American Museum of Natural History , New York City

Address Central Park West at 79th Street, New York, NY 10024-5192 USA Map, Tel (212) 769-5100, Hours Daily 10am-5:45pm, Subway B/C to 81 St, 1/9 to 79 St, Cost Suggested Donation $10 (adults) $6 (children) Website

This huge museum houses a collection covering every discipline of human science in an area that is spread over several city blocks and four floors. Special features include the Rose Center for Earth and Space (Planetarium) and the Discovery Room (with hands on exhibits designed for chidren ages 5-12)

The museum can be crowded on weekends, so try to visit on a weekday.

The museum's popular sleepover program (ages 8-12) is a memorable experience, and lets you forgo the cost of a hotel for one night!