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New Yorkers 1st Choice
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Science museums with galleries

A science museum that treats its galleries as immersive experiences rather than just rows of static displays.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01

Museum occupies a historic train station with a grand entrance and thoughtfully designed layout that encourages discovery. Atmosphere stays respectful and friendly, with a lively children's area featuring interactive exhibits and a wheelchair accessible cave. Highlights include artificial cave and glacier systems with running water and sounds, plus many photo opportunities throughout.

The science museum feels refreshed and well-maintained. The Natural History Museum inside offers a lot of fun and engaging exhibits that remain enjoyable even after multiple visits.

Exhibits focus on the lives of those who helped earn freedom, offering a historical perspective. The building adds a cool atmosphere, but exhibits feel thin and lack depth.

People are saying

"The museum exhibits were so interactive and fun to explore."

"The Science Museum was a lot of fun with interactive exhibits for kids."

"The exhibits here were really great and well done."

Good to know

1

Admission is $22 for adults, with discounts available for children and seniors.

2

The museum features a special Auschwitz exhibit currently on display.

3

Expect large crowds during school holidays and rainy days.

02
ICR Discovery Center image 1

Museum combines animatronic animals, interactive sandboxes, and a planetarium with reclining seats to create an engaging, peaceful atmosphere. Spaces feature high-tech exhibits and thoughtful design with excellent lighting and sounds. Visitors include families and children drawn to educational programs and hands-on activities.

Planetarium shows stand out with engaging films and a theater experience. Exhibits include dinosaurs, an ice age display, and animated animals that bring science to life.

Exhibits focus on big questions from a Biblical perspective and align with God's word and creation evidence. They offer high-quality, interactive displays that engage all ages and explain concepts clearly.

People are saying

"This museum's exhibits show how the Bible and science go hand in hand."

"This Science Museum's exhibits are interactive and align with God's word."

"The galleries here are interactive and informative."

Good to know

1

Tickets are priced very well for the experience offered at the museum.

2

Planetarium shows are available and highly recommended.

3

You need to sign up early for the children's classes because seating is limited.

03
Childrens Science Explorium image 1

Children's museum offers free admission with interactive science exhibits and a huge wooden playground featuring a three-story climbing structure. The space feels open and welcoming, with a butterfly garden and water play area outside. Kids explore at their own pace amid engaging tactile activities and live shows in a small theatre.

Two rooms of interactive exhibits make the science museum lively and engaging for kids up to 12. Entry is free, and the space offers exciting experiments that keep children active and curious.

Engaging, hands-on exhibits make learning fun for kids of all ages. The Children's Science Explorium offers a large space with rotating exhibits that entertain and educate, especially for younger children and pre-teens.

People are saying

"It's a fun, educational, and engaging place for kids."

"The playground here is amazing and totally free for kids."

"The galleries here are so fun and hands-on for kids."

Good to know

1

The entrance is completely free for all visitors.

2

The Children's Science Explorium is a great place for kids up to 12 years old.

3

Interactive exhibits are available for hands-on learning experiences.

04
Cradle of Aviation Museum image 1

Massive indoor space filled with real aircraft and detailed replicas creates an immersive aviation and space history experience. Bright lighting and organized layout support exploration amid hands-on exhibits and flight simulators that engage all ages. Crowds gather around interactive play areas and an IMAX theater, making it lively and family-friendly.

Galleries showcase meticulously restored aircraft like the Spirit of St. Louis and feature interactive exhibits on aviation and space exploration. Highlights include Lunar Landers and fighter jets displayed in a side hangar.

People are saying

"The museums here are amazing for kids and adults."

"The aviation galleries showcase the history of flight, including real aircraft."

"The Science Museum's planetarium shows were informative and exciting."

Good to know

1

The museum hosts various events like tabletop gaming and cons throughout the year.

2

Admission is free during special events, such as the backpack giveaway for children.

3

Parking is free and the entrance is accessible for those with disabilities.

05
Houston Museum of Natural Science image 1

Science museum offers towering dinosaur skeletons, an immersive butterfly dome, and a mind-blowing planetarium. Wide corridors and natural light create a modern, welcoming design. Crowds, especially noisy children during school trips, can affect the atmosphere.

Exhibits cover natural science and history with a wide range of displays. The planetarium offers shows like the Dark Energy presentation narrated by Neil Degrasse Tyson and features exhibits on black holes and ancient China.

Exhibits feature dinosaur bones, stuffed animals, and an ancient Egypt display. Dinosaur and mummy exhibits stand out with detailed presentations.

People are saying

"The dinosaur exhibits at the museums are really impressive."

"The dinosaur and Egyptian galleries are huge and full of artifacts."

"The Science Museum's planetarium experience was amazing."

Good to know

1

Tuesdays are free to visit the museum from 5-8 p.m.

2

The museum offers free admission every Thursday from morning until 6:00 p.m.

3

The Terracotta Warriors and King Tut exhibits require an additional cost beyond the entrance ticket.

06
Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation image 1

Architecture blends cave-like forms with skylights for a stunning setting. Interactive exhibits and a planetarium show make science fun and accessible. Galleries offer immersive art across three levels, creating a dynamic and educational experience.

Interactive exhibits and hands-on activities make complex scientific concepts accessible and fun. The planetarium show offers an immersive experience, and the Gilder Center combines science, education, and innovation in one place.

Exhibits span three levels with interactive displays that encourage hands-on exploration. The space features innovative and immersive art that captivates visitors of all ages and offers a highly educational experience.

People are saying

"The museum's exhibits, especially the dinosaur skeletons and butterfly room, were fascinating."

"The exhibits, like dinosaur fossils and gems, were amazing and educational."

"The Gilder Center's architecture is super fresh and modern."

Good to know

1

Buying tickets in advance via the website is recommended to save time and avoid waiting in line.

2

The butterfly exhibit requires an extra ticket and was sold out.

3

Entering through the side entrance can help avoid the line.

07
American Museum of Natural History image 1

Magnificent architecture and iconic taxidermy create a majestic feel. Four floors of natural history and a planetarium offer unforgettable science experiences. Extensive galleries provide educational depth with unlimited access for thorough exploration.

Four floors showcase natural history with a beautiful layout. The planetarium experience stands out as unforgettable and fascinating.

Extensive exhibits cover a wide range of topics with educational depth. Unlimited access allows thorough exploration of the museum's diverse galleries.

People are saying

"The dinosaur exhibits at the Museums are breathtaking, especially the T. rex."

"The dinosaur skeletons in the galleries are breathtaking."

"This Science Museum takes you on a journey through time and the universe."

Good to know

1

Buying tickets ahead of time saves a lot of time.

2

You have to reserve a time to enter the museum.

3

Entry to the museum is free during the last hour.

08
Bell Museum image 1

Building features impressive architecture and beautiful lighting design that makes glass disappear. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and relaxed to loud and lively depending on events. Interactive exhibits include a spacious planetarium, hands-on labs, and native species displays, attracting families and educational groups.

A planetarium offers educational shows and movies that are both informative and fun. Hands-on activities, diorama exhibits, and an animal lab add to the interactive learning experience.

Exhibits feature interactive displays, a state-of-the-art planetarium, and detailed dioramas. The second floor offers especially well-curated exhibits that engage both children and adults.

People are saying

"The planetarium shows have stunning, beautiful images."

"The Science Museum's planetarium shows are fun and informative."

"The exhibits here are fascinating and thoughtfully curated."

Good to know

1

The planetarium offers shows that are both educational and entertaining.

2

Parking is available but not free; it's affordable for visitors.

3

The museum hosts various events, including the Native Round dance, which is free and open to the public.

09
Cranbrook Institute of Science image 1

Massive T. rex skeleton cast dominates the main hall, setting a tone of discovery. Planetarium shows offer immersive space experiences, while world-class mineral galleries showcase vibrant crystals. Grounds feature serene trails and beautiful fountains, creating a peaceful atmosphere amid some areas of low lighting and overlapping sounds.

A small planetarium show displays the skies and offers a travel through space. It features star viewing that appeals to both kids and adults.

Dinosaur and mastodon exhibits stand out with thoughtful curation and large displays that engage kids. Other galleries include rock collections, reptiles, stuffed wildlife, and special exhibits that often draw interest.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly, with interactive exhibits that are fun for all ages."

"The Science Museum's planetarium shows are immersive and transport you across the galaxy."

"The galleries here are so engaging with many hands-on educational exhibits."

Good to know

1

Admission is free on the first Friday of each month.

2

The planetarium features shows like Pink Floyd with discounted tickets available.

3

Families can learn about Earth's evolution during spring break and summer holidays.

10
Creation & Earth History Museum & Bookstore image 1

Museum offers interactive exhibits and a well-laid-out modern space with a comfortable atmosphere. Kids engage with scavenger hunts and outdoor playgrounds featuring dinosaur statues. Audio tours accompany displays that present creationist views alongside biblical history.

Exhibits focus on science through a Biblical lens, blending faith with scientific facts. Displays include unique scientific information not found in typical natural history museums.

Exhibits include many interactive features that make the experience engaging. The displays are well done and consistently interesting.

People are saying

"This museum blends biblical facts with science."

"It's so kid friendly with interactive dinosaur statues and scavenger hunts."

"The Creation & Earth History Museum galleries are awesome and well-maintained."

Good to know

1

Admission is $8 per ticket, making it affordable for families.

2

The museum has three showings a day, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Free audio tour headphones are included with admission for a better experience.

11
MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation image 1

Three floors of hands-on science activities create an interactive environment filled with creative and engineering challenges. The rooftop offers panoramic views and lively water play, while quieter spaces provide balance amid the generally loud and energetic atmosphere. Various areas cater to all ages, making exploration diverse and engaging.

Hands-on exhibits create an interactive experience that appeals to kids and adults alike. The museum focuses on exploration and innovation with a fun, educational vibe suited for all ages.

Hands-on exhibits focus on science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics across three levels. Many interactive displays make it fun for kids to explore and discover.

People are saying

"It's so Kid Friendly, my kids could have spent hours creating in the maker's space."

"It's an awesome hands-on science museum fun for kids of all ages."

"The galleries are so interactive and fun for kids to explore."

Good to know

1

Admission is $20 for adults and children.

2

Toddler Tuesdays offer special programming for young kids.

3

The museum does not have on-site parking available.

12
Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science image 1

Multiple levels offer amazing views of Miami's skyline and a dome-shaped planetarium creates an immersive space experience. Interactive exhibits include aquariums with coral reef tanks and hands-on activities like building paper airplanes and live science shows. The atmosphere blends modern architecture with engaging educational features suitable for families.

Combines science exhibits, an aquarium, and a planetarium all in one spot. Offers themed displays on space, aviation, biology, and medicine.

Rotating exhibits include interactive displays and well-done mummies. Temporary and permanent galleries feature marine life and immersive space shows, making the experience engaging for all ages.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with tons of hands-on fun."

"The Science Museum's aquarium has three levels with jaw-dropping marine life."

"The galleries here are super interactive and fun for all ages."

Good to know

1

Parking is unavailable for event attendees; plan accordingly.

2

Reservations are required for the planetarium shows, which fill up quickly.

3

The planetarium may close for private events, affecting access.

13
Hayden Planetarium image 1

Cutting-edge projection technology creates a celestial masterpiece on the domed ceiling, blending immersive presentations with rich cultural exhibits on African history and astronomy. Interactive displays spark curiosity and offer educational content in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.

Immersive presentations and educational exhibits create a captivating journey through space. The planetarium offers a gorgeous visual experience that sparks curiosity about the universe.

Exhibits focus on African history and astronomy, offering rich cultural insights and educational content. Interactive displays and programs make the experience engaging and informative.

People are saying

"The Science Museum's planetarium shows are fabulous and informative."

"The exhibits here are educational and spark curiosity about the universe."

"It's amazing and not to be missed for kids interested in space."

Good to know

1

The space show, Worlds Beyond Earth, requires an additional ticket.

2

Visitors need to buy their tickets in advance before coming to the museum.

3

The planetarium is free with museum admission, but general admission does not include it.

14
New York Hall of Science image 1

Spacious science museum offers hands-on activities and an outdoor playground with synthetic ice skating nearby. Atmosphere is crowded and lively, often filled with children and groups. Building shows signs of wear but maintains a welcoming and fun environment for families.

Offers a reciprocal membership program that grants free access to other science museums out of state. Stands out with a unique approach compared to typical science museums. Welcomes families, especially on rainy days.

Hands-on exhibits and interactive displays make science come alive here. The permanent exhibits cover a diverse range of topics like astronomy, biology, and city power, sparking curiosity in all ages.

People are saying

"It's a fun and educational place, great for kids."

"This science museum is wonderfully interactive and engaging for children."

"The interactive galleries here are so engaging and full of hands-on exhibits."

Good to know

1

The museum is free on Fridays from 2 PM to 5 PM.

2

Kids under 6 are free for admission.

3

Plan to spend at least 3-4 hours exploring the exhibits.

15
Fernbank Museum | 3D Theater | Forest image 1

Natural history museum combines interactive play areas with a 3D theater showcasing immersive films. Extensive nature preserve features illuminated forest paths and glowing installations across 75 acres. Spaces attract families with children, offering hands-on science activities and outdoor playgrounds.

Exhibits include a rotating color exhibit from a major natural history museum. The museum offers a planetarium with separate tickets and features interactive ecosystems that engage kids and adults alike.

Interactive exhibits offer hands-on learning about the universe's principles. Regularly changing special exhibits and an outdoor display of beautiful art keep the gallery experience fresh.

People are saying

"It's so kid friendly with interactive exhibits and play areas."

"The galleries here are super interactive and great for kids."

"I found the Science Museum exceptionally clean, especially the spotless bathrooms."

Good to know

1

Parking at the Fernbank Museum is very limited and fills up quickly.

2

Tickets must be purchased online prior to arrival.

3

The museum closes at 5 pm.

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