Fraunces Tavern Museum — Attraction in New York

The Fraunces Tavern Museum is a renowned New York City museum that is dedicated on preserving and showcasing the history of Colonial America, the American Revolutionary War, and the early days of the American republic.

In July of 2024, I brought and treated my wife and myself for a guided tour of the Fraunces Tavern museum, and we thoroughly enjoyed our experience when visiting this amazing historical attraction.

During our tour, we learned that the museum is housed in the oldest building in Manhattan, New York. The building was first developed in 1719 and served as the home of Stephen Delauncy, a major figure in the colonial New York Period.

It was subsequently acquired in 1762 by Samuel Frances, a businessman and close acquaintance of President George Washington. Frances converted the building to a tavern and named it “Queen’s Head”

In 1907, The building was purchased by the Sons of the Revolution, a patriotic organization that played a big role on converting the tavern to a museum. They also named the museum after Samuel Frances. Today, the building still contains the museum as well as a popular and well acclaimed restaurant.

Our tour guide did a fantastic job on covering the notable historic events that occurred at the Frances Tavern building.

The big events that that were discussed were George Washington’s farewell address to his officers in 1783 following America’s victory in the Revolutionary War, the peaceful negotiations between the Americans & the British, & that the building was used to house Federal Officials during the Early Republic years.

What my wife and I also liked about the museum were its artifacts and the exhibits. We were able to see a lock of George Washington’s hair, and a remnant of his dentures. We also enjoyed viewing the “Cloaked Crusader” exhibit which features George Washington’s depictions in pop art and comic book magazines.

If you are passionate fan enthusiast of American history like I am, you’ll definitely enjoy visiting the Frances Tavern museum. Both my wife and I would love to thank the museum for their amazing guided tour...

It was so amazing!!! Would definitely go again, now I came for the museum (which is why im on the museum) and sadly didn’t try the food. But the museum was very cool, it had busts from the actual 18th century, and a bloody scarf used in the revolutionary war. It might sound gross but I found it very fascinating. When you enter the tavern, it’s actually a running restaurant, and there is a second story, which you go up the stairs and enter a room, where you buy your tickets. The tickets are very cheap ($5, I believe?) and then you are free to explore around. I saw a Lafayette and Hamilton bust, which is very cool. When you walk, the floor creaks slightly, which proves it’s old. In a specific room (the one next to the Lafayette bust) there is a video about the American Revolution playing. Couldn’t watch the whole thing, I was in a rush to get back to my hotel and get ready to go see Hamilton (check other review for Richard Rodgers Theatre) but overall, very...

Fraunces Tavern Museum is not just any museum; it’s a treasure trove of remarkable history waiting to be explored. Take all the time you need to soak in the stories this place has to offer!

To begin your journey, head to the second floor via the main entrance of the restaurant. Once you arrive, turn right to find the museum shop, where you can purchase your tickets—and maybe a souvenir or two. Don’t forget to give a warm welcome to Paul the Pewter, the museum’s charming mascot, who’s always eager for a chat!

As you wander through, remember that this building, along with its original documents, art, and artifacts, boasts over 200 years of history. Each item is a testament to the captivating tales that unfolded here. Words can hardly capture the sensations, emotions, and thoughts this place evokes—so the best advice is simply to visit and experience the magic...