Are you planning a visit to the American Museum of Natural History but wondering if you have to pay the full admission fee? The good news is, the museum has a “pay-what-you-wish” policy for general admission. Let’s dive into what this means and how it works.
What is “Pay-What-You-Wish”?
The American Museum of Natural History allows visitors to pay any amount they wish for general admission. This means that instead of paying the full admission fee, you can choose to pay what you can afford or what you think the experience is worth. However, keep in mind that this policy only applies to general admission and not special exhibits or events.
How Does It Work?
When you arrive at the museum, head to one of the ticket counters and let them know that you want to pay what you wish for general admission. The staff will provide you with suggested admission prices, but these are not mandatory. You are free to pay any amount from $0 up to the full suggested price.
It’s important to note that because the museum operates on a suggested price model, they rely on visitors paying the full suggested price in order to maintain their operations and continue providing educational programming and exhibits.
When Can You Take Advantage of Pay-What-You-Wish?
The “pay-what-you-wish” policy is available year-round during regular museum hours – any day of the week. However, there are some exceptions such as during peak seasons like holidays and summer months when prices may be higher or discounts may not apply.
Is Paying What You Wish Right for You?
While “pay-what-you-wish” can be a great option for those on a budget or looking to save money on admission fees, it’s important to consider your own financial situation as well as the museum’s need for support. If you have the means to pay the full admission fee, consider doing so to help support the museum’s mission and operations.
In addition, keep in mind that paying less than the suggested price may mean longer wait times or limited access to certain exhibits. The museum also offers discounts for students, seniors, and military personnel, so be sure to check if you qualify for any of these discounts before taking advantage of the “pay-what-you-wish” policy.
Conclusion
In summary, the American Museum of Natural History offers a “pay-what-you-wish” policy for general admission year-round. While this can be a great option for those on a budget or looking to save money on admission fees, it’s important to consider your own financial situation as well as the museum’s need for support. If you have the means to pay the full admission fee, it’s recommended that you do so in order to help support this educational institution and its mission.