We are proud to offer the community an informative and family-friendly visiting experience. We are the only museum in the world open year-round which explores the whaling history of the Long Island region. ​Come sea what's new!

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Always On View

19th Century Whaleboat

• View the only fully equipped 19th century whaleboat with original gear in New York State.

Thar She Blows: Whaling History On Long Island 

• Did you know that after farming, whaling was Long Island's first industry which significantly shaped communities? 
• Smell a foc'sle, work on a ship hull, learn the hows and whys of whaling, and find out how the whaling industry launched a conservation movement. 

If I Were a Whaler ​

• Step into our immersive space encouraging imaginative exploration of a whaler's life, especially welcoming for families with children.. 
• Hoist the sail, swab the deck, pack for your journey, chart your global voyage, and climb into a whaler's bunkbed in our new, immersive exhibit.

Also on exhibit:

• Improved displays about whale bones and whale evolution. 
• Elements of Special Exhibit Heroines at the Helm
• ​Scrimshaw & whalebone art
• Diorama of Cold Spring Harbor, circa 1850
• Folk Art

Explore the Collection

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If I Were a Whaler gallery

Did you know between one-quarter and one-third of American whaling crews were people of color? Visit our gallery and explore their experiences, triumphs, and challenges. Now open through August 2024.

Special Exhibit

​"Museums should be places where you raise questions, not just show stuff.”
William Thorsell

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Audio

Join our Director in exploring diverse topics in whaling through informative audio clips which complement museum exhibits. Hear them on your phone at the exhibit, or anywhere.

Audio Clips

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Our Thanks for Special Exhibit Support

Special Exhibit, From Sea to Shining Sea: Whalers of the African Diaspora, is made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities: Democracy demands wisdom. Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this exhibition do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
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This exhibition was also funded in part by Humanities New York with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities and The Museum Association of New York (MANY) in partnership with the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA).

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     Had an amazing afternoon there today. The museum was both informative and interactive. There were beautiful artifacts, paintings, and displays throughout the building. I am looking forward to coming back in the future and seeing what future events take place." Ava N.

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