The ultimate guide to plan your visit to American Museum of Natural History

Plan Your Visit

Opening hours

Timings: 10am to 5:30pm
Closed: Thanksgiving and Christmas Day
Last admission: The last admission to the museum is at 5pm

Best time to visit

For the best experience at the American Museum of Natural History, visit in the morning when it opens at 10am or in the afternoon around 2pm when the crowds are lighter. Weekdays, especially from Tuesday to Thursday, tend to be less busy compared to weekends.

If you're visiting in late fall or winter, you'll enjoy a quieter atmosphere, making it easier to explore the museum's vast galleries. To avoid large school groups, it's best to steer clear of peak times like school holidays.

Where is the American Museum of Natural History?

The American Museum of Natural History is located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in New York City. It is situated in Theodore Roosevelt Park along the western edge of Central Park, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city.

Address: 200 Central Park W, New York, NY 10024, United States
Closest landmark: Central Park

How to get to the American Museum of Natural History?

By public transport

By Bus: Take the M79 bus, which stops on West 81st Street. The museum is a 5-minute walk from the stop. Other buses that stop near the museum include the M7, M10, M11, M86, and M104.
By Subway: Take the B or C train to 81st Street-Museum of Natural History station, which is directly connected to the museum. Alternatively, the 1 train stops at Broadway and West 79th Street, about two blocks away. The museum is a 5-7 minute walk from both stops.
By Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout the city. A taxi ride to the museum from popular areas like Times Square typically takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

By personal transport

By Car: If driving, you can reach the museum via Central Park West. The parking garage entrance is located at 54 W 81st Street.
Parking: You can avail a parking spot for an hourly fee, but it can be limited, so arrive early.
By Bike: The museum provides bicycle racks in the driveway of the Rose Center for Earth and Space and within the parking garage.
By Scooter: If you’re traveling by scooter, you can park and lock it at any of the racks located outside the entrances at 81st Street (Rose Center for Earth and Space) and 77th Street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue

Know before you go

Facilities

Accessibility

Visiting with family

Rules & regulations

Dining

Shop

Nearby

Cloakroom: The museum currently does not offer coat check services. Avoid bringing large bags or backpacks, as they are not permitted inside.
Gift shop: Located near the entrance, the gift shop features a wide range of items, including educational toys, books, and unique souvenirs related to the museum's exhibits.
Restrooms: Public restrooms are accessible on every floor, including family and gender-neutral options. Facilities are designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities.
Dining: The museum offers several dining facilities, with variety of food options, desserts, and beverages.
Lost and found: The museum has a Lost and Found counter an the first-floor of the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Hall.
Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the museum for visitors, ensuring connectivity during your visit.

Wheelchair availability: Wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the coat check near the main entrance.
Accessible entrances: The 81st Street entrance is wheelchair accessible and provides easy access to the museum's exhibits.
Elevators and ramps: All floors of the museum are accessible via elevators, and ramps are provided where needed.
Restrooms: Accessible restrooms are available on every floor, ensuring comfort and convenience for all visitors.
Exhibit access: Most exhibits are designed to be fully accessible, allowing all visitors to enjoy the museum’s offerings.
Sensory and autism-friendly accommodations: The museum provides a social story to help visitors on the autism spectrum prepare for their visit. Discovery Squad tours are designed for families affected by autism spectrum disorders. You can send an email to accessibility@amnh.org or call Central Reservations at 212-769-5200 to discuss your needs and book a Discovery Squad Tour.
Hearing accessibility: Induction loop hearing systems are available upon request in select locations. Infrared assistive listening devices (headsets and/or neck loops) are also available.
Vision accessibility: Science Sense tours are held monthly, highlighting specific themes and exhibits through verbal descriptions and touchable objects.

Restrooms: Accessible restrooms are available on every floor, including family and gender-neutral options, ensuring comfort for all visitors.
Dining: The museum features several dining facilities, including the Restaurant at Gilder, Museum Food Court, Café on 1, and Café on 4, offering a variety of meals and snacks suitable for families.
Stroller accessibility: Strollers are welcome throughout the museum, with designated stroller parking in areas where they are not permitted. The recommended entrance for strollers is the 81st Street/Rose Center for Earth and Space.
Lactation rooms: Private lactation rooms are available for nursing mothers, providing a comfortable space.
Wheelchair rentals: Non-motorized wheelchairs are available at no cost on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring accessibility for all family members.
Family programs: The museum offers various family-friendly programs and activities, making it an engaging experience for children of all ages.
Nursing rooms: Dedicated nursing rooms provide a quiet space for feeding infants, located near the lower levels of the museum.
Interactive exhibits: The Discovery Room, designed for children aged 5–12, provides hands-on activities that engage young minds in science and natural history.

Prohibited items: Firearms, weapons, and hazardous materials are strictly prohibited. Visitors are also not allowed to carry drones, unmanned aircraft systems, or other remote-flying devices.
Bag restrictions: Large backpacks, suitcases, and luggage are not permitted inside the museum. Strollers are allowed but must be checked at certain exhibitions.
Security screening: All visitors are subject to security screening upon entering the museum. This may include bag checks and metal detectors.
Food and beverages: Eating and drinking are not allowed in exhibition areas. Visitors are welcome to enjoy food and beverages only in designated dining spaces.
Smoking: Smoking, including electronic cigarettes, is not permitted anywhere inside the museum or on its grounds.
Photography: Photography for personal use is allowed, but tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are prohibited.

The Restaurant at Gilder: Located within the museum, this table-service restaurant offers contemporary American cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. The ambiance is elegant yet family-friendly. Popular dishes include seasonal salads and artisanal sandwiches.
Café on 4: This casual dining spot within the museum features a variety of grab-and-go options, including sandwiches, salads, and snacks. The bright and welcoming atmosphere makes it a great place for families to refuel during their visit. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available.
Café on 1: Located within the museum, this café offers a casual dining experience with a selection of sandwiches, salads, pastries, and beverages. It's a convenient stop for a quick bite between exhibits, with a family-friendly atmosphere.
Museum Food Court: The Museum Food Court provides a variety of options, including pizza, burgers, and international dishes. It’s a great spot for families and groups, offering plenty of seating and quick service to refuel during your museum visit.
The Milling Room: A 4-minute walk from the museum will lead you to this upscale American restaurant featuring seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Popular dishes include roasted chicken with root vegetables and their signature dry-aged steak. Map

Museum Store: Located near the entrance, the Museum Store features a wide range of merchandise, including educational toys, books, and souvenirs related to the museum's exhibits. It's a perfect spot to find gifts for all ages.
Dino Store: This store specializes in dinosaur-themed merchandise, offering everything from plush toys and apparel to books and educational kits. A must-visit for dinosaur enthusiasts and children, it combines fun with learning.
Cosmic Shop: For those interested in space and astronomy, the Cosmic Shop, located in the Rose Center for Earth and Space, has everything from star charts and telescopes to NASA-themed apparel and meteorite fragments.
Gems and Minerals Shop: Located within the Mignone Halls of Gems and Minerals, this shop offers a selection of jewelry, minerals, and educational materials related to geology.
Seasonal Pop-Up Shops: Throughout the year, the museum features seasonal pop-up shops that offer limited-edition items and themed merchandise related to current exhibitions or events.
Online Shopping: For those who want to take a piece of the museum home, the museum's online store has a wide selection of items, including exclusive merchandise and educational resources, making it easy to shop from anywhere.

Stay

Budget hotels:

Mid-range hotels:

Luxury hotels:

Central Park: This iconic urban park offers vast green spaces, walking paths, and recreational areas. You can take in scenic views, set up picnics, and enjoy activities like boating and cycling. | Find on Maps
The New York Historical Society: This museum features exhibitions on New York's history, art, and culture, along with a notable library and a café. | Find on Maps
Belvedere Castle: Nestled in Central Park, this charming castle has beautiful views of the park and surrounding cityscape. It also houses a visitor center and nature exhibits. | Find on Maps
The Dakota: This historic apartment building is famous for its architecture and as the former home of John Lennon. You can admire its Gothic-style façade from the street. | Find on Maps
The Metropolitan Museum of Art: World-renowned museum featuring diverse art collections, from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, just a short walk away. | Find on Maps

Frequently asked questions about the American Museum of Natural History

What are the museum's opening hours?

The American Museum of Natural History is open daily from 10am to 5:30pm. It is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Can I bring my pet to the museum?

Pets are not allowed inside the museum, except for service animals that assist visitors with disabilities.

Are guided tours available?

Yes, the museum offers free guided tours led by knowledgeable staff. These tours are about 75 minutes long and are offered in additional languages based on tour guide availability. They also offer wheelchair access to those with disabilities. You can check the day’s schedule and sign up for a tour at the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Hall information desk on the First Floor. Keep in mind that spots are limited.

How long should I plan to spend at the museum?

Set aside 3 to 5 hours to explore the museum. However, to fully enjoy the exhibits, consider planning a longer visit, especially if you want to see special exhibitions.

What is the best way to navigate the museum?

The museum provides maps at the entrance and offers a mobile app that helps visitors navigate the exhibits. It’s advisable to plan your route in advance to maximize your visit.

Are there family-friendly activities?

Yes, the museum hosts various family-friendly programs and activities, including hands-on exhibits and special events designed to engage children and families in learning about science and nature.

What types of temporary exhibitions are featured?

The museum hosts rotating exhibitions on a range of topics from ancient civilizations to cutting-edge science. These exhibitions change frequently, so check their website for current offerings.

Can I host an event at the museum?

Yes, the museum offers event spaces for private functions, including corporate events and educational programs. For details on booking and pricing, contact the museum’s events department directly.