Founded in 1869, the American Museum of Natural History is an important scientific and cultural institution. Located on the Upper West Side, the museum features impressive exhibitions and collections about human cultures, the natural world and the universe. Whether you're interested in dinosaurs or ecology, Native Americans or cosmic pathways, this museum has something for everyone.
Official Site: http://www.amnh.org/
1. American Museum of Natural History Introduction and Directions
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Wondering how to get to the American Museum of Natural History? The American Museum of Natural History is located on the Upper West Side and we've put together a helpful page with directions, admission information, as well as information about the museum's history.
2. Tips
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Like many great museums, it would be impossible to see everything at the American Museum of Natural History in just one visit, but our AMNH visitor tips will help you make the most of your time.
3. Recommended Exhibits
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With so many great exhibits, there is no way to see everything that the AMNH has to offer in a single visit. Check out our list of Recommended Exhibits at the American Museum of Natural History if you're overwhelmed with all the options.
4. Tours
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The American Museum of Natural History offers a variety of tours to enhance your visit:
- Highlights Tour - Offered daily at 10:15, 11:15, 12:15, 1:15, 2:15, and 3:15. Leaves from the entrance to the Akeley Hall of African Mammals on the second floor.
- Explainers - Volunteers are on hand to explain fossils (4th floor, wearing red buttons) and answer questions about astronomy and geology (Rose Center and Meteorites, Minerals & Gem halls, wearing purple buttons). Daily from 1-5 p.m. (beginning at 10 a.m. on weekends).
- Private Group Tours: AMNH offers a variety of tours for private groups visiting the museum.
5. AMNH Explorer - iPhone App
© AMNH
Tired of getting lost in the American Museum of Natural History? There's an app for that! The AMNH Explorer app is a free download (and if you don't have an iPhone or iPod touch of your own, you can borrow one for free at the museum) that makes it easier to navigate the museum, as well as providing the features you get from an audio tour.
6. Visiting with Kids
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The AMNH is a great choice for families visiting New York City. From toddlers to teens, there is something for just about every age-group at the museum. Older kids will enjoy preparing for their visit by checking out the American Museum of Natural History's website.
7. American Museum of Natural History Map
Want to make the most of your time at the American Museum of Natural History? You might want to print out a copy of the AMNH's floor plan/information brochure before you arrive.
Map: See a Floor Plan of the AMNH (PDF)
8. American Museum of Natural History Pictures
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Want to take a virtual visit to the American Museum of Natural History? Check out these pictures to prepare yourself for your visit or to help you remember your visit to the museum.
9. Origami Holiday Tree at the American Museum of Natural History
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Every year, the American Museum of Natural History displays their holiday tree decorated with origami from late November through early January. The theme of the tree varies from year to year, but it always features beautifully folded origami animals that volunteers spend many months folding for the tree. See pictures of the AMNH Origami Holiday Tree.
