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.

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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