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Location
Visitor tip
Start with the lower level to explore Staten Island's history, then move to the first floor for nature exhibits and second floor for archaeological items and TB hospital panels—this logical flow enhances understanding of the island's story.
Best time
Visit on a weekday or during off-peak hours to enjoy the museum as a peaceful, quiet space—ideal for contemplative viewing of the thoughtfully curated exhibits without crowds.
Visitor tip
The surrounding Snug Harbor Cultural Center grounds are beautiful and worth exploring before or after your museum visit—the staff can provide recommendations on other nearby attractions like the Maritime Museum.
About Staten Island Museum
Local art, history & nature exhibits. General-interest museum with exhibits covering local history, art & the natural sciences.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Natural History Museum
- Mission
- Spark curiosity through natural science, art, and history
- Current Exhibitions
- Here You Are Triennial, Breakdown: The Promise of Decay
- Membership
- Yes, monthly membership available with 2:1 match
- Event Venue
- Available for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations
What visitors say
Visiting from Texas and Jean at the front was so awesome, gave us some background on Staten Island and Snug Harbor! Was really patient and nice, gave us recommendations and was pleasant to talk with. Entrance is “pay what you want” with…
The Staten Island Museum is a small but charming spot that’s perfect for a quiet visit. It’s air-conditioned, which makes it extra nice on hot days, and they operate on a pay-what-you-wish system—so it’s very affordable. The exhibits…
I love the lower level of the Museum, which tells the history of the Island. The first floor is more about the nature on the island, and the second floor displays archaeological items and panels about the hospital for TB. You don't need…
From 343 Google reviews
Did You Know?
- The Staten Island Museum operates on a pay-what-you-wish admission model with a suggested $8 for adults, making it an unusually affordable cultural institution
- The museum features a distinctive multi-level layout with different thematic focuses: lower level covering island history, first floor dedicated to local nature exhibits, and second floor displaying archaeological items and panels about a historic tuberculosis hospital
- Current exhibitions include 'Breakdown: The Promise of Decay,' a contemporary artwork exhibit that uniquely explores the science of decomposition alongside collection objects
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