Night at the Museum Movies: Release Order

2006 - 20143 Films5h 11m3.5 Average

The Night at the Museum trilogy follows Larry Daley, a down-on-his-luck father who becomes a night security guard at the American Museum of Natural History, only to discover that an ancient Egyptian tablet brings all the exhibits to life after sunset.

This watch order presents the complete trilogy in its intended sequence, following Larry's journey from clueless newcomer to confident guardian of the museum's magical secrets. Note that a 2022 animated sequel featuring Larry's son was released on Disney+, but focuses on different characters and uses a completely different format from the original live-action trilogy.

Linear Timeline: Release Order = Story Order

1
Night at the Museum poster

Night at the Museum

20061h 48m3.7
Director: Shawn Levy
Cast: Ben Stiller, Carla Gugino, Dick Van Dyke, Mickey Rooney, Bill Cobbs

A night security guard at a natural history museum discovers that an ancient curse brings all the exhibits to life after dark, leading to chaotic adventures with historical figures and creatures.

ActionAdventureComedyFamilyFantasy
2
Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian poster

Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian

20091h 45m3.3
Director: Shawn Levy
Cast: Ben Stiller, Amy Adams, Owen Wilson, Hank Azaria, Robin Williams

Museum night watchman Larry Daley must rescue his living exhibit friends who have been transferred to the Smithsonian Institution. His adventure includes encounters with historical figures like Amelia Earhart and Abraham Lincoln.

AdventureFantasyActionComedyFamily
3
Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb poster

Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb

20141h 38m3.4
Director: Shawn Levy
Cast: Ben Stiller, Robin Williams, Owen Wilson, Steve Coogan, Ricky Gervais

When the ancient tablet that brings museum exhibits to life begins losing its power, night watchman Larry Daley embarks on a global adventure to save the magic before it's lost forever.

AdventureComedyFantasyFamily