The center of the United States' preeminent art, natural history and cultural artifacts collections, Washington D.C. is rife with museums for visitors to explore. Whether tourists choose to see the Smithsonian's giant research and display centers on the National Mall or discover newer additions to the capital's museum scene, it's likely there will be lots leftover for future vacations and outings.
A favorite of visitors to D.C., the National Air and Space Museum's exhibits chronicle the history of flight from the Wright Brothers to Space Exploration. The museum is home to the largest collection of historic air and spacecraft in the world. It is also an important research center for the science and technology of aviation and space exploration.
National Air and Space Museum
900 Jefferson St. NW
Washington, DC 20230
202-633-1000
nasm.si.edu
Opened in 1910, the green dome of the National Museum of Natural History stands out among the Smithsonian buildings on the National Mall. Dedicated to promoting a spirit of inquiry and wonder, the museum provides multiple interactive exhibits such as a Butterfly Pavilion; a Discovery Room for getting up close with fossils, skulls, and shells; and a forensic lab. Displays on dinosaurs, the Amazon, more rotate to keep visitors returning.
National Museum of Natural History
900 Jefferson St. NW
Washington, DC 20230
202-633-1000
mnh.si.edu
The International Spy Museum opened in 2002, but it is already one of Washington D.C.'s must-see museums. Young and old will enjoy seeing gadgets and high-tech weapons that would impress the likes of James Bond. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to join the museum's "School for Spies", try their hand at code-breaking or learn about the history of the profession and some of its secret celebrities.
The International Spy Museum
800 F St. NW
Washington, DC 2004
202-654-0977
spymuseum.com
Since its opening in 1941, the National Gallery of Art has been one of America's premier art museums. Art lovers can admire a vast collection of American artists, including Jasper Johns, Roy Lichtenstein, and well-known African-American artists such as Alma Thomas and Willie Cole. Visitors will also find plenty of Dutch Masters, French Impressionists and Italian Renaissance artists, a sculpture garden, and more. With so much to see, one visit to the museum is likely to be just the start.
National Gallery of Art
4th and Constitution Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20565
202-737-4215
npa.gov
