Travel Guide
National Museum of American History
Everything you need to know β hours, tickets, tips, and how to make the most of your visit.
Overview
About National Museum of American History
This Smithsonian museum holds the Star-Spangled Banner that inspired the national anthem, Dorothy's ruby slippers, the First Ladies' gowns and plenty of hands-on displays. It is free, rarely requires passes, and has kid-friendly spaces like the Wegmans Wonderplace for under-6s.
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Insider Knowledge
Travel Tips
See the Star-Spangled Banner gallery first; it is dim and moving.
Nearby
Must See Attractions
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At L'Enfant Plaza near the Wharf, this museum lets visitors take on an undercover identity and complete missions while exploring the history of espionage through gadgets, real spy stories and interactive challenges. It is a hit with kids about 8 and older.
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washington-dcNational Air and Space Museum
The Smithsonian's flagship museum of flight on the National Mall displays the Wright brothers' 1903 Flyer, the Apollo 11 command module Columbia and the Spirit of St. Louis, alongside interactive galleries kids love. Admission is free, but timed-entry passes are typically required.
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washington-dcNational Mall and Monuments
The two-mile National Mall stretches from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, linking the Washington Monument, the WWII Memorial, the Reflecting Pool and, nearby, the Vietnam Veterans, Korean War, MLK Jr. and Jefferson memorials. All are free and open around the clock.
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washington-dcNational Museum of American History
This Smithsonian museum holds the Star-Spangled Banner that inspired the national anthem, Dorothy's ruby slippers, the First Ladies' gowns and plenty of hands-on displays. It is free, rarely requires passes, and has kid-friendly spaces like the Wegmans Wonderplace for under-6s.
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washington-dcNational Museum of Natural History
One of the most visited museums in the world, Natural History welcomes visitors with a giant African elephant in its rotunda. Kids head for the Fossil Hall with its T. rex, the Hope Diamond, the Butterfly Pavilion and the Ocean Hall's model whale. Entry is free without passes.
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washington-dcSmithsonian's National Zoo
Set in Rock Creek Park in the Woodley Park neighborhood, the free National Zoo is home to around 2,000 animals, including giant pandas, Asian elephants, great apes and lions. Its hilly paths and wide exhibits make for a full, active family day.
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