First semester Columbia students in University Life’s Community Citizenship Initiative (CCI) explored the Museum of the City of New York last Friday, just a short ride via the M4 bus from Morningside.
If you haven’t had a chance to explore this gem, this winter season is the perfect time! Currently, the museum has a holiday-specific exhibit, titled “Gingerbread NYC: The Great Borough Bake-Off,” featuring gingerbread houses modeled after various New York buildings and landmarks. Visitors have the chance to participate in a gingerbread-themed scavenger hunt, and yes, all students joined in!
Across the galleries, you’ll find walk-throughs of New York City’s past and present. Tracing the city’s history from the 1600s to today, you’ll explore themes like activism, immigration, population density, creativity, and the many industries that have shaped and continue to mold New York’s growth.
On the second floor, a particular crowd favorite is the “Songs of New York” section, where stepping on different boroughs introduces music tied to that neighborhood. As you wander through the exhibition, you’ll hear music from Louis Armstrong, Suzanne Vega, Tito Puente, Merle Haggard, LCD Soundsystem, and many more.
Following New York’s music scene, the third floor hosts the “Urban Stomp: Dreams & Defiance on the Dance Floor” exhibition, which encourages visitors to have some fun, try new dance moves, and explore New York’s wide range of dance traditions. A long hallway features tutorial videos of salsa dancing, hip-hop, foxtrot, and more. There’s even a giant record player where you can select a genre and dance on the designated dance floor.
Film lovers will appreciate the “You Are Here: An Immersive Film Experience in New York” exhibit. Walking through, you’ll read quotes from directors like Lin-Manuel Miranda and Nora Ephron, reflecting on filming in New York, with clips from movies that you may want to add to your watch list. Aficionados will recognize familiar faces including Gene Kelly, Joaquin Phoenix, Lena Horne, Eddie Murphy, Bill Murray, Robert De Niro, Will Smith, Jay-Z, Samuel L. Jackson, Constance Wu, Richard Roundtree, Frank Sinatra, and Kermit the Frog (bonus points if you can name each NYC movie these folks are in!).
NYC residents can opt in for pay-what-you-wish to attend, and the museum is free to the public on Wednesdays. For other times, general admission is $23 for adults, $14 for students with a valid ID, and free for anybody 18 and younger.
From subway scenes to racing taxis and the iconic Katz’s Deli, this museum is a must for anyone who calls New York City home!
Be sure to check out other events hosted by University Life, or read the newsletter every Tuesday for more opportunities.
