From priceless art collections to fascinating scientific exhibits, America\'s most popular museums attract millions of visitors each year. These cultural institutions showcase everything from ancient artifacts to space shuttles, offering immersive educational experiences for visitors of all ages.
America's museums stand as guardians of history, art, and innovation, attracting millions of visitors each year. These cultural powerhouses not only preserve our collective heritage but also provide immersive educational experiences that inspire and inform. From the sprawling Smithsonian complex in Washington DC to iconic art institutions in New York, the most visited museums in the USA offer unparalleled collections that draw tourists and locals alike.
The following museums represent the cream of America's cultural offerings, consistently ranking among the most visited in the country. Each institution provides a unique window into human achievement, scientific discovery, or artistic expression, making them essential destinations for any cultural itinerary.
#1 – The Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York, NY)
The Met anchors Museum Mile with a collection spanning 5,000 years—ancient Egypt to contemporary art. The museum also operates The Met Cloisters in northern Manhattan.
#2 – National Gallery of Art (Washington, DC)
The National Gallery of Art on the National Mall pairs a world-class collection with free admission, across its West Building, East Building, and outdoor Sculpture Garden.
#3 – American Museum of Natural History (New York, NY)
The AMNH is famed for towering dinosaurs, immersive dioramas, and the Rose Center for Earth and Space.
#4 – National Museum of Natural History (Washington, DC)
This Smithsonian museum showcases the natural world—think the Hope Diamond, colossal fossils, and ever-fresh earth sciences exhibits.
#5 – National Air and Space Museum (Washington, DC)
National Air and Space Museum houses the world’s premier aviation and spaceflight collection, including the Wright brothers’ 1903 flyer and Apollo-era icons. Timed-entry remains common during ongoing renovations and phased reopenings.
#6 – Museum of Modern Art (New York, NY)
MoMA is a must for modern and contemporary art—Picasso, Warhol, Monet’s water lilies, and rotating blockbuster shows.
#7 – National September 11 Memorial & Museum (New York, NY)
The 9/11 Museum presents the history and impact of the attacks through artifacts, oral histories, and media, adjacent to the twin reflecting pools.
#8 – National Museum of American History (Washington, DC)
American History displays the original Star-Spangled Banner, Dorothy’s ruby slippers, and countless objects that tell the story of the United States.
#9 – California Science Center (Los Angeles, CA)
The California Science Center mixes hands-on science with headline artifacts—most famously the Space Shuttle Endeavour.
#10 – Houston Museum of Natural Science (Houston, TX)
HMNS is known for its expansive paleontology halls, the Cockrell Butterfly Center, mineral collections, and popular traveling exhibitions.
#11 – National Museum of African American History and Culture (Washington, DC)
The Smithsonian’s NMAAHC explores African American history, culture, and contributions—often requiring timed passes during peak periods.
#12 – Museum of Science and Industry (Chicago, IL)
The MSI is among the largest science museums anywhere, featuring a captured WWII U-505 submarine, a historic coal mine, and interactive tech exhibits.
#13 – Art Institute of Chicago (Chicago, IL)
The Art Institute holds American and European masterworks—Grant Wood’s American Gothic , Seurat’s La Grande Jatte , and more.
#14 – Smithsonian American Art Museum & Renwick Gallery (Washington, DC)
SAAM and the Renwick Gallery survey American creativity from the 18th century to now, including contemporary craft and design.
#15 – The Getty Center (Los Angeles, CA)
Perched in the Santa Monica Mountains, The Getty Center blends European art with striking architecture and city views.
#16 – Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (Los Angeles, CA)
At NHM , explore SoCal nature and deep time—plus sister sites like the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum and the William S. Hart Museum.
#17 – National Portrait Gallery (Washington, DC)
The Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery presents the people who shaped America—presidents, cultural icons, and history makers—often through showstopping special exhibits.
Frequently Asked Questions About 17 Most Visited Museums in USA: Culture, Art and Science Attractions
Which museum in the USA has the most visitors?
The National Air and Space Museum in Washington DC typically receives the most visitors of any museum in the United States, with approximately 8 million visitors annually before the pandemic. It's part of the Smithsonian Institution, which collectively represents the world's largest museum complex.
Are the Smithsonian museums really free?
Yes, all Smithsonian museums offer free admission, including popular institutions like the National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of Natural History, and National Museum of American History. This policy makes these world-class museums accessible to everyone, though special exhibitions occasionally have separate fees.
What's the best time to visit popular museums to avoid crowds?
The best times to visit popular museums with fewer crowds are weekday mornings (especially Tuesday through Thursday), during the school year (September-May, excluding holidays), and in January or February when tourism is generally lower. Many museums also have extended evening hours on certain days, which can be less crowded.
Which museums are best for children?
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis (the world's largest children's museum), the Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia, and the Boston Children's Museum are specifically designed for younger visitors. For science-focused experiences, the California Science Center and Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago offer excellent interactive exhibits. The American Museum of Natural History is also very popular with dinosaur-loving kids.
How long does it take to see a major museum?
Most major museums would require multiple days to see comprehensively. For a focused visit, plan to spend at least 2-3 hours at smaller museums and 3-5 hours at larger institutions like The Met or the National Air and Space Museum. It's better to select specific galleries or exhibitions rather than trying to see everything in one visit.
Are museum memberships worth the cost?
Museum memberships often provide excellent value if you plan to visit more than once or want to see special exhibitions. Benefits typically include unlimited free admission, discounts at museum shops and restaurants, invitations to member events, and free or discounted tickets to special exhibitions. Many museums also participate in reciprocal programs, giving members free access to hundreds of other institutions nationwide.
