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If you don’t know anything about the museums in Washington DC, I’ve been to DC multiple times and visited recently. I can give you my opinion about what I think are some of the best Smithsonian Museums in Washington DC for kids and adults, whether they’re the most popular or not.
What Smithsonian Museum should I visit?
This is a common question because there are so many places to choose from that it can make your head spin. It can be a little daunting to research too.
I like to get the perspective of someone who has traveled there to get a different take than what the websites say about themselves. For this reason, I’m offering up my ideas from a recent trip on the National Mall. Since there close to each other, they qualify as achievable bucket list ideas you can knock out in a few days.
If you’ve never been to DC or live there, but are ashamed to say that you haven’t been to many museums, then this is for you.
The Air and Space Museum
It’s hard to beat the Air and Space Museum in Washington DC. It is one of the most popular museums in America, with an array that will both amaze you AND teach some STEM lessons!
Located at 655 Jefferson Drive SW, it’s an excellent spot for spacecraft nerds and airplane lovers to view exhibitions or collections. However, they are temporarily closed until they reopen in Fall 2022. I’m sure you’ll find plenty of the displays appealing whether you or your child (if you have one) are into airplanes or not!
The American Indian Museum
Come to the American Indian Museum on 4th Street and Independence Ave for a more comprehensive look at how native people have influenced our culture. The museum houses an incredible collection of artifacts from all over North America, including some still being found today! You can even go to their newest exhibit, “Americans,” which will give you insight into their culture. It provides more context into how they impacted America’s history.
The National Museum of African American History and Culture
The National Museum of African American History is a must-see. The museum not only has plenty to offer with its vast collection and impressive displays, but you’ll also learn about the important role this history plays in our modern society as well!
The items on display include rare guitars by Bo Diddley and Chuck Berry; Gaze upon the artifacts of jazz greats like Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday in this museum! You’ll also find exhibits dedicated to sports legends, famous actors, historical heroes, and more! Take a peek at some unforgettable moments, and come see what makes these pieces so special for yourself today!
The Museum of Natural History
Science lovers should head to The Museum of Natural History. Get up close and personal with animals, plants, or other creatures.
The research that’s done there helps make our world better! It provides samples from all over the world so researchers can do important work. If this doesn’t convince you to visit, then remember this: It also houses dinosaurs AND mummies!! Add it to your bucket list today!
The Museum of American History
The American History Museum in Washington DC is an excellent place for history fans! You can see all sorts of vintage artifacts from our past, including an original copy of the Constitution written by hand. There are also interactive exhibits showing some prized possessions like George Washington’s famous rifle or Abraham Lincoln’s horse racing jargon.
You can learn about American democracy in an enlightening and entertaining way. Check out exhibits that include a George Washington Sculpture, National Civil Rights Movement heroines, and even the Ruby Red Slippers worn by Judy Garland when she played Dorothy on screen!
The Hirshorn Museum and Sculpture Gardens
Okay. I’m cheating a little bit here because this is one of the best Smithsonian Museums that I haven’t visited yet. After my trip, I looked at the website and I’m kicking myself for not going there based on the awesome photos I saw of contemporary and modern art pieces. Please don’t make this same mistake. I talk about it along with other snafus I made during my trip that I mentioned on my latest podcast episode about fun things to do in Washington DC.
The Hirshorn Museum is home to an abundance of amazing art pieces. You can check out their upcoming events, including performances and more! Some unique outdoor sculptures are worth seeing in addition to the artwork inside. Also, don’t miss Yoko Ono’s donation on display here in the garden!
List of Smithsonian Museums
There are other Smithsonian Museums in Washington DC outside of the National Mall that you can check out too. Wikipedia has a table that includes ones in different areas along with galleries and other buildings associated with the Smithsonian. Find out how many Smithsonian Museums there are in Washington DC and take a peek at their interactive map so you can better visualize where to go. Check that out here.
Another option is to sort through the blog graphics that lead to longer blog posts about each place on the Smithsonian website. They also list each day and when they are open. It can help you plan where to go first based on location and hours of operation. There are also quick links to maps of the museums, where bike racks are located, metro rail and bus line info, etc.
Conclusion for Some of the Best Smithsonian Museums in Washington DC
The Smithsonian Museums are some of the best museums in Washington D.C., and for a good reason. With vast collections of art, history, and science on display, there is something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a great museum to visit with your kids, check out Natural History Museum or the Air and Space Museum. And if you want to impress your date, consider taking them to the American Art Museum or American Indian Museum. Many of these places are great for solo travelers too.
No matter what you’re interested in, there is a Smithsonian Museum that will capture your attention. The added bonus is you can put them all on a list of free museums to visit in DC. Hooray! If you’d like to hear more about other things to do in DC, listen to the podcast episode below.