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The American Museum of Natural History may well be our favorite New York City museum. This monument to Mother Earth and all living things houses a vast collection of rocks, plants, fossils, and artifacts and boasts whole halls dedicated to the cosmos and our ever-changing globe. Kid's favorites include the Fossil Halls, African elephants, and blue whale. The Discovery Room, with its hand-on exhibits, is a big hit with older children. The IMAX theatre is another popular feature but with so much to see it's almost a shame to watch a film. First time visitors should start their visit in the Dinosaur Halls and plan to spend the vast majority of their visit ogling at extinct creatures.

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Getting There

The American Museum of Natural History is located at Central Park West at 79th Street. This is the main entrance to the museum. The Rose Center Entrance is located on 81st St between Columbus Avenue and Central Park West. The Weston Pavilion Entrance (July 1 - Labor Day) is located at Columbus Avenue and 79th St. The museum is easily reached by public transport and is directly accessible from the 81st St. subway station. The nearest subways stops are 81st St. and 79th St. The B and C subway lines stop at 81st St. The 1, 2 and 3 subway lines stop at 79th St. City buses M79, M7, M10, M11, M86 and M104 all stop at or near the museum. Pay parking is available onsite.

Hours & Times

The museum is open daily 10:00 - 17:45. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Special exhibits and family programs are frequently scheduled and some halls close temporarily. Check the museum website for the current schedule.

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American Museum of Natural History

Admission & Fees

There is no fixed admission price but rather a recommended donation. A fixed fee is charged for most special exhibits, events, films and shows. Tickets purchased online are charged at the suggested rate and a handling fee is charged on top. Self-ticketing kiosks are located in the entrance. The American Museum of Natural History is included in the CityPass program.

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American Museum of Natural History
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Things to Keep in Mind

There's never a dreary day at the AMNH. In other words, it's always crowded. A Food Court is located on the lower level. Lines are long; the food is expensive.