About the Human Origins and Cultural Halls | An overview

The Human Origins and Cultural Halls span multiple galleries that explore both our biological evolution and the diversity of global cultures. These halls are grouped into two major themes: human evolution (science-based) and cultural anthropology (region-based). Whether you're curious about the science behind human evolution or wondering how Pacific islanders lived, there’s something for every kind of explorer.

Location: Floors 1, 2, and 3
Must-visit: Spitzer Hall of Human Origins, Northwest Coast Hall, Hall of African Peoples
Best for: Families, anthropology enthusiasts, history buffs, students

All exhibitions inside the Human Origins and Cultural Halls at AMNH

Anne and Bernard Spitzer Hall of Human Origins

The Hall of Human Origins traces six million years of human evolution, focusing on physical and genetic changes in early hominins and modern humans. Fossils, reconstructions, and digital interactive tools give you an immersive and informative understanding of how early species like Australopithecus, Homo erectus, and Neanderthals lived and how Homo sapiens came to dominate. The hall also explores migration patterns and how culture shapes our species.

Featured exhibits: Neanderthal tools, Lucy, Meet the Relatives

Northwest Coast Hall

Immerse yourself in the living cultures and rich traditions of the Native communities of the Pacific Northwest. See how art, architecture, and oral histories continue to thrive through large carved house posts, textiles, masks, and tools, all grounded in the relationship they share with the land and sea.

Featured exhibits: Generation to Generation and the Great Canoe exhibits

Hall of Mexico and Central America

Trace the development of the complex societies of Mesoamerica, including the Maya, the Aztec, and the Olmec civilizations. Get close to the large-scale sculptures, ritual items, and everyday objects to see the growth of writing, calendrical systems, astronomy, agriculture, and architecture in this region.

Featured exhibits: Aztec Stone of the Sun, Kunz Axe jade sculpture, gold collection from South America

Hall of African Peoples

This hall explores the social, spiritual, and daily life of African communities across the continent, split into four major themes: family, community, belief, and ecology. The displays are grouped based on cultural practices, highlighting how people across Africa respond to similar needs in their own unique ways. The space showcases domestic life, agricultural tools, religious shrines, and art through full-scale dioramas and authentic objects.

Featured exhibits: Egungun Society Dancer art performance

Gardner D. Stout Hall of Asian Peoples

Covering regions from the Middle East to East Asia, this hall looks at belief systems, art, family life, and trade networks. Each region is introduced through lifelike dioramas and immersive reconstructions. You'll see both ancient artifacts and modern-day cultural items reflecting Asia’s vast diversity.

Featured exhibits: Chinese Wedding Chair, Yakut Shaman’s Robe

Margaret Mead Hall of Pacific Peoples

Named after renowned anthropologist Margaret Mead, this hall brings to life the vibrant cultures of Polynesia, Micronesia, Melanesia, and Australia. The focus is on ocean navigation, kinship, spiritual beliefs, and ecological adaptation. The hall highlights the rituals in island life through objects collected by anthropologists, including Margaret Mead herself.

Featured exhibits: Maori Weapons Case, the Margaret Mead exhibit

Hall of South American Peoples

Explore the Indigenous cultures of the Andes, Amazon, and coastal regions of South America. From ancient civilizations like the Inca to modern-day rainforest tribes, learn more about the agriculture, warfare, spirituality, and environmental practices of the tribes in the region. A combination of ceremonial items, clothing, art, and tools reflects how people adapted to diverse landscapes.