Skyscraper Museum
The Skyscraper Museum is dedicated to the history and design of tall buildings from around the world
A true New York original, the Skyscraper Museum has been the only museum in the world dedicated solely to the architecture of the high-rise since it opened in 1997. Exhibits in the collection focus on the artistic design, technology, construction, influence on real estate values and human inhabitancy of tall buildings worldwide.
The museum interior features mirror polished stainless steel floors and ceilings creating the illusion of an infinitely vertical space and has been met with critical acclaim in architectural and interior design community.
The Skyline Museum houses two galleries, one dedicated to the Manhattan skyline and a special exhibitions hall. The permanent collection includes two hand-carved, highly detailed models of Midtown and Downtown, informative displays on the world's tallest buildings and a visual history of the buildings of Lower Manhattan. In 2006, an exhibit was added to commemorate the architecture and history of the World Trade Center and the construction of the Freedom Tower.
A full calendar of lectures, exhibitions and guided walking tours organised by museum staff are available on the website. On Saturday mornings, museum educators host a family program to introduce children to engineering, architecture and urban development through hands-on activities.
Nearby attractions include Battery Park, Staten Island Ferry, Financial District, Trinity Church, St. Paul's Chapel and the Brooklyn Bridge.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes. See the official website for details.Skyscraper Museum Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Address: 39 Battery Pl, New York, NY 10280, USA
Phone: (212) 968-1961
Official Website: Skyscraper Museum
Skyscraper Museum Reviews
Rated out of 5
I can only give it a 2. :( I visited yesterday, 10/11/2025 at noon. The young man who checked me in was very nice and helpful. The museum itself is just 1 gallery with just a couple of exhibits ---- mainly framed posters with information. There are a couple of models of skyscrapers (the twin towers didn't even have the spire!)
I went to this museum years ago and it was much better (still small but better).
I wish I lived in Manhattan! I would volunteer to create some amazing exhibits and clear up the space by the administration offices and use that for exhibits or interactive exhibits instead of empty boxes and rubbish.
I wish, more than anything, that there would have been more about Manhattan skyscrapers, including all the new SuperTalls!
Oh, and gift shop? Ugh. Need more variety!
I want to work here in an administrative capacity to make this museum amazing! I adore architecture and NYC buildings!
Diane Williams - 2 months ago
Small museum but worth visiting if you are architecture or skyscraper geek. A lot of informations displayed across one floor with models of some of the most iconic buildings in the world. It is admission free museum! You can buy something at the gift store. Check it out!
Adam Struzik - 3 months ago
I’m glad I had stopped here to get a peek while exploring the financial district. The museum itself was quite small, however there were much more information than I thought by looking at the museum’s size. Impressive. Very informative and detailed explanations of the history of skyscrapers throughout the world, plus it’s free to visit this museum. Friendly staff, clean place, and has restrooms. Overall, I had a great experience here and would recommend to anyone who’s visiting the area.
Levent - a year ago
This museum was very informative. Not far from One World Trade Center, it has many photos, structural drawings, and models of famous and notable skyscrapers from all over the world.
A surprisingly thorough and easy to read exhibit about the history of concrete in construction was the best part for me, along with the architectural models and displays about the tallest skyscrapers in the world! Definitely worth a visit.
Joshua Fasola - 2 months ago
Very cool place to visit. It is a small museum but looks are deceiving. The mirrored ceilings give it the illusion of being a 2-story venue. It is packed full of information to read and lots of photos and mock ups. The bookstore/ gift shop is well stocked with great reads. A little off the beaten path so to speak but worth the visit!
Jeff Harris - 8 months ago
Directions
| Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| 4 or 5 | Bowling Green | 6 minutes |
| 1 or R | Rector Street | 8 minutes |
How to get to Skyscraper Museum by Subway
Take the 4 or 5 train to Bowling Green, head west towards the river on Battery Place continuing to the entrance on your right or take the 1 or R train to Rector Street and walk south on either Greenwich Street or Trinity Place to Battery Place and go right. The entrance is on the right-hand side of the road directly across from the Museum of Jewish Heritage.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
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Photo Gallery
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The Skyscraper Museum features many fascinating models, photos, videos and books cc licensed photo by shinya
