Washington D.C. is home to some of the best museums in the world, offering an amazing collection of art, artifacts, and history. In this guide, we’ll explore the top museums to visit in the capital city of the United States.
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is one of the most popular museums in D.C. and it's easy to see why. The museum boasts a collection of more than 126 million specimens from the natural world. From dinosaur bones to live butterflies, visitors can marvel at the breadth of the exhibits. There are also experiences like the Butterfly Pavilion and the IMAX theater.
Smithsonian American Art Museum
The Smithsonian American Art Museum is a must-visit museum for art lovers. The museum has an impressive collection of American art, from colonial times to modern day. From paintings of landscapes to conceptual art, the museum has it all. There are also temporary exhibits that highlight lesser known artists.
National Air and Space Museum
The National Air and Space Museum is a favorite for visitors of all ages. The museum showcases the history of aviation and space travel, displaying iconic artifacts like the Wright Brothers’ plane and the Apollo 11 capsule. Younger visitors can participate in interactive exhibits like the flight simulator or take a virtual trip to Mars.
National Museum of African American History and Culture
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is one of the newer museums in D.C. and an important addition to the Smithsonian museums. The museum tells the story of African Americans from slavery to freedom and showcases the tremendous contributions made by African Americans to American culture.
National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery is a unique museum in that it showcases portraits of significant Americans. The collection includes portraits of American presidents, celebrities, inventors, and other important figures. Visitors can also take in temporary exhibits that highlight lesser-known figures.
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