NYC Fire Museum: New York’s Firefighters Museum

What You Should Know About the New York City Fire Museum

• The New York City Fire Museum originally opened in 1934 in Long Island City. In 1959, it moved to Manhattan at 100 Duane Street, then relocated again in 1981 to the SoHo neighborhood.
• Since opening in SoHo in 1987, the museum has been located at 278 Spring Street, in the former firehouse of Engine Company No. 30. This building, constructed in 1904, features beautiful Beaux Arts architecture. After a complete renovation lasting two years, the museum reopened to the public in August 2026.
• The Fire Museum traces the evolution of New York’s firefighting service from the early days of New Amsterdam to the present. The story is told through a wealth of objects and photographs.

What to See at the New York City Fire Museum

• The first floor takes you back in time. You’ll discover several steam-powered fire engines used by New York firefighters until the early 20th century. One notable example is an American La France engine from 1921. It’s quite different from the gleaming trucks of today.
• The first floor also honors the 343 firefighters who died in the September 11, 2001 attacks. The memorial, designed by artist Jude Amsel, features tiles with the name and photograph of each firefighter. You’ll also see objects recovered from the site, including helmets and oxygen bottles.
• On the second floor, don’t miss the fire engine that was present at the dedication of the Statue of Liberty on October 28, 1886.
• In the stairwell between the first and second floors, you’ll find a fine collection of fire department patches from around the world. If you’re a firefighter, feel free to bring yours to add to the collection.
• One more thing to know: several retired firefighters take turns staffing the museum. Don’t hesitate to chat with them if you get the chance.

Visiting the New York City Fire Museum

• Address: 278 Spring Street, New York.
• Subway: Spring Street.
• Hours: The Fire Museum is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm.
• Admission: $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, and $6 for children ages 3 to 17. Free for children under 3.

Fire Museum Photos

Reviews of the New York City Fire Museum

• Sylvie K.: “Great museum. We visited with our two 11-year-old children and they loved it. I highly recommend it.”
• Frédéric G.: “We found the small section dedicated to September 11, 2001 more moving and solemn than the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Worth a visit.”
• Nia N.: “Great museum! You can even try on the uniforms and helmets.”

Reviews of the New York City Fire Museum from our Destination New York Facebook group

Map to the New York City Fire Museum