KathrynT

We will be visiting both New York and Washington, DC this summer with our two children (ages 16 and 13.) There are so many wonderful attractions that we have to narrow the field somehow. My head is spinning from all the possibilities!

If you were going to visit one Museum of Natural History, which one would you choose? Of course, if you feel both are so wonderful they shouldn't be missed or, conversely, if both should be skipped, please say so.

Thanks!

J62

Both museums are wonderful so you can't go wrong with either. There area a lot of similar collections, so if you visit one you probably won't want to visit the other on the same trip.

I do believe the NYC one is larger, has more special exhibits, and definitely can't be fully seen in one trip without nat hist. fatigue setting in.

I like the one in DC because it's right on the mall. If the family wants to split up and visit different museums for an hour or to, then meet at a prearranged location that works well. You can decide to go in for half a day, or just an hour.

vivi

I have been to both, in fact I was in the DC Nat'l History Museum today. But if you only have time for one, I'd say NY hands down.

obxgirl

I'd go with the one in NYC, agree it's a bit better. Besides, that will give you an opportunity to visit something uniquely DC. Lots to see in both cities!

Anonymous

NYC is, IMHO, the better museum. Plus, it's so easy to overdose on museums in DC because they are one of the main things to do (unlike in NY).

OTOH, most of the museums in DC, including Natural History, are free, which saves not only money but also time waiting in line to buy a ticket. If you go to the museum in NYC, get there just before it opens.