smithsonian institution: Museums, Art, Exhibits, and the National Zoo
Comprised of 19 incredible museums and the National Zoo, the Smithsonian Institution of Washington D.C. is the largest museum and research complex in the world. View the original Star-Spangled Banner at the American History Museum. Explore the stars and see the Wright Brothers' original flyer at the National Air and Space Museum. See President Lincoln's iconic stovepipe hat and marvel at the 45-and-a-half carat Hope Diamond at the Natural History Museum. Known as the "Nation's Attic," the Smithsonian Institution is home to over 138 million historical and cultural artifacts, and the museums are immersive explorations into the world's history, art and culture.
Details
Prices -
Free
Hours -
10 a.m. - 5: 30 p.m.
Events
Lectures & Panels
Rotating Exhibits
After-hour Events
Activities
Self-Guided Tours
Interactive Exhibits
Dining
Docent-Led Tours
Planetarium
Museum Stores
National Zoo
Flight Simulators
IMAX Theater
FAQs
What Museums Are Part Of The Smithsonian Institution?
The Smithsonian Institution of Washington, D.C. is home to 19 museums and galleries, as well as the National Zoo. Some of the most popular museums include the Air and Space Museum, the American History Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the American Indian Museum. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the American Art Museum, the Freer Gallery of Art, and the sculpture gardens of the Hirshhorn Museum.
Do The Smithsonian Museums Have Any Exhibits For Children?
Yes. While many museums offer exhibits for children, the Air and Space, National History and American History museums offer the most activities. The interactive SparkLab! in the American History Museum allows kids from 6 and 12 to collaborate and invent, while the Insect Zoo of the National History Museum is perfect for amateur biologists. The theaters and planetariums of the Air and Space Museum are also Smithsonian favorites for kids.
