A Night at the Museum Sleepover Returns to New York 🐋🦖
Ever watched Night at the Museum and thought, “Okay, but what if I slept under that giant blue whale?” Good news: the American Museum of Natural History in New York is bringing back its legendary overnight experience, and it is every bit as magical (minus the tablet that makes the T. rex dance). Here is everything you need to know before the museum… comes alive.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Night at the Museum
The American Museum of Natural History has officially reopened its doors for one of its most beloved programs: A Night at the Museum, The Overnight Experience. Designed for kids ages 6 to 12 and their caregivers, this after-hours adventure gives families the rare chance to explore the iconic Manhattan museum long after the public heads home.
Guests can wander past towering dinosaur fossils by flashlight, roam the dramatic dioramas of the Akeley Hall of African Mammals, and settle in to sleep beneath the museum’s famous 94-foot blue whale. And while nothing actually comes to life at night (we checked), the experience still feels cinematic in all the best ways.
What the Night Actually Looks Like
Each sleepover includes a mix of structured activities and time to explore:
Guided flashlight tours through the legendary fossil halls
Self-guided exploration of Floors 1 and 2, including insects, minerals, and classic dioramas
Trivia, scavenger hunts, and group games in the spectacular new Gilder Center
Bedtime snacks and a light breakfast, with the option to pre-order boxed meals
Karaoke, presentations, and a bedtime story to wind down before lights out
Assigned sleeping spots throughout the museum, complete with cots
And yes, you can request a personalized digital message under the Blue Whale before bedtime. It is a fun little touch that makes the night feel extra special.
Dates, Tickets, and Availability
The fall 2025 dates sold out quickly, and member presale for early 2026 begins December 3. General public ticketing opens December 10.
Upcoming 2026 dates:
January 10
February 7
March 6
April 10
May 22
June 5
Tickets cost $225 per person and include all activities, snacks, breakfast, and a voucher for a future museum visit.
Important Details Before You Go
Sleepovers are wheelchair accessible, require pre-registration forms, and have specific age and chaperone rules. Sleeping bags, pillows, and warm pajamas are recommended. No outside food is permitted, and showers are not available.
FAQ: Planning Your Night at the Museum
Who can participate?
Kids ages 6 to 12 and their caregivers. One adult per child under 8; one adult per five children ages 8 to 12.
How much of the museum is open?
Floors 1 and 2 are open for self-guided exploration. Floors 3 and 4 are available through scheduled flashlight tours.
Where do we sleep?
Assigned spaces throughout the museum’s halls, outfitted with cots. Sleeping locations cannot be changed upon arrival.
Are meals provided?
A light snack and breakfast are included. Optional boxed dinners can be purchased in advance.
Do Museum Members get perks?
Yes. Early ticket access and discounts vary by membership level.
What if we arrive late?
Entry closes at 6:45 PM. Late arrivals cannot be admitted.
Can we leave early?
Yes. Notify staff if you need to depart before the program ends. Parking validation is required before exiting.
Is the experience accessible?
Yes. The museum accommodates mobility needs and can assign quieter or lower-light sleeping areas upon request.
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