What Should I Not Miss at the American Museum of Natural History?

If you’re in New York City and looking for a place to explore natural history, you definitely don’t want to miss the American Museum of Natural History. Established in 1869, this museum is one of the largest and most famous museums in the world, boasting a collection of over 33 million specimens and artifacts. To help you navigate through this vast museum, we’ve put together a list of things you shouldn’t miss.

The Fossil Halls

One of the most popular attractions at the American Museum of Natural History is undoubtedly its collection of fossils. The Fossil Halls are home to some of the world’s most fascinating prehistoric creatures, including Tyrannosaurus Rex and Stegosaurus. As you walk through these halls, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time to when these massive beasts roamed the earth.

The Rose Center for Earth and Space

Another must-see exhibit at the museum is The Rose Center for Earth and Space. This exhibit takes visitors on a journey through space, exploring everything from our own solar system to distant galaxies. One highlight is the Hayden Planetarium which features stunning visuals that make it feel like you’re flying through space.

The Butterfly Conservatory

For those who love nature’s beauty, check out the Butterfly Conservatory where hundreds of butterflies flutter around freely in a recreated tropical rainforest environment. You can even witness butterflies hatching from their cocoons!

Human Origins and Cultural Halls

The Human Origins exhibit explores our evolutionary history from our earliest ancestors to modern humans while The Cultural Halls feature exhibits on different cultures around the world with impressive artifacts such as Aztec masks and Egyptian mummies.

The Milstein Hall of Ocean Life

Last but not least is The Milstein Hall which showcases ocean life including an enormous model of a blue whale suspended from the ceiling. This exhibit is not only visually stunning but also informative, educating visitors about the diversity of marine life and the importance of conservation efforts.

Conclusion

These are just a few highlights of what you shouldn’t miss at the American Museum of Natural History. With so much to see, plan to spend a full day exploring and be sure to use their interactive maps to navigate through all the exhibits. With its fascinating exhibits and stunning displays, this museum is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the natural world.