Tenement Museum Tours

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At a Glance

Time Needed: 75 min.

Ages: 5+

Allows Food/Drink: No

Luggage Storage: No

The Tenement Museum in New York City offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience what life was like for immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A tourist would want to get a Tenement Museum tour because it provides a fascinating insight into the lives of people who came to America in search of a better life. The museum is housed in a restored tenement building on the Lower East Side, and each tour takes visitors through the meticulously recreated apartments and businesses of real families who lived and worked in the building. A knowledgeable guide provides a vivid account of the struggles and successes of these immigrants, making the experience both educational and emotional. The Tenement Museum also offers various themed tours, such as Hard Times, which explores the lives of families during the Great Depression, and Sweatshop Workers, which focuses on the experiences of garment workers in the early 20th century. Overall, a Tenement Museum tour provides a powerful and thought-provoking glimpse into the immigrant experience in America and is a must-see for any tourist interested in the history of New York City.

103 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002 Get Directions





Tenement Museum Tours Videos

The newest installation at the Abrons Art Center - OBJECTS OF PERMANENCE - engages the undertold histories of the Puerto Rican and other migrant community labor forces in New York City’s garment industry. This installation, curated by Mellány Sánchez, invites fashion designers to create artifacts for a fictional archive devoted to the life of a garment worker. Inspired by the Tenement Museum’s exhibition Saez Velez Family Story, the installation will also feature historical objects, such as shears and union cards, on loan from the Tenement Museum, and memorabilia from local community collaborators. Join us on September 8 for a panel streamed live from the Abrons Art Center. Mellány Sánchez, curator of the installation is joined by Dr. Valerie Steele, director and chief curator of The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology, Jessica Gonsalves, co-owner of Lower East Side vintage store Procell, and Kathryn Lloyd, Vice President, Programs & Interpretation at the Tenement Museum for a discussion about how and why we form collections, and the role of garments in community storytelling. This program is presented in partnership with the Abrons Art Center. REGISTER: https://tickets.tenement.org/events/e51edcc9-4d3e-03e7-4182-385bcbf63c56 Learn more about OBJECTS OF PERMANENCE: https://www.abronsartscenter.org/programs/objects-of-permanence DONATE to support more public programs like this at the Tenement Museum: https://www.tenement.org/donate-virtual-programs/ VISIT: Get your tickets now for on-site building and walking tours, available daily at: https://www.tenement.org/tours/ SUBSCRIBE to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKhJvFvNWyOS7sVSiHyX3IA/?sub_confirmation=1

It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s….an update on our ongoing preservation project! The airshafts you may see in old NYC tenements were added following housing laws in the early 1900s to encourage air flow throughout the buildings to help stop the spread of disease, but they never really worked how it was intended. We’re so excited to finally allow one of these airshafts achieve its dream of helping people in 97 Orchard, from our educators to our visitors, breathe a little more comfortably. We can’t wait to welcome you back to 97 Orchard Street this fall!

Check out this behind the scenes footage of one of our historically accurate rugs being woven on an antique loom! We’re so excited to be nearing the end of our preservation project so we can welcome you back to 97 Orchard. What other behind the scenes videos do you want to see? Learn more about Nathalie Gumpertz, the German Jewish immigrant who lived at 97 Orchard in the 1870s, and her new rug over on our blog! https://www.tenement.org/blog/whats-looming-at-the-tenement-museum/

“I can still see my mother in front if this big black stove putting the bread in the oven,” Josephine recalled in her oral histories, “and my father would peel an orange and put the skins on the stove. This sent out a nice aroma.” Many stories from our former tenement residents focus on the little things that people might not think are worth remembering, but Josephine’s stories about her mother give us a clearer understanding of how Rosaria and many other immigrants worked hard to provide for their families in times of economic hardships. Josephine’s stories prove that the little moments are worth holding onto.

Enjoy a virtual conversation with teacher and author Jessica Lander on her most recent work, 'Making Americans: Stories of Historic Struggles, New Ideas, and Inspiration in Immigrant Education', streamed live from inside our recreated 1960s tenement apartment! Starting from her own classroom in Lowell, Massachusetts, Lander shares stories from across the country about immigrant students, their teachers, the struggles they face and the innovations within their communities. The book begins on the Lower East Side, with the history of Julia Richman, the first woman district superintendent in New York City, and a champion for immigrant students’ learning in the early 20th Century. From there, Lander explores key historic moments in immigrant education, current classroom communities from Georgia to Colorado, and powerful stories and journeys of young newcomers. Lander is joined in conversation by Reema Amin, reporter for Chalkbeat, a nonprofit news organization providing essential education reporting across the country. BUY THE BOOK at the Tenement Museum Shop: https://shop.tenement.org/product/making-americans-stories-of-historic-struggles-new-ideas-and-inspiration-in-immigrant-education/ DONATE to support more public programs like this at the Tenement Museum: https://www.tenement.org/donate-virtual-programs/ VISIT: Get your tickets now for on-site building and walking tours, available daily at: https://www.tenement.org/tours/ SUBSCRIBE to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKhJvFvNWyOS7sVSiHyX3IA/?sub_confirmation=1 Support for this program is provided by ConEdison and the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs.

“Shanda” is a Yiddish word that translates into English as shame, or disgrace. Enjoy a past conversation with Letty Cottin Pogrebin, Ms. Magazine co-founder and author of 'Shanda: A Memoir of Shame and Secrecy'. Pogrebin's new memoir unearths hidden stories across extended family members and explores how a tenement past influenced how and why secrets were kept and covered up. How did immigration, as well as movement from the working class to middle class, create both opportunities as well as tensions? In this discussion, Pogrebin is joined by Tenement Museum President Annie Polland in our recreated 1900s tenement apartment to explore stories of religious transgressions, sexual identity, radical politics, and the nature of family secrets. BUY THE BOOK at the Tenement Museum Shop: https://shop.tenement.org/product/shanda-a-memoir-of-shame-and-secrecy/ DONATE to support more public programs like this at the Tenement Museum: https://www.tenement.org/donate-virtual-programs/ VISIT: Get your tickets now for on-site building and walking tours, available daily at: https://www.tenement.org/tours/ SUBSCRIBE to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKhJvFvNWyOS7sVSiHyX3IA/?sub_confirmation=1 Support for this program is provided by ConEdison and the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs.

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Tenement Museum Tours News

New York Phil Presents NEW YORK STORIES: THREADS OF OUR CITY Photo
New York Phil Presents NEW YORK STORIES: THREADS OF OUR CITY

The New York Philharmonic will present New York Stories: Threads of Our City, January 14-27, 2019, two weeks of concerts and events examining New York City's roots as a city of immigrants. It will center on the World Premiere of Julia Wolfe's Fire in my mouth, co-commissioned by the New York Philharmonic, which reflects on the New York garment industry at the turn of the 20th century and the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, which killed 146 garment workers, most of them young immigrants. New York Stories: Threads of Our City will also feature a program of new chamber music by composers influenced by their time in America; a special guided tour of the Tenement Museum featuring Philharmonic musicians; an archival exhibit featuring materials from the New York Philharmonic Archives, The Forward, the Museum of the City of New York, and the National Archives at New York City; and a free Insights at the Atrium event.


Tenement Museum Tours Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest subway stops to Tenement Museum Tours

The closest subway stops to the Tenement Museum Tours at 103 Orchard St in New York City are:

1. Delancey St - Essex St (F, M, J, Z lines): This subway stop is just a short walk away from the museum. You can take the F, M, J, or Z trains to reach this station.

2. Grand St (B, D lines): Another option is to take the B or D trains to the Grand St station, which is also within walking distance of the museum.

Both of these subway stops provide convenient access to the Tenement Museum, allowing you to easily explore the Lower East Side neighborhood.

While you're in the area, I recommend checking out some other nearby attractions and dining options. Here are a few recommendations:

1. Katz's Delicatessen: A famous Jewish deli located at 205 E Houston St, just a few blocks away from the museum. They're known for their delicious pastrami sandwiches and pickles. [Visit their website](https://katzsdelicatessen.com/) for more information.

2. The Pickle Guys: If you're a pickle lover, make sure to stop by The Pickle Guys at 49 Essex St. They offer a wide variety of pickles and other preserved goodies. [Check them out here](https://www.pickleguys.com/).

3. Economy Candy: A nostalgic candy store located at 108 Rivington St, where you can find all kinds of sweet treats from your childhood. [Learn more here](https://economycandy.com/).

4. Essex Market: A vibrant food market with a variety of vendors offering delicious food and drinks. It's located at 88 Essex St, just a short walk from the museum. [Explore their website](https://www.essexmarket.nyc/) for more details.

Please note that subway schedules and routes may change, so it's always a good idea to check for any updates or service changes before your visit. You can find the most up-to-date information on the [MTA website](http://www.mta.info/). Enjoy your visit to the Tenement Museum and have a fantastic time exploring the Lower East Side!


What's the best way to get to Tenement Museum Tours by bus?

The closest bus stops to the Tenement Museum Tours at 103 Orchard St in New York City are:

1. Delancey St/Essex St: This bus stop is served by the M9, M14A, and M14D buses. You can check for updates on bus schedules and routes on the MTA Bus Time website.

2. Allen St/Delancey St: This bus stop is served by the M15 and M15 SBS buses. You can find the latest bus updates on the MTA Bus Time website.

Please note that bus schedules and routes may be subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for updates before your visit.


How much time should I plan to spend at Tenement Museum Tours?

The ideal length of time to plan for a visit to the Tenement Museum Tours in New York City depends on the type of tour you choose. The museum offers several different tours, each with its own duration.

For the "Shop Life" tour, which explores the history of immigrant entrepreneurship, you should plan for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This tour takes you through a recreated 19th-century German saloon and a 1930s kosher butcher shop.

If you opt for the "Sweatshop Workers" tour, which focuses on the garment industry, you should allocate about 1 hour and 15 minutes as well. This tour takes you through the cramped living and working spaces of garment workers.

For the "Hard Times" tour, which delves into the struggles faced during the Great Depression, you should plan for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This tour explores the lives of the Moore family, who lived in the tenement during this challenging period.

The "Under One Roof" tour, which highlights the experiences of three different families who lived in the building from the 1950s to the 2000s, lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

If you're interested in a more immersive experience, the "Tenement Museum: Behind the Scenes" tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. This tour takes you to areas not typically accessible to the public and provides a deeper understanding of the museum's operations.

Overall, I would recommend allocating at least 1 hour and 15 minutes for a visit to the Tenement Museum Tours. However, if you have the time and interest, exploring multiple tours or opting for the "Behind the Scenes" tour can offer a more comprehensive experience.


Can I bring food and drinks into Tenement Museum Tours?

The Tenement Museum Tours in New York City does not allow food or drinks during the tours. This policy is in place to ensure the preservation and protection of the historic artifacts and spaces within the museum. However, there are plenty of dining options available in the surrounding Lower East Side neighborhood where you can enjoy a delicious meal before or after your visit to the museum. From trendy cafes to traditional delis, there's something to satisfy every palate. Just be sure to plan your dining accordingly and enjoy your visit to the Tenement Museum!


Does Tenement Museum Tours offer luggage storage?

The Tenement Museum in New York City does not have a luggage storage facility on site. Due to limited space and security concerns, they are unable to accommodate large bags or suitcases. However, there are several luggage storage options available nearby, including several businesses that specialize in providing secure storage for travelers. Some popular options include LuggageHero, Schwartz Luggage Storage, and Vertoe. These services allow you to safely store your belongings while you explore the museum and the surrounding area. Just remember to check their operating hours and fees before dropping off your bags.


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

Yes, the Tenement Museum Tours in New York City are definitely worth visiting for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. The museum offers a variety of guided tours that explore the history and experiences of immigrants in New York City. These tours are available in multiple languages, including Spanish, Chinese, and Italian, among others. The knowledgeable guides provide a fascinating and immersive experience, sharing stories and insights that resonate with people from all backgrounds. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply want to gain a deeper understanding of the immigrant experience in New York City, the Tenement Museum Tours are a must-visit attraction.


What ages are appropriate for Tenement Museum Tours?

The Tenement Museum Tours in New York City are suitable for visitors of all ages. However, it is important to note that the content of the tours is geared towards older children and adults. Younger children may not fully appreciate or understand the historical significance of the museum. If you are visiting with younger children, it is recommended to opt for the "Sweatshop Workers" or "Meet Victoria Confino" tours, which are specifically designed for families with children aged 5 and up. These tours provide a more interactive and engaging experience for younger visitors. Overall, the Tenement Museum offers a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages, so don't hesitate to include it in your itinerary!


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