American Museum of Natural History Relaunches "A Night at the Museum" Sleepover Program

The American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) in New York City has reintroduced its popular "A Night at the Museum" sleepover program after a five-year hiatus. This initiative, inspired by the 2006 film featuring a security guard who discovers that museum exhibits come to life at night, had been a staple for 15 years before being interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent construction projects, including the $465 million Richard Gilder Center for Science, which opened in summer 2023.

American Museum of Natural History’s ‘Night at the Museum’ Program Is Finally Back

The sleepover experience is designed for children aged six to twelve, requiring one adult for every five children. Tickets are priced at $225 per person, and the program has quickly regained popularity, with tickets for the first three months selling out. The experience allows children to explore the museum's exhibits after hours, including guided tours of the fossil halls and taxidermy displays. Participants can also engage in live presentations, scavenger hunts, trivia games, and karaoke. Overnight guests sleep on cot beds beneath the iconic blue whale in the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life, leaving with a commemorative keepsake and a voucher for future admission.

American Museum of Natural History’s ‘Night at the Museum’ Program Is Finally Back

Sean Decatur, president of AMNH, expressed enthusiasm about the program's return, stating, “We are excited to reintroduce this celebrated program that provides a rare opportunity for guests to experience the wonders of the Museum long after visitors have gone home.” He highlighted the thrill of encountering exhibits like the Tyrannosaurus rex and the unique experience of sleeping beneath the blue whale.

American Museum of Natural History’s ‘Night at the Museum’ Program Is Finally Back

In addition to the sleepover program, AMNH is currently hosting the temporary exhibition "Impact: The End of the Age of Dinosaurs," which explores the asteroid impact that led to the extinction of the dinosaurs 66 million years ago. Earlier this year, the museum also unveiled "Encounters in the Milky Way," a new planetarium film narrated by actor Pedro Pascal, detailing the sun's position in the universe's history.

American Museum of Natural History’s ‘Night at the Museum’ Program Is Finally BackNew York Times

While the program has been well-received, some critics may question the accessibility of the sleepover experience due to its cost, potentially limiting participation to families who can afford the ticket price.

American Museum of Natural History’s ‘Night at the Museum’ Program Is Finally Back

Tickets for the upcoming months of January, February, and March will go on sale in early December, allowing more families the chance to participate in this unique overnight adventure at the museum.

American Museum of Natural History’s ‘Night at the Museum’ Program Is Finally Back

• “We are excited to reintroduce this celebrated program that provides a rare opportunity for guests to experience the wonders of the Museum long after visitors have gone home,” — Sean Decatur, President of AMNH.

American Museum of Natural History’s ‘Night at the Museum’ Program Is Finally Back