Part of the Smithsonian Institution the museum houses a national collection of more than 125 million natural science specimens and cultural artifacts. It is the most-visited natural history museum in the world, and the most popular Washington DC museum for families. Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Features nature photography exhibitions.
See color in a new light — from chemistry to catalogs, from colorblind tests to couture
Documents how much life passes through 1 cubic foot during 1 normal day
145 million artifacts and specimens illuminate our understanding of nature and human culture
Fossils piece together a complex ecological community of animals and plants
Presenting Inuit perspectives, immersive environments, and the latest scientific knowledge on narwhals
Join epidemiologists and veterinarians and learn about the science and social effects of outbreaks
Takes visitors on a journey through the epic story of our planet