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Museum of Chinese in America

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At a Glance

Time Needed: 90 min.

Ages: All

Allows Food/Drink: No

Luggage Storage: No

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Chinese-American history and culture. The museum is located in New York City's Chinatown neighborhood and houses a vast collection of artifacts, documents, and artwork that tell the story of Chinese immigration to the United States. Visitors to MOCA can explore exhibits that chronicle the struggles and triumphs of Chinese immigrants, from the building of the transcontinental railroad to the experiences of Chinese Americans during World War II. The museum also offers a glimpse into the vibrant cultural life of Chinese communities in the United States, with exhibits on Chinese-American art, music, and cuisine. MOCA also hosts a range of educational and cultural events, including lectures, workshops, and performances. Visitors can participate in tours, programs, and special events to deepen their understanding of Chinese-American history and culture.

215 Centre St, New York, NY 10013 Get Directions





Museum of Chinese in America Videos

Horse sounds from two strings! 🎻🐴 The erhu is amazing. Andy Lin can manipulate the erhu, a traditional Chinese instrument with just two strings, and make it sound like a galloping horse! Experience more incredible performances at MOCA Performs: Strings of Fortune on February 25, 2026, 8:00–9:00 PM. #Erhu #LunarNewYear #ChinatownNYC #LiveMuscNYC #mocanyc

Presented during New York Fashion Week, this full recording of MOCA TALKS with Heather Guo: Cheongsam as Modern Icon explores the cheongsam (qipao) as a powerful symbol of modernity, femininity, and cultural exchange. Shanghai-born fashion curator and designer Heather Guo traces how the cheongsam evolved amid profound social, political, and aesthetic transformation—when Chinese women navigated new ideas of identity, cosmopolitanism, and self-expression at home and abroad. Drawing from MOCA’s cheongsam collections, the program features select highlights on temporary display from four personal collections belonging to Phoebe Chen, Chang Yu-I, Chao Huai Tung, and Aileen Pei. Guo is joined by Yue Ma, MOCA’s Director of Collections and Research Center, to examine how cheongsams reveal a dynamic dialogue between East and West from the early twentieth century to the present day. Through close looking and contextual storytelling, the talk considers motifs such as the plum blossom and ruyi cloud, as well as Western techniques and accessories that reshaped the cheongsam into a distinctly modern form. 本视频为 MOCA TALKS《Cheongsam as Modern Icon》全程录播。活动在纽约时装周期间举办,Museum of Chinese in America(MOCA)邀请时尚策展人与设计师 Heather Guo 带领观众,从现代性、女性气质与跨文化交流的视角,重新理解旗袍(cheongsam / qipao)如何在二十世纪以来的社会、政治与审美变革中不断演化。讲座将讨论中国女性在国内与海外语境里,如何通过服饰回应新的身份想象、都市经验与自我表达。 本场内容结合 MOCA 丰富的旗袍馆藏,并呈现四个私人收藏的精选展件(限时展示),分别来自 Phoebe Chen、Chang Yu-I、Chao Huai Tung、Aileen Pei。Heather Guo 与 Yue Ma(MOCA Director of Collections and Research Center) 对谈,通过对细节的近距离观察与历史语境梳理,探讨旗袍如何在“东西对话”中被不断重塑:例如 plum blossom、ruyi cloud 等纹样的多重文化寓意,以及西式剪裁、工艺与配饰如何共同塑造出更具现代感的旗袍形态。 讲座邀请观众将旗袍视为一种“活的档案”。它不仅是传统服装,更记录着迁徙、抱负、韧性与自我定义的个人经验,也连接了时尚史、物质文化与华裔美国人的叙事传统,促成关于传承、设计与身份的当代对话。 Event details 📅 February 11, 2026 | 6:30–7:30 PM 📍 Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA), 215 Centre Street, New York, NY 10013 Learn more about MOCA: mocanyc.org Support MOCA: mocanyc.org/donate

Silk, memory, and modernity, stitched into every seam. ✨ In this Quick Question with Heather Guo (fashion curator and designer) we revisit insights from MOCA TALKS: Cheongsam as Modern Icon during New York Fashion Week. Drawing from MOCA’s cheongsam collection, Heather reflects on how the qipao became a living record of femininity, migration, and cultural exchange, not just in China, but across Chinese American life. Featured in the program were garments from four personal collections: Phoebe Chen, Chang Yu-I, Chao Huai Tung, and Aileen Pei. Their stories reveal how dress can carry ambition, resilience, and self-definition across generations. #Cheongsam #Qipao #ChineseAmericanHistory #FashionHistory #NYFW

Mahjong is much more than a game. It involves strategy, imagination, and reading your opponents’ psychological hang-ups. 🀄️ We re-filmed an iconic mahjong scene from Crazy Rich Asians where all of these come together, and now it’s your turn to join us at MOCA and learn the real moves. Featuring actors Pascal Phoa (whose also one of our Museum Educators) and Penelope Hsu. Come play, connect, and level up your mahjong strategy at our mixer on Feb 12! Link in our Bio #mocanyc #mahjong #lunarnewyear #chinatownnyc #nycevents #mahjongnight #aapi #museumofchineseinamerica

In collaboration with Po Wing Hong Food Market (寶榮行), a cornerstone of Manhattan’s Chinatown for over 45 years, the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) hosted a Lunar New Year tasting and conversation on traditional Chinese ingredients, food symbolism, and home cooking practices passed down across generations. Led by Sophia Tsao, Executive Vice President of Po Wing Hong, this program introduced staple New Year ingredients, from premium dried seafood and nourishing soup components to herbs and pantry essentials, and explored how families use them in everyday kitchens. The event featured a tasting of the classic Cantonese dish Ho See Fat Choy (braised conpoy with dried oyster and black sea moss), with discussion of its auspicious meanings: well-being, fortune, and prosperity. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting to explore Lunar New Year traditions, this recording offers practical shopping and cooking insights and a deeper look at how food connects memory, culture, and community. About Sophia Tsao Sophia Tsao is Executive Vice President of Po Wing Hong Food Market Inc. and serves on the Board of the Charles B. Wang Community Health Center. About Po Wing Hong Since 1980, Po Wing Hong has supported Chinatown kitchens and communities through high-quality Cantonese staples, traditional herbs, and trusted culinary expertise. 🔔 Subscribe for more programs on Chinese American history, art, foodways, and culture. #MOCA #MuseumOfChineseInAmerica #PoWingHong #LunarNewYear #ChineseNewYear #CantoneseCuisine #ChinatownNYC #ChineseFoodCulture #AsianAmerican #NYCEvents #FoodHeritage #HoSeeFatChoy

Ever heard someone say, “This is a good day for ___” or “Definitely don’t do ___ today”? That’s the Chinese Almanac —a traditional guide that maps each day’s “do’s” (宜) and “don’ts” (忌) using the lunar calendar and folk timing systems. In this video, our MOCA team puts it to the test—sharing our birthdays and flipping Joanna C. Lee & Ken Smith’s Pocket Chinese Almanac to see what the day loves… and what it rejects. Want the full Year of the Horse reading? Join us at MOCA Lunar New Year Mixer: Year of the Horse Celebration on February 12, 2026 (6–9 PM) for Joanna and Ken’s annual talk—plus a festive night of music, eats, drinks and mahjong to ring in the near year. Link in bio 🔗 #LunarNewYear #YearOfTheHorse #ChineseAlmanac #ChinatownNYC #NYCEvents #AsianAmericanCulture

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The Museum of Chinese in America will present a special hybrid program examining the enduring legacy of Loving v. Virginia and its profound impact on interracial relationships in the United States.

Staged Reading of THURSDAYS COME AT MORNING By Lee Catalun Comes to Leviathan Lab

The performance will take place on Monday, September 22, 2025, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m., followed by a 20-minute talkback with the cast. Find out more here!

Photo: Violinist Yeshuang Chen Featured At ECHOES OF PEACE Event At United Nations Headquarters

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The Museum of Chinese in America Launches Performing Artist Residency Program

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) announced their performing artist residency program, with the theme of Heteroglossia, in response to MOCA’s new exhibition, Magazine Fever: Gen X Asian American Periodicals.

Staged Reading Of TOMORROW, BY THE SEA To Be Presented at Museum of Chinese in America

A developmental reading of the new musical TOMORROW, BY THE SEA will be held on September 7 at the Museum of Chinese in America. Learn how to attend.

The Museum of Chinese in America To Performance CATCHING SILHOUETTES: Street Performance

The Museum of Chinese in America will present a unique outdoor interactive performance program, “MOCA Performs – Catching Silhouettes: An Oral History Street Performance,” to bring oral histories and personal stories to life in the streets of Chinatown in May to celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month.

MOCA to Present Outdoor Interactive Performance CATCHING SILHOUETTES

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) will present a unique outdoor interactive performance program, 'MOCA Performs - Catching Silhouettes. Learn more about the event and see how to purchase tickets!

MOCA Reveals 2024 MOCA FEST to Celebrate Lunar New Year

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) announced its 2024 MOCA FEST, an annual celebration of the Lunar New Year with programming for all ages. This Lunar New Year, the Year of the Wood Dragon, starts on February 10, 2024, and the museum will host activities for all ages from February 1, 2024, through February 29, 2024.

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Museum Of Chinese In America Presents Opens Its 5 SENSES OF CHINATOWN Exhibition To The Public

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Boston Ballet Announces Ming Min Hui As Executive Director

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Museum of Chinese in America Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest subway stops to Museum of Chinese in America

The closest subway stops to the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) at 215 Centre St in New York City are:

1. Canal Street Station: This station is served by the J, N, Q, R, W, Z, and 6 trains. It is located just a short walk away from MOCA.

2. Grand Street Station: This station is served by the B and D trains. It is also within walking distance of the museum.

Both of these subway stations are conveniently located and will make it easy for you to reach MOCA.

While you're in the area, I recommend exploring the vibrant neighborhood of Chinatown. You can take a stroll through the bustling streets, browse the markets, and sample delicious Chinese cuisine.

Here are a few recommendations for restaurants in Chinatown:

1. Nom Wah Tea Parlor: This historic dim sum restaurant has been serving delicious dumplings since 1920. Don't miss their famous shrimp dumplings and pork buns. [Nom Wah Tea Parlor](https://nomwah.com/)

2. Joe's Shanghai: Known for their soup dumplings, Joe's Shanghai is a popular spot for authentic Chinese cuisine. Be prepared for a wait, as it can get crowded. [Joe's Shanghai](http://www.joeshanghairestaurants.com/)

3. Xi'an Famous Foods: If you're in the mood for spicy and flavorful dishes, Xi'an Famous Foods is a must-visit. Try their hand-pulled noodles and cumin-spiced lamb burgers. [Xi'an Famous Foods](https://www.xianfoods.com/)

Make sure to check the MTA website for any subway updates or changes in service before you travel. You can find the latest information [here](http://www.mta.info/). Enjoy your visit to MOCA and your time in Chinatown!


What's the best way to get to Museum of Chinese in America by bus?

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) is located at 215 Centre St in New York City. The closest bus stops to the museum are:

1. Centre St/Grand St: This bus stop is served by the M9 bus. You can check for updates on the M9 bus schedule [here](http://bustime.mta.info/m/index;jsessionid=9C6F8A0D8C0A5F6D9F7B9C5A7F2D6F5D?q=402053).

2. Centre St/Broome St: This bus stop is served by the M103 bus. You can check for updates on the M103 bus schedule [here](http://bustime.mta.info/m/index;jsessionid=9C6F8A0D8C0A5F6D9F7B9C5A7F2D6F5D?q=402052).

Please note that bus schedules are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for updates closer to your visit. Enjoy your time at the Museum of Chinese in America!


How much time should I plan to spend at Museum of Chinese in America?

The ideal length of time to plan for a visit to the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) in New York City depends on your level of interest in Chinese history and culture. On average, visitors spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the museum's exhibits and galleries.

If you have a general interest in Chinese culture and history, allocating 1 to 1.5 hours should give you enough time to see the main highlights and get a good overview of the museum's collection. This includes exploring the permanent exhibits that showcase Chinese-American history, art, and artifacts.

However, if you have a specific interest in Chinese history or if you enjoy delving deeper into museum exhibits, you may want to allocate a bit more time. Spending 2 hours or more will allow you to thoroughly explore the museum, read the detailed information provided, and engage with interactive displays.

Additionally, MOCA often hosts special exhibitions and events, so if there is something specific you want to see or participate in, it's worth checking their website or calling ahead to plan your visit accordingly.

Remember, the ideal length of time can vary from person to person, so feel free to adjust your visit based on your own interests and schedule. Enjoy your time at the Museum of Chinese in America!


Can I bring food and drinks into Museum of Chinese in America?

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) in New York City does not have a specific food or drink policy. However, it is always a good idea to check with the museum staff before bringing any food or drinks inside. In general, most museums prefer that visitors refrain from consuming food or beverages in exhibition areas to help preserve the artwork and artifacts on display. MOCA does have a gift shop where you can find snacks and drinks if you need a quick refreshment during your visit.


Does Museum of Chinese in America offer luggage storage?

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) in New York City does not have a luggage storage facility on-site. However, there are several options available nearby where you can securely store your belongings while you visit the museum.

One convenient option is to use a luggage storage service. There are various companies in the city that offer this service, allowing you to drop off your bags at a designated location and pick them up later. Some popular luggage storage services include LuggageHero, Vertoe, and Schwartz Luggage Storage. These services typically have multiple locations throughout the city, including near popular tourist attractions like MOCA.

Another option is to check if your hotel offers luggage storage for its guests. Many hotels in New York City have this service, allowing you to store your bags with them even if you have already checked out. If you are staying at a hotel, it's worth contacting the front desk to inquire about their luggage storage policy.

Lastly, if you are traveling with larger suitcases or bags, you may want to consider using a traditional luggage storage facility. These facilities are specifically designed for storing luggage and are often located near transportation hubs like Penn Station or Grand Central Terminal. Some examples of luggage storage facilities in the city include Schwartz Luggage Storage, City CoPilot, and Luggage Keeper.

Remember to always check the specific policies and prices of these services before utilizing them, as they may vary. It's also a good idea to plan ahead and make arrangements for luggage storage to ensure a smooth and hassle-free visit to MOCA and other attractions in the city.


Is Museum of Chinese in America a good place to visit for foreign travelers who are not native English speakers?

Yes, the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) in New York City is definitely worth a visit for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. MOCA is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history, heritage, and culture of Chinese Americans. It offers a unique and immersive experience that can be appreciated by people from all backgrounds.

While English is the primary language used in the museum, MOCA strives to make its exhibits accessible to non-English speakers as well. Many of the exhibits feature bilingual signage, providing information in both English and Chinese. Additionally, the museum offers guided tours in multiple languages, including Mandarin, Cantonese, and Spanish. These tours can be a great way for non-English speakers to fully understand and appreciate the exhibits.

MOCA also hosts a variety of cultural programs and events throughout the year, including workshops, performances, and lectures. These events often showcase Chinese arts, crafts, music, and dance, providing a rich cultural experience for visitors.

Overall, the Museum of Chinese in America offers a valuable and engaging experience for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. It allows them to learn about the history and contributions of Chinese Americans while immersing themselves in the vibrant culture of New York City.


What ages are appropriate for Museum of Chinese in America?

The Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) in New York City is a fantastic cultural institution that offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors of all ages. While there is no strict age range recommendation, the museum's exhibits and programs are generally designed to engage and educate visitors of all ages, including children and families.

MOCA offers a variety of exhibits that explore the rich history, art, and culture of Chinese Americans. These exhibits often feature interactive elements, multimedia presentations, and hands-on activities that can be enjoyed by visitors of different ages and interests.

Additionally, the museum regularly organizes family-friendly events and workshops that cater specifically to younger visitors. These events provide a fun and educational experience for children to learn about Chinese American history and culture.

Whether you're a history buff, art enthusiast, or simply curious about the Chinese American experience, the Museum of Chinese in America is a must-visit destination in New York City for visitors of all ages.


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