Stop, just stop, you'll be glad you did. A wonderful museum, that is much bigger then most, with floor after floor and fun, interesting things about NY. A very sobering display of 911 - worth the visit if that's all you did. We try to go to places like this in our travels but every state doesn't have this, or it's a bit off from where we are at the time. Maine's State Museum is another equally fun place to visit, but I believe it's close for a few years o remodeling

The New York State Museum is a fantastic exploration of the state's history and culture. It's got cool exhibits, friendly staff, and a vibe that's great for families and tourists alike. You'll leave with a better understanding and appreciation of New York's rich heritage. Totally worth checking out!

The New York State Museum offers a captivating journey through the state's rich history and diverse culture. With engaging exhibits, informative displays, and a well-curated collection, it provides an insightful and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages. A must-visit for anyone interested in exploring New York's fascinating past.

Very broad collection with excellent displays and curatorship. The art of the Native Americans from New York, especially from the Iroquois Confederacy, was featured in a tremendously varied and interesting exhibit. Being from Utica ourselves, we loved the Henry Di Spirito exhibit... beautiful group. There are many technological, historical and natural history exhibits if that's your preference. Don't miss my uncle's rock contributions in the Geology collection!

One of the top 5 state museums (I usually check these out). TX is probably better, but I'd hard pressed for another that clearly tops it. To be sure, there are a lot diorama type exhibits, but this is a family friendly place and you have to keep the kids interested. Ditto perhaps the taxidermy animals (galore), but as an overview of the entire state through a long span of time, this is pretty comprehensive. And huge. And free. I found free, close street parking easily enough on a Sunday. There's a carousel on the upper floor run by martinets if you're into that. Only real know is that they layout is little confusing - easy to get turned around. But really for the genre this is pretty darn good and perfect for a rainy or overly hot day.

Including NYC, this museum has the best overview of NYC history I have seen. The gallery on the Iroquis also is first-rate rate and the 9/11 exhibit is the most comprehensive outside of Ground Zero or Shanksville, PA. I was here in the early 90s while at college and they have greatly updated the museum. A must-see with easy parking and it is free. East access from the highway so it can be a pit-stop en route to upstate or heading down to NYC.