New York Dearest
The guide, $35
A museum · Williamsburg · on 2 of my lists

The City Reliquary.

Worth it, says Antonina. I like to think of the unique NYC museum as the city’s garage.

Antonina Pattiz
Antonina PattizI went myself · from My favorite unusual museums in New York
Address
370 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn Directions
Subway
L to Bedford Av, 5 min
Website
cityreliquary.org
What this page is

Everything I’ve written about The City Reliquary on New York Dearest, in one place. It’s on 2 of my lists, from My favorite unusual museums in New York to Best museums in Brooklyn, and each one says something the others don’t. Below you’ll find every list it’s on with what I wrote there and where it is and what’s near.

  1. My favorite unusual museums in New YorkWorth it
  2. Best museums in BrooklynWorth it

Where it appears on New York Dearest

2 of my lists, the fullest first
Worth it
What I wrote thereFold it away

The City Reliquary is a treasure trove of NYC history tucked away in Williamsburg. Founded in 2002 by a passionate collector, the artifacts make up one of the most unique museums in NYC. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated!

Inside, you’ll find a fascinating jumble of everyday artifacts that tell the stories of New York’s five boroughs. Think subway tokens, vintage toys, remnants of the World’s Fairs, and even a rope from City Hall after 9/11. I like to think of the unique NYC museum as the city’s garage.

Special exhibits showcase local collections and community events keep things lively, providing an intimate look into the heart and soul of NYC. The City Reliquary is not a huge museum, so allocate around 30/60 minutes for the experience.

Read it on the list
  • Costfree (donations appreciated)
  • Address370 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
  • From my guide, published June 2024.
Worth it, says Antonina. Been? Say if you agree.

Best museums in Brooklyn

No. 8 on that list
Worth it

The City Reliquary is one of the most underrated museums in Brooklyn.

What I wrote thereFold it away

The City Reliquary is one of the most underrated museums in Brooklyn. Showcasing a quirky and captivating glimpse into the lesser-known facets of New York City’s history, this gem worth a detour. Established in 2002, the City Reliquary is home to a fascinating collection of NYC artifacts, ranging from vintage subway tokens to fragments of landmark buildings. The rotating exhibitions, often assembled with the help of local residents, highlight the personal narratives and contagious community spirit that define New York.

On The Best of New York

I put The City Reliquary on my best list.

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