Are you planning a visit to the American Museum of Natural History in New York City? One of the first things on your mind might be the cost of admission.
So, is the NYC Museum of Natural History free? Well, it depends on a few factors.
Admission Fees
First, let’s take a look at the standard admission fees. The museum operates on a suggested donation policy, which means that visitors can choose to pay what they wish to enter. However, the suggested donation amounts are:
- Adults: $23
- Seniors (65+): $18
- Students: $18
- Children (2-12): $13
- Children (under 2): Free
It’s important to note that while these are suggested donation amounts, visitors are not required to pay them. You can give more or less than the suggested amounts depending on your budget and what you feel comfortable paying.
Free Admission Days and Times
If you’re looking for free admission to the museum, there are certain times and days when it’s possible:
- Pay-What-You-Wish: Every day from 10 am – 5:45 pm except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
- Free Admission: For everyone every Friday from 2 pm – 5 pm.
- Museum Mile Festival: Every year in June, nine museums along Fifth Avenue offer free admission from 6 pm – 9 pm.
It’s also worth noting that some special exhibits within the museum may have additional fees even on these free days.
Ticket Discounts
If you don’t qualify for any of the free admission options but still want to save money, there are other ways to get discounted tickets:
- Groups: Groups of 10 or more people can get discounted admission rates by booking in advance.
- Member Discounts: If you become a member of the museum, you’ll receive free admission and discounts on special exhibits, as well as other perks.
- NYC ID Cardholders: New York City residents with a valid ID card can receive free or discounted admission to many museums and cultural institutions, including the American Museum of Natural History.
Conclusion
So, is the NYC Museum of Natural History free? Well, it depends on when you visit and how much you’re willing to pay.
While there are suggested donation amounts for admission, visitors are not required to pay them and can choose to pay what they wish. Additionally, there are certain times and days when admission is free for everyone. And if you’re looking for discounted tickets, group rates and membership perks are also available.
Regardless of how much you pay for admission, the American Museum of Natural History is definitely worth a visit. With its extensive collection of exhibits on science, nature, and history, it’s an educational and entertaining experience that visitors of all ages can enjoy.