About American Museum of Natural History
On Manhattan's Upper West Side, the AMNH spans 28 interconnected buildings with 34 million specimens and the Rose Center for Earth and Space.
Founded in 1869, American Museum of Natural History has been welcoming visitors for over 157 years. Today it draws approximately 5,000,000 visitors annually, making it one of the most-visited natural history museums in the world. Located in New York, United States, the museum holds a rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 87,000 traveller reviews, reflecting its enduring appeal to both first-time visitors and returning enthusiasts.
Why American Museum of Natural History ranks #16
Our editorial ranking blends data from TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice awards, AECOM/TEA annual attendance figures, and coverage in leading travel publications including Condé Nast Traveler, Time Out, National Geographic and The Times. Ranking at #16, American Museum of Natural History is one of the fifty most acclaimed museums on our composite index — a destination that serious museum-goers and casual visitors alike should have on their list. Key recognitions include: TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice.
Must-see highlights
With a recommended visit time of 3–5 hours, planning your route through American Museum of Natural History is essential. Here are the standout works and spaces that should be at the top of your list:
- ◆Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton
- ◆Blue Whale model (Hall of Ocean Life)
- ◆Hayden Planetarium
- ◆Hall of Biodiversity
- ◆Akeley Hall of African Mammals
- ◆Gilder Center
Recognition & awards
American Museum of Natural History has received recognition from multiple authoritative sources in the museum and travel industry:
Planning your visit
Opening hours: Daily 10:00–17:30.
How long to spend: Most visitors recommend setting aside 3–5 hours for a thorough visit. If you are short on time, focus on the highlights listed above and consider purchasing a skip-the-line ticket to maximise your time inside.
Getting there: American Museum of Natural History is located in New York, United States at coordinates 40.7813°N, -73.9740°E. View on Google Maps →
Visitor tips: Given the size of this museum, comfortable shoes are essential. Consider splitting your visit across two days if your schedule allows. Check the official website for any temporary closures, special exhibitions and advance booking requirements.
History of American Museum of Natural History
American Museum of Natural History was established in 1869, making it a well-established institution with over a century of history. Over the centuries, it has grown from its original collection to become a major cultural landmark in New York. With 5,000,000 annual visitors, it plays a vital role in United States's cultural tourism economy and stands as one of the most important natural history museums in the Americas region.
Other top natural history museums
If you enjoy natural history museums like American Museum of Natural History, you may also want to explore these highly-ranked institutions in the same category:
- #15Smithsonian National Museum of Natural HistoryWashington, United States
- #17Natural History MuseumLondon, United Kingdom
- #44Field Museum of Natural HistoryChicago, United States
- #58Smithsonian National Zoo (& Conservation)Washington, United States
- #66Royal Ontario MuseumToronto, Canada
More museums in New York
New York is home to 9 museums on our editorial ranking. If you are visiting the city, consider combining your trip to American Museum of Natural History with these nearby institutions:
- #2The Metropolitan Museum of Art🖼️ Art & Encyclopedic
- #11Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)🎨 Modern & Contemporary
- #25Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum🎨 Modern & Contemporary
- #399/11 Memorial & Museum🕯️ Memorial & Remembrance
- #57Whitney Museum of American Art🎨 Modern & Contemporary
- #114MoMA PS1🎨 Modern & Contemporary
- #115Brooklyn Museum🖼️ Art & Encyclopedic
- #116Frick Collection🖼️ Art & Encyclopedic
Frequently asked questions
What are the opening hours of American Museum of Natural History?
Daily 10:00–17:30. We recommend checking the official website before your visit as hours may change on public holidays or during special events.
How long should I spend at American Museum of Natural History?
Most visitors recommend spending 3–5 hours for a comprehensive visit. If you are short on time, prioritise the must-see highlights listed above.
Where is American Museum of Natural History located?
American Museum of Natural History is located in New York, United States. The exact coordinates are 40.7813°, -73.9740°. You can find directions via Google Maps.
What is American Museum of Natural History known for?
Dinosaurs, dioramas and the Hayden Planetarium. Key highlights include Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton, Blue Whale model (Hall of Ocean Life), Hayden Planetarium. The museum holds a 4.7/5 rating from 87,000 reviews.
How many people visit American Museum of Natural History each year?
American Museum of Natural History receives approximately 5,000,000 visitors per year, making it one of the most-visited museums in United States.
When was American Museum of Natural History founded?
American Museum of Natural History was founded in 1869, making it 157 years old. It is categorised as a natural history museum in our directory.
