Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Natural history museum · National Mall

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Natural history museum · National Mall

10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560

Highlights

Dive into the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, where stunning dinosaur fossils meet the dazzling Hope Diamond, offering a captivating journey through nature and history—all for free!

10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560 Get directions

naturalhistory.si.edu

@michelinguide

"A museum in Washington, D.C. visited by Ryan Ratino." - Nancy DePalma

Chef Ryan Ratino's Washington, D.C.

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@afar

"126 Million Specimens of Natural History The National Museum of Natural History has become the steward of one of the largest natural history collections, with over 126 million specimens including hundreds of mammals from Africa, Australia , and the Americas. This museum always tops visitors' lists for its vast collection and the famous Hope Diamond. While the museum is free, some exhibits and the IMAX theater require admission. This museum is always busy, but more so on holidays and weekends. It's best enjoyed early in the day and during the week, if you can."

The Best Museums in Washington, D.C.

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@cntraveler

"It’s impossible to miss the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. Set on the National Mall, this 1910 Beaux-Arts building with a soaring rotunda is one of the most visited museums in D.C.—and the world—bringing in 4.2 million visitors in 2019. That’s for good reason: this museum has the world’s largest natural history collection with 146 million artifacts and specimens, including the ones at the recently reopened dinosaur hall." - Amy McKeever, Adele Chapin

10 Best Museums in D.C., from History to Kid-Focused | Condé Nast Traveler

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@cntraveler

"Located along the National Mall, this museum is free and offers educational experiences, especially for children who are fascinated by dinosaur skeletons."

Why All Major Museums Should Be Free

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Arynn Frampton

Google

One of the most awesome places to visit. There is everything and anything here. I love history and learning about it. The fossils and bones were really cool, the gems were beautiful, and the gift shop had lots to offer. I loved the Native American artifacts, the beads, tools, instruments, clothing even. All so beautifully crafted by hand. It was very crowded tho, so plan accordingly. A must visit.

Reuben Yavny

Google

This is always a great museum to visit for both kids and adults. This time I particularly enjoyed the rocks/gems exhibit. The museum is usually busy but manageable. There a lot to see so we usually don’t get through the entire museum, if you want to see the whole thing, it would definitely take a few hours. Always a pleasure!

Eddie F.

Google

Visiting the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History is an awe-inspiring experience. The exhibits are incredibly diverse, ranging from the iconic Hope Diamond to fascinating displays of dinosaur fossils and ancient civilizations. The attention to detail in each exhibit is remarkable, offering a perfect mix of education and entertainment. The Ocean Hall, with its life-sized models and preserved marine life, is particularly captivating. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to answer questions. Best of all, admission is free, making it an accessible and enriching destination for everyone. It’s a must-see for science and history enthusiasts!

Andreea Olariu

Google

The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History is absolutely breathtaking. From the towering dinosaur skeletons to the dazzling Hope Diamond, every exhibit is a masterpiece. Walking through its halls feels like a journey through time, uncovering the wonders of nature, ancient civilizations, and the mysteries of the deep ocean. The attention to detail and sheer scale of the collection are awe-inspiring. Whether you’re exploring the Hall of Fossils or marveling at rare gems, every moment is unforgettable. A must-visit in Washington, D.C., that leaves you in absolute wonder! I would have spent the whole day inside!

Pennyboi87

Google

Great experience, loved the atmosphere. If you don't like kids, I would suggest waiting until the later part of the day to visit. I happen to love kids watching them grow, and explain the exhibit in view brings me hope for the future. My favorite exhibit is the light pollution around the world and how it affects Astonomy, animals cycles including us humans. No ticket needed. Best of all, it's all FREE knowledge check it out. You won't be disappointed.

Alyssa Allen

Google

Thought it was great! Jam packed full of people, but was still able to see all the exhibits I wanted to. A lot of cool exhibits that the kids liked, and some awesome ones for adults, too. I loved the Egyptology section, just wish it was bigger. Overall, awesome museum and had a great time. Just note the Hope Diamond closes off 15 mins before the museum closes!! We missed it when we went bc we were at the tail end of the day. So sad.

Brittaney McCarthy

Google

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is an incredible place to explore. The mammals and ocean creatures exhibits were amazing, showcasing a wide variety of animals, including some I never even knew existed. The section on human evolution was particularly interesting—it was fascinating to see the transition from gorillas to humans and to learn how short the average human once was! While the museum is impressive, there are some areas that could use improvement. 95% of the lockers were broken, which was frustrating, especially during the winter. I had to carry my wet winter coat throughout the visit. The stairs are noticeably worn, which was interesting from a historical perspective but also something to be cautious about. Additionally, I noticed that a female security guard in the Hope Diamond room was leaning against the wall and dozing off, which raised concerns about security vulnerabilities. A strong command presence is critical in such high-value areas. Despite these issues, I’m incredibly grateful that the museum is free to visit. There’s so much to see and learn, making it a must-visit destination in Washington, D.C. Just plan to bring a bag for your coat if you’re visiting in colder months.

Ravindu Kumaragamage

Google

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is a must-visit for science and history lovers. With fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, gems, ocean life, and human evolution, it offers something for everyone. Highlights include the famous Hope Diamond and the massive T. rex skeleton. The museum is free to enter and perfect for visitors of all ages, making it one of the most popular attractions in D.C.

@michelinguide

"A museum in Washington, D.C. visited by Ryan Ratino." - Nancy DePalma

Chef Ryan Ratino's Washington, D.C.

View Postcard for Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

@afar

The Best Museums in Washington, D.C.

View Postcard for Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

@cntraveler

10 Best Museums in D.C., from History to Kid-Focused | Condé Nast Traveler

View Postcard for Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

@cntraveler

"Located along the National Mall, this museum is free and offers educational experiences, especially for children who are fascinated by dinosaur skeletons."

Why All Major Museums Should Be Free

View Postcard for Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Arynn Frampton

Google

Reuben Yavny

Google

Eddie F.

Google

Andreea Olariu

Google

Pennyboi87

Google

Alyssa Allen

Google

Brittaney McCarthy

Google

Ravindu Kumaragamage

Google

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

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