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Washington, D.C.
2117 E Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20037
Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC
Smithsonian Institution
1000 Jefferson Dr., SW, Washington, D.C. | 1-800-521-5330
Visit Website | Category: Family / Kids

Smithsonian Institution: An Exploration of History, Art, Culture & Wildlife 

Known as the "Nation's Attic," due to its over 138 million artifacts and pieces of art, the Smithsonian Institute is the largest museum and research complex in the world. From Abraham Lincoln's stovepipe hat to Dorothy's ruby slippers, the Smithsonian Institute is an in-depth exploration of American history, art and culture, comprised of 19 museums and the National Zoological Park. Experience the genius of American art, from fine to folk, at the American Art Museum.  Explore the stars with a visit to the National Air and Space Museum, and see the original Star-Spangled Banner at the American History Museum. Most Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C. are located in the National Mall, offering visitors easy access to a wide range of exhibits. After visiting the museums, meet giant pandas, western lowland gorillas, and Sumatran tigers by exploring the National Zoo.
 

Details

Prices - 

Free
 

Hours -  

Museums: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., National Zoo: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Closes at 4 p.m. in winter.)
 

Events

  • Movie Screenings
  • Rotating Exhibits
  • Lectures & Panels
 
 

Museums

  • Air and Space Museum
  • American History Museum
  • Anacostia Community Museum
  • Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
  • Postal Museum
  • Arts and Industries Building
  • African Art Museum
  • American Art Museum
  • American Indian Museum
  • Freer Gallery of Art
  • Portrait Gallery
  • Smithsonian Institution Building, The Castle
  • Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center
  • Arthur M. Sackler Gallery
  • National Zoo
  • Renwick Gallery
  • African American History and Culture Museum
 

FAQs

  • How do I set up a group tour?

    Groups tours are by-appointment only and can be scheduled by contacting specific museums directly. In general, appointments for group tours must be scheduled two to four week in advance. In addition, the Smithsonian Institute offers group sales packages that offer discounts for a range of activities, including IMAX theaters, the Einstein Planetarium, other paid exhibits, as well as dining.
  • What exhibits are good for kids?

    The Smithsonian Institute offers plenty of exhibits and activities for a day of family fun. Wegmans Wonderplace, located in the American History Museum, offers playful activities and age-appropriate displays of artifacts, while the Kid's Farm at the National Zoo features a Caring Corral, where children are invited to touch and take care of goats and miniature donkeys. Generally speaking, the American History Museum, the Air and Space Museum, and The Zoo provide the most kid-friendly exhibits and activities.
 

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Distance from attraction: 1.7 miles
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