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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of NY

Science museums

A science museum that offers a full day of discovery, not just a crowded lobby and a gift shop.

Based on 444 Opinions
+441
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Updated April 2026
01
Cradle of Aviation Museum image 1
Cradle of Aviation Museum image 2
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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.

Exhibits focus on aviation and space history with a well-organized layout and plenty of artifacts. Helpful staff explain the background of displays, making it engaging for all ages.

People are saying

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

"You'll love the historical aviation exhibits and well-preserved planes."

"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.

02
Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation image 1

Architecture blends cave-like forms with skylights, creating a stunning space. Interactive exhibits like the live butterfly farm and leaf cutter ants engage visitors. The Gilder Center offers hands-on science and education, making complex concepts fun and immersive.

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.

The museum features the Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation with a vast range of exhibits. Highlights include the immersive butterfly exhibit, the live insect display with leaf cutter ants, and the Turtle Exhibition.

People are saying

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

"It's a fun, interactive place that kids will love."

"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.

03
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.

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

Extensive and educational exhibits fill the museum, making it a timeless treasure for all ages. It offers a fascinating experience that appeals to both adults and children.

People are saying

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

"It's like walking through eras at these historical sites."

"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.

04
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.

The planetarium offers impressive presentations that are both informative and interesting. Short educational videos and astronomy talks consistently teach new facts.

Exhibits cover a wide range and keep visitors engaged for hours. The museum offers a planetarium exhibit, an interactive app map, and is very accessible for all ages.

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."

"I considered the Rose Center for Earth and Space the best museum."

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.

05
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.

Interactive exhibits offer hands-on science and technology experiences that engage children actively. The museum features a popular ice cream exhibit where kids can choose their own toppings, making it a great spot for family outings.

People are saying

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

"This museum is fun and educational for kids."

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

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.

06
Hayden Planetarium image 1

Cutting-edge projection technology transforms the domed ceiling into a celestial masterpiece, offering immersive journeys through the universe. The atmosphere blends informative narration with visual splendor, creating a captivating and educational experience. Visitors often encounter family groups, though noise from children can affect the quiet enjoyment of shows.

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 feature extraordinary gems and minerals and a rich African history portion full of culture. The Hayden Planetarium offers spectacular visuals and sound effects, with shows exploring the solar system and beyond.

People are saying

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

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

"The planetarium's space shows are mesmerizing and educational."

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.

07
Tesla Science Center image 1
Science museum

Historical site with ruins from original Tesla site offers a calm and thoughtful environment that encourages learning. Exhibits provide insight into Tesla’s inventions and legacy, complemented by light and drone shows and live music during events.

Exhibits showcase Nikola Tesla's work with mind-blowing history in a calm, thoughtful setting that encourages learning. The center opens evenings for special expos from 5 to 9 PM.

Exhibits offer deep insight into Tesla's ideas, inventions, and legacy. The site includes ruins from the original Tesla location and museum, adding historical context.

People are saying

"This Science Museum is fascinating, dedicated to Nikola Tesla's genius."

"I found the historical sites fascinating, dedicated to Tesla's genius."

"This museum is a fascinating place dedicated to Tesla's genius."

Good to know

1

You need to make an appointment to visit the Tesla Science Center.

2

The Tesla Science Center is open for the expo from 5 to 9 PM.

3

The exhibits provide insight into Tesla’s ideas and inventions.

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