OFFICIAL MUSEUM OF THE FDNY
Museum FAQs
Important Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ’s are organized by section links. Click on a section to read the answers and related information pertaining to that topic.
Is the Museum a private or public institution?
The Museum is a private, not-for-profit institution entrusted to maintain the collection of the FDNY and provide fire safety education to the public. It operates in a firehouse owned by the FDNY.
How large is the Museum and its collections?
The museum has two floors of exhibit space. The first floor features the equipment, gear and apparatus of the modern paid fire department, the FDNY. The first floor also houses our permanent FDNY September 11th Memorial which features artifacts from the WTC recovery site. The second floor features our 19th century volunteer era memorabilia, ceremonial exhibits and paintings.
Do you lend or lease your collection?
We do not lend or lease any of the collection to the general public. We do, on occasion, lend objects to other Museums or organizations for limited exhibition, or for television, theater or movie production. Such loans require the approval of the Museum's Board of Trustees.
How many artifacts/pieces do you have on display?
The Museum has one of the largest collections of fire-related artifacts and artwork in the world, with over ten thousand objects and an archive of tens of thousands of photographs, documents and ephemera.
What is meant by the term “permanent collection”?
This is the complete set of objects owned by the Museum, but does not apply to objects on loan to our museum from other institutions. Our permanent collection can be found in storage, on display, or on loan to other institutions.
Why are some objects not on exhibition?
Our collection contains thousands of objects, all of which cannot be displayed in the two exhibition floors of our building. Some of our collection is on loan to other institutions, and some of it is in storage. Certain objects, such as historic photographs, prints, and paintings, are sensitive to light and need to be kept in special conditions. Very delicate objects have special storage requirements or require conservation before going on display.
What is meant by the term “special exhibition”?
This is a temporary exhibit highlighting a particular event in the history of New York firefighting and/or showcasing artistic works related to firefighting.
How do I let the Museum know about my work?
The Museum does not actively solicit artwork. If you have work related to firefighting in New York that you would like to donate or exhibit, you may contact the Director at director@nycfiremuseum.org or (212) 691-1303 x15. PLEASE DO NOT SEND UNSOLITICED WORK.
How do I find out how much an object in the Museum collection is worth?
The Museum does not disclose the monetary values of objects in its collections for security reasons.
Can you tell me the value of an artifact I own?
The Museum can not provide monetary appraisals.
How can I donate a work of art or artifact to the Museum?
The Museum benefits greatly from the generosity of the public and welcomes donations to its collection. The Museum carefully considers all offers, but not every object is suitable for this Museum. If a donation could be housed somewhere more appropriate or will not have a chance to be exhibited, we prefer not to take it. If you are interested in donating art or artifacts appropriate for the Museum’s collection, please contact the Director at director@nycfiremuseum.org or (212) 691-1303 ext. 15.
Is photography or videography permitted in the Museum?
Photography and videography are allowed in the Museum so long as the images are for personal, non-commercial use. Please be mindful of other visitors, especially in the FDNY September 11th Memorial space.
Is commercial photography or filming permitted in the Museum?
Commercial photography and filming are permitted at the Museum if the project is approved and arranged in advance. Please contact the Director at director@nycfiremuseum.org or (212) 691-1303 ext. 15 with your proposal.
How do I request images of works in the Museum’s Collections?
You may use images from our online catalog for non-commercial purposes with attribution to the New York City Fire Museum. If you require higher-resolution images, non-watermarked images, or images for commercial purposes, please contact the Director at director@nycfiremuseum.org or (212) 691-1303 ext. 15.
Are internships available?
Internships are available in the collections department with a small stipend and can be arranged with a student's work-study program or independently. For more information, please contact the Collection Manager at (212) 691-1303 x17 or collections@nycfiremuseum.org.
Planning Your Visit
When is the Museum open?
The Museum is open seven days a week from 10:00AM to 5:00 PM. We are closed major holidays.
How much is admission to the Museum?
When is the Museum gift shop open?
The Museum gift shop offers a large variety of FDNY memorabilia and Museum exclusive items. The gift shop is open during museum hours. If you can't make it to our on-site shop, please visit our online store.
Can I come to the Museum just to visit the gift shop? If so, do I have to pay the admission charge?
Can I visit the museum myself, without scheduling a tour?
Yes, the Museum is open to all visitors and is self-guided. Our retired Volunteer Firefighter docents are available during morning and early afternoon hours to answer questions and provide a personal and colorful insight into the FDNY.
Hours and Admission
Does the Museum have parking?
There are parking lots adjacent to the Museum and limited street parking. The Museum cannot, however, validate parking.
Is there a coat check?
No. Unfortunately, we don't have adequate space for this service.
Are baby strollers permitted in the Museum?
Visitors may use strollers throughout the building.
Is there a place to eat?
Is the Museum wheelchair/handicap accessible?
Yes, the Museum is wheelchair accessible, including an elevator with access to our second floor exhibit space and restrooms on the third floor.
How long will it take me to see all exhibits?
You can plan to stay at the museum approximately one hour or longer.
Who will enjoy the Museum?
The Museum welcomes all ages to view our antique and one of a kind fire trucks and exhibits! We find that small children marvel at the big, red trucks. However, the trucks are antiques and for display only – please do not touch or climb!
What else can I do at the Museum?
You can take photos anywhere in the Museum, and we have a collection of bunker gear and helmets for adults and children to try on!
How far is the Museum from Ground Zero?
The Museum is approximately a 20 minute walk or a 10 minute train ride from the World Trade Center Site. If you choose to walk from the Museum: make a left on Hudson Street, make a right onto West Broadway and make a right on Vesey Street. If you choose to take the subway: walk up Spring Street to Avenue of the Americas (aka 6th Avenue), take the Downtown E train, and get off at World Trade Center.
How far is the Museum from Times Square?
The Museum is about 30 minutes from Time Square by subway. To reach Times Square by subway: walk up Spring Street to Avenue of the Americas (aka 6th Avenue), take the Uptown “C” or “E” train, and get off at 42nd Street.
In and Around the Museum
Is the Museum a private or public institution?
The Museum is a private, not-for-profit institution entrusted to maintain the collection of the FDNY and provide fire safety education to the public. It operates in a firehouse owned by the FDNY.
How large is the Museum and its collections?
The museum has two floors of exhibit space. The first floor features the equipment, gear and apparatus of the modern paid fire department, the FDNY. The first floor also houses our permanent FDNY September 11th Memorial which features artifacts from the WTC recovery site. The second floor features our 19th century volunteer era memorabilia, ceremonial exhibits and paintings.
Do you lend or lease your collection?
We do not lend or lease any of the collection to the general public. We do, on occasion, lend objects to other Museums or organizations for limited exhibition, or for television, theater or movie production. Such loans require the approval of the Museum's Board of Trustees.
How many artifacts/pieces do you have on display?
The Museum has one of the largest collections of fire-related artifacts and artwork in the world, with over ten thousand objects and an archive of tens of thousands of photographs, documents and ephemera.
What is meant by the term “permanent collection”?
This is the complete set of objects owned by the Museum, but does not apply to objects on loan to our museum from other institutions. Our permanent collection can be found in storage, on display, or on loan to other institutions.
Why are some objects not on exhibition?
Our collection contains thousands of objects, all of which cannot be displayed in the two exhibition floors of our building. Some of our collection is on loan to other institutions, and some of it is in storage. Certain objects, such as historic photographs, prints, and paintings, are sensitive to light and need to be kept in special conditions. Very delicate objects have special storage requirements or require conservation before going on display.
What is meant by the term “special exhibition”?
This is a temporary exhibit highlighting a particular event in the history of New York firefighting and/or showcasing artistic works related to firefighting.
How do I let the Museum know about my work?
The Museum does not actively solicit artwork. If you have work related to firefighting in New York that you would like to donate or exhibit, you may contact the Director at director@nycfiremuseum.org or (212) 691-1303 x15. PLEASE DO NOT SEND UNSOLITICED WORK.
How do I find out how much an object in the Museum collection is worth?
The Museum does not disclose the monetary values of objects in its collections for security reasons.
Can you tell me the value of an artifact I own?
The Museum can not provide monetary appraisals.
How can I donate a work of art or artifact to the Museum?
The Museum benefits greatly from the generosity of the public and welcomes donations to its collection. The Museum carefully considers all offers, but not every object is suitable for this Museum. If a donation could be housed somewhere more appropriate or will not have a chance to be exhibited, we prefer not to take it. If you are interested in donating art or artifacts appropriate for the Museum’s collection, please contact the Director at director@nycfiremuseum.org or (212) 691-1303 ext. 15.
Is photography or videography permitted in the Museum?
Photography and videography are allowed in the Museum so long as the images are for personal, non-commercial use. Please be mindful of other visitors, especially in the FDNY September 11th Memorial space.
Is commercial photography or filming permitted in the Museum?
Commercial photography and filming are permitted at the Museum if the project is approved and arranged in advance. Please contact the Director at director@nycfiremuseum.org or (212) 691-1303 ext. 15 with your proposal.
How do I request images of works in the Museum’s Collections?
You may use images from our online catalog for non-commercial purposes with attribution to the New York City Fire Museum. If you require higher-resolution images, non-watermarked images, or images for commercial purposes, please contact the Director at director@nycfiremuseum.org or (212) 691-1303 ext. 15.
Are internships available?
Internships are available in the collections department with a small stipend and can be arranged with a student's work-study program or independently. For more information, please contact the Collection Manager at (212) 691-1303 x17 or collections@nycfiremuseum.org.
Visiting As a Group
Is the Museum a private or public institution?
The Museum is a private, not-for-profit institution entrusted to maintain the collection of the FDNY and provide fire safety education to the public. It operates in a firehouse owned by the FDNY.
How large is the Museum and its collections?
The museum has two floors of exhibit space. The first floor features the equipment, gear and apparatus of the modern paid fire department, the FDNY. The first floor also houses our permanent FDNY September 11th Memorial which features artifacts from the WTC recovery site. The second floor features our 19th century volunteer era memorabilia, ceremonial exhibits and paintings.
Do you lend or lease your collection?
We do not lend or lease any of the collection to the general public. We do, on occasion, lend objects to other Museums or organizations for limited exhibition, or for television, theater or movie production. Such loans require the approval of the Museum's Board of Trustees.
How many artifacts/pieces do you have on display?
The Museum has one of the largest collections of fire-related artifacts and artwork in the world, with over ten thousand objects and an archive of tens of thousands of photographs, documents and ephemera.
What is meant by the term “permanent collection”?
This is the complete set of objects owned by the Museum, but does not apply to objects on loan to our museum from other institutions. Our permanent collection can be found in storage, on display, or on loan to other institutions.
Why are some objects not on exhibition?
Our collection contains thousands of objects, all of which cannot be displayed in the two exhibition floors of our building. Some of our collection is on loan to other institutions, and some of it is in storage. Certain objects, such as historic photographs, prints, and paintings, are sensitive to light and need to be kept in special conditions. Very delicate objects have special storage requirements or require conservation before going on display.
What is meant by the term “special exhibition”?
This is a temporary exhibit highlighting a particular event in the history of New York firefighting and/or showcasing artistic works related to firefighting.
How do I let the Museum know about my work?
The Museum does not actively solicit artwork. If you have work related to firefighting in New York that you would like to donate or exhibit, you may contact the Director at director@nycfiremuseum.org or (212) 691-1303 x15. PLEASE DO NOT SEND UNSOLITICED WORK.
How do I find out how much an object in the Museum collection is worth?
The Museum does not disclose the monetary values of objects in its collections for security reasons.
Can you tell me the value of an artifact I own?
The Museum can not provide monetary appraisals.
How can I donate a work of art or artifact to the Museum?
The Museum benefits greatly from the generosity of the public and welcomes donations to its collection. The Museum carefully considers all offers, but not every object is suitable for this Museum. If a donation could be housed somewhere more appropriate or will not have a chance to be exhibited, we prefer not to take it. If you are interested in donating art or artifacts appropriate for the Museum’s collection, please contact the Director at director@nycfiremuseum.org or (212) 691-1303 ext. 15.
Is photography or videography permitted in the Museum?
Photography and videography are allowed in the Museum so long as the images are for personal, non-commercial use. Please be mindful of other visitors, especially in the FDNY September 11th Memorial space.
Is commercial photography or filming permitted in the Museum?
Commercial photography and filming are permitted at the Museum if the project is approved and arranged in advance. Please contact the Director at director@nycfiremuseum.org or (212) 691-1303 ext. 15 with your proposal.
How do I request images of works in the Museum’s Collections?
You may use images from our online catalog for non-commercial purposes with attribution to the New York City Fire Museum. If you require higher-resolution images, non-watermarked images, or images for commercial purposes, please contact the Director at director@nycfiremuseum.org or (212) 691-1303 ext. 15.
Are internships available?
Internships are available in the collections department with a small stipend and can be arranged with a student's work-study program or independently. For more information, please contact the Collection Manager at (212) 691-1303 x17 or collections@nycfiremuseum.org.
About the Museum
How do I become a Member?
To become a Member: join online; complete an application form and mail it along with your dues to the Membership department; stop by the Museum and join on-site; or, call (212) 691-1303 during regular Museum hours.
What are the benefits of becoming a member?
Benefits vary depending on the level of Membership. See a complete list of Membership benefits.
How do I make a donation to the Museum?
You may make a secure, fully tax-deductible donation online; by calling (212) 691-1303 and using your Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express card; or, by mailing a check made payable to the NYC Fire Museum.
I am a current Member and/or donor. How can I change my name and/or address and continue to receive mail from the Museum?
Provide your name and/or address to the Museum by phone (212) 691-1303, fax (212) 352-3117, or by sending an email to director@nycfiremuseum.org.
Can I give a Membership as a gift?
Absolutely! A membership to the Museum makes any occasion special. Memberships make great birthday, graduation, wedding, anniversary, or holiday gifts for family, friends, and/or business associates. Gift memberships are available online, by calling the gift shop at (212) 691-1303 or completing an application form and faxing it to (212) 352-3117. Gift memberships can also be purchased in person at the Fire Museum Gift Shop.
Can I make a contribution in honor or in memory of someone?
Yes. Your gift, in any amount, to honor someone special will be acknowledged with a certificate informing the person of your thoughtfulness. Gifts made commemorating the life of loved ones will be acknowledged with a certificate to the family.
Does the Museum make charitable donations to other organizations?
Yes, the museum donates an admission pass suitable for two adults and two children. Donations are made to non-profits based in NYC only. Donation requests must be submitted via email to aborger@nycfiremuseum.org.