New-York Historical Society

After a few shaky financial years in the 1990s, the New-York Historical Society (2 W. 77th St., at CPW, 212/873-3400, www.nyhistory.org [1], 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Tues.–Sun., adults $10, children and seniors $5, children under 12 free) is back with a roar. Founded in 1806, it was one of the country’s first cultural institutions, and now boasts a brand new 17,000-square-foot gallery space.

On permanent display are such artifacts as George Washington’s Valley Forge cot and an exhibit about New York circa 1901 for kids. Temporary exhibits focus on all aspects of New York City [2]’s history, from immigrants to board games.