American Museum of Natural History
Central Park West at 79th Street
(212) 769-5100
Located
on Central Park West at West 79th Street in Midtown
Manhattan, the American Museum of Natural History has been
capturing the imaginations of its visitors since its opening in
1869. The institution, which houses perhaps the most impressive
display of dinosaur fossils in the world, is also well renowned
for its state-of-the-art visual presentation. Computer screens
and interactive displays abound, making for an enjoyable and
easily accessible learning environment that should not be
overlooked on any foray into New York City.
The size of the museum is
impressive in itself. Forty-two massive exhibition halls house a
seemingly endless collection of fossils, skeletons, and the
like, as well as rare gems, meteorites, and a chart detailing
the evolution of mankind. These treasures are broken down into
Halls, which make them easy to locate and study. For example,
the Hall of Fossil Mammals describes the basic life processes of
current mammals and offers scientific theory as to what caused
the extinction of mammals in the past The diversity of the
museum’s attractions makes it an ideal place for a family
event, as there truly is something for everyone.
In
addition to the artifacts and exhibits, the American Museum of
Natural History is also host to an IMAX theater. This 40x66 foot
screen features a variety of films, mostly pertaining to nature.
The films are produced in such a way that the audience feels
they are "in" the heart of the action. This illusion
is made convincing by the structure of the theatre, an immersive
and vast screen that stretches globe-like overhead. It is highly
recommended that an IMAX film be included in your visit to the
Museum.
The Hayden Planetarium, another
staple of the museum, is currently being reconstructed and
revamped, with a projected opening of next year. It will be
reintroduced as the Center for Earth and Space, but for the
meantime remains closed.
The American Museum of Natural
History is open daily from 10:00 to 5:45 Monday through Thursday
and Sunday, and 10:00 to 8:45 on Fridays and Saturdays. It
remains closed only on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Admission
is suggested at $8.00; students and senior citizens $6.00;
children under the age of 12 $4.50. IMAX theater tickets retail
for $15 Additionally, tickets which admit guests to both museum
and theater can be obtained for an additional $4. Guided tours
are always available. On-site dining is available at the Ocean
Life Food Court.
The American Museum of Natural
History can be contacted at (212) 769-5100, and IMAX movie
listings are available at (212)769-5200.
NYC ATTRACTIONS
