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Contents
Why take a guided tour of the American Museum of Natural History
Overview
Your guided tour through AMNH’s most iconic exhibits will be led by expert guides who provide in-depth insights and behind-the-scenes stories. The tour covers all major halls and exhibits so that you have a deeper, more engaging experience.
Timings: 10:30am to 3:30pm. Check the schedule on-site to select the tour of your choice
Duration: Approximately 75 minutes
Included with admission ticket: Yes
Where to sign up: Information desk in the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Hall on Floor 1
Wheelchair accessible: Yes, all tours are wheelchair-accessible
Foreign language tours
Guided tours are offered in multiple languages, so non-English speakers can also explore AMNH and gain a better understanding in a language of their choice. Each language has specific tour times, so check the schedule in advance when you plan your visit.
Timings for French tours
Tuesdays at 1pm
Wednesdays at 12pm
Thursdays at 1pm
Timings for Italian tours
Thursdays at 2pm
Timings for Spanish tours
Tuesdays at 2pm
Saturdays at 2pm
Timings for Mandarin Chinese and Hebrew tours
Ask the information desk on Floor 1 for tour timings or click here for more details.
Accessible tours
AMNH also has the option of participating in accessible guided tours. This way, all visitors can fully experience the museum’s exhibits with individualized and tailored support and accommodations.
For visitors who are deaf or hard of hearing
ASL-interpreted tours that are spoken and signed simultaneously are available at scheduled times, with engaging presentations of the permanent and special exhibits at the museum. You need to register at least 72 hours in advance to participate in this tour.
Contact: accessibility@amnh.org or 212-313-7565
For visitors who are blind or partially sighted
These verbal description guided tours are curated by specially trained Museum tour guides. They feature detailed exhibit explanations and engaging touchable objects for an interactive experience. You must book this tour at least two weeks before your visit.
Contact: accessibility@amnh.org
For visitors with intellectual/developmental disabilities
The Discovery Squad at AMNH is a hands-on program designed for neurodivergent children, children with other developmental disabilities, and their families. The tour takes place at 9am on the third Saturday of every month. Prior registration is necessary. Participants explore select halls for 45 minutes before the gates open to the public and spend 45 minutes after engaging in free play and exploration in the Discovery Room.
Contact: accessibility@amnh.org or 212-769-5200
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Frequently asked questions about American Museum of Natural History tours
How do I book a guided tour of the museum?
You can sign up for a guided tour at the Information Desk on Floor 1 of the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Hall. Special tours require prior reservations, so check the AMNH website for details before your visit.
Can I join a tour without pre-booking?
Yes! General guided tours are available throughout the day, and you can sign up at the museum itself. However, some specialized tours, like foreign language tours or accessible tours, require advance registration. You can reserve your accessible tour by contacting accessibility@amnh.org via email.
What types of tours are available at AMNH?
AMNH offers general guided tours, foreign language tours, and accessible tours for visitors with specific needs. There’s also a self-guided "Night at the Museum" tour, which lets you explore exhibits from the famous movie at your own pace.
What is included in a guided tour?
A guided tour covers the museum’s most famous exhibits, including the T. rex, the Blue Whale, and the Hall of Dinosaurs. Expert guides provide behind-the-scenes stories, little-known facts, and interactive discussions to make your visit more engaging.
Are self-guided tours available?
Yes! You can explore the museum on your own using the official AMNH app, which provides detailed information about the exhibits. The self-guided "Night at the Museum" tour is also available for those who want to relive the movie experience.
Are the tours suitable for children?
Absolutely! The guided tours are designed to be engaging for all ages. If you're visiting with younger kids or kids with developmental disabilities, the Discovery Squad tour is an excellent option, offering a sensory-friendly experience for neurodivergent children and their families.
What should I bring on a guided tour?
As the museum is large, wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a reusable water bottle. A small notebook could be handy if you plan to take notes or ask questions.
Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, photography is allowed in most areas of the museum. However, flash photography and tripods are not permitted, and some special exhibits may have restrictions.
How long do guided tours last?
Most guided tours last approximately 75 minutes and cover the museum’s key highlights. Special tours, like foreign language tours or accessible tours, may vary in duration.
Do I need to pay extra for a guided tour?
No, guided tours are included with museum admission, so you don’t have to pay anything extra. Just check the schedule and sign up at the Information Desk when you arrive.
Can I bring a stroller on a guided tour?
Yes, the museum is fully accessible, and strollers are allowed. However, keep in mind that guided tours move through multiple exhibits, and some areas may have limited space.
What languages are available for guided tours?
In addition to English, the museum offers tours in French, Italian, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, and Hebrew at designated times. Check the schedule in advance to find a tour in your preferred language.
Is the museum tour wheelchair-accessible?
Yes, all guided tours are wheelchair-accessible, and elevators are available throughout the museum.