My work has taken me to Manhattan three times this spring. While I’d love to do some sightseeing, my time has been monopolized by meetings, with my free hours devoted mostly to catching up with friends.
That said, I did have the opportunity to check out some less-obvious attractions last week. When you think of NYC museums, your mind probably goes straight to the Museum of Modern Art, or the Museum of Natural History, or the Guggenheim… the list goes on. But, as you know, I’m a big fan of quirky—and small—museums. Next time you’re in the city, check out one or all of these three fun, informative spots.
1) The Museum of Sex
Yeah, I went there (literally). I had the chance to check out this homage to all things sexual while attending a work-related book launch party at the museum last week. While I didn’t get a chance to thoroughly explore all of the exhibits, I did enjoy perusing the broad scope of topics covered, from homemade sex toys, to the animal kingdom, to celebrity sex tapes. (Um, hi, Pam and Paris.) Plus, you’ve got to love a museum that contains a bar! COST: $17.50 (adults 18+)
“Plushy” mask at the Museum of Sex
Oh my! Real Dolls.
2) The Tenement Museum
Located on the Lower East Side, the museum preserves a tenement that dates back to the 1860s. My friend Terri still raves about her visit, which included a tour and tales of the real-life former residents. My schedule prevented me from visiting the Tenement Museum during my most recent sojourn to New York, but I can’t wait to check it out next time. COST: $22
We didn’t make it to the Tenement Museum this visit, but we did check out Little Italy.
3) The South Street Seaport Museum
While I attended meetings last week, Devin had the chance to poke around the city. Where did he go? Well, where does any nautical geek go? The South Street Seaport, of course. Armed with a camera and nothing but time, he checked out the various ships in port—and popped into the nearby museum. Housed on the site of a former warehouse and hotel, the museum contains an impressive collection of all things marine related, including anchors and model ships. COST: $10
South Street Seaport Museum
1890s graffiti at the South Street Seaport Museum
I live in Pennsylvania, but do make it to Manhattan several times a year. Thanks for this info! If I do nothing else, I will visit the museum of sex. I am a Psychology Major at Penn State University and will be adding Sexuality and Gender Studies as my minor in the coming year, so this could be a very interesting visit for me.
-Cindy
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