburg Manor also features a water mill and a trading place. These sites are managed as a non-profit museum by Historic Hudson Valley. Visitors can explore these areas to gain a deeper understanding of the daily life and operations during the colonial era.
  9. Erie Canal Museum9

    Erie Canal Museum

     Syracuse, NY
    The Erie Canal Museum, located in Syracuse, New York, is a historical institution dedicated to the Erie Canal. Founded in 1962, the museum is housed in the Syracuse Weighlock Building, a structure dating back to 1850. This building was used as a weighlock, a large scale used to weigh boats traveling on the Erie Canal to determine their tolls, from 1850 to 1883. Today, the museum not only houses artifacts from the Erie Canal but also showcases the present canal life.
  10. Queens Museum of Art10

    Queens Museum of Art

     New York, NY
    The Queens Museum houses a collection that includes modern art and two large-scale models of the city's infrastructure. A notable part of the collection is the Tiffany glass collection from the Neustadt Collection of Tiffany glass, which has been on display since 1995.
  11. Arkell Museum11

    Arkell Museum

     Canajoharie, NY
    The Arkell Museum, located in Canajoharie, New York, is home to a vast collection of American paintings, primarily from the period of 1860–1940. In addition to this, the museum also features historical exhibits that delve into the history of the Mohawk River Valley and the Beech-Nut baby food company. This combination of art and history provides a comprehensive insight into the cultural and industrial heritage of the region.
  12. New York Museum of Transportation12

    New York Museum of Transportation

     Brooklyn, NY
    The New York Museum of Transportation (NYMT) is a non-profit organization that was established in 1975. It is located at 6393 East River Road, in the suburb of Rush in Rochester. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of transportation in New York and beyond.
  13. Matt Brewing Company13

    Matt Brewing Company

     Utica, NY
    The F X Matt Brewing Company, located in Utica, New York, is a family-owned establishment with a rich history. It holds the distinction of being the fourth oldest family-owned brewery in the United States, with a brewing tradition that dates back to 1888. This long-standing heritage adds a unique charm to the brewery, making it a point of interest for visitors to the area.
  14. Railroad Museum of Long Island14

    Railroad Museum of Long Island

     Riverhead, NY
    The Railroad Museum of Long Island is a unique destination for railway enthusiasts and history buffs alike. It is based in two locations, the main one in Riverhead, and a satellite location in Greenport, both on the North Fork of Long Island, New York. Each location offers a different perspective on the rich railway history of the region, making it an interesting visit for those interested in the history of transportation.
  15. Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum15

    Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum

     North Tonawanda, NY
    The Herschell Carousel Factory Museum is a historic site located in North Tonawanda, Niagara County, New York. This museum is housed in a former carousel factory building, which adds a unique historical context to the exhibits and activities offered. Visitors can explore the history of carousel production and the impact of the Herschell Carousel Factory on the local community and the amusement industry.
  16. Park Avenue Armory16

    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.
  17. Watervliet Arsenal Museum17

    Watervliet Arsenal Museum

     Watervliet, NY
    The Watervliet Arsenal is a significant site of the United States Army, situated in Watervliet, New York, on the west bank of the Hudson River. This location offers a unique blend of historical significance and scenic beauty, making it an interesting destination for tourists interested in military history and nature.
  18. Saddle Rock Grist Mill18

    Saddle Rock Grist Mill

     Great Neck, NY
    The Saddle Rock Grist Mill is a historic grist mill building situated in Saddle Rock, a quaint village in the town of North Hempstead in Nassau County, New York. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique glimpse into the past. The mill is a significant part of the local heritage and provides an interesting destination for those interested in history and architecture.
  19. Haviland-Davison Grist Mill19

    Haviland-Davison Grist Mill

     East Rockaway, NY
    The Haviland-Davison Grist Mill is a historic grist mill situated in East Rockaway, Nassau County, New York. This mill holds a significant place in history and offers a glimpse into the past. It's an ideal destination for those interested in history and architecture.
  20. Stony Brook Grist Mill20

    Stony Brook Grist Mill

     Stony Brook, NY
    The Stony Brook Grist Mill, located in Stony Brook, Suffolk County, New York, is a Registered Historic Place. This designation signifies its historical significance and the preservation efforts that have been put in place to maintain its original state. Visitors can appreciate the rich history of the mill and its role in the local community.
  21. Camillus Erie Canal Park21

    Camillus Erie Canal Park

     Camillus, NY
    Camillus Erie Canal Park, located in Camillus, New York, is a town park that conserves a seven-mile stretch of the Erie Canal. This park is a significant historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing a preserved section of the Erie Canal, a crucial waterway that played a significant role in the state's history and development.
  22. American Merchant Marine Museum22

    American Merchant Marine Museum

     Kings Point, NY
    The United States Merchant Marine Academy, also known as USMMA or Kings Point, is one of the five maritime academies in the country. It provides training for future officers of the American merchant marine in military sectors or the transport industry. The academy offers courses in engineering, navigation, maritime administration, maritime law, management, international law, economics, and many other subjects aimed at training students to govern a ship.
  23. Rochester & Genesee Valley Railroad Museum23

    Rochester & Genesee Valley Railroad Museum

     Rush, NY
    The Rochester and Genesee Valley Railroad Museum (RGVRRM) is a unique destination for those interested in the history and operation of railroads. Located in the hamlet of Industry, within the town of Rush, New York, the museum offers a rich collection of historic railroad equipment and structures. Visitors can explore more than 40 pieces of historic railroad equipment, including diesel and steam locomotives, electric trolley and multiple unit cars, freight cars, cabooses, passenger cars, and work equipment. The museum also features preserved railroad structures such as the 1909 Industry Depot built by the Erie Railroad.
  24. Kazoo Museum & Tours - Eden Kazoo Factory24

    Kazoo Museum & Tours - Eden Kazoo Factory

     Eden, NY
    The only kazoo factory in the US. Come here to explore their vast collection and learn about the history of kazoos.
  25. Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum25

    Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum

     Canandaigua, NY
    The Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum is a historical site located in Canandaigua, New York. The museum is housed in an 1816 Federal-style mansion, which offers a glimpse into the past. The mansion has been preserved to maintain its original architectural style, providing a unique experience for visitors.
  26. Antique Boat Museum26

    Antique Boat Museum

     Clayton, NY
    The Antique Boat Museum is situated in the picturesque 1000 Islands on the St. Lawrence River, in Clayton, New York, United States. This location not only provides a beautiful backdrop for the museum but also holds historical significance as it is a part of the region's rich maritime heritage.
  27. Center For Architecture27

    Center For Architecture

     New York, NY
    The Center for Architecture is situated in the vibrant neighborhood of Greenwich Village, specifically at 536 LaGuardia Place. This location is nestled between West 3rd Street and Bleecker Street in Manhattan, New York City. This central location makes it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike.
  28. National Lighthouse Museum28

    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.
  29. Suffolk County Historical Society29

    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.
  30. Herkimer County Historical Society30

    Herkimer County Historical Society

     Village of Herkimer, NY
    The 1884 Suiter Building Museum of the Herkimer County Historical Society showcases exhibits about the county's early settlers, transportation, agriculture, industry, and domestic life. It also features displays about the former Fairfield Academy. These exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of the county's history and development.
  31. Niagara Aerospace Museum31

    Niagara Aerospace Museum

     Niagara Falls,
    The Niagara Aerospace Museum is situated in the old terminal building of the Niagara Falls International Airport in Niagara Falls, New York. This location is easily accessible and provides a unique setting for the museum, adding to the overall experience of the visitors.
  32. Starr Clark Tin Shop and Underground Railroad Museum32

    Starr Clark Tin Shop and Underground Railroad Museum

     Mexico, NY
    The Starr Clark Tin Shop is a historic commercial building situated in Mexico, Oswego County, New York. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique insight into the past. The building itself is a two-story wood-framed vernacular structure, built around 1827 with Federal details. It's a significant site due to its association with the abolitionist movement and the Underground Railroad.
  33. Railroad Museum of the Niagara Frontier33

    Railroad Museum of the Niagara Frontier

     North Tonawanda, NY
    The Railroad Museum of the Niagara Frontier is situated in a historic building, the Erie Railroad freight depot, which was built in 1922. This location in North Tonawanda, New York, adds a layer of historical significance to the museum, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in the history of railroads and the region.
  34. Trolley Museum of New York34

    Trolley Museum of New York

     Kingston, NY
    The Trolley Museum of New York is a non-profit organization that is situated at 89 East Strand Street, Kingston, New York. This location is easily accessible and provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the history of trolley cars in New York.
  35. Hudson River Maritime Museum35

    Hudson River Maritime Museum

     Kingston, NY
    The Hudson River Maritime Museum is situated at 50 Rondout Landing, at the foot of Broadway in Kingston, New York, United States. It is nestled along the Rondout Creek in the city's old waterfront, providing a picturesque setting for visitors. The museum's location is not only scenic but also historically significant, as it is just east of the John T. Loughran Bridge.
  36. Benjamin Patterson Inn Museum36

    Benjamin Patterson Inn Museum

     Corning, NY
    The Benjamin Patterson Inn, also known as Jenning's Tavern, is a historic inn and tavern situated in Corning, Steuben County, New York. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique glimpse into the past. It's an ideal destination for those interested in historical architecture and the early history of New York State.
  37. Hanford Mills Museum37

    Hanford Mills Museum

     Meredith, NY
    Hanford Mills Museum, also known as Kelso Mill, is a historic grist mill and sawmill located in East Meredith, New York. This national historic district is situated in Delaware County, New York. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of milling and sawing in the region.
  38. Martisco Station Railway Museum38

    Martisco Station Railway Museum

     Camillus, NY
    The Martisco Station, also known as the Martisco Station Railway Museum, is a historic railroad station located in Martisco, Onondaga County, New York. This location is not just a museum, but a piece of history that has been preserved for visitors to experience.
  39. D&H Canal Historical Society39

    D&H Canal Historical Society

     High Falls, NY
    The Delaware and Hudson Canal Museum, located in High Falls, New York, is a unique institution that focuses on the history and culture of the Delaware and Hudson Canal. This museum offers a deep dive into the past, providing insights into the canal's significant role in the region's development.
  40. Hyde Park Train Station Museum40

    Hyde Park Train Station Museum

     Hyde Park, NY
    Hyde Park, a former New York Central Railroad station, is situated at the point where Crum Elbow Creek meets the Hudson River in Hyde Park, New York. This location offers a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty, making it an interesting spot for tourists to explore.
  41. Northeast Classic Car Museum41

    Northeast Classic Car Museum

     City of Norwich, NY
    The Northeast Classic Car Museum, located in Norwich, New York, is a non-profit educational institution. Its primary focus is on collecting and showcasing significant vehicles from the history of the United States. This museum provides an opportunity for visitors to explore the evolution of American automotive history through its extensive collection.
  42. Ticonderoga Heritage Museum and Visitors Center42

    Ticonderoga Heritage Museum and Visitors Center

     Ticonderoga, NY
    The Ticonderoga Pulp and Paper Company Office is a historic office building situated in Ticonderoga, Essex County, New York. Constructed in 1888, this two-story brick structure is a testament to the industrial heritage of the area. The building's architectural features, such as its gray slate gable roofs, white painted wood trim, and a denticulated brick cornice, add to its historic charm.
  43. Lewis Howard Latimer House Museum43

    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.
  44. Oyster Bay Railroad Museum44

    Oyster Bay Railroad Museum

     Oyster Bay, NY
    The original Oyster Bay station, which opened on June 24, 1889, is a significant historical site. It was remodeled in 1902, and the station's architecture and design reflect the period's style. Visitors to the Oyster Bay Railroad Museum can explore this historic station and learn about its transformation over the years.
  45. Burden Iron Works Museum45

    Burden Iron Works Museum

     Troy, NY
    The Burden Iron Works Museum is located on the site of the former Burden Iron Works, an iron works and industrial complex on the Hudson River and Wynantskill Creek in Troy, New York. This historic site once housed the Burden Water Wheel, the most powerful vertical water wheel in history, and was a hub of industrial activity in the 19th century.
  46. Water Mill Museum46

    Water Mill Museum

     Water Mill, NY
    The Water Mill Museum is a significant historical site located at 41 Old Mill Road, Water Mill in Suffolk County, New York, USA. It serves as a local history museum and is housed in a historic water mill. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the area and learn about the mill's historical significance.
  47. Long Island Maritime Museum47

    Long Island Maritime Museum

     West Sayville, NY
    The main exhibition and administrative building of the Long Island Maritime Museum is home to a diverse collection of models. It also features a permanent exhibition on Long Island shipwrecks and the United States Life-Saving Service. Additionally, the museum has a gallery that hosts annual exhibitions, providing visitors with a variety of maritime-related displays and information.
  48. The Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum48

    The Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum

     Sag Harbor, NY
    The Sag Harbor Whaling Museum, located in Sag Harbor, Long Island, USA, is a public institution dedicated to the history and significance of whaling. It is the largest museum of its kind in the state of New York, making it a significant destination for those interested in maritime history and the whaling industry.
  49. Salt Museum - Onondaga County Parks49

    Salt Museum - Onondaga County Parks

     Liverpool, NY
    Onondaga Lake Park is a vast greenway stretching over 8 miles along the shores of Onondaga Lake in Onondaga County, New York. This park offers a variety of outdoor activities and is a great place for nature lovers to explore.
  50. Penfield Homestead Museum50

    Penfield Homestead Museum

     Crown Point, NY
    The Ironville Historic District is a nationally recognized historic area located in Ironville, Essex County, New York. This district is significant for its historical relevance and is a point of interest for those who appreciate the rich history of the United States.
  51. Horton Point Lighthouse - Southold Historical Museum51

    Horton Point Lighthouse - Southold Historical Museum

     Southold, NY
    The Horton Point Lighthouse is a significant landmark situated in the quaint village of Southold, which is nestled on the northeast coast of Long Island, in Suffolk County, New York. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history of the area while enjoying the scenic beauty of the coastline.
  52. Chenango County Historical Society52

    Chenango County Historical Society

     Norwich, NY
    CCHS is the primary organization dedicated to celebrating the comprehensive history of Chenango County. Museum patrons are immersed in the county’s past through exhibits and programs which explore the rich history of our local region. As an educational and tourist destination, we offer multiple cult
  53. Shushan Covered Bridge Museum53

    Shushan Covered Bridge Museum

     Shushan, NY
    The Shushan Bridge is a historic covered bridge located in the hamlet of Shushan in Washington County, New York. It spans the Batten Kill, a river that flows through the region. The bridge's proximity to Vermont makes it a convenient stop for those traveling in the area.
  54. Medina Railroad Museum54

    Medina Railroad Museum

     Medina, NY
    The Medina Railroad Museum is situated at 530 West Avenue in Medina, New York. This location is northeast of Buffalo and northwest of Rochester, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting these areas. The museum offers a unique insight into the history of railroads in western New York.
  55. Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum55

    Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum

     Chittenango, NY
    The Chittenango Landing Dry Dock Complex, now home to the Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum, has a rich history dating back to 1856. It served as a dry dock for canal boats on the old Erie Canal until 1917, when this section of the canal was bypassed by the new barge canal. This historical significance adds depth to the visitor's experience at the museum.
  56. Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village56

    Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village

     Amherst, NY
    Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village, situated in Amherst, New York, is an open-air museum that offers a unique experience for visitors. It provides an opportunity to explore the agricultural history and rural heritage of the Buffalo Niagara region. The museum is set on a 35-acre site and includes 10 historic buildings that have been moved from their original locations.
  57. 57

    Motorcyclepedia Museum

     Newburgh, NY
    Motorcyclepedia is a unique museum that houses over 600 motorcycles, primarily American models from the first half of the 20th century. The museum places a special emphasis on Indian motorcycles, showcasing a wide range of models from this iconic brand.
  58. Cayuga Museum of History and Art58

    Cayuga Museum of History and Art

     Auburn, NY
    The Cayuga Museum of History and Art, also known as the Willard-Case Mansion, is a historic mansion located in Auburn, Cayuga County, New York state. This monumental Greek Revival style brick mansion was originally built in 1836-1843 by John Seymour. It features Classical Revival wings added in the late 19th century, a monumental Greek Revival pedimented portico with massive fluted Ionic columns, and a rare example of a Tiffany Glass and Decorating Company domestic window added about 1894–1896.
  59. 59

    Buffalo Fire Historical Society Museum

     Buffalo, NY
    The Buffalo Fire Historical Museum is situated in Buffalo, New York, specifically at the intersection of William and North Ogden Streets. This location is easily accessible and provides a convenient spot for tourists interested in learning about the history of the Buffalo Fire Department.
  60. 60

    Waterfront Museum

     Brooklyn, NY
    The Waterfront Museum in Brooklyn has a rich history that dates back to its former life as Lehigh Valley Barge No. 79. This barge was part of the Lehigh Valley Railroad and was used to transport goods across the Hudson River. This historical context adds a unique layer to the museum's appeal, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
  61. 61

    Mid-hudson Children's Museum

     Poughkeepsie, NY
    The Mid-Hudson Children's Museum, now known as the Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum (MHDM), is a children's museum situated in the Hudson River Valley. This museum, nestled between the larger New York City and Albany markets, has been a staple for children's education and entertainment for many years. In 2022, the museum underwent a strategic assessment and visioning process, which led to an extension of the age range of the children it serves. This was achieved through the addition of a new science exhibition and more relevant STEM programming.
  62. 62

    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.
  63. 63

    The FASNY Museum of Firefighting

     Hudson, NY
    By all means the best firefighting museum in the US! Come to learn about the history of this brave profession and see the fire trucks.
  64. 64

    Historic Palmyra Museums

     Palmyra, NY
    Discover what once used to be the Queen of Erie Canal towns and learn about the distinctive architecture there.
  65. 65

    Buffalo Harbor Museum

     Buffalo, NY
    What used to be a shipping company is now a museum in which you can explore maritime memorabilia and equipment.
  66. 66

    North Tonawanda History Museum

     North Tonawanda, NY
    This museum owns several extensive collections on various themes - industry, transportation, military and more.
  67. 67

    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.
  68. 68

    Haverstraw Brick Museum

     Haverstraw, NY
    This educative museum offers a glimpse of the history of Haverstraw which used to be known as the brick-making capital of the world.
  69. 69

    Blenheim-Gilboa Visitors Center

     Gilboa, NY
    Located near an emergency power station, this centre demonstrates how the power station works and what is the science behind it.