Guide to Visiting the Jackie Robinson Museum

The Jackie Robinson Museum in Hudson Square is no ordinary NYC museum. Drawing in history enthusiasts, baseball aficionados, and families alike, it pays homage to an African American hero’s heritage with a captivating, educational journey that leaves visitors eager to learn more.

Read on for our guide to visiting the Jackie Robinson Museum with kids and find more great history and culture spots to visit with kids in our Guide to Museums, Galleries, and Exhibits in NYC.

Subscribe to our newsletters to get stories like this delivered directly to your inbox.

A scale model of the old Ebbets Field, where Robinson played with the Brooklyn Dodgers, is a highlight of the Jackie Robinson Museum. 

How Big Is the Jackie Robinson Museum?

The Jackie Robinson Museum is a 20,000-square-foot tribute to the life and accomplishments of Jackie Robinson, the first African American to play in Major League Baseball. Families planning a visit should allow about an hour and a half to explore all its galleries and enjoy its family-friendly programs.

Since its 2022 opening, the Jackie Robinson Museum stands as a powerful testament to bravery, fairness, and motivation and serves as a center for education and learning, with inventive programs and resources for all ages. This makes it an ideal destination for families, students, and lifelong learners.

RELATED: What Ages Get in Free to NYC Museums, Zoos, Amusement Parks

Each of the story towers in the main gallery gives a glimpse into the many roles Jackie Robinson played in his lifetime, both on the field and off. 

Exhibits at the Jackie Robinson Museum

The Main Gallery

As you enter the museum’s vast and captivating Main Gallery, you’re greeted by numerous multimedia exhibits housing more than 4,500 artifacts. A five-minute introductory film titled Life is Not a Spectator sheds light on Robinson’s upbringing and the principles that guided his bold decisions as an athlete and activist.

In the middle of the exhibit hall, you’ll find a series of story towers, which each celebrate different Robinson achievements: as a soldier in the US Army, a champion for civil rights, a businessman, and a family man.

Living Legacy gives visitors a chance to witness vibrant videos showcasing 42 individuals from various backgrounds—ballplayers, sportswriters, politicians, civil rights activists, and beyond—as they share intimate stories about how Robinson deeply influenced their lives.

Make sure not to miss out on the Dugout corner, where you’ll have the chance to see Robinson’s National League Rookie of the Year plaque from 1947—the first one awarded. You’ll also get lost in the magic of the past by watching black-and-white footage of the legendary ballplayer and viewing a bat and jersey from his rookie year. It’s an excellent opportunity for children to learn about Robinson’s historic achievements and see artifacts up close.

RELATED: 10 Things to Love About the DiMenna Children’s History Museum

The Jackie Robinson Museum is a captivating tribute to the African American hero.

Yawkey Sports Gallery

In this sports-themed gallery at the Jackie Robinson Museum, visitors witness the incredible athletic abilities of Robinson during his college days at UCLA. From basketball to football, track and field, and his unparalleled talent in baseball, Robinson’s multi-sport achievements leave visitors in awe.

Explore Robinson’s illustrious career with the Dodgers, and discover the groundbreaking moments that cemented his legacy as one of baseball’s greatest heroes. It’s a perfect space for kids and grandparents to geek out and marvel at cool historic memorabilia like rare baseball cards, trophies, and an illuminated scale model of Brooklyn’s Ebbets Field.

Programming at the Jackie Robinson Museum

As a parent and former educator, I loved that our visit included a scavenger hunt that kept my 12-year-old old son and 6-year-old nephew engaged in the various exhibits as they searched for clues. Once completed, they were offered small prizes, like pencils and key chains. While the Jackie Robinson Museum does a fantastic job of telling the story of Robinson’s life. This activity kept their attention while allowing them to connect with their elders who lived through some of these historical moments.

Bookmark the Jackie Robinson Museum’s event page for details on upcoming programming, and keep an eye on our Mommy Poppins Family Activity Calendar for kid-friendly picks like this week’s two-day Jackie Robinson Day Celebration.

Where Is the Jackie Robinson Museum?

The Jackie Robinson Museum is located in the Hudson Square neighborhood. While parking is not available on-site, it’s an easy walk from the 1, A, C, and E trains at Canal Street.

Know Before You Go to the Jackie Robinson Museum

• Currently, the Jackie Robinson Museum is open Thursdays-Sundays only.
• Timed-entry tickets are required and can be booked online in advance. Children under age 5 enter for FREE.
• No food or beverages are permitted inside the museum.
• There is a complimentary coat and bag check, and strollers are allowed in the galleries
• Shop 42 is the Jackie Robinson Museum’s on-site gift shop and guests can purchase exclusive memorabilia, apparel, and more. All proceeds go to the Jackie Robinson Foundation, which also supports a scholarship program for high school seniors.

Photos by the author