Is nature and the natural world something that interests you and are you looking for the best nature museums to visit in New York State? These are the ones:
1American Museum of Natural History
New York, NYThe American Museum of Natural History, also known as AMNH, is situated in the Upper West Side of Manhattan in New York, United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a variety of other attractions in the vicinity, making it a convenient spot for tourists. 2Niagara Falls Butterfly Conservatory
Niagara Falls,The Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory is a unique butterfly house located in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. It is managed by the Niagara Parks Commission, a body dedicated to preserving and promoting the natural and cultural heritage of Niagara Falls. The conservatory offers a unique opportunity to observe and interact with a variety of butterfly species in a controlled environment. 3Central Park Zoo
New York, NYThe Central Park Zoo, nestled within the heart of New York City's Central Park, is a well-managed establishment under the care of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). This location offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience a diverse range of wildlife in the midst of a bustling city. 4Bird Kingdom Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls,Bird Kingdom is a unique attraction located in the tourist district of Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. It was opened to the public in May 2003 and holds the distinction of being the largest free flying indoor aviary in the world. This means that visitors can expect to see a wide variety of birds flying freely within the aviary, providing a unique and immersive experience. 5Bronx Zoo
New York, NYThe Bronx Zoo, located in the Bronx borough of New York, is one of the largest zoos in the United States by area. It is the largest metropolitan zoo in the country, boasting 107 hectares of parks and naturalistic habitats that are separated by the Bronx River. This expansive space allows for a diverse range of animals and exhibits, making it a unique destination for visitors. 6Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
Buffalo, NYThe Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens are a beautiful and serene location situated within South Park in Buffalo, New York. This location is not just a garden, but a living museum that offers a unique blend of art, history, and nature. The gardens are a product of the combined efforts of landscaping architect Frederick Law Olmsted, glass-house architects Lord & Burnham, and botanist and plant-explorer John F. Cowell. 7New York Aquarium
New York, NYThe New York Aquarium, an American aquarium, is situated in Brooklyn, New York. It has a rich history, having been established in 1896 within the Castle Clinton of Battery Park in Manhattan. In 1957, it was relocated to Coney Island in the south of Brooklyn. This location change has allowed the aquarium to expand and continue its mission of educating the public about marine life. 8Wild Center
Tupper Lake, NYThe Wild Center, previously known as the Natural History Museum of the Adirondacks, is a natural history center located in Tupper Lake, New York. It is situated near the heart of New York state's Adirondack Park. This location offers a unique blend of indoor and outdoor experiences, making it an interesting destination for those interested in natural history and the great outdoors. 9Green-Wood
Brooklyn, NYGreen-Wood Cemetery is a significant historical site in New York City, located in the western part of the Brooklyn borough. Established in 1838, it was initially a garden cemetery in Kings County, which is now part of Brooklyn. The cemetery is known for its monumental two-arched gothic gateway, designed by Richard M. Upjohn, and its reliefs depicting death and resurrection. The cemetery's design was inspired by Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge, Massachusetts, which was a landscaped park-style cemetery. 10Queens Zoo
New York, NYThe Queens Zoo, located in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in Queens, New York City, spans an area of 18 acres. It is part of an integrated system of four zoos and one aquarium managed by the Wildlife Conservation Society in partnership with the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation. The zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). 11Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Brooklyn, NYThe Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a significant botanical garden situated in the borough of Brooklyn in New York. Established in 1910, the garden spans an impressive 21 hectares, offering ample space for visitors to explore and enjoy the diverse plant life.- Online discount!
12New York Botanical Garden
New York, NYThe New York Botanical Garden, located in the Bronx, New York, is one of the main botanical gardens in the United States. It offers a diverse range of plant collections and gardens, making it a great place for nature lovers and those interested in botany. 13Buffalo Zoo
Buffalo, NYThe Buffalo Zoo, established in 1875, is one of the oldest zoos in the United States. It is situated at 300 Parkside Ave in Buffalo, New York. This historic zoo has been a significant part of the city's heritage and continues to be a popular destination for both locals and tourists. 14Staten Island Zoo
New York, NYThe Staten Island Zoo is situated in the West New Brighton neighborhood of Staten Island, New York. Unlike other major zoos in New York, it is not managed by the Wildlife Conservation Society. The zoo was established in August 1933 by Harold O'Connel and became part of the new Staten Island Zoological Society less than a year later. 15Aquarium of Niagara
Niagara Falls,The Aquarium of Niagara is conveniently located in downtown Niagara Falls, New York, in close proximity to Niagara Falls State Park. This makes it an easily accessible destination for tourists visiting the area. 16Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden
New York, NY 17Prospect Park Zoo
New York, NYThe Prospect Park Zoo is situated on Flatbush Avenue on the eastern side of Prospect Park in Brooklyn, New York. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse wildlife within the heart of a bustling city. 18Wave Hill
Bronx, NYWave Hill is a sprawling 28-acre estate located in the Hudson Hill section of Riverdale in the Bronx, New York City. The estate is home to public horticultural gardens and a cultural center, offering a unique blend of nature and culture to its visitors. The gardens and cultural center are situated on slopes overlooking the Hudson River, providing expansive views across the river to the New Jersey Palisades. 19Rosamond Gifford Zoo At Burnet Park
Syracuse, NYThe Rosamond Gifford Zoo is a zoological garden situated in Burnet Park, Syracuse, in the state of New York. It is owned and managed by the Onondaga County Parks. The zoo is home to over 200 species of animals, making it a diverse and engaging destination for visitors of all ages. 20Seneca Park Zoo
Irondequoit, NYSeneca Park Zoo, located in Rochester, New York, spans 20 acres and is home to a diverse range of species. Visitors can expect to see over 90 different types of animals, including mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians, fish, and arachnids. The zoo is a great place for families and individuals who are interested in wildlife and nature. 21Nevin Welcome Center - Cornell Botanic Gardens
Ithaca, NYThe Cornell Botanic Gardens, located adjacent to the Cornell University campus in Ithaca, New York, is a botanical garden that spans over 175 acres. This includes 25 acres of botanical gardens and 150 acres of the F R Newman Arboretum. The gardens offer a diverse range of plant life and natural beauty, making it a great place for visitors to explore and learn about different plant species. 22New York Chinese Scholar's Garden
New York, NYThe New York Chinese Scholar's Garden is an integral part of the Staten Island Botanical Garden, which is situated within the Snug Harbor Cultural Center. This location provides a unique cultural and botanical experience for visitors, combining the tranquility of a traditional Chinese garden with the diverse flora of the botanical garden. 23Bignhamton Zoo At Ross Park
Binghamton, NYThe Ross Park Zoo, situated in Binghamton, New York, holds the distinction of being the 5th oldest zoo in the United States. It was first opened to the public in 1875, marking it as a significant historical site in the nation's zoo history. 24Queens Botanical Garden
Queens, NYThe Queens Botanical Garden is a sprawling 39-acre botanical garden situated in Queens, New York. It is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, explore diverse plant species, and learn about the environment. The garden is home to a variety of herbaceous plants, shrubs, and trees that are displayed in various gardens and spaces associated with QBG's collections. 25Theodore Roosevelt Museum at Old Orchard - Sagamore Hill
Oyster Bay, NYSagamore Hill, located in Cove Neck, New York, served as the home of the 26th president of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt, from 1885 until his death in 1919. The historic site is situated near Oyster Bay on the North Shore of Long Island, approximately 25 miles east of Manhattan. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the former residence of one of America's most influential presidents in a serene and picturesque setting. 26Utica Zoo
Utica, NYThe Utica Zoo, located in the scenic Roscoe Conkling Park in Utica, New York, offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors. The zoo features a mix of outdoor and indoor animal enclosures, providing a home to a variety of species. For those who enjoy a more hands-on experience, the petting zoo is a popular attraction. Nature trails wind through the park, offering a peaceful retreat and the opportunity to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat.- 27
Adirondack Animal Land
Mayfield, NY 28Buffalo Museum of Science
Buffalo, NYThe Buffalo Museum of Science is conveniently located at Martin Luther King Jr. Park in Buffalo, New York. It is situated near the Kensington Expressway, making it easily accessible for visitors traveling by car. The museum is housed in a historic building that was designed by August Esenwein and James A. Johnson and opened its doors on January 19, 1929. 29Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park
Oyster Bay, NYThe Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park, which also includes the Coe Hall Historic House Museum, is a significant attraction for tourists. This arboretum and state park spans over 400 acres and is situated in the village of Upper Brookville in the town of Oyster Bay, New York. The park is a testament to the rich history of the area and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and architectural elegance. 30Albany Pine Bush Preserve
Albany, NYThe Albany Pine Bush, often referred to as the Pine Bush, is a significant natural feature located in New York's Capital District within Albany and Schenectady counties. It is recognized as one of the largest inland pine barrens in the world, offering a unique ecosystem and a variety of flora and fauna. Its central location makes it easily accessible for visitors from both Albany and Schenectady. 31Valentine–Varian House
Bronx, NYThe Valentine–Varian House, located in the Norwood neighborhood of the Bronx, New York City, is a historic site with a rich history. Built in 1758 by Isaac Valentine, it stands as the Bronx's second oldest house and oldest remaining farmhouse. This two-story, five bay fieldstone residence with a gable roof is a testament to the architectural style of the time. It was moved to its current location in 1965 and underwent restoration between July 1965 and May 1968. 32Ganondagan State Historic Site
Victor, NYGanondagan State Historic Site, also known as Boughton Hill, is a significant Native American historic site located in Ontario County, New York. In the 17th century, it was the site of the largest Seneca village, making it a place of great historical and cultural importance. Visitors to the site can learn about the rich history of the Seneca people and their way of life during that period. 33Griffis Sculpture Park
East Otto, NYGriffis Sculpture Park is situated in a picturesque location between Ashford Hollow and East Otto in Cattaraugus County, New York. This unique outdoor art museum offers a blend of natural beauty and artistic creativity, making it a fascinating destination for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. 34Nannen Arboretum
Ellicottville, NYThe Nannen Arboretum, located at 28 Parkside Drive, Ellicottville, New York, is an eight-acre botanical garden and arboretum. This expansive space offers a diverse range of flora for visitors to explore and enjoy. 35Highland Park Conservancy
Rochester, NYHighland Park, also known as Highland Botanical Park, is an arboretum located in Rochester, New York. This park is one of the first municipal arboretums in the United States, endowed to the Rochester community in 1888 by nurserymen George Ellwanger and Patrick Barry. The park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, a renowned landscape architect, with the intention of maintaining a natural appearance. 36Bowne House
Flushing, NYThe John Bowne House, located in Flushing, Queens, New York City, is recognized for its significant role in the establishment of religious tolerance in the United States. This historical site offers visitors a glimpse into the early struggles for religious freedom in the country, making it a notable destination for those interested in American history. 37Friends of Lasdon Park & Arboretum
Katonah, NYThe park is home to a variety of natural features, including woodlands, an open grass meadow, and formal gardens that showcase flower and shrub specimens from around the globe. One of the park's unique features is the Chinese Friendship Pavilion, a gift from the People’s Republic of China to the citizens of Westchester. 38Cutler Botanic Garden
Binghamton, NYThe Cutler Botanic Garden is a 3.5-acre botanical garden that is affiliated with Cornell University. It is located in Binghamton, New York, United States. This garden offers a serene environment for visitors to explore and enjoy the beauty of nature. 39Stone Quarry Hill Art Park
Cazenovia, NYStone Quarry Hill Art Park is an outdoor sculpture park situated near Cazenovia, New York. The park is open to visitors every day from dawn until dusk, providing ample time for exploration and enjoyment of the art installations and natural beauty of the park. 40Cayuga Nature Center
Ulysses, NYThe Cayuga Nature Center (CNC) is an educational institution that focuses on nature and environmental issues. It is situated on the west side of Cayuga Lake in Tompkins County, New York. This location offers a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the environment while enjoying the natural beauty of the area. 41The Wild Center
Tupper Lake, NYThe Wild Center, previously known as the Natural History Museum of the Adirondacks, is a natural history center located in Tupper Lake, New York. It is situated near the heart of New York state's Adirondack Park. This location makes it a unique destination for those interested in exploring the natural history of the region. 42Crailo State Historic Site
Rensselaer, NYThe Crailo State Historic Site, also known as Fort Crailo and Yankee Doodle House, is a significant landmark in Rensselaer, New York. This fortified brick manor house, constructed in 1707, stands as a testament to the region's rich history. Its architecture and fortifications provide a glimpse into the past, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore and understand the historical context of the area. 43Staten Island Museum
New York, NYThe Staten Island Museum, also known as the Staten Island Institute of Arts & Sciences, is a cultural institution located in Staten Island, New York City. This museum is a significant part of the city's cultural landscape, offering visitors a chance to explore various aspects of natural history, fine art, and local history. 44Sands-Willets House
Port Washington, NYThe Sands-Willets Homestead is a historic house and museum situated in the Incorporated Village of Flower Hill in Nassau County, on Long Island, in New York, United States. This landmark is operated by the Cow Neck Peninsula Historical Society and is recognized as a Village of Flower Hill Landmark, a New York State Landmark, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 45Dr. John Quincy Howe House
Phelps, NYThe Dr. John Quincy Howe House, located in Phelps, New York, is a significant historical site. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, indicating its importance in the history of the United States. The house is a testament to the architectural style of the time and offers a unique glimpse into the past. 46Clark Botanic Garden
Albertson, NYClark Botanic Garden is a botanical garden and park that spans across 12 acres. It is located in Roslyn Heights, Nassau County, on Long Island, in New York, United States. This location makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists alike. 47Hudson River Maritime Museum
Kingston, NYThe Hudson River Maritime Museum is situated at 50 Rondout Landing, at the foot of Broadway in Kingston, New York, United States. It is nestled along the Rondout Creek in the city's old waterfront, providing a picturesque setting for visitors. The museum's location is not only scenic but also historically significant, as it is just east of the John T. Loughran Bridge.- 48
Stonecrop Gardens
Putnam Valley, NY 49Long Island Game Farm – Wildlife Park and Children's Zoo
Manorville, NYThe Long Island Game Farm, a well-known establishment in Manorville, New York, was founded in 1969 by Stanley and Diane Novak. This family-built zoo, spread over 29 acres, has become a significant landmark in the town and a popular destination for many who make it a yearly tradition to visit. 50Sampson State Park
Romulus, NYSampson State Park, a vast 2,070-acre state park, is situated in Seneca County, New York. The park is nestled on the east shore of Seneca Lake, offering visitors a picturesque view of one of the Finger Lakes. Its location provides a serene and tranquil environment, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature. 51Tilly Foster Farm
Carmel, NYThe Tilly Foster Farm Museum, located in Brewster, New York, was operational until December 2013. It was a unique destination that offered a glimpse into the agricultural history of the region. 52Akin Free Library
Pawling, NYThe Akin Free Library is situated on the first floor of the building and houses several thousand books. These include books of local interest and by local authors, a dedicated children's section, and a collection of newspapers. This wide range of resources provides a rich cultural experience for visitors. 53The Noble Maritime Collection
New York, NY 54Trailside Museums and Zoo
Highlands, NYBear Mountain State Park, a 20.51 km² state park, is located on the west side of the Hudson River in New York State. The park is situated in Orange and Rockland County, offering a vast area for visitors to explore and enjoy. The park's location on the west side of the Hudson River provides stunning views and a unique natural environment. 55Bayard Cutting Arboretum State Park
Great River, NYBayard Cutting Arboretum State Park is a sprawling 691-acre state park situated in the hamlet of Great River, New York, on Long Island. The park is home to an arboretum that was designed by the renowned landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted. Additionally, the park features a mansion that was designed by Charles C. Haight. These elements combine to create a unique and picturesque environment for visitors to explore. 56Museum of the Earth
Ithaca, NYThe Museum of the Earth, located in Ithaca, New York, is a natural history museum that was opened in 2003. It is part of the Paleontological Research Institution (PRI), an independent organization that conducts research and education in the history of the Earth and its life. The museum is formally affiliated with Cornell University, a prestigious institution known for its research and academic excellence. 57William Pryor Letchworth Museum
Castile, NYLetchworth State Park, where the William Pryor Letchworth Museum is located, is situated in the western part of New York State. It's approximately 55 km south of the city of Rochester. This location makes it a convenient destination for those visiting the city or traveling through the state.- 58
Museum Village
Monroe, NYA large open-air museum devoted to the 19th century. Historic buildings, dressed up actors and one of three complete mastodon skeletons in the world! - 59
Landis Arboretum
Esperance, NYThe George Landis Arboretum is a vast botanical garden that covers an area of 80 hectares (200 acres). Out of this, 16 hectares (40 acres) are specifically dedicated to formal plant collections and exhibits. This expansive space allows for a wide variety of plant species to be showcased, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to explore and learn about different types of flora. 60Penguin Encounter - Long Island Aquarium
Riverhead, NYOne of the major attractions at the Long Island Aquarium is its 20,000-US-gallon coral reef display tank. This tank is recognized as one of the largest all-living coral displays in the Western Hemisphere. Visitors can marvel at the vibrant and diverse marine life that calls this massive tank home.- 61
Niagara's Fury
Niagara Falls, - 62
Mountain Top Arboretum
Tannersville, NYMountain Top Arboretum, nestled in the Catskill Mountains of Tannersville, New York, is a public garden that showcases and manages native plant communities of the northeastern United States. It also curates a collection of cold-hardy native and exotic trees. This unique location offers a blend of natural beauty and educational opportunities, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and botany enthusiasts. - 63
Hofstra University Arboretum
Garden City, NYThe Hofstra University Arboretum is a sprawling green space located across the Hofstra University campus in Hempstead, New York. This location is easily accessible and offers a serene environment for visitors to explore and enjoy the beauty of nature. - 64
Trailside Museum & Zoo
Fort Montgomery, NY - 65
Zoo New York
Watertown, NY - 66
Gilboa Fossils and Juried History Center
Gilboa, NY - 67
Animal Farm Petting Zoo
Manorville, NY - 68
Trevor Zoo - Millbrook School
Stanford, NYTrevor Zoo is a unique feature of Millbrook School, being the only zoo in the United States located inside a high school. The zoo was founded by Frank Trevor, the school's first biology teacher. It is home to 180 exotic and indigenous animals, representing 80 different species, including 10 endangered species. - 69
The Wild Animal Park
Sullivan, NY - 70
Via Aquarium
Schenectady, NY - 71
Environmental Education Center
New York, NY - 72
Erie Canal Discovery Center
Lockport, NY - 73
Tackapausha Museum and Preserve
Seaford, NY - 74
Hudson Highlands Nature Museum
Cornwall, NYFantastic wildlife education center which will intrigue you by entertaining programs on local fauna and flora. - 75
Walter Elwood Museum
Amsterdam, NYThe Walter Elwood Museum, a museum of local history, is situated in Amsterdam, New York. It is currently housed at 100 Church Street in the historic Sanford & Sons Carpet Mills building, which was formerly known as the Noteworthy Complex. This location adds a layer of historical significance to the museum, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in local history and architecture. - 76
South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center
Bridgehampton, NY - 77
Jones Beach Energy & Nature Center
Hempstead, NY - 78
Tanglewood Nature Center & Museum
Big Flats, NYTake a hiking tour, visit a museum focused on natural environment preservation and learn about animal life. - 79
Hudson Highlands Nature Museum - Wildlife Education Center
Cornwall on Hudson, NY - 80
Widow Jane Mine Museum
Rosendale, NY - 81
Nicandri Nature Center
Massena, NY - 82
Herkimer Diamond Mines
Village of Herkimer, NY - 83
Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center
Knox, NYThe Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center, which opened its doors in July 2001, is situated near the shore of Thompson's Lake. It is nestled between Thompson's Lake State Park and John Boyd Thacher State Park in Albany County, New York. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area while learning about its rich history and diverse wildlife. - 84
Five Rivers Environmental Center
Voorheesville, NYThe educational center is surrounded by 450 acres of wetlands intertwined by 10 miles of trails. Intriguing programs and guided tours. - 85
The River Project Wetlab
New York, NY - 86
Forsyth Nature Center
Kingston, NYSince 1936, this center has been the hotspot of nature lovers in the Kingston community. Admire the animal exhibits and extensive gardens. - 87
Hudson Highlands Nature Museum The Hudson Valley's Premier Outdoor Nature Museum
Firthcliffe, NY