American Museum Of Natural History Vs MoMA: Which NYC Museum Is Best For You?

Two epic museums. One city. Dinosaurs or Dalis—what’s your vibe?

Published: May 2, 2025
American Museum Of Natural History Vs MoMA

New York City doesn’t just do museums—it redefines them. If you're trying to choose between the American Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), you're basically choosing between two very different kinds of wonder. One takes you through time and space, the other through the imaginations of some of the world’s most brilliant artists. Whether you're into fossils or Frida, space shows or soup cans, we've broken it all down to help you decide where to spend your next awe-filled afternoon. 

The Lowdown 

American Museum Of Natural History (AMNH) 

  • One of the largest natural history museums in the world 

  • Features dinosaur skeletons, meteorites, dioramas, and planetarium shows 

  • Includes the Rose Center for Earth and Space 

  • Great for families, kids, and science lovers 

  • Located on the Upper West Side near Central Park 

  • Easily takes 2–4 hours (or more) to explore properly 

Museum Of Modern Art (MoMA) 

  • World-renowned modern and contemporary art museum 

  • Home to works by Van Gogh, Warhol, Picasso, Kahlo, Monet, and more 

  • Features painting, sculpture, photography, video, design, and performance art 

  • Sleek, newly expanded space with six floors of art 

  • Located in Midtown Manhattan 

  • Perfect for art lovers and cultural explorers 

 

Sounds Good, Tell Me More... 

American Museum Of Natural History 

This museum is a favorite for good reason. It’s massive, it’s immersive, and it makes science feel magical. The star attractions? A towering T. rex skeleton, the 94-foot-long blue whale suspended from the ceiling, and the Hayden Planetarium, where you can fly through space in a mind-blowing digital show narrated by Neil deGrasse Tyson. The dioramas are legendary—capturing wild animals in lifelike, frozen scenes that feel straight out of a documentary. For kids, it's hands-on, fascinating, and full of discovery. For adults, it’s nostalgic, mind-expanding, and packed with detail. You’ll leave feeling small in the best possible way. 

Museum Of Modern Art (MoMA) 

MoMA is sleek, smart, and effortlessly cool. Step inside and you’re face-to-face with some of the most important art of the 20th and 21st centuries. Think Van Gogh’s Starry Night, Monet’s water lilies, and Warhol’s soup cans. The layout encourages exploration, with rotating installations and bold, provocative works around every corner. MoMA is more than just paintings—it’s sculpture, film, photography, design, and digital media all under one (very modern) roof. Whether you’re an art student or just art-curious, MoMA delivers a creative jolt that stays with you long after you leave. 

Okay, So Which One Is Most Impressive? 

Okay, So Which One Is Most Impressive? 

AMNH impresses with scale, scope, and the sheer variety of what you can see—from Earth’s formation to the edge of the universe. MoMA impresses with cultural clout and its ability to surprise you on every floor. One’s a tribute to nature and science, the other a celebration of creativity. It’s a toss-up depending on your interests. 

Which One Is More Fun? 

For kids and curious minds of all ages, AMNH is a blast. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure experience, filled with dino jaws, gem halls, and cosmic journeys. MoMA is fun for a different crowd—those who love getting lost in visual ideas and creative storytelling. If your idea of fun involves giant squid and space shows, AMNH wins. If it’s mind-bending art and big ideas, MoMA’s your jam. 

Which Is More Beautiful? 

MoMA is built for beauty. It’s spacious, minimal, and filled with striking works of art that practically demand a photo. AMNH has a more classic, museum-y vibe, but the dioramas, the planetarium, and the halls of gems sparkle with their own kind of beauty. MoMA is aesthetically cleaner, but AMNH offers immersive, natural beauty. 

Which Has The Better View? 

MoMA’s sculpture garden is a lovely place to catch a break, but the museum doesn’t offer city views. AMNH, meanwhile, sits right next to Central Park. From the Rose Center or the museum's upper levels, you’ll get glimpses of greenery and skyline—a win if you want a scenic break during your visit. 

How Do I Get There? 

How Do I Get There? 

American Museum Of Natural History 

  • Address: Central Park West & 79th Street, Upper West Side 

  • Subway: Take the B or C train to 81st Street – Museum of Natural History 

Museum Of Modern Art (MoMA) 

  • Address: 11 West 53rd Street, Midtown Manhattan 

  • Subway: Take the E or M to 5th Avenue / 53rd Street or the B, D, F, M to 47–50 Streets – Rockefeller Center 

Both are well-connected by subway and easy to include in a day of exploring nearby attractions. 

Best Choice For Families, Couples, Or Friends 

Families with kids will find AMNH to be a no-brainer. There’s just so much to do, touch, and explore. Couples might prefer the moodier, artsier vibe of MoMA—especially with its quiet corners and creative energy. Friends? Depends on the vibe. AMNH is great for curious, adventurous groups; MoMA is perfect for design-minded or Instagram-hungry explorers. 

I’ve Got Fidgety Kids To Entertain – Which Has More ‘Hands-On’ Activities? 

AMNH takes the win here. There are interactive exhibits, discovery rooms, and lots of visual and tactile stimulation. MoMA is more contemplative, though older kids might enjoy the bolder, more graphic works. Still, for younger ones, dinosaurs always beat Dalis. 

What’s The Accessibility Like? 

Both museums are fully accessible, with elevators, accessible restrooms, and assistance available for visitors with disabilities. AMNH is more spread out and can involve a lot of walking, so it’s good to plan ahead and grab a map at the entrance. 

Best Lunch Spots Nearby? 

Best Lunch Spots Nearby? 

Near American Museum Of Natural History 

  • Jacob’s Pickles – Comfort food heaven with fried chicken and biscuits galore. 

Near MoMA 

  • The Modern – Upscale dining inside MoMA, ideal for a special lunch or date. 

  • Pret a Manger – Quick, healthy bites and strong coffee, just around the corner. 

  • Toasties – Great deli sandwiches if you’re short on time. 

  • Mozzarella & Vino – Cozy Italian with small plates, wine, and a relaxed atmosphere. 

Where Are The Best Photo Opportunities? 

At AMNH, head to the dinosaur halls, the blue whale room, and the Hayden Planetarium for the most dramatic shots. MoMA? Take your pick—Starry Night, the sculpture garden, or those massive Rothkos all deliver stunning visuals. Bonus: MoMA has better lighting for selfies. 

We’re Finished And Thirsty – Is A Decent Bar In The Area? 

Near American Museum Of Natural History 

  • The Dead Poet – Literary-themed pub with quotes on the wall and a solid beer list. 

  • Fred’s – Friendly local bar with comfort food and good cocktails. 

Near MoMA 

Any Other Good Stuff Nearby? 

Any Other Good Stuff Nearby? 

Near American Museum Of Natural History 

  • Central Park – Right next door. Head to the Great Lawn or walk over to the Belvedere Castle. 

  • Zabar’s – Legendary deli and bakery if you want to grab something for later. 

Near MoMA 

  • Times Square – Love it or hate it, it’s right around the corner and always buzzing. 

 

 

So, who wins in the battle of museums? It depends on your mood. The American Museum of Natural History is an adventure through time, space, and science—great for families, explorers, and hands-on learners. MoMA is a modern marvel full of visual drama and iconic masterpieces—ideal for creatives, couples, and design lovers. The good news? With Go City®, you can explore both and pack your NYC trip with discovery, inspiration, and plenty of unforgettable moments. 

Ready to ramp up your New York experience? Discover Free Experiences Just Steps From The Statue Of Liberty  and Things to do Near Top of the Rock

Step up your sightseeing with Go City®.   

We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  

See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® - just choose a pass to get started! 

Powered by AI

This article was generated with the help of AI to provide accurate and up-to-date information. The Go City team has reviewed and curated the content to ensure it meets our quality standards for accuracy and relevance.

Continue reading

Blog

New York in September   

There’s no doubt about it - September is the absolute best time for crunching through leaves in Central Park, visiting fun outdoor attractions, and cozying up in the museum café. If you’re looking for the ultimate Autumn in New York experience, don’t worry - we’ve got you covered! For those who are thinking about making the visit, plan ahead with our comprehensive guide for the best things to do in the area. We hope you find many of our tips useful for the future. Take in the Fall Vibes   The weather in September is still warm and balmy, making it one of the best times to visit some outdoor New York attractions. Situated between the Upper West and Upper East Sides of Manhattan, Central Park is easily accessible and offers a wide array of fun activities. Attracting over 25 million visitors each year, this is easily one of the most popular public parks in the world – and with good reason. Whether you’re looking to visit the zoo, see the conservatory garden, or just take a relaxing stroll, there’s plenty to do here.   The light autumnal weather also provides ample opportunity for some great outdoor events. Taking place every Wednesday of the month, Jazz at Pier 84 combines stunning live performances with beautiful evenings. Totally free and set along the waterfront of the Hudson River, we couldn’t think of a much cooler way to relax on vacation. So, pack some blankets and snacks and get ready to watch the sunset over the skyline! Is there any better way to enjoy the outdoors than by watching a movie under the stars? All throughout the month, you can catch free outdoor screenings right in the center of Bryant Park. Showing on Monday and Tuesday evenings, the festival features everything from critically acclaimed dramas and black and white classics to laugh-out-loud comedies and cult indie flicks. While the park provides food and wine concessions, it’s up to you to bring a blanket, since there is no seating area. In addition, there are also music, dance and theater events produced in partnership with a varied lineup of the city’s performing arts institutions. Find Fun Activities   Whilst you might be thinking that summertime is peak festival season, we’re here to tell you that you're wrong. A total treat for music lovers, Governor’s Ball is one of New York’s most respected, hyped and talked about cultural events. A total musical extravaganza, the affair features an impressive and exciting lineup with a mixed bag of genres, including hip-hop, rock, pop and electronic. With previous performances from Miley Cyrus, Drake and Stevie Nicks, this one is a sure winner! New York City has never failed to impress us with its delicious culinary offerings. To grab a slice of the action head down to Smorgasburg fest, where you can try out different specialities from dozens of local vendors. Billed as ‘’the Woodstock of eating’’, the event offers a broad variety of dishes, as well as cocktails and high-quality beers on tap. With plenty of vegan and gluten-free options to choose from, we promise nobody will go hungry!   Another one of our favorite places to go in September is Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Situated at the northeastern edge of Prospect Park, this 52-acre stretch is home to thousands of plants and trees, as well as a discovery garden with butterflies, bees and chipmunks. Attracting nearly a million visitors each year, this stunning urban landscape encourages its visitors to explore the world of plants whilst promoting a sense of responsibility for the environment. Including a number of speciality "gardens within the Garden", the Steinhardt Conservatory that houses the C.V. Starr Bonsai Museum, and an art gallery, there’s a little something for everyone here. Magical and swoon-worthy, this place makes the perfect day trip. Get Cultured One of the greatest things about New York is that the city is a total melting pot for more cultures than any other place in the United States. To experience how residents have been shaping and contributing to the culture of the city is an experience in itself – and definitely one which we recommend. If you're interested in exploring the area through its food, we suggest heading down to the San Gennaro Festival. Initially a one-day religious holiday, the event was brought over by Italian immigrants who wanted to continue the tradition they had followed in their home country, celebrating Saint Januarius, the Patron Saint of Naples. Today, the festival is a magnificent flourish of delicious food, live music, and colorful parades which is held annually in the Little Italy district of Manhattan. Soak up the festive atmosphere, enjoy some of the best Italian cuisine in the city, and definitely don’t miss the world-famous cannoli eating contest!   New York is well-recognized as the art capital of the United States. Those who are interested in exploring the city’s creative side should definitely look into booking a street art tour. Along the route, you’ll be guided through the vibrant works of many big contemporary street artists, as well as some interesting lesser-known names. In addition, you’ll get to learn more about the different styles and techniques which have been developed throughout the history of street art. Extremely Instagram-worthy and incredibly fascinating, too, you won’t want to miss this one! Those who are visiting during the anniversary of 9/11 should consider checking out the Tribute in Light installation. First introduced six months after the attacks, this piece seeks to commemorate the thousands of lives that were lost whilst celebrating the enduring strength of New York City. From the roof of the Battery Parking Garage, two beams of light are projected into the Manhattan skyline, where the passenger planes were once hijacked by terrorists and crashed into the World Trade Center buildings. We suggest going at nighttime since the lights are best appreciated after dark. New York is great all year round, but fall is especially magical– the leaves turn golden, the air is crisp, and the city offers a wide array of fun activities and events. Whether you’re ambling through the winding pathways of Central Park, enjoying jazz right beside the Hudson River, or catching a sunset movie, it's impossible to be bored. To make the most of this fleeting season, be sure to check out our New York attraction pass options as you can use an All-Inclusive pass or an Explorer pass to see more for less with Go City.
Sarah Harris
Blog

Things to do in Midtown

No visit to New York is complete without exploring Midtown. Situated at the very heart of Manhattan, the area is home to some of the city’s best cultural attractions, shopping opportunities, and dining spots. Spend the day shopping on Fifth Avenue or view the city from dizzying heights at the Empire State Building. Or, if you’re an arts lover, check out the Museum Mile or head uptown to catch a musical on Broadway. So, if you’re planning to make the visit, have a read through our guide of the best things to do in the area. With Go City, you can see more, for less. Explore the Area If you’re looking for the ultimate shopping experience, there’s no better place to be than Midtown. Stretching for six whole miles through the district, Fifth Avenue draws in millions of visitors each year – and with good reason! The street has much to offer, with popular flagships, upscale boutiques, and spectacular window displays, especially around Christmastime. Flanked with enticing attractions and buzzing with life, this major attraction delivers a shopping experience going way beyond our wildest dreams. Dive into the crowds, pick up a souvenir for your loved ones, and soak up the incredible atmosphere. Hey, what’s not to love? Though New York is most usually recognized for its towering skyscrapers and modern structures, the city is home to many beautiful historic buildings. An absolute must-see for history buffs and architecture geeks alike, St. Patrick’s Church is known as the biggest Gothic Roman Catholic Cathedral in the United States. Occupying an entire city block, the venerable structure stands out amongst its neighbors with a real sense of authority and presence. Both the exterior façade and interior design of the church are incredibly fascinating, as they tell a whole lot about the city’s religious and architectural past. Still, the main draw of the site is its atmospheric underground catacombs, which showcase the intricacies of 19th Century art and innovation. One of our favorite things about Midtown is that there’s a surprise around every corner. Situated between Madison Avenue and Broadway, Koreatown (AKA ‘’Korean Times Square’’) is one of the best-kept secrets of the area. Here, visitors can enjoy interesting shops, great restaurants, and a vibrant sense of community. This small but sweet enclave would be the perfect place to grab a bite to eat after catching a show on Broadway. See the Sites It’d just be wrong to write about the Midtown area without mentioning the Empire State Building. A world-famous attraction and mainstay of New York City culture, the iconic tower is one of the most impressive highlights of the cityscape. Still billed as one of the tallest buildings in the world, this majestic structure grants captivating views of Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, as well as five different states. We strongly recommend purchasing your tickets online ahead of time to cut down on your queueing time! Of all the things to do in Midtown, one of the area’s biggest draws is Grand Central Station. Infinitely more than just a train station and commuter’s hub, this iconic tourist magnet has long served as an emblem of New York City culture. This national historic landmark is perhaps best known for its beautiful architecture and unique history – its famous golden clockwork, intricate tilework, and swooping arches and most certainly a sight to behold. Those who are interested in learning more about the background of the building can take historical tours. In addition, the attraction packs over 100 dining and shopping vendors all under one roof! Midtown presents an incredible wealth of cool things to do, see and experience. Comprised of a whopping 19 commercial buildings and spanning over 22 acres, the Rockefeller Center is a fantastic stop for any first-time visitor. Whether you’re looking for live music, historical artwork, or live tapings of your favorite talk show, this is where you want to be. Catch a show at Radio City Music Hall, tour NBC Studios, and in the wintertime, take a spin on its world-famous ice rink. The world’s your oyster! Get Cultured New York is an art lover’s dream, with Midtown presenting some of the city’s top cultural institutions. Drawing in millions of visitors each year, the Museum of Modern Art is often recognized as one of the biggest and most influential institutions of its kind. Upon entrance, visitors can enjoy an expansive collection of over 200, 000 artworks across all mediums. Particular highlights include Vincent van Gogh’s The Starry Night, Salvador Dalì’s The Persistence of Memory and Roy Lichtenstein’s Drowning Girl. Looking for a memorable cultural experience? Look no further than Broadway! Situated on a popular thoroughfare of the same name, the notable theater is often considered to be the most influential playhouse in the United States. Unlike indie playhouses, the Broadway Theater runs classic crowd-pleasers which are sure to suit those travelling with friends or family. You can see famous shows such as The Phantom of the Opera, Moulin Rouge, and The Lion King. The theater is located on 53rd Street, with plenty of restaurants and bars just minutes away. Another one of our favorite things to do in Midtown is visit the Morgan Library. Formerly the private collection of financier J. Pierpont Morgan, this majestic repository is a total bibliophile’s paradise. Situated on Madison Avenue, this Italian Renaissance-style palazzo shelters the largest on-paper collection of art, literature and musical works in the United States. Particular standouts include one of 23 copies of the original Declaration of Independence, Charles Dickens’s manuscript of A Christmas Carol, and a signed manuscript of Henry David Thoreau’s Walden. There are endless things to see, do and experience in Midtown. From the area’s world-class entertainment venues to its fantastic shopping destinations, dining spots and architectural landmarks, it’s essentially impossible to take it all in in just one visit. Whatever you choose to do, you won’t be disappointed; rather, you’ll struggle to fit it all in. Make the best out of your travel experience with our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris
Central Park
Blog

10+ top things to do in Central Park

Brace yourself for 843 acres of lush green playground right in the heart of Manhattan.
Sarah Harris

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.