Is the New York Natural History Museum Free?

Are you planning to visit the New York Natural History Museum? One of the most frequently asked questions is whether it’s free or not.

Well, the answer is both yes and no. Let’s dive into the details.

Free Admission Hours

The museum offers free admission to all visitors on certain days and hours. The free hours are on Wednesdays from 3 pm to 5 pm. However, keep in mind that during peak seasons or holidays, the museum may restrict or cancel these free hours without any prior notice.

General Admission Fees

If you’re planning to visit the museum outside of the free hours, then you’ll have to pay a general admission fee. The general admission fee varies depending on different factors such as age, group size, and residency status.

  • If you’re an adult (ages 18-64), then you’ll have to pay $23 for a ticket.
  • For seniors (ages 65+), tickets cost $18.
  • Children (ages 2-12) pay $13.
  • Students with a valid ID can get tickets for $18.

The prices mentioned above are for visitors who are not residents of New York state. If you’re a New York state resident, then you can get tickets at a discounted rate by showing your ID.

Special Exhibitions

Apart from general admission fees, there may be some special exhibitions that require an additional ticket purchase. These exhibitions are usually temporary and offer an immersive experience in various fields such as art, science or history. The additional ticket cost varies depending on the exhibition and is usually mentioned on their website.

Museum Membership

If you’re someone who loves visiting museums frequently or wants to support them, then purchasing a museum membership might be a good option for you. With a museum membership, you’ll get free admission to the museum for a year along with other benefits such as discounts on special exhibitions, invitations to member-only events, and more. The membership cost varies depending on the type of membership you choose.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the New York Natural History Museum is not entirely free, with the exception of Wednesdays from 3 pm to 5 pm. Visitors will have to pay a general admission fee or purchase a museum membership to access its exhibits and displays. However, considering the vast collection and immersive experiences offered by the museum, it’s definitely worth the visit and investment.