American Museum of Natural History

The American Museum of Natural History in NYC is a must-see spot for anyone curious about natural history and science. Nestled on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, right across from Central Park, this vast museum houses over 32 million specimens and 45 permanent exhibition halls.

History

The museum’s journey began in 1861, thanks to naturalist Albert S. Bickmore. It first opened in Central Park’s Arsenal on May 22, 1871. The first dedicated building in Theodore Roosevelt Park, designed by Calvert Vaux and J. Wrey Mould, opened on December 22, 1877. Over time, many wings were added, including the main entrance pavilion named after Theodore Roosevelt in 1936 and the Rose Center for Earth and Space in 2000.

How to Get There

Getting to the American Museum of Natural History is a breeze with public transport. Hop on the subway with the B (weekdays only), C to 81st Street, or 1 to 79th Street, then walk east. The M79 bus runs east/west on West 79th Street across Central Park, stopping near the museum on West 81st Street. The M7, M10, M11, M86, and M104 buses also stop nearby. For more details, including train travel, check the museum’s website. Parking is available at 81st Street between Central Park West and Columbus Ave, from 8am to 11pm.

List of Attractions

The museum offers a wide range of exhibits for all ages and interests. Top attractions include:

1. Dinosaur Hall: Featuring a massive cast of the newly discovered dinosaur Titanosaurus (Patagotitan mayorum).
2. Hall of Ocean Life: Showcasing a giant blue whale model and other marine life specimens.
3. Hall of Biodiversity: Exploring Earth’s diverse life forms.
4. Rose Center for Earth and Space: Providing an immersive experience with interactive exhibits on space and Earth.
5. Insectarium and Butterfly Vivarium: Home to various insects and butterflies.
6. Hayden Planetarium Space Show: A cutting-edge digital theater offering educational shows about space.

Ticket Information

Ticket prices are suggested at $25 for adults, $20 for students with ID, $20 for seniors (60+), and $14 for children (ages 3–12). New York State residents can pay what they wish for four General Admission tickets. All tickets must be reserved online before your visit. For more details on ticket prices and availability, visit the museum’s website.

Tips for Visiting

1. Plan Ahead: Allocate plenty of time to explore the extensive collections. Check out exhibits online to plan your itinerary.
2. Use the Explorer App: Download the free Explorer app for turn-by-turn directions to exhibits and amenities, available on iOS and Android in multiple languages.
3. Take a Tour: Consider a guided tour led by docents, lasting about 70-80 minutes with limited guest numbers.
4. Bring Comfortable Shoes: The museum spans over two million square feet, so comfy walking shoes are a must.
5. Stroller-Friendly: The museum is handicap accessible via elevators, and strollers are allowed in most exhibits. Designated stroller “parking” areas are available where strollers aren’t permitted.
6. Check Out Special Exhibitions: The museum often features special exhibitions, so check their website for the latest offerings.
7. Ask for Help: If you get lost, the museum guides are knowledgeable and eager to assist.

By planning your visit well and following these tips, you can have an unforgettable experience at the American Museum of Natural History in NYC.