A museum featuring extensive collections of artifacts, documents, technology, cultural treasures, and exhibits that explore the social, political, military, and cultural history of the United States.
Closed December 25
Some special programs and events may require separate tickets
How to Get There
From Arlington, VA (5 mi): Take I-395 or US-50 into Washington, DC, continue toward the National Mall, and proceed to Constitution Avenue NW and 13th Street NW where the museum is located.
Overview
The Smithsonian National Museum of American History preserves and interprets the story of the United States through one of the world's largest collections of historical artifacts. Since opening in 1964, the museum has become a centerpiece of the National Mall, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the events, innovations, and personalities that have shaped the nation. Its collections encompass more than three million objects, ranging from political memorabilia and scientific inventions to entertainment icons and everyday items that reveal how Americans have lived, worked, and expressed themselves across generations.
Among the museum's most celebrated treasures are the original Star-Spangled Banner that inspired the national anthem, artifacts connected to presidential history, and exhibits examining the nation's military, cultural, and technological development. Visitors can view objects associated with Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and other influential figures while also exploring galleries dedicated to transportation, business, popular culture, and innovation. Interactive exhibits help bring history to life by demonstrating how ordinary citizens and extraordinary leaders contributed to the American experience.
The museum's exhibitions extend beyond political history to explore the evolving diversity and creativity of the United States. Displays highlight achievements in music, sports, entertainment, science, and social movements, illustrating the many voices that have influenced the country's development. Through immersive storytelling, rare artifacts, and educational programming, the museum offers travelers a comprehensive introduction to the American journey and remains one of the most visited and respected history museums in the world.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.