๐ Staten Island's Hidden Gem: A Tibetan Sanctuary in NYC ๐๏ธโจ
The Jacques Marchais Museum of Tibetan Art 338 Lighthouse Ave, Staten Island, NY 10306 (Open Thurs-Sun 1-5pm, FREE with Culture Pass) This might be NYC's most unexpected cultural treasure! Founded by Jacques Marchais (actually a woman named Jacqueline Klauber), an American actress born in 1887 who never visited Tibet - yet created this stunning replica of a Himalayan monastery to showcase her exquisite collection! ๐ญ๐ What makes it special: โข Authentic stone architecture that transports you to Tibet โข Thoughtfully curated Himalayan artifacts and thangkas โข Serene meditation garden with prayer wheels ๐ฟ โข Panoramic views of NYC from the hilltop location ๐ฝ Though compact (about 1 hour visit), every detail shines: โ๏ธ Intimate galleries with rare Buddhist art โ๏ธ Peaceful courtyard perfect for reflection โ๏ธ Fascinating story of its determined founder Pro Tips: Combine with nearby Snug Harbor Cultural Center Check website for special meditation events The winding drive up feels like an adventure! ๐๐จ #NYCHiddenGems #OffbeatNYC #NYCMuseums #StatenIsland #WeekendInNY #NYCWeekend #StatenIslandNY #TibetanArt #NYCDayTrip #CulturalNYC