Streetscapes

Show stories by:
All Topics Behind-the-Scenes City Artifacts City Arts Landmarks Movements and Causes Notable New Yorkers Urban Tastes
An older woman looks at the camera while surrounded by wax heads she created
City Arts Monday, May 6, 2019

Another Side to Coney Island: Hattie Mckeever and Her Waxworks

The museum’s LOOK Magazine collection is full of fascinating photographs of midcentury New York and the people who lived and spent time in it. Some were well-known at the time and remain household names; others were living quieter lives, although often no less interesting.
Landmarks Friday, March 29, 2019

Our East Harlem Home

East Harlem has been home to the Museum of the City of New York since 1932. Find out what makes this neighborhood so special. 
Landmarks Wednesday, February 27, 2019

History of 1220 Fifth Avenue

The Museum has called 1220 Fifth Avenue home since 1932, but our first home was at Gracie Mansion where the mayor of NYC resides today. Learn about the fascinating history of our beautiful building at the top of Museum Mile.
Streetscapes Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Shopping in the Late 19th Century

With the Midtown flagship stores of Lord & Taylor and Henri Bendel both closing their doors, we take a look back at the shops in the Ladies’ Mile shopping district of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Streetscapes Tuesday, August 14, 2018

William A. Clark Mansion

Copper magnate William S. Clark Sr. built one of the most egregious examples of Gilded Age excess. The mansion that once stood at 960 Fifth Avenue boasted 121 rooms, 31 baths, four art galleries, a swimming pool, and even an underground rail line!
Landmarks Tuesday, May 22, 2018

Hitting the Beach in the 19th Century

Fleeing the steamy city streets for the beach is not a new phenomenon. Take an escape to the summertime retreats of years past and see how New Yorkers used to beat the heat…despite the heavy layers of clothing!