Top 100 best museums in United States

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum, also known as Reflecting Absence, is a monument and museum dedicated to the victims of the terrorist attacks that took place on September 11, 2001 in New York City. It stands as a poignant reminder of the tragic events and the lives lost on that fateful day.

The Empire State Building, a 102-story skyscraper, is a prominent landmark in New York City. It is situated at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and West 34th Street. This iconic structure offers a unique perspective of the city's skyline and is a significant part of New York's architectural heritage.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) is a part of the Smithsonian Institution and is located on the National Mall in Washington. The museum was officially established in 2003, initially existing as an online platform. The physical construction of the museum began in 2012 and it was officially opened to the public on September 24, 2016.

The 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.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, colloquially known as The Met, is the largest art museum in the United States. It is situated on the eastern side of Central Park in Manhattan, New York. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city.

The Museum of Modern Art, commonly known as MoMA, is situated in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, New York. It is conveniently located at the intersection of 11 West and 53rd streets, nestled between Fifth and Sixth Avenue. This central location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city.

Fruitlands Museum, located in Harvard, Massachusetts, is a unique institution that explores various perspectives of America. It is situated on the grounds of the former utopian community known as Fruitlands. This community, although short-lived, left a significant mark on the area and its history. The museum provides an opportunity to delve into this fascinating chapter of American history.

Gatorland, located in Florida, is a 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve. It was established in 1949 by Owen Godwin and remains privately owned by his family. The park is home to a variety of attractions and wildlife, making it a unique destination for tourists.

The Titanic Museum, located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is a unique two-story museum that is shaped like the RMS Titanic. This distinctive museum opened its doors to the public on April 8, 2010, offering a unique experience for visitors interested in the history of the Titanic.

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.

SeaWorld Orlando is a unique combination of a theme park and marine zoological park. It is situated in Unincorporated Orange County, Florida, close to Orlando. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the Orlando area. The park offers a variety of attractions, including rides, animal exhibits, and live shows, providing a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, located in New York City, is maintained by the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation. The museum is named after Solomon Robert Guggenheim, the founder of the foundation and the museum itself. It is a part of the Guggenheim Foundation's global network of museums, which includes the Guggenheim Bilbao, the Guggenheim Hermitage Museum in Las Vegas, the Deutsche Guggenheim in Berlin, and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice.

Lion Country Safari offers a unique experience where visitors can observe wildlife from the comfort of their own vehicles. This safari-like zoo is conveniently located near Loxahatchee Groves in Palm Beach County, Florida, making it an accessible destination for tourists in the area.

The 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.

Flamingo Gardens is a botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary that spans 60 acres. It is situated in Davie, Florida, United States. This tropical oasis is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a unique destination for nature lovers. The gardens are open to the public for a fee.

The 9/11 Tribute Museum, previously known as the 9/11 Tribute Center and Tribute WTC, was a unique institution that shared personal stories of family members who lost their loved ones, survivors, rescue and recovery workers, volunteers, and Lower Manhattan residents with those interested in learning about the September 11 attacks. This museum provided a deeply personal and human perspective on the events of that day, making it a significant destination for those seeking to understand the impact of 9/11 on individuals and the community.

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is a unique destination in New York City, offering a glimpse into American military and maritime history. The museum houses a collection of museum ships, providing an immersive experience for visitors interested in naval history and technology.

The Art Institute of Chicago (AIC) is a museum of visual arts located at 111 South Michigan Avenue in Grant Park, Chicago. It is one of the largest museums in the United States, second only to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The museum is affiliated with the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and was established in 1879 as the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts.

The National Museum of American History, managed by the Smithsonian Institution, is situated in Washington D.C., on the National Mall. The museum was initially opened in 1964 under the name Museum of History and Technology, but it adopted its current name in 1980.

Shedd Aquarium is a public aquarium situated in Chicago. It forms part of a museum campus located just south of Grant Park, which also houses a natural science museum and a planetarium. This campus is one of the major tourist attractions in Chicago, offering a variety of experiences for visitors.

The Field Museum of Natural History, also known as FMNH, is a renowned natural history museum located in Chicago. It is recognized as one of the most frequently visited cultural institutions in the United States, attracting a large number of visitors each year due to its extensive collections and exhibits.

The Boston Tea Party was a significant event in American history, marking a turning point in the relationship between the American colonists and the British government. On December 16, 1773, in Boston, the colonists staged a protest against the British government, which is now known as the Boston Tea Party. This event is considered one of the key events in the formation of the United States and played a central role in the American Revolution.

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a hub for space enthusiasts and tourists alike. It offers a comprehensive look into the history of the American space program, featuring exhibits of historical aircraft and artifacts. Visitors can also enjoy two IMAX theaters, several bus tours, and the Shuttle Launch Experience, a simulated space attraction. This complex provides a unique opportunity to delve into the world of space exploration and learn about its history and future.

Ellis Island, a small islet nestled in the port of New York, near New Jersey, is a significant historical site. Its strategic location in the upper area of the bay made it a crucial point of entry for millions of immigrants coming to the United States.

The USS Midway Museum is a significant historical naval aircraft carrier museum situated in downtown San Diego, California at Navy Pier. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a piece of naval history in the heart of a bustling city.

The San Diego Zoo, nestled in Balboa Park, San Diego, California, is home to a diverse range of wildlife. It boasts a collection of 4,000 animals from 800 different species, all residing in a 40-hectare wooded area. This vast space allows for a unique and immersive experience for visitors, offering a glimpse into the natural habitats of these animals.

Filoli is a historic villa from the early 20th century that is protected as a monument. It boasts an extraordinary garden and park area that spans approximately 2.6 km². The villa is nestled in the mountains between San José and San Francisco, in Woodside, California. This location offers a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to explore and enjoy.

The Milwaukee County Zoo is home to a vast array of animals, with 2,275 individuals from 330 different species as of January 2011. Spread over 81 hectares, the zoo provides ample space for these animals, ensuring their well-being while also offering visitors an immersive and educational experience. The diversity of species housed in the zoo makes it a fascinating destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

The M.H. de Young Museum is one of two museums in San Francisco that are part of the overarching Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco. The other museum is the California Palace of the Legion of Honor located in Lincoln Park. These two museums together offer a comprehensive experience of fine arts in the city.

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) in Chicago, established in 1967, is one of the largest museums for modern and contemporary art in the United States. It provides a comprehensive overview of art since 1945 and its collection largely chronologically follows the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art, the largest art museum in Philadelphia, is a hub of diverse art collections from various periods and regions including Europe, America, and Asia. The museum welcomes approximately 800,000 visitors each year, making it a popular destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Olana is a unique architectural masterpiece nestled on a hill near Hudson, New York. This Persian-style castle was constructed by the renowned American landscape painter, Frederic Edwin Church, between 1870 and 1891. The building's unique design and historical significance make it a fascinating destination for visitors interested in art, architecture, and history.

The White House, located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, 20500 Washington D.C., serves as the official residence and workplace of the current President of the United States. This iconic building is a significant part of the nation's history and political landscape, making it a point of interest for tourists visiting Washington D.C.

The Whitney Museum of American Art, located at 99 Gansevoort Street in New York, is a renowned institution specializing in 20th-century American art. The museum's collection includes over 18,000 works, making it a significant destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike. The museum is known for its focus on showcasing the work of living artists and preserving a vast permanent collection of works from the first half of the century.

Come visit this great exhibition - see the photos, read the stories and discover more about the fateful day. It is suitable for families with children too - there are no graphic depictions of the events that might upset them. This interesting interactive exhibition will introduce you to the events t

The Oklahoma City National Memorial is a significant site in the United States that pays tribute to the victims, survivors, rescuers, and all those affected by the Oklahoma City bombing on April 19, 1995. It serves as a poignant reminder of the tragic event and stands as a symbol of resilience and unity in the face of adversity.

The La Brea Tar Pits is an area in the American city of Los Angeles where asphalt seeps from the ground to the surface. This unique geological phenomenon has led to the area being designated as a park. The tar pits are a fascinating sight to behold, with the asphalt appearing to bubble up from the ground.

The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, also known as SFMOMA, is a significant modern art museum and a landmark in the city of San Francisco. It was established in 1935, making it the first museum on the West Coast dedicated solely to 20th-century art. This historical significance adds to the museum's appeal for tourists interested in modern art and the cultural history of San Francisco.

Space Center Houston is a renowned science museum that functions as the official visitor center of NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston. It gained recognition as a Smithsonian Affiliate museum in 2014, further solidifying its status as a significant institution in the field of space exploration and education.

The National World War II Museum, initially known as the National D-Day Museum, is a significant historical site located in the Central Business District of New Orleans, Louisiana. The museum offers a deep dive into the contributions of the US forces to the victory in World War II, with a particular focus on the Battle of Normandy (Operation Overlord).

The International Spy Museum is a unique institution that offers a deep dive into the world of espionage. As an independent non-profit history museum, it documents the tradecraft, history, and contemporary role of espionage. Visitors can explore the largest collection of international espionage artifacts on public display, providing a comprehensive understanding of the covert world of spying.

The Getty Center, situated in Brentwood, a district in the west of Los Angeles, serves as the headquarters of the J. Paul Getty Trust. Since 1997, it has been home to the majority of the J. Paul Getty Museum's collection. This makes it a significant location for those interested in exploring a vast array of art pieces.

The Eric Sloane Museum, previously known as the Sloane-Stanley Museum, is located in Kent, Connecticut. The museum showcases the studio and antique hand tool collections of Eric Sloane. These collections provide a unique insight into the artist's life and work, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in art, history, and craftsmanship.

Upon completion, the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden will span 186 hectares and will feature a variety of attractions. These include 18 different themed gardens, 5 forests representing various biomes, a visitor center, an outdoor amphitheater for performances, a garden dedicated to wedding celebrations, and a botanical research center. This diversity of features promises a rich and varied experience for visitors.

The Betsy Ross House, a landmark in Philadelphia, is believed to be the place where Betsy Ross, a seamstress and flag-maker, lived when she reportedly sewed the first American Flag. This historical significance makes it a point of interest for visitors interested in the origins of the American flag.

The National Air and Space Museum, part of the Smithsonian Institute, is home to the world's largest collection of aircraft and spacecraft. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in aviation and space exploration. The museum's collection includes both original objects and backup copies, providing a comprehensive overview of the history and technology of flight.

The Museum of Sex, colloquially known as MoSex, is situated at 233 Fifth Avenue, at the intersection of East 27th Street in Manhattan, New York City. This location is easily accessible and central, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.

The San Francisco Zoo, nestled in the southwest corner of San Francisco, California, is a sprawling 100-acre park that is home to over 260 different species of animals. The zoo is conveniently located between Lake Merced and the Pacific Ocean, making it a scenic destination for visitors. It is easily accessible via the Great Highway, which runs along the western side of the zoo.

The Museum at Eldridge Street is not just a museum, but also a synagogue. It is a unique place where visitors can learn about the congregation of the synagogue and contemporary Jewish culture and practice. The museum is located within the Eldridge Street Synagogue itself, providing an authentic and immersive experience for those interested in Jewish history and culture.

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, located in Los Angeles, California, is the largest natural history museum in the western United States. Its extensive collections include nearly 35 million specimens and artifacts that span 4.5 billion years of history. This vast collection provides a comprehensive view of the natural world and human history, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in natural history and culture.

The National Museum of Natural History, located in the National Mall, Washington D.C., is a part of the Smithsonian Institution. This museum is a significant destination for tourists interested in natural history, housing a vast collection of specimens and cultural objects.

Aquarium of the Bay is a public aquarium situated on The Embarcadero in San Francisco, California. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique opportunity to explore the aquatic life that inhabits the San Francisco Bay and surrounding waters.

Alcatraz Island, a significant landmark in the United States, is situated in the San Francisco Bay. This location offers a unique perspective of the city's skyline and the surrounding bay area. It's a great spot for photography and sightseeing.

The Rodin Museum, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is an art museum that boasts one of the largest collections of works by the renowned sculptor Auguste Rodin outside of Paris. This makes it a significant destination for art enthusiasts and admirers of Rodin's work.

Madame Tussauds New York is a popular tourist attraction situated on 42nd Street in the Times Square neighborhood of Midtown Manhattan in New York City. This location is easily accessible and is surrounded by other notable attractions, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.

Zoo Atlanta, operated by the Zoo and Aquarium Society, is one of the main attractions in Atlanta. It was founded in 1889 and covers 16 hectares. The zoo is located in Grant Park and attracts around one million visitors each year. It houses around 1,000 animals from 250 species from all over the world.

The Museum of Science is situated in the city of Boston, Massachusetts, in the Northeastern region of the United States. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city or the region. The museum's location also provides a unique cultural and historical context, as Boston is one of the oldest cities in the United States and is rich in history and culture.

Ford's Theatre is also known as the site of the assassination of U.S. President Abraham Lincoln on April 14, 1865. This significant event in American history is commemorated at the theatre, making it a place of great historical importance. Visitors can learn about this event and its impact on the nation through various exhibits and displays.

The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, located in Washington, D.C., is a national institution dedicated to documenting, presenting, and studying the history of the Holocaust. It serves as a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed during this period and aims to educate visitors about the events and their impact on the world.

The Liberty Bell, located in Philadelphia, is a significant symbol of American independence. It was rung when the American Declaration of Independence was first publicly read on July 8, 1776. This historical event has cemented the bell's status as a national symbol of the United States.

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a significant institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of country music. It honors the most notable contributors to the genre, making it a rich source of information for anyone interested in understanding the roots and evolution of country music. The museum is located in Nashville, Tennessee, a city known for its deep connection with country music.

The 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.

The Paul Revere House, constructed around 1680, served as the residence of American patriot Paul Revere during the time of the American Revolution. This historic house, located at 19 North Square, Boston, Massachusetts, is the oldest house in downtown Boston. It has been a National Historic Landmark since 1961 and is now operated as a nonprofit museum by the Paul Revere Memorial Association.

The 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.

The Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, also known as the Hawaiʻi State Museum of Natural and Cultural History, is a significant institution founded in 1889. Charles Reed Bishop established it in honor of his late wife, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, who was the last descendant of the Kamehameha royal family. This historical connection adds a layer of depth to the museum's cultural significance.

Fraunces Tavern is a unique combination of a restaurant and museum, situated in the southern part of Manhattan, New York. This establishment offers a unique blend of history and gastronomy, making it an interesting destination for tourists who want to experience a piece of New York's past while enjoying a meal.

The National Gallery of Art (NGA) is a prominent art museum in Washington, D.C. It is composed of two buildings, the East Building and the West Building. Both of these structures are situated on the National Mall, a significant location in the city. These two buildings are interconnected by an underground tunnel, providing easy access between the two.

The Battleship USS Iowa Museum is a maritime museum situated at the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro, Los Angeles, California. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore a significant piece of naval history in a vibrant and bustling port setting.

The Miami Beach Botanical Garden, founded in 1962, is a 2.6-acre urban green space located in Miami Beach, Florida. This lush oasis offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city and is a testament to the city's commitment to preserving and showcasing its natural beauty.

A busy museum that traces the history of thousands of immigrants to America. Intriguing, but gets crowded easily.

Between 1892 and 1954, Ellis Island served as the primary immigration inspection station for approximately 12 million passengers who arrived in the United States through the port of New York. These immigrants were inspected both legally and medically, marking a significant chapter in the history of American immigration. Today, the island's Immigration Museum is dedicated to preserving this history and the stories of those who passed through its doors.

The 'Iolani Palace is a significant landmark located in the capitol district of downtown Honolulu, in the state of Hawaii, United States. It's a unique piece of American history, being the only royal palace used as an official residence by a reigning monarch in the United States. Its location in the heart of Honolulu makes it easily accessible for tourists.

The Glazer Children's Museum is a non-profit institution situated in the heart of downtown Tampa, Florida. It is conveniently located next to the Tampa Museum of Art and Curtis Hixon Park, and is also adjacent to the Tampa Riverwalk. This museum is a part of the Waterfront Arts District, making it a significant part of the city's cultural landscape.

The Woodland Park Zoo is a wildlife conservation organization and a zoo situated in the Phinney Ridge neighborhood of Seattle, Washington, USA. It is a recipient of numerous awards across multiple categories. The zoo is a part of the western half of Woodland Park and has a rich history dating back to its establishment on the estate of Guy C. Phinney, a Canadian-born sawmill owner and real estate developer.

The Exploratorium is a museum of science, technology, and arts in San Francisco, United States. It is characterized as a 'mad scientist's playground, a scientific funhouse, and an experimental laboratory, all in one.' The participatory nature of its exhibits and its self-identification as a center for informal learning has led it to be cited as the prototype for participatory museums worldwide.

The New England Aquarium, situated in Boston, Massachusetts, is a comprehensive marine exhibit that not only houses a variety of aquatic life but also includes the Simons IMAX Theatre and the New England Aquarium Whale Watch. The Whale Watch operates from April to November, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

The Philadelphia Zoo, located in the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on the west bank of the Schuylkill River, holds the distinction of being the first zoo in the United States. This historical significance adds to the charm and appeal of the zoo, making it a notable destination for tourists visiting the city.

The Legion of Honor, originally known as the California Palace of the Legion of Honor, is an American art museum that was inaugurated in 1924. It is situated in the city of San Francisco, California. This museum is a part of the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco and is a significant cultural landmark in the city.

The San Antonio Zoo, situated in the city of San Antonio, Texas, is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). This membership signifies that the zoo meets the highest standards of animal care and is committed to wildlife conservation, education, science, and recreational excellence.

The Georgia Aquarium, situated in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, held the title of the world's largest aquarium until 2012. It boasts over 30,000 cubic meters of both salt and fresh water, providing a diverse environment for a wide range of aquatic species. This impressive size and variety make it a unique destination for tourists interested in marine life.

The Maritime Museum of San Diego, founded in 1948, is home to one of the largest collections of historic sea vessels in the United States. This collection provides a unique insight into the maritime history of the country and offers visitors the opportunity to explore a variety of historic ships.

The Aquarium of the Pacific, previously known as the Pacific Long Beach Aquarium, is a substantial aquarium spanning 5 acres. It is situated in the scenic Rainbow Harbor in Long Beach, California. This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a wide variety of marine life in a spacious and well-maintained environment.

The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, also known as La Villa Vizcaya, is a stunning representation of a 16th-century northern Italian villa. It was built by businessman James Deering as his winter residence. The architectural design and the aesthetic appeal of the villa make it a fascinating place to visit for those interested in architecture, history, and art.

The Museum of the City of New York, established in 1923, is dedicated to showcasing the history of New York City and its people. It provides a comprehensive look into the city's past, offering visitors a chance to understand the evolution of the city and its diverse population over the years.

The Bunker Hill Monument is a significant historical site located in Breed's Hill, in the city of Charlestown, which is now a district of Boston, Massachusetts. This 67-meter high obelisk commemorates the Battle of Bunker Hill, a pivotal event in the American Revolutionary War. Despite the name, the majority of the battle took place on Breed's Hill, not Bunker Hill.

Zoo Miami, also known as Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Gardens, is a prominent zoo located in the city of Miami in South Florida, USA. It is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is home to more than 3,000 animals representing over 500 different species. The zoo's history dates back to 1948 when the first animal exhibitions began at the then Crandon Park Zoo on Key Biscayne Island off the coast of Miami.

The Staatsburgh State Historic Site is a preserved Beaux-Arts mansion located in the hamlet of Staatsburg, Dutchess County, New York. The mansion was designed by the renowned architectural firm, McKim, Mead, and White. The site also includes the surrounding landscape, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of the Gilded Age.

The National Constitution Center, located at the Independence Mall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a non-profit institution dedicated to the study of the U.S. Constitution. This interactive museum serves as a national town hall, hosting a variety of public discussions and Constitution-related events. It is situated in what is often referred to as 'America's most historic square mile' due to its proximity to other significant sites such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.

The California Academy of Sciences, located in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California, is a unique blend of a science academy and a natural history museum. It features a planetarium, an artificial rainforest, and a large aquatic area. This combination of features offers visitors a diverse and comprehensive experience, allowing them to explore various aspects of natural history and science in one place.

The Smithsonian Castle, also known as the Smithsonian Institution Building, is a prominent structure located on the National Mall in Washington D.C., United States. It is situated behind the National Museum of African Art, making it a central point of interest for visitors exploring the area. The building's unique architecture and historical significance add to its appeal.

Montgomery Place, currently recognized as Bard College The Montgomery Place Campus, is a historic estate from the early 19th century situated near Barrytown, New York. This estate has been honored with the designation of a National Historic Landmark and also contributes to the Hudson River Historic District. The estate reflects the architectural tastes of the post-Revolutionary generation of wealthy landowners, with influences from French trends in home design.

The Clermont State Historic Site, also referred to as the Clermont estate, the Clermont Manor, or simply Clermont, is a recognized New York State Historic Site. It is located in the southwestern part of Columbia County, New York, United States. This site is significant as it was the former estate of the Livingston family, who lived there for over seven generations spanning more than two centuries.