• Cultural & historical sites
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    $28.00
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    Booking required

    This attraction requires advanced booking.

What you'll do

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the largest and most innovative natural history museums in the world. The famous museum is home to millions of iconic artifacts. 

Visit the American Museum of Natural History with The New York Pass®

  • Our pass gives you access to all halls, including the Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education and Innovation. 
  • Take your time to explore all the exhibits.
  • View millions of relics that uncover the truth behind America's history.
  • Your New York Pass also includes dozens of other top attractions, tours and experiences, all for one money-saving price.

Ignite your curiosity about the universe at the beloved 148-year-old American Natural History Museum. From show-stopping displays such as the 94-foot blue whale and Tyrannosaurus Rex to taxidermy specimens, fossils and anthropological artifacts, the Natural History Museum can't be missed.

Since 1869, the museum inspired generations and explore the history of the world around us and beyond. Discover four floors of science, nature and history as you wander through incredible exhibits.

American Museum of Natural History facts

  • The museum is made up of 28 interconnected buildings housing 45 permanent exhibition halls, a planetarium and a library
  • The 122-foot-long Titanosaur skeleton was added in 2016 and is believed to belong to a 70-ton herbivore
  • Ahnighito - a 34-ton section of the 200-ton Cape York meteorite is the largest meteorite on display at any museum in the world
  • The museum has featured in films such as The Devil Wears Prada, K-PAX and most notably, Night at the Museum

American Museum of Natural History highlights

Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education and Innovation 

Explore the museum's newest and most spectacularly designed exhibition hall to reveal how all life is connected. The Gilder Center showcases the Davis Family Butterfly Vivarium, which houses up to 1,000 free-flying butterflies, the Susan and Peter J. Solomon Family Insectarium, home to the largest leafcutter ant colony in the U.S. and floor-to-ceiling displays of the collections that help us understand the natural world and global cultures. 

The Titanosaur

Check out the impressive 122-foot-long titanosaur. The fossils were added in 2016 and are believed to be the remains of a 70-ton herbivore (who knew you could gain so much weight eating plants?). The Titanosaur can be viewed any time that you visit the museum.

Hall of Biodiversity

One of the great aspects of the Museum of Natural History is the Hall of Biodiversity which features a few exhibits that focus on particular species. Be careful as you stroll down the hall, you can expect to encounter a few wild Siberian Tigers.

Human Origins and Cultural Halls

While the museum showcases many animals and plants from around the world, there are also quite a few exhibits that focus on the origin of human beings. In the Human Origins and Cultural Halls, you will find beautiful displays that tell a story about who we are as people. 

Museum of Natural History Tickets in New York

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, the Museum of Natural History in New York offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the wonders of our natural world. This iconic institution, established in 1869, spans four city blocks and houses a vast collection of exhibits, from the awe-inspiring T. rex skeleton to the striking 94-foot-long blue whale model suspended in the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life. When visiting the Big Apple, securing American Museum of Natural History tickets is essential for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of our planet's history and biodiversity. With a myriad of captivating displays, interactive installations, and immersive experiences, the museum leaves visitors of all ages inspired and enlightened.

Purchasing Natural History Museum tickets in NYC is a simple and convenient process, ensuring that everyone has the chance to explore this treasure trove of knowledge. Various ticket options cater to different budgets and interests, including general admission, all-access passes, and inclusive passes from The New York Pass®, which gives you access to the Natural History Museum and up to 100 more NYC attractions.

As you wander through the museum's vast halls, marvel at the Hayden Planetarium, journey through the Butterfly Conservatory, or uncover the hidden mysteries of ancient civilizations in the Spitzer Hall of Human Origins. These unique experiences make every visit an unforgettable adventure. In a city filled with iconic landmarks, the American Museum of Natural History stands as a testament to the beauty and complexity of our world, making it an essential destination for all who visit New York City.

Know before you go

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Booking required

This attraction requires advanced booking.

Getting in: please present your valid pass for scanning to receive entrance at either of these two locations:

  1. Rose Center entrance (81st St between Central Park West and Columbus Ave) and proceed downstairs to the Will Call window (Insider tip: this location often has shorter lines)
  2. Main entrance (79th St at Central Park West) and proceed to the vouchers desk

Optional extras: your pass entitles you to free general admission only. If you would like to upgrade your admission ticket to include a temporary exhibit, IMAX or 3D film, OR a Hayden Planetarium Space Show, you may do so for an additional fee directly at the museum.

Tips for visiting the American Museum of Natural History

  • The Natural History Museum New York is fully accessible.
  • Consult the map of the museum to plan which exhibitions to see.
  • Plan to spend around 2 hours 30 minutes at the Museum of Natural History, but reserve an extra hour if you intend to see a special exhibition.
  • The museum doesn’t allow food and drink, except for water bottles.
  • Leave large bags behind at the hotel or you will have to leave them at Coat Check for an additional $2 charge per item.

For more information, visit the official American Museum of Natural History website.

FAQs

Q. What are the highlights of the American Museum of Natural History?
A. The museum features a vast collection of exhibits, including the Rose Center for Earth and Space, the Hayden Planetarium, the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life, the Hall of Human Origins, and the Hall of Dinosaurs, among many others. Some of the standout displays include the blue whale model, the T-Rex skeleton, and the Willamette Meteorite.

Q. Are guided tours available at the American Museum of Natural History?
A. Yes, guided tours are available for both individuals and groups. The museum offers a variety of themed tours led by knowledgeable guides. Some popular options include the Highlights Tour, the Night at the Museum Tour, and the Dino Tour. For more information, visit the museum's website or inquire at the information desk upon arrival.

Q. Can I bring my own food and drinks into the museum?
A. No, outside food and drinks are not allowed in the museum. However, there are several dining options available on-site, including the Museum Food Court, the Café on One, and the Café on Four. These eateries offer a variety of meals, snacks, and beverages to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Q. Are there any special events or programs offered at the American Museum of Natural History?
A. Yes, the museum hosts a variety of special events and programs throughout the year. These include lectures, workshops, film screenings, and special exhibitions. Additionally, the museum offers educational programs and resources for families, students, and teachers. For a schedule of upcoming events and programs, visit the museum's website or check their social media channels.

Q. Is the American Museum of Natural History wheelchair accessible?
A. Yes, the museum is committed to providing a comfortable and accessible experience for all visitors. All public floors, exhibits, and restrooms are wheelchair accessible, and there are elevators and ramps available. The museum also offers wheelchairs for visitors to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis at the entrance.

Q. How do I get to the American Museum of Natural History using public transportation?
A. The museum is easily accessible by public transportation. You can take the subway, bus, or even a commuter train. For subway access, take the B (weekdays only) or C trains to the 81st Street-Museum of Natural History station. Alternatively, you can take the 1 train to the 79th Street station and walk a few blocks west. Several bus routes also stop near the museum, including the M79 crosstown bus and the M7, M10, and M11 buses. For detailed directions, visit the museum's website or use a transit planning app.

Q. What is the Pay What You Wish policy for local residents?
A. If you are a resident of New York, New Jersey or Connecticut, the amount you pay for General Admission to the Museum is up to you and includes access to more than 40 permanent exhibition halls, the Rose Center for Earth and Space, and the Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation. Please note that General Admission does not include ticketed exhibitions, the butterfly vivarium, the giant-screen film, and Hayden Planetarium Space Show.

Where you'll be

Map of location of attraction

Central Park West at 79th Street, New York, US

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Operating hours

Daily: 10AM – 5:30PM

Closings & holidays

Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day

American Museum of Natural History

(212) 769-5100

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Plans can change, we get it. All non-activated passes are eligible for a refund within 365 days of your purchase date.

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