American Museum of Natural History: A Gateway to Earth's Wonders in New York

Overview

The American Museum of Natural History in New York stands as a remarkable institution dedicated to the understanding of our planet and its history. This expansive museum features an intricate layout of connected structures housing 27 buildings and 45 exhibit halls offering vast collections and interactive displays. Among the highlights, visitors are greeted by a magnificent Barosaurus skeleton, the largest dinosaur exhibit that sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. Explore the Fossil Halls to uncover the evolutionary stories of life on Earth, including the extraordinary 107-million-year-old Glen Rose Trackway with fossilized dinosaur footprints. Encounter lifelike replicas of iconic species like Tyrannosaurus Rex and Triceratops, and marvel at the hanging blue whale in the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life. The museum also invites curiosity through hands-on exhibits in the Rose Center for Earth and Space, revealing fascinating astronomical concepts. Whether you are drawn to ancient fossils, remarkable gemstones, or taxidermy dioramas of North American wildlife, the museum offers an engaging journey through the natural world, including a chance to see the famed Star of India diamond and the historic moai statue from Easter Island. An educational haven for all ages, this museum is a must-visit in New York.

Photo of American Museum of Natural History
Photo of American Museum of Natural History
Photo of American Museum of Natural History
Opening hours
  • Sunday 10:00 - 17:30
  • Monday 10:00 - 17:30
  • Tuesday 10:00 - 17:30
  • Wednesday 10:00 - 17:30
  • Thursday 10:00 - 17:30
  • Friday 10:00 - 17:30
  • Saturday 10:00 - 17:30

Open 24/7

Contact Info
  • Address200 Central Park W, New York, NY 10024, USA
  • Phone+1 212-769-5100

Reviews

Jacob Thompson
United States
5
We visited using the City Pass, and entry was smooth and easy. Arriving right at opening time helped us avoid some crowds. The museum is massive—you'll need a full day to explore it all. We only saw about half of the exhibits, each of which was fascinating. A highlight was definitely the Butterfly Conservatory, a unique experience. The museum is excellent for all ages, offering tons to see and learn. As a physics enthusiast, I was excited for the Big Bang exhibit, but it was somewhat disappointing; while the visuals were nice, the content felt basic. It serves as a good introduction, but if you're familiar with physics and cosmology, you might not learn anything new. One downside is the lack of a clear path, so be prepared to plan ahead with a map. A great perk is the option to leave and re-enter the same day, which we took advantage of for lunch. Highly recommend this museum, just be ready for a lot of walking!
Emily Chen
United States
5
This museum is the best, with an impressive collection of fossils. The recreated scenes of various animals and their habitats are vivid and lifelike. It’s a large museum, and I recommend allocating at least four hours if you want to see everything. Thankfully, there's a nice cafe on the basement level. Don’t miss the special exhibition, 'The Invisible World,' which kids will especially enjoy for its interactive parts. Be sure to buy your tickets online in advance, but check your email address before ordering! I made a mistake once and had to wait in line for a while to print my tickets. Also, I observed that arriving before 10 AM can lead to long waits, but once it opens, there’s no line to enter.
Aarav Patel
United States
4
An amazing experience! Initially, I thought the hype surrounding this museum was excessive, but it absolutely lives up to it. The architecture is stunning, making you feel as though you’re walking inside a palace that opens up to various wildlife from around the world. The animal exhibits are realistic, featuring preserved skins and life-like sizes. With four levels showcasing everything from underwater life to planetariums to dinosaur skeletons, the museum requires several hours to fully explore. It’s an excellent place for children and young people interested in history and science. I will definitely recommend this to my friends and family visiting New York City.
Priya Singh
United States
5
The American Museum of Natural History is an absolute must-visit! My highlights included the dinosaur fossils, especially the massive Titanosaur, which measures 122 feet long, along with the stunning exhibitions on butterflies and Invisible Worlds. Every exhibit is thoughtfully curated, providing a captivating experience for visitors of all ages. The museum features dedicated sections on ocean life, indigenous tribes, mammals, and much more. With so much to explore, it’s nearly impossible to see everything in one visit, so plan accordingly! A few tips: • Book tickets in advance (discounts for students). • Stroller parking is available, making it very family-friendly. • It’s a fantastic learning experience for kids, while for adults, it represents a humbling journey through time and space. Highly recommend exploring all the exhibitions—it’s worth every moment!
Lucas Johnson
United States
5
The American Museum of Natural History is a treasure trove of knowledge and wonder and a must-visit if you're in New York City. Here are some tips to enhance your experience: 1. Comfort First: Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be on your feet exploring for hours. 2. Pack Light: Avoid heavy bags because the museum is vast, and you’ll tire out quickly. 3. Stay Hydrated: Bring a water bottle to stay refreshed. 4. Time Management: Set aside at least half a day to explore; there's so much to see! I only wish I had more time—it’s a place where you can lose yourself in the exhibits for hours. Prepare well and enjoy every moment!