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Museum of Jewish Heritage

A poignant living memorial and historical museum in Battery Park City, dedicated to the history of Jewish life and the memory of the six million victims of the Holocaust.

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Museum of Jewish Heritage
mjhnyc.org, og_image_mjhnyc.org

What is the Museum of Jewish Heritage known for?

It is New York’s Holocaust museum and a memorial to those murdered in the Holocaust, focusing on Jewish life before, during, and after the event.

How much does it cost to visit?

Admission is $18 for adults and $12 for seniors, veterans, students, and ADA/access visitors. Children 12 and under and members are free.

What are the hours of operation?

The museum is open Sunday and Wednesday from 10 AM to 5 PM ET, Thursday from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM.

Is it free to visit at any time?

Yes, admission to the museum is free on Thursdays between 4 PM and 8 PM.

What makes the architecture of the building unique?

The building's six-sided shape and tiered, pyramid-shaped roof symbolize the Star of David and the six million Jews killed in the Holocaust.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Museum of Jewish Heritage is New York City's primary Holocaust museum, serving as both a historical institution and a living memorial to those murdered during the Holocaust. Opened in 1997, the museum has since welcomed over two million visitors to its 30,000-square-foot waterfront facility on Edmond J. Safra Plaza. Architecturally, the building is designed with a six-sided shape and a tiered, pyramid-shaped roof. These elements are deeply symbolic, representing the six points of the Star of David and the six million Jews who perished in the Holocaust. This intentional design ensures that the architecture itself serves as a memorial before visitors even enter the building. Inside, the museum focuses on the narrative of Jewish life before, during, and after the Holocaust. It includes specialized areas such as the Robert M. Morgenthau Wing. The museum's mission is to educate a diverse community about Jewish heritage and the resilience of the human spirit through comprehensive exhibitions. One of the most impactful installations is 'Survivor Stories: An Interactive Dialogue.' This installation allows visitors to 'converse' with 10 Holocaust survivors from the Museum's Speakers Bureau. Through pre-recorded testimonies, the installation addresses over 150 frequently asked questions, providing a personal, interactive experience that transforms historical data into human stories.

Visitor tips

  • Plan your visit for Thursday between 4 PM and 8 PM to take advantage of free admission.
  • Adult tickets are $18, while seniors, students, and veterans receive a discounted rate of $12.
  • Children aged 12 and under enter for free.
  • Allow at least two hours to fully engage with the interactive survivor testimonies.

Nearby context

Located in the waterfront area of Battery Park City on Edmond J. Safra Plaza, the museum is positioned as a key cultural destination within this modern neighborhood, offering a quiet space for reflection near the bustling harbor.

Sources

Evidence and links