The Skyscraper Museum

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

At a Glance

Time Needed: 60 min.

Ages: All

Allows Food/Drink: No

Luggage Storage: No

The Skyscraper Museum, located in New York City, is a unique museum that explores the history and development of skyscrapers around the world. It offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the evolution of these iconic buildings, from their early beginnings to the present day. Tourists interested in architecture, engineering, and urban planning will find the museum particularly fascinating. It features interactive exhibits, historic photographs, and scale models of some of the world's most iconic skyscrapers, including the Empire State Building and the Twin Towers. Additionally, visitors can learn about the cultural impact of skyscrapers on society and how they have shaped the modern urban landscape. The museum also hosts a variety of events and lectures related to architecture, urban design, and sustainable development. The Skyscraper Museum is an excellent destination for anyone looking to learn about the history and cultural significance of skyscrapers, as well as the engineering and design challenges involved in constructing these towering structures.

39 Battery Pl, New York, NY 10280 Get Directions

The Skyscraper Museum Videos

Modern Chinese Architecture: 180 Years tells the story of the transformation of Chinese architecture from a traditional timber-frame, single-story building system with ceramic tile roofs of anonymous craftsmen to supertall skyscrapers designed by internationally acclaimed architects. From temple markets to megamalls, and from open-air stages to auditoriums and stadiums, the architectural changes mirror China's extraordinary evolution from an imperial dynasty to a people’s republic and from a country with a largely rural and illiterate citizenry to at least 97% literacy, where 60 percent of the population is urban. In this live webinar, author Nancy S. Steinhardt will view the changes in Chinese architecture through five generations of architects: first, through foreigners who practiced in China; then in a first generation who studied modern architecture abroad; a third generation were the students who designed during the years of war with Japan, internal warfare, and the Cultural Revolution; in the 1980s, a next generation began to study abroad, who have been followed in this century by designers from every continent. After Prof. Steinhardt's talk, she will be joined in dialogue by Gary Hack, a former dean of UPenn's Stuart Weitzman School of Design and an architect and urban planner who has taught and worked in China for several decades. Nancy S. Steinhardt is Professor of East Asian Art and Curator of Chinese Art at the University of Pennsylvania where she has taught since 1982. A leading scholar of the art and architecture of China and China’s border regions, she is is author or co-editor of more than a dozen key books in the field, including Chinese Traditional Architecture (1984), Chinese Imperial City Planning (1990), Chinese Architecture and the Beaux-Arts (2011), Chinese Architecture in an Age of Turmoil, 200-600 (2014), The Chinese Mosque (2015), China: an Architectural History (2019), and The Borders of Chinese Architecture (2022), as well as more than 100 articles. Steinhardt has been involved in international collaborations in China, Korea, Japan, Mongolia, and Russia and has been an advisor, guest curator, or author for exhibitions at China Institute, Asia Society, the Metropolitan Museum, Japan Society, Chicago Art Institute, Smart Museum, and the Penn Museum.

At the time of its completion in 1971, One Shell Plaza in Houston was the tallest reinforced concrete structure in the world. Designed by SOM's extraordinary collaborators, architect Bruce Graham and engineer Fazlur Khan, working for the developer Gerald D. Hines, the 50-story skyscraper continued the evolution of Khan's “tube-in-tube” structure they had pioneered in Chicago in the mid-1960s. Joseph Colaco, who as a young engineer worked directly with Khan on One Shell Plaza and other projects, will discuss the engineering principles and refinements that make this skyscraper so expressive as both form and structure. After his presentation, Dr. Colaco will be joined in conversation by architect and historian Thomas Leslie, Professor of Architecture at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and co-curator of the exhibition and lecture series The Modern Concrete Skyscraper.

During Climate Week, on Tuesday, September 24 at 1-3pm, the Museum will host a panel discussion presented by MassTimber@MSU and the Colorado Mass Timber Coalition. Lindsey Wikstrom, author of Designing the Forest and Other Mass Timber Futures (Routledge, 2023), will moderate a panel of mass timber leaders from across the U.S. who will highlight programs, policies, people, and practices that are advancing mass timber ecosystems in the Pacific Northwest, Colorado, Michigan/the Great Lakes Region, Georgia, New England, and New York City. RSVP through the Climate Week website! For the building sector, climate advocacy NOW means investing in low carbon steel and concrete technologies, or finding alternatives. The Museum has been championing sustainable building with our current focus on Mass Timber, a new family of engineered wood products that greatly reduces the harmful environmental impact of new buildings. Over the past 6 months, we have presented an 8-part "semester" of talks that have explored the short but promising history of Mass Timber and its potential to transform the building industry. We invite you to take a deep dive into mass timber this Climate Week by watching the lectures.

More Museums

The Skyscraper Museum News

Miolina To Present CONSTRUCTIVISM / DECONSTRUCTIVISM

Violin duo Miolina will premiere a new work by Wendy Griffiths and perform Henryk Górecki's rarely heard 1957 duo at Greenwich House Music School on November 14, 2024.

Miolina Performs Next Month at the Cell Theatre

Violin duo Miolina will present six new and recent works for violin duo by composers Michael Coleman, Dorothee Eberhardt, G. Blake Harrison-Lane, Takuma Itoh, Jesse Jones, & Jessie Montgomery.

Miolina Join Mosaic Composers Collective In IN TRANSIT: CHANGING NY

Miolina presents Mosaic Composers Collective in a collaborative performance featuring new works and insights into the creative process. Don't miss this unique event at Tenri Cultural Institute in Greenwich Village on February 11, 2024.

Miolina Returns To The Skyscraper Museum With CASTLES & CATHEDRALS

Miolina returns to The Skyscraper Museum with their program 'Castles & Cathedrals' featuring works inspired by these architectural marvels. Join them on October 27 for a free concert. Find out how to get tickets here!

Memorial Service for Jack L. Goldstein, Former Executive Director of Save the Theater Photo

Memorial Service for Jack L. Goldstein, Former Executive Director of Save the Theaters & TDF, to Take Place in September

Join in on September 6th to pay tribute to the life and accomplishments of Jack L. Goldstein, former Executive Director of TDF and Save The Theaters. Don't miss this opportunity to remember his invaluable contributions to the preservation of Broadway theaters.

Jack L. Goldstein, Former Executive Director of TDF and Save The Theaters, To Be Reme Photo

Jack L. Goldstein, Former Executive Director of TDF and Save The Theaters, To Be Remembered in September

A memorial service for Jack L. Goldstein, who organized a successful campaign in the 1980s to landmark over two dozen Broadway theatres, will be held on Wednesday, September 6th, 2023 (5 PM) at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in-the-Highlands, in Cold Spring, NY.

Free Access to Downtown Cultural Institutions at Fourth Annual NIGHT AT THE MUSEUMS 6/20

The Downtown Culturals Group presents the fourth annual Night at the Museums, bringing visitors and locals of Lower Manhattan unique experiences at 15 of the area's most diverse and culturally significant institutions. The event is presented as a part of River To River Festival 2017, Lower Manhattan Cultural Council's annual summer arts festival. Night at the Museums takes place on Tuesday, June 20, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.Admission is free and many of the sites offer special programming and tours.

River To River Festival 2017 Kicks Off June 14-25 Across Lower Manhattan

Lower Manhattan Cultural Council (LMCC) presents the 16th annual River To River Festival, Downtown New York City's completely free summer arts festival, June 14-25. The 2017 edition presents an array of performances and events exploring and celebrating diversity in all its forms-often blurring the lines between genres including dance, music, theater and the visual arts-over the course of 100+ performances and events spanning 17 projects at 31 unique sites across Lower Manhattan and Governors Island. The Festival also offers opportunities for audiences to interact with artists, socialize and experience multiple facets of artists' work and the creative process.

River To River Festival Kicks Off Next Month in NYC

3rd Annual Night at the Museums in NYC Set for 6/21

The Downtown Culturals Group presents the third annual Night at the Museums, bringing visitors and locals of Lower Manhattan unique experiences at 15 of the area's most diverse and culturally significant institutions. The event is presented as a part of River To River Festival 2016, Lower Manhattan Cultural Council's annual summer arts festival. Night at the Museums takes place on Tuesday, June 21, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Admission is free and many of the sites include special programming and tours.

African Burial Ground National Monument Set for 'Night at the Museums' Tonight

Join the National Park Service at African Burial Ground National Monument tonight, June 23, for evening tours of the outdoor memorial as part of Lower Manhattan Cultural Council's 'Night at the Museums.'

African Burial Ground National Monument Set for 'Night at the Museums', 6/23

Join the National Park Service at African Burial Ground National Monument this Tuesday, June 23, for evening tours of the outdoor memorial as part of Lower Manhattan Cultural Council's "Night at the Museums."

Metropolitan Playhouse Receives Victorian Society Award

Metropolitan Playhouse was honored Wednesday night, June 11th, by the Victorian Society New York with an Award for Outstanding Performance Arts Group, in recognition of the company's work 'contributing to the understanding, appreciation and preservation of nineteenth-century heritage in the New York City area.'

Joel Grey, Brooke Shields & More to be Honored as 2013 Living Landmarks on 11/14

Each year, the New York Landmarks Conservancy recognizes distinguished New Yorkers who have made extraordinary contributions to the City and honors them as Living Landmarks at a gala in the fall. This year The New York Landmarks Conservancy will honor Ann L. Buttenwieser, Joel Grey, Robert I. Grossman, MD, William vanden Heuvel (Lew Rudin Award), Mary Wells Lawrence, and Brooke Shields on November 14, at the Plaza. The special celebration will be hosted by Living Landmark Liz Smith.

The Skyscraper Museum Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest subway stops to The Skyscraper Museum

The closest subway stops to The Skyscraper Museum at 39 Battery Pl in New York City are:

1. Bowling Green (4, 5 trains): Located just a short walk away from the museum, this subway stop is convenient for visitors coming from various parts of the city. You can check the latest subway updates and schedules at the official MTA website: http://www.mta.info.

2. Whitehall St-South Ferry (1, R, W trains): Another nearby subway stop, Whitehall St-South Ferry provides easy access to The Skyscraper Museum. Be sure to check for any subway service changes or delays before your visit.

While you're in the area, I recommend checking out some other attractions and dining options nearby:

1. Battery Park: Enjoy a stroll through Battery Park, located right by The Skyscraper Museum. This beautiful waterfront park offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and is a great spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere.

2. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: If you have the time, consider taking a ferry ride to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. These iconic landmarks are a must-see for any visitor to New York City. You can find more information and purchase tickets at the official website: https://www.nps.gov/stli/index.htm.

3. Stone Street: For a unique dining experience, head over to Stone Street, a historic cobblestone street lined with restaurants and outdoor seating. It's a great place to grab a bite to eat and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

I hope you have a fantastic time exploring The Skyscraper Museum and the surrounding area!

What's the best way to get to The Skyscraper Museum by bus?

The closest bus stops to The Skyscraper Museum at 39 Battery Pl in New York City are:

1. South End Avenue/West Thames Street - served by the M20 bus. You can check for updates on the M20 bus schedule [here](http://bustime.mta.info/m/index?q=400293).

2. South End Avenue/Albany Street - served by the M9 bus. You can check for updates on the M9 bus schedule [here](http://bustime.mta.info/m/index?q=400291).

These bus stops are conveniently located near The Skyscraper Museum, making it easy to reach the museum by public transportation. Enjoy your visit!

How much time should I plan to spend at The Skyscraper Museum?

The ideal length of time to plan for a visit to The Skyscraper Museum in New York City is approximately 1 to 2 hours. This should give you enough time to explore the museum's exhibits, learn about the history and development of skyscrapers, and appreciate the architectural wonders on display. However, if you are particularly interested in the subject matter or enjoy reading detailed information, you may want to allocate a bit more time to fully immerse yourself in the museum's offerings. Remember, it's always better to have a little extra time than to feel rushed during your visit. Enjoy your time at The Skyscraper Museum!

Can I bring food and drinks into The Skyscraper Museum?

The Skyscraper Museum in New York City does not have a food or drink policy. However, please note that food and drinks are not allowed in the exhibition galleries. If you're looking for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes in the surrounding area where you can enjoy a meal before or after your visit.

Does The Skyscraper Museum offer luggage storage?

The Skyscraper Museum in New York City does not have a luggage storage facility. However, there are several options available nearby where you can securely store your luggage while you visit the museum.

One option is to use a luggage storage service. There are several companies in the city that provide this service, allowing you to drop off your bags at a designated location and pick them up later at your convenience. Some popular luggage storage services in New York City include LuggageHero, Vertoe, and Schwartz Luggage Storage.

Another option is to check if your hotel offers luggage storage for guests. Many hotels in the city provide this service, allowing you to store your bags before check-in or after check-out. It's always a good idea to contact your hotel in advance to inquire about their luggage storage policy.

Lastly, if you are visiting other attractions or museums before or after your visit to The Skyscraper Museum, you can check if they offer luggage storage facilities. Some larger museums and tourist attractions in New York City provide lockers or coat check services where you can store your belongings.

Remember to plan ahead and consider your options to ensure a hassle-free visit to The Skyscraper Museum and other attractions in the city.

Is The Skyscraper Museum a good place to visit for foreign travelers who are not native English speakers?

Yes, The Skyscraper Museum in New York City is definitely worth a visit for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. While the museum primarily provides information in English, they do offer free audio guides in multiple languages, including Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Japanese. These audio guides provide detailed explanations about the exhibits and the history of skyscrapers, ensuring that visitors can fully appreciate the museum regardless of their language proficiency.

Additionally, the museum's exhibits are visually engaging and showcase the fascinating evolution of New York City's skyline. From scale models and architectural drawings to interactive displays, there is plenty to see and learn about the iconic skyscrapers that define the city's skyline. Even without understanding the accompanying texts, visitors can still appreciate the impressive visuals and gain a deeper understanding of the architectural marvels that make New York City unique.

Overall, The Skyscraper Museum offers an enriching experience for visitors of all backgrounds, making it a great attraction to explore during your time in New York City.

What ages are appropriate for The Skyscraper Museum?

The Skyscraper Museum in New York City is a fascinating destination for visitors of all ages. While there is no specific recommended age range, the museum's exhibits and displays are designed to engage and educate visitors of all backgrounds and interests. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply curious about the iconic skyscrapers that define New York City's skyline, you will find something of interest at this museum. Families with children can also enjoy the interactive exhibits and learn about the evolution of skyscrapers through fun and educational activities. So, no matter your age, don't miss the opportunity to explore the world of skyscrapers at The Skyscraper Museum!

Videos