Day at the Museum

Located across the street from Central Park on the upper West side of Manhattan in NYC lies one of the largest and most celebrated museums in the world--the American Museum of Natural History. Housing over 46 permanent exhibition halls, research laboratories, and its very own renowned library, this museum contains an incredible collection of over 32 million specimens, of which only a fraction can be displayed at any given time. The museum was founded back in 1869 and has become one of the world's most fascinating research institutions, known for its exhibitions that bring to life the millions of years of the earth's evolution that have transpired from the birth of our planet through the present day. The exhibits are probably most famously known from the 2006 Ben Stiller movie, "Night at the Museum" in which Stiller acts as a newly recruited night guard who discovers that an ancient curse causes the animals, fossils, and ancient civilizations displayed to come to life before his very eyes and wreak havoc and chaos throughout the night. These displays featured in the film are even more dynamic in person, not to mention quite educational. They create a fun atmosphere for adults and children alike to learn and refresh on the history of the world around us. Just be sure and take an entire day to explore because, well, to put it frankly, there's a whole lot to cover. From ocean life to human biology and evolution, to minerals, gems, and meteorites--three to four hours just won't do. Not to mention the ever sensational planetarium and my favorite of all, the Fossil Halls, where the largest display of dinosaur fossils in the world are right out in the open for you to see! It is an absolute must-see for anyone coming to the city! So, wear your flats ladies and pack a camera and some snacks, 'cause this is a day you don't want to miss!