Ever wonder what happens in a museum after dark? Night at the Museum (2006) brings that fantasy to life — literally — in this magical comedy adventure starring Ben Stiller as a night guard who discovers that history isn’t just old… it’s alive. With mischievous monkeys, rampaging T. rexes, and a surprisingly wise Teddy Roosevelt, the film delivers laughs, action, and a little bit of education too.
Think you remember who rides a miniature train and who rides a horse? Take this 10-question trivia quiz and prove you’re ready for the night shift at the museum!
Night at the Museum (2006) Trivia Questions & Answers
1) Who plays the main character Larry Daley in Night at the Museum (2006)?
Correct Answer: Ben Stiller
Ben Stiller stars as Larry Daley, a struggling inventor and father who takes a job as a night guard to prove his reliability. Stiller’s mix of exasperated humor and wide-eyed wonder makes him the perfect lead for this whimsical tale.
2) What job does Larry take at the museum?
Correct Answer: Night guard
Larry becomes the night guard at the American Museum of Natural History — a role he initially thinks will be simple and boring. That changes quickly once the exhibits start coming to life after dark.
3) Which historical figure is portrayed by Robin Williams?
Correct Answer: Theodore Roosevelt
Robin Williams plays a wax figure of Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt who comes to life and serves as a mentor to Larry. His character is wise, brave, and a little romantic — especially regarding his affection for Sacagawea.
4) What causes the museum exhibits to come to life at night?
Correct Answer: A magical tablet
An ancient Egyptian artifact known as the Tablet of Ahkmenrah possesses magical powers that animate the exhibits each night. The tablet’s mystery and influence form the backbone of the entire trilogy.
5) What museum is featured in the film?
Correct Answer: American Museum of Natural History
Set in the iconic New York City museum, the film uses real-life exhibits as the basis for its characters, blending imagination with recognizable history and natural science displays.
6) What animal chases Larry throughout the museum?
Correct Answer: A capuchin monkey
Dexter the mischievous capuchin monkey repeatedly torments Larry — from stealing his keys to slapping him in the face. Despite being small, Dexter becomes one of the most memorable (and chaotic) characters in the film.
7) Which character is a tiny cowboy who often argues with a Roman general?
Correct Answer: Jedediah
Jedediah, played by Owen Wilson, is a miniature cowboy who constantly bickers with Octavius, a Roman general. Their back-and-forth banter provides much of the film’s comic relief, and their eventual friendship is unexpectedly heartwarming.
8) What does Larry’s son Nick encourage him to do?
Correct Answer: Keep the job
Although Larry initially struggles with the chaos of the job, his son Nick is proud of him and encourages him to stay. This emotional support becomes a driving force in Larry’s transformation and motivation.
9) Who are the main antagonists of the film?
Correct Answer: The old night guards
The former night guards — Cecil, Gus, and Reginald — are revealed to be the villains, plotting to steal the tablet and use its powers for their own benefit. Their betrayal adds real stakes to the otherwise playful story.
10) How does Larry ultimately save the museum’s magic?
Correct Answer: By recovering the stolen tablet
When the old guards steal the tablet and chaos erupts, Larry takes charge, working with the exhibits to get it back. Restoring the tablet ensures the museum’s magic lives on and solidifies Larry’s role as a true guardian of history.
