Declare that you’ve visited the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, DC and an avid traveler or history buff is going to ask you a serious question – which one? The Smithsonian is actually a museum complex and is the largest in the world. You’ve barely begun to scratch the surface if you’ve only visited one building.

The entire Smithsonian is comprised of 19 museums, the country’s National Zoo, and 9 separate research centers. Adding to the stunning allure of these museums is the cost of admission – almost every single one is free of charge, and they are open every day except Christmas. Are you ready to explore?

Smithsonian Information Center

The Smithsonian Information Center is an integral part of the Smithsonian Institution. As a matter of fact, the building also referred to as the Castle was the first building opened as part of the institution. The building is the best place for visitors to get started when planning their tours of the museums and zoo. There are orientation videos as well as live Information Specialists on hand daily to help you plan your exploration.

National Museum of African Art

Located on the National Mall is the National Museum of African Art. Here you’ll uncover the history of art as it evolved in Africa from the beginning of time. The museum features a stunning collection of artwork as well as a virtual exhibition online for those who can’t visit in person.You may take photographs within the museum as long as you do not use a flash. Students and artists may draw, but only with dry materials like pencils or crayons.

National Air & Space Museum

The National Air and Space Museum actually has two locations. One is in downtown Washington and the other is near the Washington Dulles Airport. While inside you’ll enjoy special exhibitions detailing the history of both aeronautical travel and space flight. You’ll learn about the Wright Brothers, the evolution of aviation during World War II, and even the development of commercial aircraft.

Smithsonian American Art Museum

The Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Renwick Gallery are located in the center of Washington DC’s cultural district. The main museum features special exhibitions showcasing the largest collection of American Art in the country. The collection includes works by more than 7,000 artists including New Deal artwork, impressionist works, and contemporary displays. The Renwick Gallery is located a few blocks away and is dedicated solely to contemporary artwork and crafts.

National Museum of American History

Located within the Kenneth E. Behring Center is the National Museum of American History, focusing on educating visitors about the development of America as it stands today. There are plenty of interactive performances throughout the museum on a daily basis, including musical performances and traveling entertainment. This is a museum you won’t want to miss.

National Museum of the American Indian

The National Museum of the American Indian has three distinct locations. One is in Washington DC while the others are found in Maryland and New York. The architectural design of the museum alone is stunning, but the exhibits inside are astounding as well. Collections include intricate carvings, pottery, hides, feather bonnets, and hundreds of other artifacts depicting life for American Indians across the country. There are a few collections showcasing items found on archaeological digs in South America, Mexico, and several other places as well.

The Anacostia Community Museum

A lesser known museum, the Anacostia Community Museum is dedicated to providing research information on the development of communities across the entire country. You’ll learn about how to research local history while learning specifically about the Anacostia community itself. Lesser known historic events have taken place in communities just like yours – learn how to uncover the mysteries of your own home town.

The Freer & Sackler Galleries

The Freer Gallery and Sackler Gallery are both dedicated to collecting, researching, and preserving Asian art. Collections include work from Southeast Asia, Japan, Korea, China, and the Near East. You’ll find astounding collections of colorful manuscripts and sculptures, as well as Japanese folding screens, Chinese paintings, and much more. Make sure you have enough time to explore both galleries.

There museums represent only a handful of the museums that are part of the Smithsonian Institution. Visitors could easily spend weeks exploring all of the exhibits and permanent collections within these walls. Which museum will you choose to get started in?

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