A guide to visiting the American Museum of Natural History

Think the American Museum of Natural History is just another museum? Think again. It’s your all-access pass to a time machine and a spaceship rolled into one, in the middle of New York City. From the huge Titanosaur to the Hayden Planetarium, where Neil deGrasse Tyson himself might as well be handing you the keys to the universe, every exhibit of this New York museum is like hitting the jackpot in a treasure hunt that spans from the ocean depths to outer space. It’s just one of the many incredible things to do in NYC. So, gear up for one of New York’s top experiences that will have you looking at our world — and the many beyond — in a whole new light at the American Museum of Natural History.

American Museum of Natural History at a glance

Suggested duration: Allocate at least 3-4 hours
Best time of day to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
Must-sees: Hall of Biodiversity, Butterfly Conservatory, Hayden Planetarium
Facts:

• Established in 1869
• Features over 45 permanent exhibition halls, including the Rose Center for Earth and Space, with over 33 million specimens
• Receives over 5 million visitors from around the world each year.
• Home to more than 200 scientists, conducting groundbreaking research in fields ranging from anthropology to zoology.
• Served as the backdrop for the popular film “Night at the Museum.”

Opening hours: 10:00 AM-5:45 PM; may vary during holidays
Address: Central Park West and 79th St, New York, NY 10024

Why is the American Museum of Natural History worth visiting?

One of the “Big 5” New York museums, AMNH is the world’s largest natural history museum. Under the stewardship of Neil deGrasse Tyson, the Hayden Planetarium transforms your understanding of the cosmos for as close as you can get to an adventure through space in Manhattan. The Jurassic giants are pretty spectacular; Titanosaur, the centerpiece of its prehistoric showcase, is the largest of around 100 dinosaur finds on display across four halls.

And there’s an expansive narrative of humanity, too, from the dawn of ancient civilizations to contemporary breakthroughs. All of this contributes to visiting the museum of the best things to do in Manhattan.

What to see at the American Museum of Natural History

• Dinosaur Halls on the Fourth Floor: Get face-to-face with the giants of the past in an exhibit that’s a must-see for anyone fascinated by the age of dinosaurs.
• Milstein Hall of Ocean Life: Immerse yourself in the deep blue and meet the 94-foot blue whale, the largest animal on Earth.
• Akeley Hall of African Mammals: Travel to the heart of Africa with meticulously crafted dioramas depicting the continent’s rich wildlife.
• Rose Center for Earth and Space: Blast off to the cosmos and explore the universe’s mysteries, from the formation of stars to the expanses of the observable universe.
• Bernard Family Hall of North American Mammals: Wander through the diverse ecosystems of North America, from the frozen Arctic to the lush forests of the national parks.
• Allison and Roberto Mignone Halls of Gems and Minerals: Marvel at nature’s artistry in the form of breathtaking gems and minerals that sparkle with untold stories.
• Davis Family Butterfly Vivarium and Solomon Family Insectarium: Step into a world of fluttering wings and intriguing insects at the Museum’s new Gilder Center, offering a glimpse into the lives of these small but significant creatures.

Best time to visit the American Museum of Natural History

• Best times of year: Aim for spring or fall to catch the perfect museum vibe — cooler weather and fewer crowds make it the best time to explore the rest of NYC, too. Don’t miss other natural wonders at the botanical gardens if you visit NYC in spring.
• Best times of day: For daily timing, the crack of dawn or late afternoon during the week is your sweet spot. Got your eye on a special exhibit? Book ahead to dodge the lines.

Tips for visiting the American Museum of Natural History

• Guided tours: Worth it for a deeper understanding of the exhibits.
• Skip-the-line tickets: Highly recommended to save time.
• Different entrances: Main entrance on Central Park West; secondary entrance on 81st Street.

How to get to the American Museum of Natural History

Public transportation: Take the B or C subway lines to 81st Street Station.
Taxi: If you’re coming from Times Square, a quick 10-minute cab ride will whisk you to the doorstep.
Walking: Take the scenic route east to west through Central Park from Fifth Avenue for a refreshing pre-museum stroll — it’s directly across the park from The Met, one of NYC’s top art museums.

Accessibility

The museum is accessible to people with mobility impairments, offering elevators and ramps throughout the facility.

FAQs

Is photography allowed in the museum?

Absolutely! Feel free to capture your adventure for personal use. Just remember, no flash or tripods in certain zones to keep exhibits looking their best.

Can I bring food into the museum?

While munching amidst the exhibits is a no-go, there are cafes and dedicated spots to eat your own food and relax.

Are there locker facilities available?

Yes, lockers are available for a small fee.

Is the museum suitable for young children?

Yes. The museum is one of the best places in NYC to visit with kids, so it’s perfect for families. Exhibits are designed to excite and engage young minds.

Can I buy tickets at the museum?

You can buy a ticket at the museum, but it usually pays to buy in advance and skip the ticket booth line when you arrive.

[HEADER IMAGE CREDIT] Flickr; ajay_suresh. Some rights reserved