Museum of Natural History for a 6 year old

With the holiday season upon us I thought it would be nice to take my 6 year old to the Museum of Natural History during the school break. 

I was curious to hear from those of you that have taken your young ones there and if there are some must see items? I myself am very partial to Astronomy and plan to go the Hayden Planetarium. I also figure he will get a kick out of the dinosaur exhibits. 

Is there anything else I should be thinking about or plan for, to maximize his enjoyment?

Also during the last week in December I'm assuming the trains will be less congested that we can catch one of the early morning commuter trains - or would this be a bad idea?

Definitely the Hall of Ocean Animals (or whatever it's called!). The blue whale itself is amazing, but that whole room is really cool. It's a big highlight for my son.

Also the African Mammals where you'll see the huge elephants!

Have a great time!!

definitely watch night at the museum before going

we're members - my kids absolute favorite part of the museum is the Discovery Room on the first floor.  You need passes to get in - they are to get in at a certain time.  Just go to the room first thing to get a pass for later.  It fills up quickly.  There's lots of stuff to explore in there.  Well suited to 6 year olds.  

Ocean Life area for sure - my kids like the biodiversity area just outside Ocean Life.  My kids are less impressed by the dinosaur fossils, as it gets really crowded there

we also like to fill up at Shake Shack down the street instead of getting price-gouged at the museum restaurant.  That or the food trucks outside by central park (followed by running around in the park, of course.... which will probably be do-able in this balmy weather)

spysonic said:

Also during the last week in December I'm assuming the trains will be less congested that we can catch one of the early morning commuter trains - or would this be a bad idea?

Trains may be less congested, but the museum is often very busy over the holiday season.  I suspect getting there for the opening time in the a.m. is probably a good idea. 

It might also help to buy your admission tickets in advance.  

definitely yes for a 6 yr old. and use the credit card kiosk line to the left  through the main entrance.

dinosaur level, geology room, planetarium, aquatic life floor.  all good.