Smithsonian Museums Worth Visiting

story and photo by Laura Allen

Did you know that the Smithsonian Museums are free to visit? Flying from across the country to Washington, D.C. three times over the last three years, I have been able to access a wealth of American history, knowledge and culture at no cost (besides parking). From visiting presidential monuments at the National Mall to exploring the Smithsonian museums, I gained a deeper understanding of our country and its accomplishments on these visits.

The Smithsonian Institution, founded in 1846, operates a large complex of museums and a zoo, with the mission to spread knowledge and inspire future generations through their educational opportunities. However, the government shutdown that began on October 1st forced their closure due to a lack of federal funding.

To highlight the importance of these museums and what they offer, here is a list of my five favorite Smithsonian institutions.

1. National Gallery of Art

Walking into this gallery, I was overwhelmed by the variety of artwork on display, all curated into intuitive exhibitions. Ranging from the Italian Renaissance to Pop Art, this gallery showcases art across a diverse spectrum of European and American movements dating from the 12th to the 20th century.

2. National Zoo

Located in Rock Creek Park, which serves as an urban oasis in D.C., this zoo has a range of indoor and outdoor exhibits. These include Asia Trail, American Trail, Great Cats, Bird House, and Reptile Discovery Center. While visiting, I explored habitats of animals from across the world and saw rare animals I never thought I’d see in person, such as the giant panda.

3. National Museum of Natural History

Upon seeing the African bush elephant in the rotunda on the first floor, I was transported to “Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian.” I found this museum fascinating, with exhibits featuring dinosaur fossils and models that show the evolution of homo sapiens and Neanderthals. The highlight was using a kiosk to take a selfie and turn myself into a neanderthal.

4. National Museum of the American Indian

Hosting one of the world’s largest collections of Native American artifacts, this museum crafts the narratives of Native peoples both past and present. Their exhibits on treaties between the U.S. and Native nations and the depiction of Native stereotypes in popular culture had me reflecting on the negative impact the U.S. has had on indigenous peoples.

5. Steven Udvar-Hazy Center

The lesser-known of the two air and space museums, this hangar felt more immersive. With a wide selection of aviation and space aircraft, an observation tower where you can view planes taking off and landing, and a restoration hangar where employees restore aircraft, this center has a bit of everything.

Now that the government shutdown is over and the museums have reopened, I highly encourage you to visit D.C. and explore some of these institutions for yourself. Be curious and pursue your interests, whether that is art history, military aircraft, or something else. Your visit helps support the ongoing preservation of our history.