If you missed the initial return of the American Museum of Natural History’s legendary sleepovers last fall, you’re in luck. The 2026 season is officially underway, and while these “Night at the Museum” experiences are famous for selling out in minutes, there are still several opportunities to sleep under the T. rex this spring!
The Ultimate NYC Bucket List Experience
The program, which returned in late 2025 after a long five-year hiatus, has been reimagined for a new generation of explorers. It’s no longer just a sleeping bag on a floor; it’s a full-scale after-hours expedition.
What’s New for 2026?
The experience now includes the Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation.
Guests can explore the state-of-the-art insectarium and participate in high-tech trivia games inside one of NYC’s most stunning new architectural spaces.
What Your “Night at the Museum” Includes
From the moment the doors close to the public, the museum becomes a private playground for kids ages 6-12 and their caregivers.
- 🔦 Flashlight Fossil Tours: explore the 4th-floor dinosaur halls by torchlight (the T. rex looks much bigger in the dark!)
- 🐋 Sleep Under a Legend: roll out your sleeping bag beneath the iconic 94-foot blue whale in the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life
- 🧭 Scavenger Hunts: live out your movie fantasies with late-night missions through the African Mammal dioramas
- 🥞 Snacks & Breakfast: every ticket includes a bedtime snack and a light breakfast to fuel your morning exploration
It’s the ultimate way to experience the museum without the daytime crowds—and with plenty of surprises that make the halls come alive.
Upcoming 2026 Dates & Availability
As of January 16, 2026, the next available sleepover is just around the corner. If you want to secure a spot for a spring birthday or a school break, mark these dates:
- Saturday, February 7 (sold out)
- Friday, March 6
- Friday, April 10 (ideal for Spring Break planners)
- Friday, May 22
- Friday, June 5 (the season finale!)
Tickets are $225 per person.
While general sales are open, Museum Members still get the first crack at any newly added dates or cancellations. If a date appears sold out, it is worth checking the AMNH website mid-week for any last-minute openings—it’s easy to become a member online if you want first dibs.
March 6, 2026 tickets:
- 🎟️ Member presale: Tuesday, February 24 | 10:30 am
- 🎟️ General on-sale: Tuesday, March 3 | 10:30 am
FAQs About A Night at the Museum
👶 Who can attend?
The sleepover is designed for kids ages 6-12 and their caregivers (though we’re still crossing our fingers they’ll bring back the adults-only version someday).
🛏️ Where do we sleep?
Guests bunk down on pre-assigned cots in museum halls—yes, that means you could end up snoozing under the T. rex or next to the iconic blue whale. Just don’t forget your sleeping bag and pillow!
🍪 Is food provided?
Yep! Every ticket includes a bedtime snack and light breakfast. You can also pre-purchase heartier dinner options when you book.
💰 How much are tickets?
Tickets are $225 per person, with early access and discounts for museum members.
📅 How often do sleepovers happen?
They’re offered monthly, with dates scheduled through June 2026.
Ready to book? Head over to the AMNH website to grab your spot before they vanish back into history!