American Museum of Natural History

A stroll around Central Park or Times Square and a photo on Brooklyn Bridge cost nothing — but some of New York’s great museums and galleries also offer free entry either every day or at certain times. On the west side of Central Park, this epic museum is a wonder of the natural universe. Halls dedicated to birds, reptiles, ocean mammals — and Earth’s many different biospheres — come alive in amazing displays.

Open daily, 10am-5.45pm;