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National Museum of the American Indian

Museum · Financial District

The National Museum of the American Indian in NYC is a must-visit destination for tourists who want to learn about the rich history, culture, and diversity of Native Americans. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts, art, and literature that showcases the story of the indigenous people of the Americas, from pre-Columbian times to the present day. Visitors can explore the museum's exhibits and displays that cover a range of topics such as the lives of the First Americans, their traditional customs and beliefs, and their contributions to modern society. The museum also offers interactive activities, films, and performances that allow visitors to engage with Native American culture. Additionally, the National Museum of the American Indian is located in the heart of New York City, offering tourists an opportunity to experience the city's vibrant culture and history while learning about Native American heritage. Visitors can also enjoy the museum's stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings, which include an outdoor plaza and gardens.

Location

1 Bowling Green, New York, NY 10004 · Get Directions

National Museum of the American Indian Videos

The museum welcomes elders, leaders, and members of the Oneida Indian Nation to share with visitors the legacy of Polly Cooper, an Oneida ancestor and icon. Learn more about the Oneida Indian Nation with remarks from tribal leadership, a presentation on Cooper’s legacy, along with dance performances, and food demonstrations. More information can be found on our website. https://s.si.edu/4vVHc7u

Truman Lowe (Hoocąk [Ho-Chunk], 1944-2019) is recognized for his minimalist sculptures of wood, feathers, and other organic materials evoking the waters and woodlands of his homeland. "Water’s Edge" brings together nearly 50 of the acclaimed artist’s sculptures, drawings, and paintings to explore the key themes his work addressed. For this conversation, curator Rebecca Head Trautmann is joined by Lowe’s daughter, Tonia Lowe (Hoocąk), and artist John Hitchcock (Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma, with Comanche and Northern European ancestry), both contributors to the exhibition’s catalogue, to discuss Lowe’s artwork and his lasting impact on Indigenous contemporary art. Learn more about "Water's Edge: The Art of Truman Lowe" on our website. https://s.si.edu/4pNOxUl Exploring the Artistic Process of Truman Lowe: A Journey Through Native American Art & Education by Discover Wisconsin: https://youtu.be/oBltTFXKNLw

On Memorial Day, honor Indigenous service members who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the United States Armed Forces. This year, we honor the legacies of Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell (Northern Cheyenne, 1933-2025) and Harvey Phillip Pratt (Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma, 1941-2025) and their invaluable contributions to the museum. Hear from Native veterans, make prayer ties to remember loved ones, and pay your respects during a wreath-laying ceremony at the National Native American Veterans Memorial.

In this final session of the series, educators explore stories and images presented in the exhibition "Americans" focusing on the Trail of Tears. This session introduces Native Knowledge 360°'s Resource "American Indian Removal: What Does It Mean to Remove a People?" to understand the ways in which American Indians have been part of the nation’s identity since before the country began and learn new ways of understanding a few familiar events. Air date April 21, 2026 Learn more about Native Knowledge 360°: https://americanindian.si.edu/nk360 Learn more about "Americans": https://americanindian.si.edu/americans/

Session one of this three-part professional development series focuses on the stories and images presented in the exhibition Americans. This session introduces Native Knowledge 360°'s Resource, The “First Thanksgiving”: How Can We Tell a Better Story? | Overview | Native Knowledge 360°, to understand the ways in which American Indians have been part of the nation’s identity since before the country began and learn new ways of understanding a few familiar events.

Session two of this three-part professional development series delves into the stories and images presented in the exhibition Americans focusing on the Battle of Little Bighorn. This session introduces Native Knowledge 360°'s Resources, Northern Plains History and Cultures: How Do Native People and Nations Experience Belonging? | Overview | Native Knowledge 360° and Northern Plains Treaties: Is a Treaty Intended to Be Forever? | Overview | Native Knowledge 360° to understand the ways in which American Indians have been part of the nation’s identity since before the country began and learn new ways of understanding a few familiar events.

National Museum of the American Indian News

NANCY Comes to Mosaic Theater Company This Month Photo

NANCY Comes to Mosaic Theater Company This Month

Mosaic Theater Company will present the world premiere of Nancy, an audacious and funny new play exploring ancestry, ambition and motherhood through the figures of Nancy Reagan and Esmeralda, a Navajo mother.

Mellon Foundation Gives $1 Million To US Pavilion At 2024 Venice Biennale Photo

Mellon Foundation Gives $1 Million To US Pavilion At 2024 Venice Biennale

Today, Portland Art Museum (PAM) in Oregon and SITE Sante Fe (SITE) in New Mexico, the commissioning institutions of the U.S. Pavilion at the 60th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, announced that the Mellon Foundation will serve as the presenting sponsor for Jeffrey Gibson: the space in which to place me thanks to a lead gift of $1 million.  

CITIZEN By Greg Sarris to Open at Z Below in October Photo

CITIZEN By Greg Sarris to Open at Z Below in October

Directed by Gendell Hing-Hernández, CITIZEN opens on October 21. This Word for Word and Z Space production tells the tale of Salvador, born in the U.S. and raised in Mexico, the son of an American Indian mother and a Mexican father.

Shuvinai Ashoona's Exhibition 'Looking Out, Looking In' Comes to Fort Gansevoort Photo

Shuvinai Ashoona's Exhibition 'Looking Out, Looking In' Comes to Fort Gansevoort

Beginning September 19, 2023, Fort Gansevoort will present Looking Out, Looking In, the first New York solo exhibition by contemporary Inuk artist Shuvinai Ashoona. Hailing from the Canadian Arctic, Ashoona lives and works in Kinngait (formerly Cape Dorset), an Inuit hamlet at the southern tip of Baffin Island in the territory of Nunavut.

Mosaic Theater Reveals 2023-2024 Season Photo

Mosaic Theater Reveals 2023-2024 Season

Mosaic Theater Company's 2023-2024 Season reexamines, reinvestigates, and reframes our shared history through striking productions by some of the country's most exciting and formidable contemporary playwrights. Learn more about the lineup here!

Ucross Art Gallery Opens Exhibition Featuring Recipients Of Its Award For Native Amer Photo

Ucross Art Gallery Opens Exhibition Featuring Recipients Of Its Award For Native American Visual Artists

The Ucross Art Gallery announces its most recent exhibition, “Field Guide: Teresa Baker + Anthony Hudson + Jessica Mehta + Eliza Naranjo Morse,” which is on view through July 30. “Field Guide” features art by the 2020 and 2021 recipients of the Ucross Fellowships for Native American Visual Artists, including Teresa Baker (Mandan/Hidatsa) of Los Angeles, California; Anthony Hudson (Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians) of Portland, Oregon; Jessica Mehta (Cherokee Nation) of Portland, Oregon; and Eliza Naranjo Morse (Santa Clara Pueblo) of Santa Clara Pueblo, New Mexico.

National Museum of the American Indian Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest subway stops to National Museum of the American Indian?

The closest subway stops to the National Museum of the American Indian at 1 Bowling Green in New York City are:

1. Bowling Green station: This subway station is located right next to the museum. It is served by the 4 and 5 trains. For the most up-to-date information on subway schedules and service changes, you can visit the official MTA website [here](http://www.mta.info/).

2. Whitehall Street station: This station is also within walking distance of the museum. It is served by the R and W trains.

I would recommend using the MTA Trip Planner tool [here](http://tripplanner.mta.info/) to plan your subway journey to the museum. Simply enter your starting location and the tool will provide you with the best subway route and any service advisories that may affect your trip.

While you're in the area, I also recommend checking out Battery Park, which is a beautiful waterfront park just a short walk away from the museum. You can enjoy stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island from here. Additionally, the Charging Bull statue is located nearby, which is a popular tourist attraction.

I hope you have a wonderful visit to the National Museum of the American Indian and enjoy exploring the surrounding area!

What's the best way to get to National Museum of the American Indian by bus?

The closest NYC bus stops to the National Museum of the American Indian at 1 Bowling Green are:

1. Bowling Green/Battery Place: Served by the M5, M15, and M20 buses. You can check for updates on the M5 bus [here](http://bustime.mta.info/m/index?q=400001) and the M15 bus [here](http://bustime.mta.info/m/index?q=400015).

2. State Street/Bridge Street: Served by the M9 bus. You can check for updates on the M9 bus [here](http://bustime.mta.info/m/index?q=400009).

Please note that bus schedules and routes are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for updates before your visit. Enjoy your time at the National Museum of the American Indian!

How much time should I plan to spend at National Museum of the American Indian?

The ideal length of time to plan for a visit to the National Museum of the American Indian in New York City depends on your level of interest and the amount of time you have available. On average, visitors spend about 1-2 hours exploring the museum's exhibits and galleries. However, if you have a deep interest in Native American history and culture, you may want to allocate more time to fully immerse yourself in the museum's offerings.

The museum showcases a vast collection of artifacts, artworks, and interactive displays that highlight the rich heritage of Native peoples throughout the Americas. Take your time to appreciate the intricate craftsmanship, learn about diverse indigenous cultures, and engage with the thought-provoking exhibitions.

Additionally, the museum often hosts special events, performances, and film screenings, so be sure to check their schedule to see if there are any activities you'd like to attend during your visit.

Remember, it's always a good idea to plan some extra time in case you want to revisit certain exhibits or explore the museum's gift shop, which offers unique Native American crafts and souvenirs.

Can I bring food and drinks into National Museum of the American Indian?

The National Museum of the American Indian in New York City has a food and drink policy that prohibits outside food and beverages from being brought into the museum. However, there is a café located within the museum where visitors can enjoy a variety of food and drink options. The café offers a selection of delicious meals, snacks, and beverages inspired by Native American cuisine. So while you can't bring your own food, you can definitely grab a bite to eat at the museum's café and experience some unique flavors during your visit.

Does National Museum of the American Indian offer luggage storage?

The National Museum of the American Indian in New York City does not have a designated luggage storage facility. However, they do offer a coat check service where you can leave your coats and small bags. It's important to note that larger bags, suitcases, and backpacks are not allowed inside the museum. If you have larger items, I recommend looking for nearby luggage storage services or checking with your hotel if they offer luggage storage for their guests.

Is National Museum of the American Indian a good place to visit for foreign travelers who are not native English speakers?

Yes, the National Museum of the American Indian in New York City is definitely worth a visit for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. The museum offers a rich and immersive experience that showcases the diverse cultures and histories of Native American peoples.

While English is the primary language used in the museum, there are resources available to accommodate non-English speakers. The museum provides multilingual audio guides in several languages, including Spanish, French, German, Italian, Mandarin, and more. These audio guides offer detailed explanations of the exhibits, ensuring that visitors can fully appreciate the museum's collections and learn about Native American cultures in their preferred language.

Additionally, the museum features visual displays, artifacts, and interactive exhibits that transcend language barriers. Visitors can explore the stunning art, traditional clothing, historical objects, and contemporary works that tell the stories of Native American communities throughout the Americas.

The National Museum of the American Indian is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible experience for all visitors, regardless of their language or cultural background. So, whether you're a non-English speaker or visiting from another country, you can expect to have a meaningful and enjoyable visit to this unique cultural institution.

What ages are appropriate for National Museum of the American Indian?

The National Museum of the American Indian in New York City is a fantastic destination for visitors of all ages. While there is no specific age range recommendation, the museum offers exhibits and programs that cater to a wide range of interests and knowledge levels. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about Native American culture, you'll find something to engage and educate you at the museum. Families with children will also find interactive exhibits and educational activities designed to entertain and inspire young minds. So, whether you're traveling with kids or exploring on your own, don't miss the opportunity to visit this unique and enriching museum!

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