5 Must-Visit Brooklyn Museums

When people think about museums in New York City, their mind most likely jumps to Manhattan's Fifth Avenue favorites — the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim, the Frick — and other long-lined classics, such as the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Modern Art.

And while those institutions are certainly worth your time, they aren't the only options the Big Apple has to offer. In fact, some of the most diverse and interesting exhibits in the city can be found in Kings County.

Here are 5 Brooklyn museums to visit when you've tired of exploring Manhattan's Museum Mile.

1. The Brooklyn Museum - 200 Eastern Parkway

When you see Brooklyn Museum for the first time, you almost forget where you are. The enormous structure on Eastern Parkway seems fit for the streets of a European capital with its tall Greek columns and sculptures, epic water fountains and grand entrance. Inside, you’ll find one of the most expansive Egyptology exhibits outside of Cairo, along with other, more modern works of art from artists both local and international. Open Wednesday – Sunday. Adult admission is $16; ages 19 and under admitted free.

2. The New York City Transit Museum – Boerum Pl. & Schermerhorn St.

While complaining about our public transportation system is a top topic of conversation in New York City, at the end of the day, we're pretty proud of our extensive options. Our subway system alone is among the oldest and largest in the world with a rich and interesting history. The transit museum in Downtown Brooklyn, sponsored by the Metropolitan Transit Authority, explores that history and will make your next subway or bus ride that much more informative. Open Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $7 for adults and $5 for children 2 – 17 years old.

3. The Brooklyn Children’s Museum – 145 Brooklyn Ave.

According to some sources, the Brooklyn Children’s Museum was the first museum for children in the world — or, at least, in the U.S. — when it opened in 1899. Since then, this institution in Crown Heights, where kids can come to learn and play, has undergone a modern renovation, growing into a green space with activities for all ages. But even now, kids still rule. Open Tuesday through Sunday. Admissions is $11 per person.

4.The Morbid Anatomy Museum – 424 3rd Ave.

This unique, to say the least, establishment, now in its second year, focuses on the intersections between life and death, and art and medicine, with exhibits on mourning culture, animal specimens and wax medical curiosities. The museum also offers several courses in taxidermy for those looking to take up a new hobby. The Morbid Anatomy Museum is open seven days a week. Enjoy!

5. Brooklyn Historical Society – 128 Pierrepont St.

Housed in a landmarked 1881 Queen Anne building, The Brooklyn Historical Society is devoted to preserving Brooklyn's 400-year history with exhibits exploring diverse topics including the Civil War, the city's sewer system, hockey and portraiture. Open Wednesday through Sundays. Adults $10; children under 12 are free.

Come to Brooklyn to find an abundance of fine museums with endlessly interesting exhibits, less expensive admissions, and, if you're lucky, shorter lines.