American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History is both entertaining and interesting for all ages
Beyond the dioramas and the blue whale looming over the Hall of Ocean Life, visitors to the American Museum of Natural History can experience interactive exhibits including a life-sized interactive ecosystem that engulfs you in the sights and smells of the Dzanga-Sangha Rainforest, following the Cosmic Pathway through 13 billion years of celestial evolution or mingling with free-flying butterflies in a tropical forest conservatory.
If it's your first visit to the American Museum of Natural History, consider taking a "Highlights Tour" for an overview of the museum collections or a "Spotlight Tour" for a more in-depth experience. iPhone and iPad users can enjoy the free "American Museum of Natural History Explorer" app that serves as both a personal tour guide and in-museum navigation system; additional American Museum of Natural History exhibit apps are available from the iTunes store.
Young children will enjoy being able to touch the exhibits in the Discovery Room and Hall of Planet Earth and all ages can enjoy an IMAX movie or Space Show in the Hayden Planetarium.
Basic admission to the museums permanent exhibits is by donation (their is a suggested amount). To see special exhibitions and view the IMAX or Planetarium shows you must pay a premium on top of the suggested admission. You should give yourself plenty of time to visit the museum; if you are planning to see the shows and special exhibits you may want to allow a full day and even that may seem tight as there is simply so much to see here!
The museum offers several eateries, but a more wallet friendly method of feeding the whole family may be to enjoy a hot dog or giant pretzel from the street vendors on the museum steps.
Nearby attractions include Central Park, Whitney Museum of American Art, The Frick Collection and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes.American Museum of Natural History Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Address: 200 Central Prk W, New York, NY 10024, USA
Phone: (212) 769-5100
Official Website: American Museum of Natural History
American Museum of Natural History Reviews
Rated out of 5
The American Museum of Natural History is absolutely breathtaking—an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. The exhibits are world-class, beautifully curated, and filled with fascinating information.
From the iconic dinosaur fossils to the dazzling Hall of Gems and Minerals, every corner of the museum offers something awe-inspiring.
The museum is well-organized, easy to navigate, and the staff are helpful and knowledgeable. You could easily spend an entire day here and still want to come back. Perfect for families, tourists, or anyone with a curiosity about the natural world. A must-visit New York City landmark!
I D - a month ago
An absolute favorite! The American Museum of Natural History is huge, fascinating, and fun for all ages. From the massive dinosaur skeletons to the stunning planetarium and ocean life exhibits, every section is exciting and beautifully done.
You could easily spend hours here, there’s so much to explore and learn. Perfect for families, curious minds, or anyone wanting a break from the city while still experiencing something amazing. A true NYC classic!
Valentin - 3 weeks ago
This is truly one of the most fascinating museums in the world — absolutely worth visiting, and more than once. Everything is thoughtfully and engagingly organized, making it easy to explore and enjoy. No matter your age or interests, you’ll find something captivating here.
I highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line. One of my personal highlights was the Hall of the Peoples of the World — incredibly well-curated and inspiring.
Heghine Medoyan - a month ago
Had a really great experience here. They have an AMAZING military deal. Definitely go get your military ticket at the counter.
The museum itself is truly amazing. We spent three hours in here and barely scratched the surface of everything that they had to offer.
We really had to focus on the things we wanted to see. We got the see the stuff that mattered to us within that three hour period but it was tough. If I had to do it again I’d likely plan for a full day experience rather than stacking multiple activities on this museum day.
Gideon Bernthal - 3 weeks ago
So worth the time! The insect exhibit was very cool. We especially enjoyed the leaf cutter and honeypot ants. We liked the Passport to the Universe show and how it put things into scale. The dinosaur exhibit was so fun to see! We also thought the gem collection was beautiful.
Cassia Taylor - a month ago
Directions
| Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| B or C | 81st Street Station | 2 minutes |
| 1 | 79th Street | 12 Minutes |
How to get to American Museum of Natural History by Subway
Take the B (Weekdays Only) or C train to 81st Street / Museum of Natural History, walk south on Central Park West to the museum entrance on your right. Alternatively, take the 1 train to Broadway and West 79th Street, head southwest on Broadway towards 79th Street, turn left at 77th Street, walk two blocks and turn left on Central Park West.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near American Museum of Natural History:
Photo Gallery
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One of many dioramas inside of the American Museum of Natural History cc licensed photo by Mike Steele -
Blue Whale exhibit in the AMNH cc licensed photo by Daniel Torres Bonatto -
Photo Credit: Francisco Anzola - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Guru Sno Studios - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: JFGryphon - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: JFGryphon - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Francisco Anzola - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: JFGryphon - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Guru Sno Studios - cc license via Flickr
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