Smithsonian Homepage
Plan Your Visit
Discover the Smithsonian's 17 free Washington, D.C.–area museums and zoo—plus two museums in NYC. Find out what's on and join us for vibrant events and exhibitions that illuminate art, science, history, technology, and culture.
What interests you?
The Smithsonian has something for everyone from art to zoology.
Featured
Explore collections, stories, and research from across the Smithsonian.
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National Museum of African American History and Culture
Juneteenth
Explore resources to celebrate Freedom Day all month long. -
Smithsonian Story
Cake Is Art: Creative Cakes Inspired by Museum Collections
In this video series, follow along as two cake artists get inspired by their visits to several Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C. -
Smithsonian Collection Spotlight
Spotlight on Soccer
Explore soccer-related artifacts from across the Smithsonian’s museums, including jerseys worn by legends like Pelé and Mia Hamm. -
National Air and Space Museum
All About the Artemis Program
The Artemis program is about more than going back to the Moon. It is NASA’s blueprint for the future of space travel. -
Smithsonian Open Access
Digital Backgrounds
Put yourself in the scene! Download high-res images to use as your video meeting or desktop background. -
Smithsonian Collection Spotlight
Three Cheers for the Red, White, and Blue
The Stars and Stripes, Old Glory, the Star-Spangled Banner—the American flag in our collections. -
National Museum of American History
250 Objects; 250 Stories
Explore the histories behind all of the objects from the exhibition In Pursuit of Life, Liberty & Happiness. -
Smithsonian Collection Spotlight
Fabulous Footwear
Along with the Ruby Slippers, the Smithsonian has some fabulous footwear in the collections. -
Around the Smithsonian
Natural History
Scientists from across the Smithsonian research the natural history of Earth and how it has changed and adapted over time. -
Smithsonian Story
Round and Round We Go
Discover the fascinating history behind the Smithsonian carousel as it returns to the National Mall after three years of restoration.
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Smithsonian Story
Six Animals the Smithsonian Has Helped Save from Extinction
Conservation efforts help bring endangered species back from the brink.
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Smithsonian Collection Spotlight
American Music
American music flourishes within a wide variety of traditions drawn from our multicultural heritage.
Sidedoor Podcast
The Smithsonian's flagship podcast sneaks you through the side door to hear stories you won't find anywhere else.
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Sidedoor Podcast
The Secret of Lincoln's Watch
Sidedoor digs into the family story of a secret message etched inside Abraham Lincoln's pocket watch.
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Sidedoor Podcast
The Curse of the Hope Diamond
We track the lore of this notorious gem through the centuries.
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Sidedoor Podcast
The 'Gentle Anarchy' of the Muppets
Conserving the history of Jim Henson's Muppets.
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Sidedoor Podcast
A Mold with a Grudge
Join Sidedoor to learn the story of how penicillin changed the world.
Membership
Friends of the Smithsonian help the Smithsonian thrive. Every membership includes a subscription to the award-winning Smithsonian magazine, shopping discounts, and so much more!
