The Morgan Library & Museum — Attraction in New York

Originally John Pierpont Morgan’s personal library, the Morgan Library and Museum is a hidden gem that, in my opinion, is overlooked by both tourists and locals.

The Historic Library (aka The East Room) is impressive - photos do not do it justice. If you have the time, I would recommend that you look at the books in the display cases in this room as I noticed quite a few tourists come in, take photos of the room, and leave. At the very least, take a look at the book on the right as you enter - it is one of the three Gutenburg bibles owned by the Morgan Library. The Study and the Librarian’s Office are also opulent, but not on par with the Historic Library. The office displayed a small exhibition of cylinder seals from the Middle-east as well as medieval jewelry from Europe. The room was once the domain of Belle da Costa Greene, JP Morgan’s private librarian. You may want to learn more about her on the Morgan Library website as her story is pretty fascinating. There are also numerous galleries that host rotating exhibits - the one on the second floor is called “Medieval Money, Merchants, and Morality” - a small, but fascinating look at the Medieval view of money and morality through the lens of books and paintings from that era. In the atrium, there is also a café that was bustling with visitors by lunch time - I think the food is on the expensive side, but the wine list is surprisingly good for a museum café.

The museum costs $22 for adults and entry is timed. Online tickets cost $25.50 for adults because it includes a ticketing fee. The fee is about the same as most NYC museums of similar size. Nonetheless, if you want to enter for free, you can stop by on Tuesdays or Sundays from 3 PM - 5 PM - reservations are not required. You can also enter for free from 5 PM - 7 PM on Fridays, but reservations are required via their website.

Lastly, if you want to take photos of the historic library without other people, get an online ticket for 10:30 AM, arrive by 10:15 AM, stand in line, and walk to the historic library as soon as the doors open. A lot of people will purchase tickets at the door and will begin with the first floor galleries, the office, or the study. If you go to the library first when the doors open, there’s a good chance that you will have the room to yourself for a few minutes or more. After you take your photos, you can take your time through all...

Picture 📸 it NYC, July 12, 2024. Bright sunny hot day, temperature 81 degrees. It is supposed to rain but it didn't. I get there, and there is a line, particularly for free entry, Friday 5-7. I personally got my free ticket online. They let us in. If you have a bag, they check your bag by security. Then they asked if you had a ticket, I did, and it was scanned. Others did not, and they were given a ticket. To the left is a place to check your bag. To the left is their gift shop. Straight down is the dining area, and further down is a jazz band with limited seats surrounding them playing live jazz music 🎷 🎺 🎶. The seats are open to anyone, but only diners can sit at the tables in the dining area. Now, for the reason why you are here. This library museum was quite nice. It is not huge, like the other museums in the city, but it is a sight to see. There are several levels. You have the first level, which has an exhibit of various things along with what I described. You have the basement with paintings and murals with the explanation of the whole library and museum, including key players. Keep in mind that most of their exhibits change frequently, so this is a place that is worth frequenting. The first level has the library with books behind a uniquely designed mesh gate. But they have particular pieces on display with a short description. There are also various exhibits on the first floor as well. The second level has a smaller has a smaller exhibit with a good amount to see. I'm not too sure if many knew that there was something to see up there. Then you had the forbidden 3rd floor for staff and private tours. As a general admission, there is a lot to see 👀. But I believe that with private tours, there are much more. I got there early so I snapped some photos 📸 of the outside area that was not open to the public. Will insert all pictures. There is a grave in one of the courtyards. But what is a historical building without a grave. There was a good crowd, but manageable. When you visit, keep in mind that you are not just in a library museum, you are in someone's very old house. That is what gives the visit a different feel. I hope if you do decide to go, you have a great time. I went alone and thoroughly enjoyed myself. Plan to go back with a relative and act as...

The Morgan Library & Museum is a breathtaking fusion of literary history, fine art, and architectural grandeur, nestled in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Originally the private library of financier J.P. Morgan, this stunning institution offers visitors an intimate glimpse into the world of rare manuscripts, historical documents, and masterpieces of art, all housed in an environment that exudes old-world elegance.

Stepping into the original library, I was immediately captivated by the soaring ceilings, ornate wood paneling, and intricately painted frescoes that give the space an almost cathedral-like reverence. The library's towering, book-lined walls house an extraordinary collection of rare books and manuscripts, including illuminated medieval texts, original works by literary giants like Charles Dickens and Mark Twain, and even a Gutenberg Bible—one of the first books ever printed.

Beyond its literary treasures, The Morgan also features rotating exhibitions that showcase everything from Renaissance drawings to modern photography, offering a rich and diverse cultural experience. The McKim Building, with its stained glass windows and marble columns, is a masterpiece in itself, while the modern glass-and-steel annex seamlessly blends contemporary design with the historic charm of the original structure.

One of the highlights of my visit was the beautifully preserved study of J.P. Morgan, where intricate details, from the furniture to the personal artifacts, offer a glimpse into the life of one of America’s most influential figures. The Reading Room is another gem—quiet and serene, it’s a space where visitors can truly immerse themselves in the world of literature and history.

For a complete experience, I recommend taking a guided tour, which provides fascinating insights into the collection and the history of the library itself. The Morgan Café is perfect for a leisurely lunch or coffee, surrounded by the serene beauty of the glass-enclosed courtyard.

Whether you’re a literature enthusiast, an art lover, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful spaces, The Morgan Library & Museum offers a deeply enriching and inspiring experience, making it one of New York City’s...