March 25, 2009
American Museum of Natural History in New York
The American Museum of Natural History was featured in the Ben Stiller film, Night at the Museum. In it, the figures in the exhibits come alive at night. Although you needn’t worry that will happen on your visit (since it only happens after hours and all), this museum is the place for making history come alive to you.
If you’ve seen the movie – well, you haven’t seen anything yet. There is so much more contained in this complex than any one movie could feature. As expected (and briefly described in the movie, the museum contains all kinds of dioramas with mammals, ocean life, and everyone’s favorite prehistoric mysteries. You’ll find a whale suspended above your head and stand next to a stampede of elephants from the savannah. And that’s just the beginning of the amazing animal displays throughout.
The museum also tells the stories of human cultures throughout our rich and varied history. The museum is four floors, each giving yet another glimpse at how much we’ve discovered about our earth and how we’ve lived in it throughout time. Temporary exhibits keep the museum’s collection fresh and unique throughout the year.
Another exciting thing about this museum is the Rose Center for Earth and Space with the Hayden Planetarium. The power of this visual masterpiece – combined with sound and lights – transports you to the depths of space where you can learn about astronomy, experience the developing of our earth from the theoretical Big Bang to now, and live right in the midst of all kinds of other scientific understanding about earth and space. It’s not a movie theater – it’s a sound, lights, and virtual effects cocoon, and you’re going to want to be here for every single experience it offers.
The American Museum of Natural History also has an IMAX theater – another thrilling way to experience the educational wonders offered by this amazing museum.
I haven’t tipped the iceberg as far as the sheer amount of displays in this museum that will astound and inspire you. This museum is absolutely perfect for New York City student tours and should be added to any list of must-see U.S. museums.
(photo of Rose Center by adam.riggall on Flickr)
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