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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Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute
Meet Linh Mai!
Asian elephant calf Linh Mai makes her public debut at the National Zoo. -
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 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 Collection Spotlight
Music and Fashion: Culture in Conversation
Music and fashion influence each other, and they reflect and impact the culture at large. -
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 Open Access
Digital Backgrounds
Put yourself in the scene! Download high-res images to use as your video meeting or desktop background. -
Smithsonian Story
The Real History of Cinco de Mayo
Learn about the origins of the holiday and frozen margaritas.
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Around the Smithsonian
Mysteries of the Universe
Starting with solar studies in 1890, the Smithsonian has been exploring questions spanning from our atmosphere to deep space. -
Smithsonian Collection Spotlight
Women of Public Health
Through the Smithsonian's collections we remember and honor the ways that women contribute to the field of public health. -
Smithsonian Collection Spotlight
The Force is Strong with the Smithsonian
Explore Star Wars–related objects in our collections—from lunch boxes to the famous droids "you're looking for." -
Smithsonian Collection Spotlight
Signs of Spring
Celebrating spring and the coming of warmer days through the visual arts. -
Smithsonian Story
Six Animals the Smithsonian Has Helped Save from Extinction
Conservation efforts help bring endangered species back from the brink.
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 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
Monkeyin' Around on the Devil's Island
Follow along on a search for the elusive and rambunctious capuchin monkey on an island in the Pacific.
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Sidedoor Podcast
Zoo's Clues
Grab your microscope and get ready to head through a very special side door of the National Zoo—behind the scenes with veterinary pathologists.
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!
