American Museum of Natural History: 2023 Insider's Guide

Dive into our insider’s guide to the American Museum of Natural History, NYC. Discover the museum’s highlights, operating hours, ticket deals, nearby attractions, and more.

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, the American Museum of Natural History is a treasure trove of wonder. It holds the secrets of our cosmos, preserves artifacts of ancient civilizations, and presents the natural world through the most awe-inspiring exhibits.

Whether you’re a science aficionado or a curious wanderer, you will enjoy marveling at massive dinosaur skeletons, unraveling cosmic mysteries, and sailing through an ocean of global biodiversity without leaving Manhattan’s Upper West Side!

American Museum of Natural History Tickets

Your journey into the incredible world of the Museum of Natural History begins with a ticket. But don’t just purchase any ticket–make a smart choice!

Avail the discounted American Museum of Natural History Tickets available on Tripster, your one-stop-shop for great deals. Feed your curiosity while saving money in the process!

About the American Museum of Natural History

In the heart of New York City, nestled between Central Park and the Hudson River, stands the majestic American Museum of Natural History. A symbol of exploration and discovery since its founding in 1869, the museum is a gateway to the cosmos, the past, and the living world.

Today, this sprawling institution is home to more than 40 permanent exhibit halls, filled with a rich collection of artifacts, specimens, and cultural displays from across the globe and throughout time. Whether you’re keen on fossils, cultures, or the cosmos, this museum is a colossal cathedral of science that you will enjoy, as it serves up a banquet of knowledge and wonder for all who walk its venerable halls.

What to Know Before You Go

Hours

Planning your visit to the realm of knowledge and discovery? The American Museum of Natural History Hours is from 10:00 AM to 5:45 PM, seven days a week. Whether you’re an early bird eager to beat the crowd or a leisurely afternoon explorer, these hours accommodate all types of schedules.

Please note that the last admission is 45 minutes before closing time. However, don’t forget to check the official website before your visit for any changes due to holidays or special events.

Directions

The American Museum of Natural History is located at Central Park West & 79th St, New York, NY 10024, which makes the museum easily accessible.

If you’re taking the subway, hop on the B (weekdays only) or C train to 81st Street. Two blocks from the station and voila, you’re at the museum! For bus travelers, the M79 bus will get you directly there.

Alternatively, use the American Museum of Natural History Map available on the official website. This handy tool will navigate you straight to the doorstep of endless discovery.

Parking

Planning to drive to and want to check if there is an American Museum of Natural History Parking? While the museum does not have its own onsite parking, fear not, there are ample parking options available nearby.

There’s a convenient 24-hour parking garage located at 203 West 77th Street, between Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue. This location is just a short walk away from the museum. Rates apply and can vary, so be sure to check the current pricing.

Food or Beverages Policy

Please note that bringing your own food or beverages is not permitted within the Museum’s exhibition halls, theaters, or library. However, indoor and outdoor dining areas are provided for those who bring packed meals. This policy is aimed at preserving the exhibits and maintaining a clean and comfortable environment for all guests.

Cameras

The American Museum of Natural History encourages personal photography so go ahead, bring out those cameras, and take as many American Museum of Natural History Photos as your heart desires.

However, for the safety of the exhibits and the comfort of all visitors, the use of tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks is not allowed. Additionally, photography is not permitted in certain special exhibitions or the theater.

American Museum of Natural History Highlights

Prepare to be enchanted by a galaxy of wonders at the American Museum of Natural History! Its expansive range of American Museum of Natural History Exhibitions promises an exhilarating journey through time, space, and life on Earth.

Start your expedition in the monumental Roosevelt Rotunda, where a roaring T-Rex will greet you, a nod to the conservation legacy of Theodore Roosevelt. From there, venture into the Richard Gilder Center for Science Education and Innovation, a hub that brings the mysteries of the natural world to life.

More sparkling surprises await in the Halls of Gems, which showcases the Earth’s treasured minerals and gems. Meanwhile, Invisible Worlds illuminates the hidden realms of our universe.

Don’t forget to drop by the American Museum of Natural History Planetarium. If you visit this wing of the museum, prepare to be swept off into the farthest reaches of space, where you will delve into the secrets of the cosmos through spectacular, scientifically accurate simulations.

From the depths of the oceans to the far reaches of the cosmos, each corner of the museum offers an awe-inspiring exploration. There’s a world to discover inside this top New York City attraction!

Nearby Restaurants

Tucked within the wonders of the museum, you’ll find an exquisite dining experience at The Restaurant at Gilder. Featuring an array of mouthwatering dishes, each bite is an exploration of flavors as compelling as the exhibits themselves.

The Restaurant at Gilder offers not just nourishment for your body, but also a feast for your eyes, making your culinary pit stop an integral part of your museum journey. This table-service restaurant boasts a spectacular view overlooking the Kenneth C. Griffin Exploration Atrium. As you feast, marvel at the awe-inspiring architecture of the Atrium, its soaring structure an artwork in its own right.

Nearby Attractions

Step out of the American Museum of Natural History and you’ll find yourself in a city bursting with opportunities for cultural exploration and fun!

Just a stone’s throw away is the legendary Metropolitan Museum of Art–the Meet the Met Tour available on Tripster. Guided by an expert, this immersive experience transports you on a journey across 5,000 years of global art history. From the Temple of Dendur to the iconic works of Van Gogh, Picasso, and Vermeer, you’ll uncover the secrets and stories behind each masterpiece. The tour also includes a visit to the Met’s breathtaking rooftop garden, which offers spectacular views over Central Park.

Speaking of Central Park, delve into the world of film with the Central Park TV & Movie Sites Walking Tour! This two-hour stroll, led by a local actor, features over 30 filming locations of iconic TV shows and movies. Dance where the Glee cast performed “I Love New York,” or visit the Bethesda Terrace, the backdrop for The Avengers and Gossip Girl. From Love Story to Home Alone 2, experience the magic of the big screen in this captivating tour.

Both these amazing tours offer unique ways to continue your exploration and appreciate the cultural richness that New York City has to offer. So why stop at the museum? Extend your adventure and soak up the essence of this vibrant city!

Nearby Hotels and Lodging

Make the most out of your visit to the American Museum of Natural History by staying nearby. Lodging close to the museum offers the luxury of beating the early morning rush and the flexibility to take a midday break.

In addition, the museum’s close proximity to Central Park means that you’re never far from a relaxing stroll or picnic. The neighborhood is home to a wide variety of restaurants and shops, ensuring entertainment options are always at your fingertips.

Discover the convenience and charm of staying in one of New York City’s most vibrant and culture-rich districts! Here are our top picks for hotels near the American Museum of Natural History New York:

ground view of the Hilton Midtown at night with lights in NYC, New York, USA — photo credit: New York Times Square via Facebook

Reviews

Wondering what other explorers think of their journeys through the American Museum of Natural History? Check out the American Museum of Natural History Reviews on Tripster! Read first-hand experiences from fellow travelers, offering insights and highlights that can enhance your own visit. If you’ve been to the Museum already, feel free to drop your own review!

Visit the American Museum of Natural History NYC

Embark on an epic journey of discovery at the American Museum of Natural History.

Explore ancient civilizations, gaze at celestial wonders in the planetarium, marvel at the glittering Halls of Gems, and enjoy exquisite dining at The Restaurant at Gilder. Step outside and you’re surrounded by the marvels of Central Park, Met tours, and movie site walks.

Before you go, be sure to check out the Museum of Natural History Vacation Packages on Tripster, an excellent way to bundle your adventures for added convenience and savings.

Explore, learn, and create unforgettable memories in the heart of New York City!

What Did We Miss?

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Written by Nicole King

There are only two things that make Nicole really happy–books and travel! When her head’s not buried in a book, she’s most likely...

American Museum of Natural History New York: 2024 Insider’s Guide