The Skyscraper Museum
39 Battery Pl, New York, NY 10280
Free to visit
About the World’s Most Famous Skyline
The New York City skyline is the most famous in the world — but how did it get so high? While most tourists wait in long lines at the Empire State Building, savvy travelers head to Battery Park City to uncover the secrets of vertical living at the Skyscraper Museum.
What to Expect at the Skyscraper Museum
The Skyscraper Museum offers an immersive and educational experience for anyone intrigued by the mesmerizing heights of skyscrapers. Immediately as you step foot into the exhibition halls, you will be greeted by a panorama of captivating photographs, blueprints, and scale models that showcase the evolution of high-rise design throughout the decades. From the groundbreaking pioneers of the early 20th century to the sleek and innovative structures of today.
Besides the architectural aspect, the Skyscraper Museum also explores the social and cultural impact of the towering structures and how vertical cities have transformed the way we live and work. Furthermore, you will get to learn more about the role of skyscrapers in shaping the urban fabric, influencing city planning, and creating vibrant communities within their towering walls.
Why You Should Visit the Skyscraper Museum
Nestled in the heart of Battery Park City, the Skyscraper Museum is a hidden gem that offers a deep dive into the “architecture of wealth” and the “design of density.”
Unlike the observation decks that focus only on the view, this museum explains the how and why behind the steel and glass. As you step into the mirrored exhibition halls — which ingeniously mimic the feeling of being inside a high-rise — you are greeted by a world-class collection of:
- Intricate Scale Models: See the evolution of the Manhattan skyline from 19th-century church spires to the “supertall” towers of Billionaires’ Row.
- Rare Blueprints & Photographs: Detailed archives showing the construction of the original World Trade Center and the Empire State Building.
- Urban Evolution: Learn how elevators, steel frames, and city zoning laws shaped the way New Yorkers live and work.
Save up to 50% With the Go City NY Pass
If you are planning to visit the nearby One World Observatory or take a Circle Line Cruise, we recommend the Go City New York Pass. It includes admission to over 100 attractions. Even though the Skyscraper Museum is free, using the pass for your other stops can save you up to 50% on total sightseeing costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, especially for older children interested in Lego, Minecraft, or building. The scale models are fascinating, though the museum is a quiet, scholarly environment.
While admission is currently free, the museum often requires timed-entry reservations during peak periods. Check their official site or book a guided Lower Manhattan walking tour that includes a stop here.
Take the 4 or 5 train to Bowling Green, the 1 train to South Ferry, or the R/W train to Whitehall Street. It is a short, scenic walk through Battery Park.
Nearby Sights in New York City
The Skyscraper Museum is located just steps away from the 9/11 Memorial and the Statue of Liberty ferries. Because admission to the museum is free and it takes about an hour to explore, it is the perfect “buffer activity” to escape the crowds or the weather between your major tours.
Opening Hours
Wed - Sun: 12 PM to 6 PM
Admission to the museum is free of charge
