The Museum at Eldridge Street occupies the Eldridge Street Synagogue, a meticulously restored National Historic Landmark that opened in 1887. This architectural marvel is a testament to the spirit of Eastern European Jewish immigrants who settled in New York City. As one of the earliest synagogues built by Jewish immigrants in the US, it remains a hidden gem. The Museum offers visitors a glimpse into Jewish heritage and immigrant life through exhibits, public programs, and educational initiatives. You can explore its rich history, Gothic-Moorish-Romanesque architecture, and cultural impact on Jewish New York and beyond. 

Background of Museum at Eldridge Street 

Built in 1887 for an Orthodox Jewish congregation, the Eldridge Street Synagogue now serves as a house of worship and the Museum at Eldridge Street. The Eldridge Street Project led an extensive restoration beginning in the early 1980s, and the synagogue became fully operational in 2007. Today, it offers informative exhibitions that provide insights into the Jewish community’s past and present life.

Peter and Francis Herter designed the interiors in the Moorish Revival style. The Museum features meticulously restored pieces such as stained-glass windows, hand-painted murals, and an exquisite brass chandelier.

Where is the Museum at Eldridge Street and how to get there

The Museum at Eldridge Street is located at 12 Eldridge Street in the Lower East Side neighborhood of Manhattan.

Getting to the Museum at Eldridge Street is easy:

By Bus: Take the M15 to Grand and Allen Streets. (Bus Service is subject to change. Please check the website for more)

By Subway: You can take the F train to East Broadway and walk to the Museum. The B or D trains will also take you to Grand Street, just a short walk from the Museum. Other options include taking the 6, N, Q, R, J, or Z trains to Canal Street.

What to expect when you visit?

The Museum at Eldridge Street is usually quiet, offering an excellent opportunity for introspective visits. However, weekends may be busier due to special events.

This iconic place welcomes visitors with disabilities and their caretakers. The Museum at Eldridge Street has four levels that are fully accessible via ramps and elevators. 

Admission for any personal care attendant accompanying a visitor is complimentary.

The Museum also provides assistive listening devices for tours, in-person lectures, and programs. You must contact them at least two weeks before your visit for assistance.

You can take photos without flash for personal use. Casual shots of family and friends in everyday attire don’t need permission. Please schedule an appointment for posed photoshoots or using a photographer, tripod, or unique dress.

The Museum does not have dining facilities. You cannot eat inside its premises, emphasizing the focus on preserving its historical and cultural integrity.

What else can you do when you visit?

The Eldridge Street Museum offers guided tours focusing on the synagogue’s history and architecture. You can also enjoy self-guided tours for independent exploration. Additionally, visitors can explore temporary exhibits and educational programs to deepen their understanding of Jewish culture and history.

Besides visiting the Museum, you can also explore the vibrant Lower East Side neighborhood, which boasts various restaurants, shops, and cultural institutions. The Tenement Museum, Chinatown, and Little Italy offer unique and diverse experiences blocks away.

FAQs 

Is the Museum open every day?

The Museum is open Sunday through Friday from 10 am to 5 pm. It is closed on Saturdays.

Can I attend a service at the synagogue?

The synagogue is completely dedicated to the museum, so there are no services held on the premises. 

Are there any admission fees?

Yes, there is an admission fee with discounts for senior citizens, students, and children aged 5-17. Children under the age of 5 enter free of charge.

Is the Museum ADA-compliant?

Yes, The Museum at Eldridge Street is fully accessible by ramp and elevator on all four of its levels. The north side of the building is stair-free, and the museum’s lower-level restrooms include an accessible stall.

Can I take photos inside the Museum?

Photography is allowed in most museum areas, but flash photography may be restricted.

Exploring the Museum at Eldridge Street offers an intimate journey through New York City’s Jewish cultural legacy. From its stunning architecture to its cultural exhibitions, every corner conveys a story of resilience and heritage. 

You can admire the beautiful interiors or get involved in community-focused programs. This hidden gem will help you discover the past, connect with the present, and leave with a deeper appreciation for Jewish culture.

Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, the Museum at Eldridge Street is perfect. After exploring this cultural hotspot, continue your journey in the vibrant surroundings of Manhattan, where other attractions and dining options await. Discover nearby attractions like the Tenement Museum, delve into the bustling streets of Chinatown, or indulge in the culinary delights of Little Italy. 

Whether you’re exploring solo or with friends, the Museum at Eldridge Street promises a memorable visit. Discover this rare cultural experience firsthand and learn about the enduring ambition of immigrant communities.

The post The Museum at Eldridge Street: A First Timer’s Guide to NYC’s Cultural Hotspot and Architectural Gem appeared first on Secret NYC.

* This article was originally published here

Located in the heart of Manhattan, the Central Park Zoo offers a unique wildlife experience within the urban landscape. Its precursor was founded in 1964 and the present facility was opened in 1934, making it one of the country’s oldest zoos. Spread across 6.5 acres and managed by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), the zoo is integral to New York City’s natural heritage. Visitors can explore a diverse range of wildlife and engage in educational programs, making it a vital educational and conservation hub in the city.

Background on Central Park Zoo

The Central Park Zoo holds a prominent place as one of the oldest zoos in the United States. Originally opening on its current site in 1934, it underwent substantial expansion during the Works Progress Administration (WPA) era. Managed by the Wildlife Conservation Society since the 1980s, the zoo underwent a transformative renovation, reopening in 1988 with modern natural habitats replacing traditional cages.

The zoo has evolved significantly through renovations, redesigns, and additions such as the Tisch Children’s Zoo and the Alison Maher Stern Snow Leopard Exhibit. Central Park Zoo features waterfowl, penguins, seals, bears, monkeys, and other wildlife animals, offering diverse experiences year-round.

Where is Central Park Zoo and how to get there

The zoo is located near the southeast corner of Central Park and next to Fifth Avenue and East 64th Street.

You can conveniently reach the zoo by taking the N, R, or W trains to Fifth Avenue/59th Street station, then walk to 64th Street. Alternatively, take the Lexington Avenue No. 6 train to 68th Street.

Multiple bus routes serve the area, including M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M66, or Q32, stopping along Fifth Avenue for easy access to the zoo.

What to expect when you visit

Central Park Zoo comprises both indoor and outdoor settings, suitable for warm and cold seasons alike. The zoo is open daily from 10-5 on weekdays and 10-5:30 on weekends and holidays. Expect large to moderate crowds on weekends and holidays. It may take 1-1.5 hours to explore daily exhibits and amenities at the zoo. So, plan accordingly to enjoy the park leisurely.

All visitors, including one-day ticket holders and WCS members, are not allowed re-entry; new dated/time entry tickets are valid for a single visit. On arrival, check the official website of the Central Park Zoo for updated information about the day’s available exhibits and amenities.

An adult must accompany guests aged 12 and under. The park provides wheelchair access, and the ticket window offers free wheelchairs in limited quantities on a first-come, first-served basis. Child scooters and skateboards are not allowed in the park.

After exploring 130+ animal species, you can relax at the Dancing Crane Café and enjoy lip-smacking meals, beverages, and desserts. Picnic benches outside the zoo or in the park are perfect for enjoying a packed lunch.

Get Your Tickets to Visit Central Park Zoo

What else can you do when you visit?

The Central Park Zoo promises exciting experiences, a 4D theatre, penguin and sea lion feeding, and various kid-friendly quests. You can also explore Central Park, with available activities such as cruising rowboats on the lake, exploring the Central Park Conservatory Garden, or simply taking a casual walk in the park.

Nearby, you’ll find the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the famous shopping hub of Fifth Avenue, always worth a visit.

From nature lovers to those who want to escape the concrete jungle for a while, a few places offer an enriching experience, such as the Central Park Zoo. With its varied animal exhibits, interactive educational programs, and picturesque scenery, it is a destination that will charm visitors of all ages. 

FAQs

What are the zoo’s hours of operation?

The Central Park Zoo opens daily at 10 am; from March to November, closing times are 5 pm on weekdays and 5:30 pm on weekends and holidays. For the colder months (November through March), closing time is 4:30 pm every day. The last entry is one hour before closing.

Are there any special events at the zoo?

The zoo hosts various events throughout the year, including family programs, conservation talks, and seasonal celebrations.

Can I bring food to the zoo?

Outside food is not allowed, but there are several cafés and food carts within the zoo that offer a variety of snacks and meals.

How much time does it take to explore the zoo?

It usually takes 1-1.5 hours to explore the park. However, the time might vary depending on the exhibits currently running.

Central Park Zoo at sunset strikes the perfect balance between the city’s hustle and the serene aspects of nature. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of New York City’s animal kingdom, from witnessing the graceful stride of a snow leopard to enjoying the playful antics of sea lions! Whether attending a program, meeting one of the animals up close, or enjoying the park’s amazing views, visiting the Central Park Zoo is a must-visit in NYC.

The post Central Park Zoo: An Insider’s Guide to the NYC’s Iconic Wildlife Haven appeared first on Secret NYC.

* This article was originally published here

It’s a boat summer here in NYC, and we’re taking every chance we can get to go afloat this year!

Making its massive return in 2024, our friends at Circle Line are bringing back their iconic Summer Dance Series. Guests will once again be able to strut their moves on top of an iconic boat, making rounds around NYC all summer long.

These 2.5 hour cruises will feature, which include an evening full of dancing, seasonal cocktails, and themed costume contests, will welcome a seasoned choreographer on board to help guests master signature moves from top artists and genres!

Lead by their Pop Choreography Expert, Byron Freeman from B. Free Dance, each cruise will feature a group lesson followed by a free-for-all final hour and incredible sunset views.

Check out this year’s lineup of cruise below:

• Janet to MJ – Thursday, July 11
  • Get ready to moonwalk on water as you partake in a Jackson-themed dance cruise that gets even hotter than an NYC summer night! Thriller themed outfits aren’t required, but recommended for the best time.
• Hip Hop Divas (Women in Hip Hop) – Wednesday, August 7
  • Become the next hip-hop diva with Circle Line’s women-focused hip-hop cruise featuring some really speical surprises! Plus, the cruise has partnered with The Hip Hop Museum to donate 50% of all ticket sales revenues from this sail to their institution to celebrate their commitment to the culture. Recommended dress code includes bucket hats, matching tracksuits, or whatever makes you feel good!
• Yeah! Cruise – September 5
  • Calling all Usher fans, this dance cruise is for you! This cruise along the Hudson River is the ultimate tribute to the pop icon, and you’ll surely be hair flipping, hip shaking, and twerking by the end of the night!

Tickets for each cruise start at just $30 and can be purchased through Circle Line’s website here.

The post NYC’s Hottest Floating Summer Dance Series Returns This Summer appeared first on Secret NYC.

* This article was originally published here