Smithsonian National Museum of American History
The original Star-Spangled Banner, the ruby slippers and pop-culture Americana, free on the Mall.
The call
Worth it if you are watching the budget and you are traveling with kids.
Why
- 01
A magpie's museum — the actual Star-Spangled Banner, Dorothy's ruby slippers, Julia Child's kitchen, the First Ladies' gowns.
Our read - 02
The catch: it's a bit of a grab-bag with no single must-see narrative, so it rewards browsing more than checklist visitors.
Our read
Is it a fit?
Go if
This is your first trip to Washington DC
Best if you enjoy wandering pop-culture Americana rather than chasing one headline exhibit.
You are watching the budget
On a budget, Smithsonian National Museum of American History still earns its price.
You are traveling with kids
With kids, Smithsonian National Museum of American History works.
You are traveling as a couple
As a couple, Smithsonian National Museum of American History works.
Think twice if
You only have one day
Smithsonian National Museum of American History is a real time commitment — fit it in only if it's a priority.
You care about the visual experience
For beauty & photography, Smithsonian National Museum of American History is hit or miss.
Plan it well
- Cost
- Free
- Timing
- Any weekday; rarely as jammed as Air & Space or Natural History
- Booking
- Free, no ticket required
- Allow
- 2 hrs
- Accessibility
- Fully accessible with elevators