New York is a captivating city for museum enthusiasts, offering a vast array of options that can often feel both magical and a bit overwhelming. While the most renowned museums may attract large crowds, many lesser-known venues provide unique experiences that surprise and delight, even to those who have lived in the city for years.

Alex Kalman, who manages two of the city’s smallest museums, Mmuseumm1 and Mmuseumm2, likens visiting your typical popular museums to sipping a large coffee. In contrast, he suggests that their venues offer a more concentrated experience, much like a shot of espresso. One of these museums is nestled in an old elevator shaft, emphasizing the quirky nature of these hidden gems. Though currently closed for the holiday season, they are set to reopen in the spring.

At these small museums, visitors can relax in intimate settings that feature Viennese-style coffee shops serving traditional Jewish comfort foods, alongside edgy gift shops that compete with more famous stores. A highlight includes viewing authentic historical artifacts like the chair where George Washington once sat before his inaugural speech. Interactive experiences allow guests to try their hand at seltzer-making or solving math puzzles.

Here’s a glimpse into what some of New York City’s underrated museums have to offer:

**The Museum at FIT**
Located within the Fashion Institute of Technology, this is the only museum in the city focused exclusively on fashion, and admission is free. “Africa’s Fashion Diaspora,” showcasing the influence of African culture on fashion design, is currently running until December 29, according to museum director Valerie Steele. Coming up in February is “Fashioning Wonder: A Cabinet of Curiosities,” which explores the intriguing relationship between curiosity cabinets and fashion.

**Neue Galerie**
Nestled in a majestic Gilded Age mansion that once belonged to Mrs. Cornelius Vanderbilt III, this museum is dedicated to Austrian and German art and design. Visitors flock to Cafe Sabarsky, known for its period decor and rich musical performances. The current exhibition includes “Egon Schiele: Living Landscapes” and “Austrian Masterworks from the Neue Galerie.” Director Renée Price describes the festive ambiance of the museum, especially during the holiday season, inviting guests to savor German pastries while enjoying the decorated surroundings.

**The Jewish Museum**
Close to the Neue Galerie, this museum showcases contemporary and historical art reflecting Jewish culture, including the first solo exhibition of Berlin-based artist Illit Azouley and the ancient “Tel Dan Stele,” which bears the earliest non-biblical mention of King David. Their gift shop boasts a range of traditional Jewish items, while the cafe offers modern twists on classic Jewish dishes, and special Hanukkah programming is also available.

**Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum**
This remarkable museum focuses on innovative design and is housed in the historic residence of Andrew Carnegie. It features a charming garden and an impressive gift shop. The highlight is the exhibit “Making Home: Smithsonian Design Triennial,” which explores the emotional and physical significance of home through various design elements. This exhibit spans the entire mansion and is available for viewing until August 10.

**National Museum of the American Indian**
Situated in the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Customs House, this museum offers free admission and showcases a wealth of exhibitions, including “Jeffrey Veregge: Of Gods and Heroes,” and “Infinity of Nations,” focusing on the rich heritage of Native American cultures. The gift shop sells authentic Native American art and crafts, enhancing the cultural experience.

**Tenement Museum**
This museum provides an insightful glimpse into the lives of immigrants through restored tenement buildings. Each apartment serves as a time capsule, illustrating the unique stories of the families who lived there. Offering tours of the neighboring area, it emphasizes the significance of everyday people’s narratives within American history. During the festive season, certain apartments are adorned with Christmas decorations.

**The New York Historical Society**
Perfect for those interested in the city’s history, this society features a gallery that recreates the Oval Office, reflecting on the evolution of the presidency. Guests can view the chair used by Washington during his inauguration, along with various exhibits, including those focused on pets and Tiffany lamps.

**MoMath (National Museum of Mathematics)**
A family-friendly venue, this museum offers engaging math-related activities, including thought-provoking puzzles and exhibits like the “Human Tree,” where visitors can create images and see them react through movement, promoting a hands-on approach to learning about mathematics.

**Brooklyn Seltzer Museum**
Dedicated to the history of seltzer water, this interactive museum located within Brooklyn Seltzer Boys’ factory provides a fascinating look into the science and culture surrounding seltzer. Visitors can even enjoy interactive experiences, including a chance to spritz each other with sparkling water, making for a lively outing.