Across New York City, there are dozens of historical buildings and history on nearly every corner. However, there are little-known house museums, 23 in total, spread across the city. They are all run by a non-profit group, the Historic House Trust, which aims to preserve the richness of the past to educate the present and future generations of those who choose to visit. Here are some of the top houses to visit on your next trip to the big apple.
Merchant’s House Museum
As one of the first individual buildings to be designated an official landmark, this home is steeped in history. It features a gorgeous facade, many items from the late 1800s, and offers a rare glimpse into domestic life during the 19th century. You might want to book your tour in advance for this popular house!
Gracie Mansion
If you want to see how the wealthy once lived along the East River, look no further. Built by a merchant, Archibald Gracie in 1799, this house is the only one of its kind left along the river. After the rich owners left, it once was used as an ice cream stand for the surrounding park, but upgraded its standing by becoming the home to the mayor in 1942.
Morris-Jumel Mansion Museum
Built in 1765 as a retreat for a wealthy couple, this home has seen quite a few changes. From host to fashionable parties, to being seized by the Continental Army to serve as the headquarters for George Washington, to becoming the extravagant home of a French wine merchant, this mansion was finally opened to the public in 1904 as a museum and features items from each of its transitional periods.