200 Central Park W, New York, NY 10024, USA
Phone +1 212-769-5100
A trip to New York City’s American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) offers a rich and engaging experience for both adults and children. The museum features a diverse array of captivating exhibits, ranging from dinosaurs to ocean life to outer space.
However, with so much to see, deciding what to experience first can be challenging. This guide is designed to help you optimize your visit to the American Museum of Natural History, detailing essential information about tickets, collection highlights, location, and more.
Basic Information
- Location and Contact Information: The museum is situated at 79th Street and Central Park West in New York City.
- Subway Directions: Take the B (weekdays only) or C to 81st Street.
- Hours of Operation: The American Museum of Natural History is open daily except on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
- Tickets: Tickets are available on-site or online. It is important to purchase additional tickets for special exhibitions and programs, including the Space Show at the planetarium and IMAX films.
- Exhibitions: The AMNH hosts a wide variety of seasonal exhibitions.
The Museum’s Top Attractions
- The Dinosaurs: The museum’s renowned dinosaur exhibits draw in enthusiasts of all ages. Located on the fourth floor, the impressive dinosaur fossils include a Tyrannosaurus Rex, Apatosaurus, Stegosaurus, and the astonishing 122-foot-long Titanosaur introduced in 2016.
- The Rose Center for Earth and Space, Featuring the Hayden Planetarium: The magnificent Cullman Hall of the Universe grants access to the Hayden Planetarium, a spherical structure where visitors can immerse themselves in space-themed shows that showcase the universe surrounding them. This hall also features educational exhibits about Earth, space exploration, and the cosmos.
- The Milstein Hall of Ocean Life: Witness one of the museum’s most iconic displays, the 94-foot-long model of a blue whale. Additional dioramas provide visitors an intimate glimpse into diverse marine life, including dolphins, sharks, and giant squid.
- The Butterfly Conservatory: The Butterfly Conservatory is a beloved seasonal exhibit typically open from December through May. Step into a vibrant garden teeming with stunning Technicolor butterflies and moths.
— Updated by Elissa Garay
