The Gilded Age in New York: Where to Go, What to See, and Why It Still Dazzles

The Morgan Library & Museum

Step into The Morgan Library, once the private library of J.P. Morgan, and be prepared to be wowed by his collection of rare books, illuminated manuscripts, and gilded ceilings. You’ll be greeted by Morgan’s large portrait as you enter the grand library.

I was fascinated to learn the incredible story of Belle da Costa Greene, his personal librarian and the museum’s first director. She shaped the collection and transformed it into a public institution. Today, The Morgan hosts rotating exhibitions along with its permanent treasures.

Cooper Hewitt

Head uptown to East 91st Street at Andrew Carnegie’s former home. It’s now the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum. This is an opportunity to explore his historic home and garden while checking out current and innovative exhibitions on design and craftsmanship. I saw an amazing immersive one dedicated to Es Devlin, a British stage designer and artist, and showcased her designs for concerts, theatre, and opera.

American Wing at The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s American Wing captures the soul of the Gilded Age with lavish period rooms, furniture, decorative arts, Tiffany stained glass, and magnificent portraits by John Singer Sargent. Don’t miss a visit to view the infamous Madame X painting.

The Frick Collection

The Frick Collection is a true jewel. It reopened in 2025 after a major renovation that preserved its Gilded Age elegance while expanding public access. Housed in the former mansion of steel magnate Henry Clay Frick, the museum showcases restored galleries and new exhibit rooms on the second floor.

I was invited to the member preview before it opened to the public and felt like I was stepping into another era. The entire estate, its dramatic staircase, and beautiful courtyard are beautiful and well worth the visit. Be sure to book your tickets in advance. They sell out quickly!

Carnegie Hall

I love Carnegie Hall. It’s one of the most enduring cultural landmarks of the Gilded Age, built in 1891 by Andrew Carnegie as a gift to NYC’s artistic scene. At the time, its location was controversial, but with its grand Italian Renaissance design and superior acoustics, it quickly became a premier concert hall (and still is).

I regularly visit for concerts and recitals of my favorite singers, classical musicians, and the NY Pops.

Central Park

Central Park was the ultimate playground for New York’s Gilded Age elite. This oasis in the center of the city was the place for them to promenade and be seen in their carriages, as well as at social gatherings, picnics, and concerts. It’s still a haven from the busy city and great for people-watching.

Some of my favorite things to do in the park are wandering through the Mall & Literary Walk, exploring the nature trails, visiting Bethesda Fountain, relaxing in Strawberry Fields, and coming across impromptu concerts.

Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal, just a short walk from The Morgan Library, was commissioned by the Vanderbilt family and built at the height of railroad power. Its soaring Beaux-Arts design reflects the grandeur of an era when train travel was a luxury.

Nowadays, you can take a guided tour to uncover the Terminal’s hidden details and fascinating history. And, you can hop on the train for a short trip to the Hudson Valley and explore some of the Gilded Age country estates.

Vanderbilt Mansion

Vanderbilt Mansion in Hyde Park was built in 1898 as a country house for one of America’s wealthiest families. Visit for a guided tour of the house, its panoramic river views, and original furnishings.

While you’re in Hyde Park, be sure to visit the Roosevelt Estate and Museum that’s nearby. Although it belongs to a different era, it’s equally fascinating.

Lyndhurst Mansion

Lyndhurst Mansion in Tarrytown sits high above the Hudson, with a striking Gothic Revival design by the eminent architect Alexander Jackson Davis. It feels more like a castle than a country home. Once owned by railroad tycoon Jay Gould, it’s now open to the public for guided tours and seasonal events. You can easily spend the whole day here, exploring the beautifully preserved main house, learning about the three families who lived there, and discovering how the estate evolved as the architect added wings over the years.

I was surprised to notice that the mansion is full of clever illusions, including hand-painted finishes designed to mimic luxury materials like marble and carved wood. These faux-decorative tricks were trendy status symbols of the time. Highlights there include the bowling alley, sweeping grounds, and learning of the inspiring story of Jay Gould’s daughter, Helen Gould Shepard, a philanthropist who left a lasting legacy. The ideal time to visit is in the fall.

Kykuit

Kykuit, the Rockefeller Estate in Sleepy Hollow, was built a few years after the Gilded Age, but it still evokes the era with its manicured gardens, Beaux-Arts architecture, and extensive art collection. This is another place where you can easily spend several hours exploring. The gardens alone are gorgeous.

Delmonico’s

Delmonico’s is considered the first fine-dining restaurant in the US and was a hot spot for power lunches and opulent dinners. Don’t forget to order Baked Alaska for dessert—it was invented here!

Grand Central Oyster Bar

Underneath the arches of Grand Central Terminal, the Grand Central Oyster Bar serves oysters, chowders, and martinis. Each time I visit, I feel like I’m time-traveling with its vaulted ceilings, white-jacketed servers, and vast seafood menu.

The Palm Court at The Plaza Hotel

Afternoon tea here feels like stepping into The Gilded Age on HBO—or straight out of an Edith Wharton novel. Sip tea and nibble on delicate treats beneath soaring palms and mirrored ceilings. While technically from a later era, it’s also famously the favorite haunt of Eloise, the beloved children’s book character who lives at The Plaza.

Blue Hill at Stone Barns

Enjoy a true farm-to-table experience at Blue Hill at Stone Barns, near the Rockefeller’s Kykuit mansion. There is no set menu, but a feast for all the senses that utilizes local ingredients. It’s only about 15 minutes from Kykuit, and you must make reservations for dinner.

Main Street in Tarrytown

Tarrytown’s Main Street, a short drive from the Lyndhurst Mansion, is really charming and has delicious cafe and restaurant offerings. Not Gilded Age themed at all, but I do love Taqueria La Perla Poblanita, a tiny, no-frills but authentically Mexican restaurant. I also recommend Muddy Water Coffee & Cafe for breakfast or an afternoon pick me up.