Is the Museum of Natural History Pay as You Wish?

Are you planning a visit to the Museum of Natural History in New York City? One of the most common questions that visitors have is whether the museum offers a pay-as-you-wish admission policy. The answer is yes, but with some important details to keep in mind.

First and foremost, it’s important to note that the Museum of Natural History has a suggested admission fee for all visitors. As of 2021, the suggested general admission fee for adults is $23, but visitors can choose to pay any amount they wish. This means that if you’re on a budget, you can pay what you can afford to enter the museum.

It’s worth mentioning that while the pay-as-you-wish policy may sound like a great way to save money, keep in mind that the museum relies heavily on admission fees to fund its operations and exhibitions. In fact, only a small portion of their funding comes from government grants.

If you do choose to take advantage of the pay-as-you-wish policy, keep in mind that there may be long lines and wait times. Additionally, certain exhibitions or events may require additional fees even if you’ve paid for general admission.

One way to make your visit more efficient is by purchasing tickets online ahead of time. This allows you to bypass ticket lines and head straight into the museum.

If you’re planning on visiting with a group or school field trip, it’s important to note that group rates are available but must be reserved in advance. The museum also offers discounted rates for seniors and students with valid ID.

In summary, yes, the Museum of Natural History does offer a pay-as-you-wish admission policy. However, it’s important to remember that this is just a suggested amount and visitors are encouraged to pay what they can afford while keeping in mind that their contribution helps support the museum’s operations. By planning ahead and purchasing tickets online or reserving group rates in advance, visitors can save time and ensure a smooth visit to this iconic museum.