Tips for Visiting During Inauguration Weekend
With the potential for record-breaking crowds on and around the National Mall, a trip to the Museum on Jan. 20 and the days prior will require extra planning. We've created a list of frequently asked questions and will continue to update it over the next few weeks with news about special programs and other information critical to your visit
Commemoration of Abraham Lincoln's Bicentennial
As part of the Smithsonian-wide celebration of the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth, the Museum will showcase more than 60 historical treasures associated with Lincoln's life and an exhibition of rare documents from the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library including a signed copy of the Emancipation Proclamation.
Watch Video of Reopening Events
A special ceremony was held on Wednesday, Nov. 19 to dedicate the Star-Spangled Banner gallery. An archived version of the webcast is available including remarks by President Bush and historian David McCullough. The Museum officially reopened to the public on Friday, Nov. 21 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Watch the archived webcast which includes Gen. Colin Powell (Ret.) reading Lincoln's Gettysburg Address.
Add Your Photos to Our Flickr Group
Share photos and memories of your Museum visit with other fans by joining our group on the Flickr photo-sharing Web site. Or, simply enjoy a slideshow of images contributed by our visitors (plus a few of our own favorites).
Get the News
The Museum offers a monthly e-mail newsletter featuring online stories about America's past, featured objects from our collection, activities for kids and families, and current events at the Museum.
Songs of American Places
The National Museum of American History contains approximately 3 million artifacts representing all fifty states and Puerto Rico. In celebration of the museum’s reopening, this edition of "Sounds of America" includes songs specific to cities, states, and regions across the United States. The program includes a mix of styles as lively and diverse as the country itself.
See the new home for the Star-Spangled Banner, the flag that inspired the national anthem. Experience the rare opportunity to view the White House copy of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address (extended through Jan. 11, 2009).
