The Museum tells the story of immigrant families and visitors view restored apartments of past residents from different time periods.

Shop Life

Made possible by The David Berg Foundation

Family-run stores filled the lower level of 97 Orchard for over a century, where they struggled to adapt to an ever-changing neighborhood and achieve the American Dream. Visit the 1870s German saloon of John and Caroline Schneider, and use interactive media to trace the stories of turn-of-the-century kosher butchers, a 1930s auctioneer, and 1970s undergarment discounters.

Limited Wheelchair Capacity
Call 1-877-97LESTM in advance for wheelchair tickets.

The Museum's walking tours explore the Lower East Side and the American immigrant experience

Foods Of The Lower East Side

Taste dumplings, fried plantains, cream puffs and more while exploring the immigrant experience and some of the ways immigrant foods have shaped American food. Note: This tour does not enter any buildings, other than a short introduction and conclusion in our Visitors Center.

Limited Wheelchair Capacity
Call 1-877-97LESTM in advance for wheelchair tickets.

Visit with a costumed interpreter playing one of the residents of 97 Orchard Street.

Victoria Confino

made possible by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation

Visit the apartment of a Greek Sephardic family and meet a costumed interpreter playing 14-year-old Victoria Confino, who lived in the tenement in 1916. Visitors take on the role of newly arrived immigrants, and ask Victoria questions about adjusting to life on the Lower East Side . Designed for families, this tour allows visitors to handle household objects. 

Meet Victoria Confino is recommended for visitors with low vision.