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The Best of New York · See and do · Museums

What to see at the American Museum of Natural History.

In my order, from my own visits, updated September 2026. 14 places.

I live a mere two blocks from the American Museum of Natural History. Visiting as often as I do, I’ve slowly discovered some of the best things to see at the American Museum of Natural History. From impressive habitat dioramas to artifacts from outer space, here’s some of the exhibits you won’t want to miss during your visit.

Antonina PattizI went to every one · how I decide

What to see at the American Museum of Natural History, 2026

  1. The African ElephantsMuseum · Upper West SideThe freestanding heard of eight African Elephants is poised as if ready to charge, a regal display of the critically endangered mammal.
  2. The Blue WhaleMuseum · Upper West SideLocated in the Hall of Ocean Life, the life-size model of the blue whale is one of the most popular attractions at the American Museum of Natural History.
  3. Willamette MeteoriteMuseum · Upper West SideWhether you’re interested in the cosmos or not, one thing is certain. the Willamette Meteorite is one of the coolest things to see at the American Museum of Natural History.
  4. Tyrannosaurus RexMuseum · Upper West SideExperiencing the grandeur of the world’s most famous predator is definitely one of the best things to do at the American Museum of Natural History.
  5. Aztec Stone of the SunMuseum · Upper West Side
  6. Mammoth SkeletonMuseum · Upper West SideOne of my favorite things to see at the American Museum of Natural History is the colossal mammoth skeleton Mammuthus that lived 11,000 years ago.
  7. The Davis Family Butterfly VivariumMuseum · Upper West SideSince this one of the most popular exhibits at the American Museum of Natural History, an additional ticket is required.
  8. Rapa Nui (Easter Island) Moai CastMuseum · Upper West SideWhich is why adding this exhibit to your self-guided tour of the American Museum of Natural History is a must.
  9. TriceratopsMuseum · Upper West SideThis a must-see at the American Museum of Natural History for dinosaur enthusiasts.
  10. Sequoia RoundMuseum · Upper West SideCounting the rings on the round gives you perspective into how massive the tree was and how long it lived.
  11. Amethyst CrystalsMuseum · Upper West SideBut, I assure you, the geode hails from our planet and is one of it.
  12. Hayden PlanetariumMuseum · Upper West SideI highly recommend adding this to the docket if you’re visiting the American Museum of Natural History for the first time and are interested in learning about the universe’s wonders.
  13. The Big Bang TheaterTheater · Upper West SideSince it’s a quick detour, it’s worth adding to your American Museum of Natural History must-see list.
  14. LucyMuseum · Upper West SideThe original skeleton is housed in Ethiopia, but this replica is one of the best things to see at the American Museum of Natural History.

What to see at the American Museum of Natural History, 2026

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 16 Best Things to See at the American Museum of Natural History.