Pierpont Morgan Library

29 E 36th St between Madison and Park Aves (212-685-0008)

Subway: 6 to 33rd St. Tue-Thu 10:30am-5pm; Fri 10:30am-8pm; Sat 10:30am-6pm; Sun noon-6pm. $7, seniors and students $5, under 12 free. Concessions. No credit cards.

This beautiful Italianate museum – also an extraordinary literary-research facility – was once the private library of financier J. Pierpont Morgan. Mostly gathered during Morgan’s trips to Europe, the collection includes three gutenberg Bibles, original Mahler manuscripts and the gorgeous silver, copper and cloisonné 12th-century Stavelot triptych. A subtly colorful marble rotunda with carved 16th-century italian ceiling separates the three-tiered library from the rich red study. Guided tours are available Tuesday through friday at noon. There’s also a modern conservatory attached to the museum, with a tranquil courtyard café.