Holding down a large patch of land just west of Central Park, the American Museum of Natural History in NYC is one of the top scientific and cultural institutions in the world. Founded in 1869, this museum's mission of discovering and interpreting fossils, artifacts, and information about the natural world is still thriving today.

In May 2023, AMNH completed a multi-million dollar expansion with the opening of the Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation, a 230,000 square foot, three-story space that includes classrooms, a 5,000 square foot insectarium, a butterfly vivarium, a restaurant, and the Louis V. Gerstner, Jr. Collections Core, offering research and collections spaces, a library, and a learning center. The immersive experience Invisible Worlds is also new here. The exhibition lets you explore networks of life at all scales, including several invisible to the human eye. You'll become part of the story as your movements influence the projections around you. The range of experiences is amazing, including satellite networks, the human brain, interactions in Central Park, jellyfish, the Brazilian rainforest, and a humpback whale.

Containing dozens of exhibits and theater shows, the American Museum of Natural History is that rare destination that everyone will enjoy. The experiences visitors can choose from feel like a microcosm of life itself: from space and dinosaurs to gems and the big blue whale, to the artifacts of Asian and European civilizations and butterflies. In particular, the museum's fossil halls have gained worldwide acclaim and are popular with visitors of all ages.

Tips for Visiting the American Museum of Natural History in New York

• Download the museum’s free Explorer app (available in the Apple App Store and Google Play) before you go. It features an interactive map of the museum, behind-the-scenes stories about the exhibits, quizzes, and more.
• Free Wi-Fi is available in the museum.
• The Museum has table service at The Restaurant at Gilder open from 11:30 am-3:30 pm, two cafes, and a food court that is open 10:45 am-4:30pm. Visitors may also leave the museum for food and return using the same timed-entry ticket on the same day.
• Strollers are allowed throughout the museum, except theaters, though double strollers are typically not permitted in special exhibitions due to lack of space. Visitors with strollers are recommended to enter on 81st Street at the Rose Center for Earth and Space.

Visiting the American Museum of Natural History in NYC

Where is the American Museum of Natural History located?

The American Museum of Natural History is located at 200 Central Park West (between 77th and 81st streets) on the Upper West Side. It’s right across the street from Central Park (and just 5 blocks north of Strawberry Fields), which are perfect for a pre- or post-museum visit.

How do I get to the Museum of Natural History?

Take the C or B trains to 81st Street - Museum of Natural History Station or take the 1 train to 79th Street and walk 2 blocks west. There are also a few bus lines with stops near the museum, including M79, M7, M10, M11, M86, and M104.

Driving into the city? There’s parking at the museum on 81st Street, between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue. The parking garage is open Monday-Friday, 6am-11pm, and Saturday-Sunday, 8am-11pm.

What are the American Museum of Natural History’s hours?

The museum is open daily, 10am-5:30pm.

How much is admission to AMNH?

General admission is $30; $24 seniors ages 60 and older and students (with valid ID); $18 children ages 3-12; free for children ages 2 and younger. Access to films, shows, and ticketed exhibits cost extra. Entry for members is free.

New York residents (with ID) may pay what they wish for admission to the museum.

center. A Barosaurus protects its young from an Allosaurus.