
New York is full of amazing Museums that each tell a different story about the city's diverse past.
The Natural History Museum on the Upper West Side is one of the world’s preeminent scientific and cultural institutions. Since it was founded almost 150 years ago, its mission has been to "discover, interpret, and disseminate information about human cultures, the natural world, and the universe through a wide-ranging program of scientific research, education, and exhibition." The Museum is renowned for its exhibitions and scientific collections, which "serve as a field guide to the entire planet and present a panorama of the world's cultures."
Originally founded in 1869 by Albert Smith Bickmore, its original location was a small arsenal on the Upper East Side, but it moved to its current location in 1874, and construction was completed in 1877. Since then, it has grown and expanded to house many iconic exhibits on native american people, flora and fauna found in the region, and even exhibits on dinosaurs, primates, constellations, and environmental conservation. In 1967 the museum's exterior was declared a National Monument, and in 1992 the museum expanded to include a research center in evolutionary biology, biodiversity, and conservation. In the early 2000's a space center and research fascility was also developed on site, which now included the world's most advanced star projector and planetarium.
Seasonal exhibits pop up every year, and from September through May, the Atrium attached to the museum is home to a butterfly conservatory. You can watch the clip below to learn more, and if you are feeling a little extra chilly one winter weekend, head in and visit this tiny tropical oasis in the middle of New York City.
While you are there, make sure to visit some of the other amazing exhibits this expansive and timeless museum has to offer!