American Museum of Natural History, New York City

Overall, we really enjoyed the museum. We were disappointed that so many of the older display cases were not lit; they were black and impossible to see. Would it be so difficult to replace the light bulbs? We didn't pay for any of the extra exhibits, we were kept busy with everything that was included in the admission price. We chose to pay the actual admission price, even though the person at the ticket counter explained that we could pay what we wanted to. Perhaps if more people paid the full price, they could afford to keep the cases lighted! The Fossil Halls were much newer looking than the older sections, with lots of great information about the displays. Like most tourist attractions, the food was expensive and not very good. We had turkey sandwiches on rolls that at first glance looked like they'd be good, but the rolls were hard and the turkey was dry. Despite the draw-backs, we are very glad we devoted time to the museum during our trip to New York.

Simply: One of the best museums of natural history in the world. Plan at least one day for your visit, to see the whole exhibition. Plan even more time, when you like to see the movies in the theaters and the special exhibitions. Top and amazing is the Dinosaurs Exhibition. It's always very crowded. Take a museum map for orientation. Have a break: There is a food concourse on the lower level and a lunch zone for schools. Or go to "Cafe on 4".

I wasn’t overly impressed. Normally, I love museums, but I didn’t find anything spectacular here. Perhaps, it’s because I live in the city of the Royal Ontario Museum which is far more impressive. They allow you to pay what you can afford which I quite liked, especially as it allows for young crowds to access. If you’re going to be in NYC for a while or you’ve visited before and this is the last thing to do, why not. Museum time is not wasted time...however if you’re trying to crunch in as much as possible, leave this place out and visit the MET instead. The location is great and if you’re still planning on visiting, regardless of my lukewarm review, make sure to add Central Park to your day.

Atmosphere felt more like a children’s museum/playground, than a world-class institution. Overly crowded. Apathetic floor staff, with 2 exceptions. Difficult to find where we wanted to go, even with a map. Lacked signage. We enjoyed the planetarium show. High production values. Wish some of that money was applied to signage and customer service training. Our adult group was left wanting more content, more space and quiet to read the exhibit content, and a bit more help locating the additional exhibits we paid for. Wasn’t expecting romper-room.

Without a doubt my favorite museum. I've been going there with my dad since before I was potty trained and it still gives me the same feeling of awe when I visit now that it gave me back then. As a matter of fact I still feel like I've got a load in my shorts every time I set eyes on that great big blue whale hanging from the ceiling. It reminds me of how fortunate I am to not have children of my own so I'll never have to change anyone's diapers...