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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in the US

History museums

Walking through halls filled with artifacts offers a rare chance to stand face to face with the past.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Morrison Natural History Museum image 1
Morrison Natural History Museum image 2
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Natural history museum

Small, cozy museum offers hands-on exhibits and a working fossil lab where volunteers extract specimens. Peaceful atmosphere suits families, with a kid-friendly sandbox for digging dinosaur bones outdoors. Displays include local fossils and casts, creating an intimate, educational experience.

Small museum packed with ancient fossils and interesting history. Tour guides share knowledgeable, hands-on insights into evolving science and active research.

Small but mighty, this museum features a wonderful collection of fossils that captivates kids, especially those into dinosaurs. The staff are awesome, making it a fun and engaging spot for families.

People are saying

"The museum guides here are so knowledgeable and make the displays come alive."

"The tour guides here are so knowledgeable and make it interesting."

"This history museum is great for kids interested in dinosaurs."

Good to know

1

Tickets include a guided tour from an expert.

2

Regular tours are available at the museum.

3

The museum features actual fossils and allows close-up views of the lab.

02
Tennessee State Museum image 1

Large, modern museum offers a well-laid-out space with immersive multimedia like music, sounds, and films enhancing exhibits. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and relaxed to lively, with families and children enjoying interactive play areas and scavenger hunts. Views of the nearby capitol and skyline add to the visually engaging experience.

Many interesting exhibits showcase historic content with educational facts about the past. The museum offers informative displays that engage visitors in learning.

Exhibits cover a wide range of state history with clear, engaging displays. The museum offers a family-friendly environment that appeals to all ages, including children.

People are saying

"I learned so much about Tennessee's history at this museum."

"I found the exhibits here really interesting and informative."

"I found this history museum to be great."

Good to know

1

Admission to the Tennessee State Museum is free.

2

The museum offers guided tours at 2pm highlighting the main exhibits.

3

Parking is extremely difficult to find, requiring patience and multiple drives around the area.

03
American Journey Experience — History Museum & Event Center image 1

Museum showcases rare American artifacts and classic pop culture memorabilia in a hands-on, immersive setting. Atmosphere feels proud and educational, with exhibits that spark deep discussions and reveal forgotten stories. Guided tours provide a unique, transformative view of American history not found elsewhere.

Displays include unique WW2 German artifacts and priceless American history items. Staff and interns provide interesting information throughout the exhibits.

Tours include detailed guidance from knowledgeable staff like Stephanie. Exhibits focus on the American journey with an emphasis on presidential history and national milestones.

People are saying

"The guides at these historical sites are so knowledgeable and engaging."

"I found the collection of artifacts really interesting."

"The guide's storytelling at the History Museum took us on an immersive journey."

Good to know

1

Admission is free for all visitors.

2

The museum hosts special events that may affect regular hours.

3

Expect a hands-on experience with unique artifacts.

04
Aurora History Museum image 1
Local history museum

Glossy displays and a life-size trolley car create a welcoming space that highlights local history with educational depth. The atmosphere is family-friendly, featuring interactive activities like scavenger hunts and face painting. Exhibits cover a broad timeline, from prehistoric fossils to the town's development, offering a diverse historical perspective.

Exhibits include a history of Aurora's founding, a detailed section on historically important businesses, and a large display on Nepal. A video on Denver adds to the variety, making the museum small but consistently interesting.

A welcoming space honors the past while inspiring curiosity and learning. It serves as a nice town history museum with a focus on local history and offers a hidden gem experience.

People are saying

"The historical sites here really bring Aurora's past to life."

"It's so Kid Friendly with hands-on exhibits and face painting!"

"This history museum's exhibits bring local history to life."

Good to know

1

Admission is free for all visitors to the museum.

2

The museum features a dinosaur exhibit with fossils and a woolly mammoth bone.

3

Family-friendly activities are available on Wednesday mornings.

05
Martial Arts History Museum image 1

Museum showcases martial arts history through unique exhibits and real artifacts with video references enhancing understanding. Layout supports smooth flow, creating an engaging and informative atmosphere. Space feels like a hidden gem packed with rich culture and connections to the movie industry.

Small size holds a collection of interesting weapons and gear. Exhibits and movies offer lots of engaging history to read and learn.

Extensive exhibits showcase the evolution and impact of martial arts. Visitors gain deep insights into its history and culture through well-curated displays.

People are saying

"I found the martial arts exhibits filled with rich history and culture."

"I learned so much at the Martial Arts History Museum."

"I found the exhibits and movies filled with interesting items and gear."

Good to know

1

The museum is located underground next to a bakery; enter on Wilson and go downstairs.

2

Parking is available nearby with free 90 minutes and $1 for every additional 30 minutes.

3

Admission is by donation, so bring cash for the donation jar.

06
Philipse Manor Hall State Historic Site image 1

Restored Georgian manor showcases period furniture and historical artifacts with a focus on balanced storytelling of Dutch settlers, Indigenous peoples, and enslaved individuals. The atmosphere is peaceful and educational, supported by interactive exhibits and guided tours that explore local colonial history and Revolutionary War connections.

Taking a guided tour makes the visit more engaging and helps get the most out of it. The information provided during the tour is consistently interesting.

People are saying

"I learned so much about the colonial era and the Revolution at these historical sites."

"The History Museum tells intertwined stories of Dutch, African, and First Peoples."

"I found the museum exposition thought-provoking."

Good to know

1

Admission is $10 for adults, with discounts available for children and seniors.

2

The museum offers guided tours that are highly recommended for a full experience.

3

The site features clean restrooms and elevators for accessibility.

07
Hutchings Museum image 1

Museum offers hands-on exhibits and a dense collection covering local history, fossils, minerals, and Native American artifacts. Atmosphere feels welcoming and educational, with spaces suited for families and children. Exhibits include unique features like a Wild West jail and a rare aquarium, creating a varied and engaging experience.

Displays include genuine pottery, ceramics, and petroglyphs from American Indians, plus mineral specimens from across Utah. The collection packs a lot of interesting history and artifacts into a compact space.

Focuses on natural history with exhibits that differ from typical museums in the area. Recognized as a solid ASTC history museum with quality displays.

People are saying

"The lantern light tour was a unique and fun activity, even with refinements needed."

"It's really fun and kid friendly with lots of interactive exhibits."

"This history museum packed a ton of history into the building."

Good to know

1

Admission is free for children under 5 years old.

2

The museum store has affordable gifts and educational items.

3

Special events often feature reenactments and themed activities.

08
Elgin History Museum image 1
Local history museum

Historic building with a well-preserved facade and clean, well-lit interiors creates a welcoming atmosphere. Interactive exhibits and a scavenger hunt for kids engage families and learners. Focus on local industry history, especially watchmaking, offers detailed insights into the city's past.

Exhibits offer detailed local history that is both informative and engaging.

Compact layout offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's rich past. Exhibits engage visitors of all ages with clear, concise storytelling.

People are saying

"You'll love the interactive exhibits at this museum."

"The volunteers at these historical sites are so knowledgeable and friendly."

"The History Museum staff was so knowledgeable and passionate."

Good to know

1

Admission is free for kids and teachers, making it great for school trips.

2

The museum features interactive exhibits like a general store and covered wagon.

3

One room is dedicated to the Elgin National Watch Company, showcasing its history.

09
Mesa Historical Museum image 1

Small museum with several rooms featuring baseball memorabilia, Native American artifacts, and a replica one-room schoolhouse. Quiet and relaxed atmosphere invites slow exploration of local history and culture. Exhibits focus heavily on Mesa's Spring Training and regional heritage.

Small museum with interesting exhibits on bison, a local woman known for cat art, and the Cactus League. The school house display adds a unique touch to the history presented.

Small size offers an easy walk through with a local focus. Exhibitions provide interesting insights into the area's past.

People are saying

"The exhibits on baseball and local history are really interesting."

"This local spot has interesting exhibits on bison and the Cactus League."

"I found the History Museum's exhibits on local history and baseball fascinating."

Good to know

1

Admission to the museum is reasonably priced, making it accessible for families.

2

The Cat Festival features booths with cats and kittens available for adoption.

3

Parking is limited, so arrive early for events to secure a spot.

10
Arizona Museum of Natural History image 1
Natural history museum

Museum offers three levels of exhibits with life-size dinosaur skeletons and an interactive gold panning zone. Atmosphere feels nostalgic and immersive, welcoming families with children who enjoy hands-on activities and play areas. Older design adds unique character, while spaces remain clean and accessible.

Displays include dinosaur bones, fossils, and artifacts showing recent history like incarceration. Exhibits cover a wide range of interesting history and natural science.

Many full-size replica dinosaurs stand out in the exhibits. The museum offers a solid natural history experience with a variety of displays that engage visitors of all ages.

People are saying

"I loved the dinosaur exhibits and all the fossils."

"The exhibits here are really interesting, with lots to see."

"The History Museum's dinosaur exhibit is a hit with kids and adults."

Good to know

1

Kids under three get free admission, making it family-friendly.

2

The museum lacks a designated eating area, so plan snacks accordingly.

3

Getting there early is recommended to avoid crowds, especially in outdoor areas.

11
Rose Center for Earth and Space image 1
Natural history museum

Gigantic museum spans themes from paleontology to astronomy with formidable skeletons and stunning gems. Crowds gather daily, creating a lively atmosphere suitable for all ages and whole-day visits. Interactive exhibits and an app guide enhance accessibility and engagement throughout the space.

Planetarium shows provide detailed views of space and Earth. Exhibits offer informative content that engages both adults and children.

Natural history exhibits include shocking dinosaur displays and a strong focus on earth and space science. The museum offers a fantastic collection that stands out among similar institutions.

People are saying

"It's really kid friendly; my son loved the exhibits."

"I found this natural history museum to be a large place, hard to see in one visit."

"It's an interesting place to experience science."

Good to know

1

The entry fee is over $20 per person for non-residents.

2

Visitors should book some of the amazing timed exhibits before going to the museum.

3

Even with reservations, visitors still need to wait in a long line.

12
American Museum of Natural History image 1

Natural history museum showcases magnificent architecture and iconic taxidermy displays that create a majestic atmosphere. Crowds and noise from school groups often fill the large, well-organized spaces. Interactive exhibits and a planetarium with space simulations add engaging elements to the experience.

Dinosaur fossils on the fourth floor stand out as a key attraction. Free guided tours add an educational and engaging layer to the experience.

Spanning four floors, this museum ranks among the largest and most complete natural history museums worldwide. Its beautiful architecture and extensive exhibits make it a standout destination for history enthusiasts.

People are saying

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

"The exhibits here are really interesting and well-organized."

"This History Museum is 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.

13
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.

Planetarium shows stand out as the most interesting feature. Science exhibits and diorama creation processes offer unique insights. The building's architectural design adds to the engaging experience.

Exhibits focus on natural history with a strong Minnesotan twist. It offers a small museum feel with solid educational content.

People are saying

"The planetarium shows have stunning, beautiful images."

"I found the exhibits and planetarium shows really interesting."

"The planetarium shows at the History Museum are really neat."

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.

14
Tenement Museum image 1
History museum

Five-story tenement buildings from the 1800s showcase preserved architecture and authentic interiors with well-researched props. Tours feel like immersive guided discussions that bring immigrant family stories to life in cramped, atmospheric spaces.

Tours focus on stories of two immigrant families from Germany and China living 100 years apart. Educators share interesting facts and use lots of pictures to showcase everyday life in the tenements.

Offers a living history experience focused on immigrant families in the Lower East Side during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Provides an immersive look into daily life rather than a typical history museum setup.

People are saying

"These historical sites bring immigrant families' stories to life."

"It was interesting to see how people lived back then."

"The History Museum tour guides are so enthusiastic and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

A guided tour is required to visit the museum.

2

Tours can sell out quickly, so it’s recommended to book in advance.

3

The tour lasts almost two hours and provides extensive information about tenement living.

15
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center image 1

Museum occupies a beautiful building with well-curated exhibits that highlight Black history, art, and stories of progress. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and inspiring to lively with music, food, and dancing during events. Features include a play area for kids, free entry, and unique gift shop offerings.

Exhibits include a map in motion showing slave ship routes and detailed stories of black troops in WW1 and black women in the military. The space offers frank history and interesting art that highlight black contributions and experiences.

Thoughtful exhibits highlight key moments and figures in black history. Staff provide a genuinely helpful and welcoming atmosphere throughout the museum.

People are saying

"The exhibits here are thoughtful, emotive, and informative."

"I found the exhibits about black soldiers' contributions interesting and tragic."

"The exhibits at this History Museum are thoughtful and emotional."

Good to know

1

Entry to the museum is free, making it accessible for all visitors.

2

The museum hosts special events like jazz performances and Juneteenth celebrations.

3

Evening events are common, providing a vibrant atmosphere for visitors.

16
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.

Several rooms showcase prehistoric artifacts, dinosaurs, and scientific experiments tied to daily life. Outdoor walkways feature artwork and nature information that invite learning and reflection.

Rotating exhibits include a color exhibit from the New York Natural History Museum. The museum focuses on natural history with an emphasis on dinosaurs.

People are saying

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

"The exhibits here are really interesting and kept fresh."

"The History Museum's facilities, especially the bathrooms, were spotless."

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.

17
Texas Science & Natural History Museum image 1

Art deco architecture frames a compact museum with dinosaur fossils and a giant T-Rex replica in the entry hall. The atmosphere ranges from cheerful and cozy when quiet to crowded and loud during busy times. Interactive features like a kids' scavenger hunt add engagement to the experience.

Many exhibits feature interesting fossils and bones, especially on the lower floor. The museum also hosts informative fashion displays and a variety of engaging events.

Exhibits focus on Texas Titans and local mammals, offering a solid introduction to natural history. The museum suits kids new to science and history museums with clear, engaging displays.

People are saying

"The kids loved the dinosaur fossils and interactive games at the museum."

"The exhibits here are really interesting, especially the fossils."

"This History Museum is much smaller than its name suggests."

Good to know

1

Admission is $10, and children under 5 enter for free.

2

Parking on Dean Street is free on Sundays.

3

The museum hosts special events like dinosaur day with a paleontologist.

18
The New York Historical image 1

Museum showcases Tiffany lamps and a replica Oval Office with interactive photo opportunities. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and peaceful to noisy during school visits. Layout features exquisite stained glass rooms and a well-designed gallery with minimal reflections.

Displays offer informative insights into city history. Theater shows engaging footage about local past events.

Historic building hosts an interesting collection with some nice touches. Admission matches the nearby Natural History Museum, which offers a more extensive experience and draws larger crowds.

People are saying

"The Tiffany lamps display is amazing and a must-see."

"The basement has interactive exhibits and a fun kids' area."

"I expected more content on New York history at the History Museum."

Good to know

1

The museum offers free entry every Friday evening.

2

On Fridays from 18:00 to 20:00, the museum operates a pay-what-you-wish policy.

3

Jazz and cocktails are available in the lobby on Friday evenings until the end of June.

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