If you want to delve into the history of New York City, the Tenement Museum is a really good place to start. The story of this city is about immigration and it is what makes New York City so diverse and interesting.

“At a time when issues surrounding migrants, refugees, and immigration have taken center stage, the Tenement Museum is a potent reminder that, as a nation shaped by immigration, our brightest hope for the future lies in the lessons of the past.”

Tenement Museum - 103 Orchard Street at Delancy

Anastasia Photo is a small photo gallery in the Lower East Side. As a photographer, I am always happy to find galleries and museums that are dedicated to photography.

“Anastasia Photo is a New York City gallery that curates exhibitions and public programming around issues of social and environmental importance. Specializing in documentary photography and photojournalism, the gallery also serves as a center for discussion and portfolio review.”

They are closed Sundays and Mondays.

Anastasia Photo - 143 Ludlow Street near Stanton

The Ukrainian Museum is located in the East Village which has been home to many Ukrainian immigrants since the late 1800s. You will find a number of Ukrainian businesses in the East Village including restaurants and also churches.

“The Ukrainian Museum is the largest museum in the U.S. committed to acquiring, preserving, exhibiting, and interpreting articles of artistic or historic significance to the rich cultural heritage of Ukrainians. At its founding in 1976 by the Ukrainian National Women's League of America, the Museum was hailed as one of the finest achievements of the Ukrainian American community. Today, its unparalleled array of folk art, exceptional collection of fine art, and extensive compendium of archival materials make it one of the most unique and dynamic museums in New York City, with broad appeal for diverse audiences. Each year, the Museum organizes several exhibitions, publishes accompanying bilingual catalogues, and conducts a wide range of public programming, frequently in collaboration with other museums, educational institutions, and cultural centers.”

The Ukrainian Museum - 222 East 6th Street

The American Kennel Club first opened their Museum of the Dog in 1982 in New York City. They have changed locations a few times outside of New York City and they recently returned.

In their own words “The AKC Museum of the Dog preserves, interprets and celebrates the role of dogs in society and educates the public about the human-canine bond through its collection of art and exhibits that inspire engagement with dogs.”

A must see for dog lovers and it’s a stone’s throw from Grand Central.

The AKC Museum of the Dog - 101 Park Avenue at 40th Street