"Step Inside the Mind-Blowing Richard Gilder Center – The Future of Museums is Here!"

Museums are magical places where stories from the past, present, and future come to life. Whether you're marveling at ancient artifacts, exploring artistic masterpieces, or diving into the wonders of science, museums are about connection, connecting people to history, nature, and each other. They’re not just about what’s behind the glass; they’re about the feelings, questions, and discoveries sparked in every visitor. One of them most intricate is the Richard Gilder Center in NYC.

The Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation is a stunning addition to the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) in New York City—a place that has been inspiring curiosity for over 150 years. The AMNH itself opened in 1869 with a mission to advance knowledge about the natural world. Since then, it’s become one of the world’s premier institutions for scientific research and public education, welcoming millions of visitors each year to explore its iconic dioramas, vast collections, and groundbreaking exhibits.

The Gilder Center, which opened in May 2023, is the latest chapter in this rich history. Named after philanthropist Richard Gilder. Walking into the Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation feels like stepping into a whole new world, one that invites you to see the beauty of science in a way you never have before. From the moment you approach its dramatic, canyon-inspired entrance, you’re drawn into a space that feels alive, like the natural world itself is welcoming you in.

Inside, it’s more than just a museum; it’s an experience that sparks wonder at every turn. One of the highlights is the Invisible Worlds Theater, where you’re surrounded by stunning visuals that bring unseen ecosystems and networks to life. It's hard not to feel a sense of awe as you watch how every living thing on the planet is connected in ways you’ve probably never thought about before.

Then there’s the Collections Core, a towering glass display filled with millions of scientific specimens, each one with a story to tell. You can spend hours just marveling at the sheer variety, from shimmering minerals to delicate insects. What’s so special about this space is how personal it feels; you get a glimpse of the real tools and treasures scientists use to uncover the mysteries of our world.

The center also features one of the most unique exhibitions around the Susan and Peter J. Solomon Family Insectarium is the 8,000-pound resin beehive, sculpted by artist Karen Atta. It's not just a display; it's a moment to pause and think about the incredible teamwork and precision that goes into a beehive, a reflection of how nature thrives through collaboration. 

For families, students, and lifelong learners, the Gilder Center offers hands-on spaces designed to make science accessible and engaging. You might find yourself holding a fossil, exploring digital exhibits, or even chatting with museum educators about their latest discoveries. It’s a place where questions are encouraged and curiosity is celebrated. 

You can reserve your tickets through the website or either at the reception. It will cost you $30 per person or if you are a NYC resident you "Pay what you wish". 

This isn’t just a museum building, it’s a living, breathing hub of exploration. Every detail, from the architecture to the exhibits, has been designed to inspire visitors of all ages to think differently about our world. The Gilder Center isn’t just somewhere you visit; it’s somewhere you feel connected to the wonders of nature, the thrill of discovery, and the endless possibilities of science. 

| The view of the staircase in the Kenneth C. Griffin Exploration Atrium.

Gilder Center (west end) Insectarium's Entrance/Exit

8,000 pounds Beehive resin model by Karen Atta (Insectarium)