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.
Topics
What interests you? Our extensive collections and the research that enriches them are available online for you to discover.
Featured
Explore collections, stories, and research from across the Smithsonian.
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👁 NASA's Space Launch System on the launch pad.
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. -
👁 Cherry Blossom trees at the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C.
Smithsonian Collection Spotlight
Cherry Blossoms
No matter where you are, you can enjoy cherry blossoms in the Smithsonian's collections. -
👁 Heart Motif, Textile Design Tommi Parzinger, German, 1903 - 1981
Smithsonian Collection Spotlight
We Heart Art
From amulets to valentines, the heart motif in art and design. -
👁 lavender heeled ankle boots with Prince's Love Symbol as the zipper pull.
Smithsonian Collection Spotlight
Music and Fashion: Culture in Conversation
Music and fashion influence each other, and they reflect and impact the culture at large. -
👁 Harmony in Blue and Gold The Peacock Room
Smithsonian Open Access
Digital Backgrounds
Put yourself in the scene! Download high-res images to use as your video meeting or desktop background. -
👁 The entire image is awash in intricate clouds, and swathes of superheated gas.
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. -
👁 Duke Ellington by legendary performer Tony Bennett.
Smithsonian Collection Spotlight
Duke Ellington
Legendary performer Tony Bennett, portrays the man he celebrated as his mentor. Learn more about Duke Ellington from across the Smithsonian. -
👁 No Stamp Act Teapot
Smithsonian Collection Spotlight
Tax Season
Along with collection items, “Tax Day from Smithsonian Folkways” addresses the spectrum of emotions associated with tax season. -
👁 Illustration of red, white and purple flowers.
Smithsonian Story
Springing into Gardening Books
Jane C. Webb Loudon made horticulture accessible for women to pursue as a hobby.
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👁 An American bison standing and looking at the camera.
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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👁 color wheel
Smithsonian Collection Spotlight
Color Journey
Take a colorful tour through art and artifacts in the Smithsonian's collections. -
👁 Apple I Microcomputer
Smithsonian Collection Spotlight
1976: A Year in the Collections
Explore objects and stories related to the year 1976 in the Smithsonian's collections.
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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👁 Illustration of a skeleton hand holding a sparkling blue diamond.
Sidedoor Podcast
The Curse of the Hope Diamond
We track the lore of this notorious gem through the centuries.
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👁 An illustration of a group of muppets next to the Smithsonian castle.
Sidedoor Podcast
The 'Gentle Anarchy' of the Muppets
Conserving the history of Jim Henson's Muppets.
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👁 Illustration featuring a monkey face looking over trees and people with podcast equipment.
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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👁 Illustration of Kali Holder with purple hair surrounded by profiles of animals.
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.
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