Start Your Visit
in the Smithsonian Information Center
Begin your Smithsonian exploration at the Smithsonian Information
Center in the Institution's first building, popularly known as the
Castle, which is open daily 8:30am-5:30pm. This distinctive red,
sandstone building is centrally located on the National Mall at 1000 Jefferson Dr., SW, Washington, DC, and
may be entered from either Jefferson Drive on the north or through
the Enid A. Haupt Garden on the south.
The Center serves as the focal point for information about the
Institution's 17 museums and National Zoo in Washington, D.C., and
2 museums in New York City. Visitors may choose from several information
options. Helpful Volunteer Information Specialists are on hand to
answer questions and provide direction. A free orientation video is shown throughout the day. Captioned interactive video programs
on the Smithsonian Institution (in various languages) convey information
at a touch. Free public wireless Internet access is available in the Information Center and in the Enid A. Haupt Garden.
You can also make a stop at the Castle Café which features
an Espresso/Cappuccino bar, Argentinean gelato, panini, antipasti,
organic salads, specialty sandwiches, soups and pastries.
What's New?
Complete list of new exhibitions at the Smithsonian
Additional Information
Services
As the principal contact point for information
about the Institution, the Visitor Information and Associates' Reception
Center carries out its work through the Smithsonian Information
Center; 15 museum information desks; response services for public
and member mail, telephone and electronic inquiries; outreach to
the tourism industry; outdoor wayfinding stations; and volunteer
programs, which provide primary support for the Institution's public
information activities and for staff project assistance behind the
scenes.