Have you ever thought about Native American art and culture? Want to see exhibits on Americas’ indigenous peoples? The National Museum of the American Indian in New York is the place to be.
Walk into a world that takes you back in time. Connect with the stories and traditions of Native American communities. This museum shows you the history and culture of American Indians through artifacts and modern art.
Want to know the museum hours, events, and top exhibits? We’ll help you plan your visit. Get all the details you need to enjoy the National Museum of the American Indian in New York to the fullest.
Entrance & Safety
Visiting the National Museum of the American Indian in New York is free. You don’t need tickets. Your safety is our main concern. We follow CDC and local rules to keep everyone safe and comfortable.
Please follow our visitor guidelines and health measures:
- Face coverings: We suggest you wear masks inside, though it’s not mandatory.
- Social distancing: Keep at least 6 feet away from others not in your group.
We set these rules to keep everyone safe. If you don’t follow them, you might have to leave.
“Visitor and staff safety is crucial. We’ve put in place strict health measures. This ensures a safe space for all.”
Come to the National Museum of the American Indian in New York. Learn about the rich heritage and vibrant cultures of Indigenous peoples. Discover amazing exhibits and artworks that tell powerful stories.
Museum Hours and Locations
Want to check out the National Museum of the American Indian in New York? Here are the details on when to visit and where to find it.
The museum welcomes visitors every day from 10 AM to 5 PM, except on Christmas. It’s a perfect spot for both locals and tourists in New York City. You’ll find it at One Bowling Green in lower Manhattan, close to many other famous sites.
If you’re in the nation’s capital, there’s also a museum in Washington, DC. It’s open every day from 10 AM to 5:30 PM, except December 25. This is your chance to dive deep into Native American culture and history.
The museum also has a Cultural Resources Center in Maryland. This is where they do more research and work to preserve Native American heritage.
It’s easy to visit the museum in New York. Just take the subway or a bus to One Bowling Green. If you’re driving, there’s parking nearby too.
Don’t miss the National Museum of the American Indian during your New York trip. It’s a great way to learn about the rich history and cultures of Indigenous peoples from across the Americas.
Museum Hours
| New York | Washington, DC |
|---|---|
| Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM (except on December 25) |
Open daily from 10 AM to 5:30 PM (except on December 25) |
Museum Guidelines
When you go to the National Museum of the American Indian in New York, you need to follow some rules. These rules help keep everyone safe and protect the museum’s items. Thanks to these rules, your visit will be both safe and fun.
Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by security. They’ll check your bags and screen you. This keeps the museum safe by stopping people from bringing in things they shouldn’t.
Permitted Items
You can’t bring everything into the museum, but many things are allowed. Here’s what you can take with you:
- Service animals: These are allowed to help people with disabilities enjoy their visit.
- Mobility aids: If you need devices like walkers or wheelchairs, bring them. The museum has made sure it’s accessible to everyone.
- Cameras: You’re encouraged to take photos of the museum’s beauty. Bring your camera and capture unforgettable moments.
- Strollers: They make visiting easier for families with young kids. So, feel free to bring one.
- Bottled water: It’s important to stay hydrated. You can carry bottled water with you.
Prohibited Items
Some items can’t be brought into the museum to keep the collection safe and ensure a pleasant visit for everyone. These include:
- Weapons: All weapons are banned. The museum wants to be a peaceful place for all.
- Food and drinks: You can’t eat or drink in the exhibition areas, except for bottled water. However, you can enjoy food at the Mili Kàpi Cafe.
- Large bags and backpacks: To avoid damaging the exhibits, large bags and backpacks are not allowed. Consider bringing smaller bags or using the museum’s storage.
- Illegal substances: These are not allowed anywhere in the museum. The museum aims to be a safe space for all visitors.
For more information on what you can and cannot bring, look at the Smithsonian’s security policy. Knowing these rules will make your visit smooth and enjoyable.
Prohibited and Permitted Items
| Prohibited Items | Permitted Items |
|---|---|
| Weapons (firearms, knives, etc.) | Service animals |
| Food and beverages (except bottled water) | Mobility aids (walkers, wheelchairs, etc.) |
| Large bags and backpacks | Cameras |
| Illegal substances | Strollers |
| Bottled water |
The National Museum of the American Indian in New York aims to be safe and welcoming. By following its guidelines, you help make sure everyone has a great time and the artifacts are protected.
imagiNATIONS Activity Center
Dive into the world of native wisdom at the imagiNATIONS Activity Center. It’s located in the National Museum of the American Indian in New York. This place is interactive and fun for everyone.
At the imagiNATIONS Activity Center, you’ll start an exciting journey. You’ll learn how Native Americans used science in their inventions. See how these peoples made amazing things throughout history.
There are many hands-on exhibits at the imagiNATIONS Activity Center. These displays make indigenous innovations come alive. You’ll have fun learning about Indigenous cultures through engaging activities.
Find out how indigenous peoples contributed to medicine, farming, engineering, and green practices. You’ll learn about the old technologies Native American tribes used. Discover how their ideas affect our world today.
The imagiNATIONS Activity Center has loads to offer, from engineering wonders to the secrets of stars. It’s perfect for families. It sparks curiosity, creativity, and love for America’s Indigenous cultures.
The imagiNATIONS Activity Center is open Tuesdays to Sundays, 10 AM to 4:30 PM. Space is limited, so come early to get in. Groups need to book ahead for the best visit.
Check out the imagiNATIONS Activity Center at the National Museum of the American Indian in New York. It’s a great journey into the world of indigenous ideas.
Mili Kàpi Cafe
Discover the tastes of Native cuisine at Mili Kàpi Cafe. It’s on the National Museum of the American Indian’s second floor in New York. Enjoy hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, salads, and sweets. They all feature Native American ingredients.
“‘Give me some coffee’ in Lenape” – that’s what the cafe’s name means. It honors New York City’s first people. Dive into the Mili Kàpi Cafe’s lively vibe. Enjoy the deep flavors of Native traditions.
Need a break during your museum visit? The Mili Kàpi Cafe is ideal. It has drinks, meals, or sweet treats for everyone.
Explore Native cuisine’s unique tastes. Learn the cultural stories behind each dish. Try sandwiches with local ingredients or fresh salads. Every bite at Mili Kàpi Cafe shares the Indigenous food legacy.
Sample Menu
| Beverages | Sandwiches | Salads | Sweets |
|---|---|---|---|
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The Mili Kàpi Cafe combines flavors and culture beautifully. It’s more than good food. It’s a way to support Native communities and their cuisine.
Visit the National Museum of the American Indian in New York. Enjoy Mili Kàpi Cafe’s Native cuisine. It’s open 10 AM to 4 PM, Wednesday to Sunday. Don’t miss this chance to taste Indigenous heritage with every dish.
Museum Store
If you want real Native American goods, head to the Museum Store at the National Museum of the American Indian in New York. This place has been New York City’s top spot for Native American items for over 20 years. It has lots of things that show the deep culture and skill of Indigenous people.
Walking into the Museum Store lets you dive into a world of indigenous creativity. You’ll find clothing, jewelry, art, and books. Each product shows the talent and traditions of Native American artists. It’s a way to keep their rich history alive.
The Museum Store is known for its real Native American art. Items like detailed pottery, colorful paintings, and fine beadwork are here. They express the wide range of art from across the Americas.
There is also a great collection of Native American books. These books cover history, art, culture, and current issues. They give a deeper look into the incredible heritage and influences of Indigenous people.
You can also try Indigenous foods at the Museum Store. They have traditional spices, unique snacks, and drinks. It’s a chance to taste Native American cooking traditions.
By buying something, you help support Indigenous artists and communities. You get a lovely piece of art or a special keepsake. And, you aid in keeping Native American culture alive and well.
Can’t visit in person? Some items are online through the museum’s bookstore and the Smithsonian Store. This way, you can buy authentic Native American items from home.
Membership Benefits
Members of the National Museum of the American Indian in New York get perks. There’s a 10% discount at the Museum Store. Membership also gets you into unique events, shows, and tours. It’s a great way to connect with Native American art and culture.
If you love collecting, care about culture, or need a special gift, the Museum Store is perfect. Visit and take a piece of Native American heritage home.
Getting Here
The National Museum of the American Indian in New York is at One Bowling Green. It’s in the historic Alexander Hamilton US Custom House in lower Manhattan. You can easily get there by public transportation.
For subway users, you can walk from several stations. These include the Bowling Green station (4 and 5 trains), the Whitehall Street station (R and W trains), and the South Ferry station (1 train).
If buses are your choice, the M5, M15, and M20 lines stop nearby.
There is no parking at the museum itself. But, you can find metered public parking and commercial lots around the area. This makes visiting the museum worry-free, even without its own parking.
Directions
| Transportation Method | Directions |
|---|---|
| Subway | Take the 4, 5, R, W, or 1 trains to the nearest stations: Bowling Green, Whitehall Street, or South Ferry. |
| Bus | Use the M5, M15, or M20 bus lines and get off at the stops near the museum. |
| Car | Drive to the museum area and find metered public parking or commercial parking facilities nearby. |
Getting to the National Museum of the American Indian in New York is easy. It’s well-placed in downtown Manhattan, making it accessible by subway or bus. Exploring the rich heritage of America’s indigenous peoples is convenient from any part of the city.
Accessibility
The National Museum of the American Indian in New York welcomes everyone. We work hard to make our exhibits and programs accessible to all. Our goal is for every visitor to have a great time.
Wheelchair Accessibility
Wheelchair access is a big priority for us. We’ve made sure that the entire museum, including all exhibits, is easy to get around in a wheelchair. This lets everyone move freely and explore.
If you need a wheelchair, we’ve got you covered. They’re available for free on a first-come basis. You can pick one up right at the entrance.
Additional Accessibility Services
We also provide other services to meet our visitors’ needs. If you need special assistance, just let us know two weeks before your visit. We’ll do everything we can to make your visit relaxing and fun.
The Accessibility Program shows our commitment to everyone’s right to access culture and history. We’re always looking to improve and make our space welcoming for all.
We believe in sharing the vibrant cultures and histories of Indigenous peoples with everyone. Our mission is to open doors, celebrate diversity, and foster understanding. Welcome to a place where everyone belongs.
Background
The National Museum of the American Indian plays a vital role in celebrating Indigenous peoples’ cultures across the Americas. It’s part of the Smithsonian Institution and was set up by Congress in 1989. The museum has locations in New York, Washington, DC, and a Cultural Resources Center in Maryland.
Located in the unique Alexander Hamilton US Custom House, the New York museum is a sight to see. This beautiful building was created by famous architect Cass Gilbert in 1907. It sets a perfect stage for showing the rich cultures and histories of Indigenous peoples.
This Beaux-Arts building wows visitors with its history and beauty. As they explore the museum’s vast collections, they dive into the stories of Indigenous communities. The museum’s design adds a special touch to discovering new cultures.
The museum’s main goal is to help people understand and appreciate Indigenous cultures more. It does this by showing both permanent and rotating exhibitions. Visitors get to see a wide mix of artifacts, art, and multimedia. This opens up new ways of seeing Indigenous peoples’ past and their roles today.
Preserving Cultural Heritage
The museum’s work in keeping Indigenous cultures alive is clear in its collections and work with Native communities. By researching and joining hands with these communities, the museum presents their stories in a respectful and inclusive way. This approach lets visitors see the depth and strength of Indigenous cultures.
At its core, the National Museum of the American Indian highlights the importance of keeping and showing Indigenous cultures. It shines a light on their achievements and stories. With its exhibitions, educational activities, and outreach, the museum is key in building bridges of understanding and respect.
Long-Term and Permanent Collection Exhibitions
The National Museum of the American Indian in New York showcases long-term and permanent exhibits. These exhibitions highlight the cultures and arts of Indigenous peoples from across the Americas. They offer a deep and engaging experience for everyone.
“Infinity of Nations: Art and History in the Collections of the National Museum of the American Indian” is an amazing exhibition. It displays about 700 Native art works. The exhibit gives a wide view of the diversity in Indigenous cultures.
“Native New York” explores the history and presence of Native peoples in the area. It uses artifacts, photos, and interactive pieces. Visitors learn about the lasting legacy of Indigenous communities in New York.
“Ancestral Connections” focuses on modern art touched by tradition. It features contemporary works linked to traditional crafts. The exhibit shows how past and present are connected through art.
The museum also presents changing exhibitions that highlight the Native voice. These ensure a fresh and lively visit each time.
