Exploring Scientific Collections at the American Museum of Natural History

A sprawling sanctuary of natural history on the Upper West Side

Step across the threshold into a massive complex of 21 interconnected buildings situated in Theodore Roosevelt Park. Here, you are surrounded by an expansive collection that includes millions of specimens ranging from plants and animals to fossils, minerals, rocks, meteorites, and human cultural artifacts. This isn't just a gallery; it is a vast institution where scientific staff manage diverse holdings including specialized collections for frozen tissue and genomic data.

The museum’s physical presence reflects its growth over the decades. While it began in 1871 within the Arsenal of Central Park, it eventually moved into its own purpose-built structures. You can explore various wings, such as the main entrance pavilion named for Theodore Roosevelt and the Rose Center for Earth and Space.

Explore the evolution of life and earth

Your visit offers a deep dive into the natural world through 45 permanent exhibition halls. You can spend your time exploring:

• The diverse remains of ancient and modern fauna, including mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles.
• Extensive geological displays featuring various minerals and rocks.
• Specialized galleries like the hall for ancient Mexican art or the Native American and Mexican halls in the west wing.
• The planetarium and a dedicated library for deeper study of the sciences.

Maximize your time at the museum

Because the collection is so vast—containing millions of items—only a small fraction can be displayed at any given time, making every hall a significant destination. To see as much as possible, plan for a substantial block of time to navigate the various wings and halls.

A highlight not to miss is the Rose Center for Earth and Space, which provides a distinct experience from the traditional natural history galleries. If you are looking to streamline your trip, consider using a multi-attraction pass like New York CityPASS, which includes admission to the American Museum of Natural History alongside other city landmarks.

Beyond the museum walls

Located on the Upper West Side, the museum sits just across the street from Central Park. If you have time for more exploration in New York City, you might consider visiting the Bronx Zoo or heading toward other iconic sights such as the Empire State Building and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.