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New Haven Museum: A Chronicle of the Elm City
Discover New Haven's vibrant past through captivating exhibits, historical artifacts, and engaging programs at the New Haven Museum.
The New Haven Museum, established in 1862, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history and culture of New Haven and the surrounding region. Housed in a historic Colonial Revival building, the museum features a diverse collection of artifacts, documents, and art that tell the story of New Haven from its earliest days to the present.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to New Haven Museum
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Wednesday
10 am-5 pm
Thursday
10 am-5 pm
Friday
10 am-5 pm
Saturday
12 pm-5 pm
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Getting There
Walking
The New Haven Museum is located in the Downtown area of New Haven, easily accessible by foot from many nearby attractions and Yale University. From the New Haven Green, walk northeast on Elm Street, then turn right onto Whitney Avenue. The museum will be on your left. No costs are associated with this approach.
Public Transport
CT Transit buses serve the New Haven Museum. Several bus routes stop near the intersection of Whitney Avenue and Trumbull Street, a short walk from the museum. Check the CT Transit website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. A single-ride fare is $1.75.
Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in New Haven. A ride from Union Station or other downtown locations to the New Haven Museum will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and demand.
Driving
From I-91 North or South, take Exit 3 for Trumbull Street. At the end of the ramp, stay in the center lane and proceed straight through the first traffic light. At the next traffic light, turn right onto Whitney Avenue. The New Haven Museum will be immediately on your left. Limited free parking is available in the rear of the building. Street parking is also available in the surrounding area, but may be limited due to construction. Several parking garages are located within walking distance, including the Audubon Garage and garages on Grove Street. Metered street parking typically costs $1.50 per hour. Garage parking rates vary, but typically range from $2 to $4 per hour.
Local tips
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Check the museum's website for current exhibitions and events before your visit.
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Take advantage of the free admission on the first Sunday of each month.
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If you're interested in in-depth research, schedule an appointment at the Whitney Research Library.
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Limited free parking is available behind the museum.
Discover more about New Haven Museum
The New Haven Museum, originally known as the New Haven Colony Historical Society, has been a cornerstone of the city's cultural landscape since 1862. Its mission is to collect, preserve, and interpret the history and heritage of the greater New Haven community. The museum's current building, a beautiful Colonial Revival structure designed by J. Frederick Kelly, was built in 1929 and incorporates architectural elements salvaged from demolished New Haven houses.
The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including the history of New Haven, the Amistad case, local art and decorative arts, and collections associated with prominent figures such as Eli Whitney, Winchester, and Noah Webster. Visitors can explore permanent exhibitions like the New Haven Gallery, which features the Eli Whitney Cotton Gin, and the Amistad Gallery, which showcases Nathaniel Joselyn's Cinque Portrait. The Whitney Research Library at the museum offers a wealth of resources for researchers, including rare books, manuscripts, architectural drawings, and photographs.
Rotating and special exhibitions keep the museum fresh and engaging. Past exhibits have explored the history of local industries, the role of women in the New Haven arts community, and the story of the New Haven Clock Company Factory. Currently, visitors can explore exhibitions such as “Enduring Creativity: Celebrating 125 Years of the New Haven Paint & Clay Club” and “Invitation to Engage: 60 Years of Long Wharf Theatre & Beyond”. The museum also features exhibitions highlighting Black history, such as “Amistad: Retold” and “Shining Light on Truth”.
The New Haven Museum offers a variety of educational programs and events for visitors of all ages. These programs provide interactive, inquiry-based learning experiences that bring local history to life. The museum also hosts community days and other special events throughout the year.
A brief summary to New Haven Museum
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