National Museum of the American Indian

The National Museum of the American Indian brings insight into the history and culture of major tribes throughout the Americas and the Caribbean

National Museum of the American Indian in New York
National Museum of the American Indian in New York cc licensed photo by Daniel Bonatto

Located in the US Customs House, the George Gustav Heye Center in New York is a branch of the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian established to promote knowledge and understanding of indigenous people in the Western Hemisphere.

This museum, one of only a few in New York that offer free admission, opened in 1994 followed by two other locations: Suitland, Maryland and the National Mall in Washington DC. It was the first museum committed to the conservation of Native American culture.

The permanent collection held at the National Museum of the American Indian consists of over 800,000 items of historical and cultural significance for all major tribes and cultures throughout the Americas and the Caribbean. In addition to the artefacts on view, the museum houses an impressive audio-visual collection, including over 90,000 historical and contemporary archives including photographs, paper folios and recordings.

For an in-depth experience, visitors can plan to spend four hours viewing the museum galleries. Visitors can also take advantage of a number of public programs including gallery talks and Native American storytelling, dance exhibitions, musical performances, films, demonstrations and hands-on workshops.

It is also well worth the visit to the museum just to see the architectural details of the historic Customs House that houses the collection.

Nearby attractions include Battery Park, Staten Island Ferry, Skyscraper Museum, Financial District, Trinity Church, St. Paul's Chapel and the Brooklyn Bridge



Facts For Your Visit

Fee: No

National Museum of the American Indian Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Address: 1 Bowling Green, New York, NY 10004, USA

Phone: (212) 514-3700

Official Website: National Museum of the American Indian

National Museum of the American Indian Reviews

Rated 4.5 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating A great place to visit and experience the rich history and culture of Native American communities. The exhibits are well-curated, informative, and beautifully presented, offering deep insights into traditions, art, and history. The museum is free, making it an excellent stop for anyone interested in learning more about Indigenous heritage. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the artifacts on display are truly fascinating. Definitely worth a visit!
Leonard Leow - 3 weeks ago

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4 Star Rating My group and I had a wonderful experience at the museum. The exhibits were beautifully colorful, and the staff was incredibly helpful and polite, making the check-in process smooth. One downside was the steps at the entrance, which made it difficult for one of our members. However, we found an alternative exit and are unsure if it can also be used for entry. I did find that the informational blurbs were placed quite low, requiring frequent bending to read the descriptions in the display cases. Due to time constraints, we only explored the second floor, but the group thoroughly enjoyed themselves. I would love to return to see the entire museum.
Shannon S. - a month ago

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5 Star Rating A Must-Visit in the Wall Street Area! If you're visiting Wall Street, make sure to stop by the National Museum of the American Indian — it's an experience you won’t regret! This museum is an essential stop for anyone wanting to learn more about the rich history and culture of the Native American people who originally inhabited Manhattan. The museum offers a variety of engaging activities, including games and quizzes that are perfect for children and teenagers. The exhibits are filled with fascinating materials, making it easy for visitors of all ages to learn and enjoy. The staff are incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and helpful, enhancing the overall experience. Don’t miss the museum shop — it’s a treasure trove of unique items and books related to Native American culture and history. Be sure to take a look or ask the friendly assistants for recommendations; they’re always happy to help! On top of that, the museum is housed in a beautiful historic building — the former U.S. Custom House — which adds to the charm of the visit. This place is not just educational, but also eye-opening and enriching. Highly recommend it for families, history buffs, or anyone curious about Manhattan's origins and the stories of its first inhabitants.
Silvia - 3 months ago

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5 Star Rating A Must-Visit for History and Culture Enthusiasts! My visit to the National Museum of the American Indian was an incredible experience. The museum beautifully showcases the rich history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous peoples, with stunning exhibits and artifacts that bring their stories to life. The atmosphere is both immersive and thought-provoking, making it a must-visit for any one exploring NYC. The staff was friendly and helpful—especially the gift shop staff and docents. I had wonderful conversations with multiple staff members, all of whom were incredibly knowledgeable. I learned so much from them, which made my visit even more memorable. I highly recommend stopping by, whether you're passionate about history or just looking for an engaging and meaningful experience in the city!
Kristinia Amrine - in the last week

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5 Star Rating Discovering the Rich Heritage of the National Museum of the American Indian in New York!!! 🥰 Located in the heart of Manhattan, the National Museum of the American Indian in New York is a treasure trove of indigenous cultures, traditions, and histories. As a cultural enthusiast, I was eager to explore this world-class institution, and I was not disappointed. The museum's stunning architecture, designed by Douglas Cardinal, is a work of art in itself, with a beautiful curved design that evokes the natural landscapes of the Americas. The interior spaces are equally impressive, with soaring ceilings, natural light, and beautifully designed exhibits that invite exploration and discovery. The museum's collections are incredibly diverse, with over 800,000 objects representing more than 1,000 indigenous cultures. I spent hours exploring the exhibits, which included everything from ancient artifacts and traditional clothing to contemporary art and interactive media installations. The museum's permanent exhibit, "Infinity of Nations," is a must-see, featuring a stunning array of objects that showcase the diversity and richness of Native American cultures. What impressed me most was the museum's commitment to telling the stories of Native American communities in their own words. The exhibits are designed to be interactive and immersive, with multimedia presentations, hands-on activities, and live performances that bring the history and culture to life. The National Museum of the American Indian in New York is an absolute must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the rich and diverse heritage of Native American communities. With its stunning architecture, world-class collections, and immersive exhibits, this museum is an unforgettable experience that will leave you inspired, educated, and eager to learn more. The museum's location in the heart of Manhattan makes it easily accessible by public transportation or on foot. The museum also offers a range of amenities, including a café, a shop, and a theater, making it a great destination for a day out in the city. Overall, the National Museum of the American Indian in New York is a world-class institution that is not to be missed. Whether you're a history buff, a cultural enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and enriching experience, this museum is a must-visit destination ⭐️🇺🇸
BLUE FiN - a month ago

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Directions

Subway Line Nearest Station Walking Time
4 or 5Bowling Green1 minute
RWhitehall Street3 minutes
1South Ferry4 minutes
JBroad Street6 minutes
2 or 3Wall Street8 minutes

How to get to National Museum of the American Indian by Subway

Take the 4 or 5 train to Bowling Green which exits right in front of the museum or take the R train to Whitehall Street and follow it north to the museum on your left or take the 1 train to South Ferry, turn left onto State Street, then right onto Bowling Green or take the J train to Broad Street, follow it south to Beaver Street and go right to Bowling Green or take the 2 or 3 train to Wall Street, walk south along William Street then right (west) on Beaver Street to the museum.

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