Everything you need to plan your visit to AMNH
Founded in 1869, the American Museum of Natural History is an important scientific and cultural institution. Located on the Upper West Side, the museum features impressive exhibitions and collections about human cultures, the natural world, and the universe. Whether you’re interested in dinosaurs or ecology, Native Americans or cosmic pathways, this museum has something for everyone. There are also special exhibits for children.
American Museum of Natural History Introduction and Directions
Wondering how to get to the American Museum of Natural History? Located on the Upper West Side, here’s a helpful page with directions, admission information, as well as information about the museum’s history.
The closest subway stations are the 81st Street station on the C and B trains or the 79th Street station on the 1 train. If you are coming from the Upper East Side and it’s a pleasant day, consider walking across the park to reach the museum as it is directly located on the park.
Tips for Navigating the Museum
Like many great museums, it would be impossible to see everything at the American Museum of Natural History in just one visit; however, our visitor tips will help you make the most of your time.
One of the most important pieces of advice is to get a museum map before you begin and plan out where you want to go. The museum is expansive, and you could spend the entire day walking in circles if you simply wander around.
Recommended Exhibits
With so many great exhibits, there is no way to see everything that the AMNH has to offer in a single visit. If you are overwhelmed with options, stop by the information desk to ask about topics you might be interested in learning more about. Additionally, don’t miss the dinosaurs, as they are what makes this museum famous.
Tours Around the Museum
The American Museum of Natural History offers a variety of tours to enhance your visit, all included with museum admission:
- Highlights Tour – Offered daily at 10:15, 11:15, 12:15, 1:15, 2:15, and 3:15. Begins at the entrance to the Akeley Hall of African Mammals on the second floor.
- Spotlight Tour – These tours focus on specific halls or themes. Check in the information desk for that day’s schedule.
- Explainers – Volunteers are available to explain fossils (4th floor, wearing red buttons) and answer questions about astronomy and geology (Rose Center and Meteorites, Minerals & Gem halls, wearing purple buttons). Daily from 1-5 p.m. (beginning at 10 a.m. on weekends).
- Private Group Tours: AMNH offers a variety of tours for private groups visiting the museum.
- Download the museum’s free Explorer App for a variety of self-guided tours.
AMNH Explorer – iPhone App
Tired of getting lost in the American Museum of Natural History? The AMNH Explorer app is a free download (and if you don’t have an iPhone or iPod touch of your own, you can borrow one for free at the museum) that makes it easier to navigate the museum while providing features similar to an audio tour.
Visiting with Kids
The AMNH is a great choice for families visiting New York City. From toddlers to teens, there is something for just about every age group at the museum. You can find out about all the programs and opportunities for families on the website.
Older kids will enjoy preparing for their visit by exploring the American Museum of Natural History’s website.
American Museum of Natural History Map
Want to make the most of your time at the American Museum of Natural History? You might want to print out a copy of the AMNH’s floor plan/information brochure before you arrive.
Map: See a Floor Plan of the AMNH (PDF)
Origami Holiday Tree at the American Museum of Natural History
Every year, the American Museum of Natural History displays their holiday tree decorated with origami from late November through early January. The theme of the tree varies from year to year; however, it always features beautifully folded origami animals that volunteers spend many months folding for the tree.
