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The Smithsonian Institution
"You could spend a week at the Smithsonian" is a time-honored Washington tourist observation. It is the world's largest museum complex.
Thirteen Smithsonian museums and galleries feature hundreds of major exhibitions, and fascinating details of America's cultural, political, technological and natural history. Tours, lectures, films and concerts are available, including Discovery Theater presentations for children.
For recorded general information on Smithsonian attractions, call 202-357-2020
For more visitor information, call 202 357-2700
Interpreters for deaf visitors, call 202-357-1729 (TDD-TTY information)
Open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily
Closed Christmas Day
Note: Smithsonian hours are from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Extended summer hours are determined annually.
NATIONAL AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM
(6th Street and Independence Avenue, SW)
This museum traces the history of American aviation. Included in this museum are the original Wright Brothers' plane, Lindbergh's "Spirit of St. Louis" and the Apollo 11 Lunar Excursion Module. The simulated bridge of an aircraft carrier offers a tru-to-life look at a sea-and-air military operation.
Special films are shown on a five-story-high movie screen and planetarium presentations are also scheduled regularly.
NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY
(8th and F Streets, NW)
The Gallery offers official portraits of Presidents, Vice Presidents and other outstanding Americans, by American artists.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN ART
(950 Independence Avenue, SW)
The museum exhibits the arts and culture of sub-Saharan Africa. The permanent collection numbers about 6,000 works in wood, meta, fired clay, ivory and fiber.
ANACOSTIA MUSEUM
(1901 Fort Place, SE)
Located in the historic Anacostia section of Southeast Washington, the museum presents exhibitions on the history and culture of African Americans.
HIRSHHORN MUSEUM AND SCULPTURE GARDEN
(7th Street and Independence Avenue, SW)
Home of the magnificent Joseph Hirshhorn collection of 19th and 20th century American and European art. This museum -a work of art itself- displays important works by Rodin, Picasso and other noted artists.
The Sculpture Garden features creations by Henry Moore, Alexander Calder and David Smith.
ARTHUR M. SACKLER GALLERY
(1050 Independence Avenue, SW)
Changing exhibits of Asian and Near Eastern art are displayed in this distinctive museum. This is part of the underground complex opened in September 1987.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
(8th and G Streets, NW)
This museum was formerly the headquarters of the U.S. Patent Office. It now houses an extensive collection of outstanding American paintings, sculpture, graphics, folk art and photography. Free tours begin at noon, Monday through Friday; 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
THE ARTS AND INDUSTRIES BUILDING
(900 Jefferson Drive, SW)
The Arts and Industries Building is an example of victorian architecture. A recreation of the Centennial Celebration of 1876 is currently on display.
THE CASTLE
(1000 Jefferson Drive, SW)
The original Smithsonian Institution building, known as the "Castle," is in the Norman style with none turrets of varying design. The Castle houses the Visitor Information and Associates' Reception Center and exhibits relating to the history of the Institution.
