National Museum of Natural History in Washington DC

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History details the history of planet Earth and how humans have interacted with each other and the environment throughout time. As one of the oldest museums in the country, this institution offers rich history and an expansive collection to suit visitors of all ages and interests.

From exhibits on land and sea animals to ancient cultures to gems and minerals, the museum features dozens of exhibits where you can learn about the world around you and worlds far away. The museum is quite large, so plan on spending several hours. Some people take multiple days to see all it has to offer.

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A brief history of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History opened its doors in 1910 on the National Mall in the heart of the nation's capital. Founded under the Smithsonian Institution, it was first known as the US National Museum but was renamed in 1969.

The building was temporarily closed during World War I to house the Bureau of War Risk, and that kicked off a long period of struggle with the museum's funding. By 1960, things started looking up again, and the museum has since grown as a home for one of the most extensive collections in our country.

What are the highlights of Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC?

Exhibits come in all shapes and sizes at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. On top of the permanent exhibits, you can find limited-time exhibits about current events, a variety of permanent collections, immersive experiences, special events, and much more.

Tune in for one of the museum's webinar series to see what its members are doing out in the world, and have the kids check out the virtual educational programmes on offer. The museum offers tonnes of in-person programmes as well, including school visits, festivals, teaching programmes, and plenty of others.