Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History image

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Tourist attraction Museum Science museum Natural history museum Childrens museum

One of the Best Places To Visits in Washington


Address

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

Website

naturalhistory.si.edu

Contact

(202) 633-1000

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (46.5K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Saturday: 10 AM to 5:30 PM
  • Sunday: 10 AM to 5:30 PM
  • Monday: 10 AM to 5:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 10 AM to 5:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM to 5:30 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM to 5:30 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM to 5:30 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: museum (133) exhibits (78) time (53) visit (52) free (38) kids (35) great (35) exhibit (33) Museum (33) Smithsonian (32)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Sussan Annais T. 1 year ago on Google
    I had never been in a museum as amazing as this one; it's amazing, they have so many things to see; dinosaur fossils are the best, my three year old daughter enjoyed it very much, she has not stopped talking about it in the last two days. We went on a Sunday and it was quite long but it is not overwhelming because it is very big place, there was enough space to see and do things. the museum is very interactive, it has so many things to learn, a single day is not enough to learn about so many things. It has easy access for strollers and wheelchairs, there are multiple elevators, several shops for souvenirs and gifts, it has a very nice cafe area. you won't get bored here. In addition, everything is super clean and it is totally free. When you enter the museum you go through a lot of security but the process is fast.
    26 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ian B. 1 year ago on Google
    The museum is a gem! It's 2 floors, tons of fun interactive exhibits, and it includes over 145 million specimens (99% of which are not visible). There's tons of halls, including mammals, dinosaurs, skeletons, ancient Egypt, human origins, pandemics, and more. Of course there's also the iconic elephant statues in the atrium. I would recommend 2-3 hours, maybe even 4 if you're going thoroughly to see everything. I would highly recommend if you're bored in DC and want something to do.
    17 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Omar L. 3 months ago on Google • 470 reviews New
    This was a fantastic place to take the kids. The exhibits are excellent, and it was fascinating to see all the mammals and insects. The national mall is fantastic with all the food trucks and the views. I would highly recommend this museum. It is the best in the world. The cell phone exhibit was my favorite. I truly enjoyed seeing all the phones and how the cellular telecommunications system works. The exhibit was well thought out and was displayed in a very easy to ingest manner for the children.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vikram R. 2 months ago on Google • 442 reviews New
    One of the best museum for kids. Must visit place to understand the different species and evolution of man kind. Entry free. Easily it will take whole day to cover all the floors and section. In between there will be small theaters to explain the science in small videos Food court is available and it’s not too expensive. Even decent food.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Olesia S. 4 months ago on Google • 245 reviews
    Very nice museum, interesting and informative also free. The amazing world of the ocean, animals, space, dinosaurs, butterflies, crystals and much more. It was also very interesting for us to see how man developed, a very good story about our past ancestors, cool statues. We were there for more than two hours, it was not enough because every square centimeter in this museum is very interesting and worth attention. My children ran and it was impossible to stop them, especially in the underwater world, various fish, octopuses, corals, turtles and others. We also really liked in the world of dinosaurs. The museum itself is very clean, spacious and interesting. We drank coffee in the museum cafe, ate delicious desserts, but the prices are quite high, even very high, but that's everyone's choice) We liked everything and we are very satisfied))
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mary D. 2 months ago on Google • 212 reviews New
    The architecture is amazing. The museum is massive . We didn't get to see all of it. Very, very crowded. Just be prepared for lots of people, escalators are available for some of the upper laterals as well as an elevator. The museum is very educational and well put together. There was just so much to look at, that quite honestly it was a little bit overwhelming trying to take it all in. It's worth the time, the energy. Make sure you add it to your agenda. PS there are bathrooms right at the main entrance.. Hit those ones first so then you can enjoy the museum.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amanda T. 4 years ago on Google
    First let me say I could live in the Smithsonian museums. The exhibits are amazing and there are so many of them. You could spend several days in just one museum in order to truly take in the wealth of information. They also have theaters, gift shops and cafes. The best part is admission is free. I am a member of the Smithsonian Institution because I believe in their mission and I want everyone to have access to this American treasure. The Natural History Museum is the one I visit the most (Air and Space is a close second) mainly because it is good for kids and all my family members have kids; so we go there when they visit. I love the dinosaur exhibit and of course the Hope Diamond is cool. The live butterfly exhibit is a great experience too. Everyone can find something to love about this place. Check it out! :-)
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mahjabeen R. 2 months ago on Google • 114 reviews New
    My visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History was a total treasure hunt of knowledge and wonder. Its vast exhibits, from the iconic Hope Diamond to the lifelike dinosaur displays, offer a captivating exploration of Earth's history and biodiversity. The museum's interactive exhibits make learning a fun and engaging experience for visitors of all ages. The attention to detail and the depth of information provided showcase the museum's commitment to education and scientific discovery. With free admission, it's a fantastic destination for anyone with an interest in the natural world. Perhaps I need to go there one more time to cover some more corners of the great museum.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nereida R. 4 years ago on Google
    You can never go wrong when you visit DC and the museum. Put on some comfy shoes and get ready for a lot of walking. All museums are free as well as parking if you can find one. If you get to DC early enough you will find a spot. The Museum of Natural History is a must and make sure you do the butterfly section. Well worth the money just to see the joy of your child’s face. I love doing this every time I come here cause it is awesome to see the butterflies and the chrysalis they have. What even more awesome when the butterflies land on you.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 MyNew “MyNewLoves” L. 1 year ago on Google
    This was my family and our first time visiting the Smithsonian of Natural History Museum. My kids range from the age of 12 to 23 and they absolutely loved it! Admission was FREE and they asked for a $1 donation if you wanted a map of the museum. The museum consists of three floors, two gift shops and a large food cafe with plentiful eating area on the first floor. There were a lot of terrific exhibits that covered the wide spectrum of ages. We did spend about 3.5 hrs in this museum looking at the exhibits and eating lunch there. The food was cooked, plated, and you would grab what you would like and pay at the cashier. There's a soda fountain if you paid for soda. There are also water fountains to refill your water bottle. The food tasted good, serving size is plentiful, and very fair in cost especially when there is no admission charge into the museum. There's plenty of restrooms located throughout the museum. My family and I had an excellent time visiting and would love to visit this museum again!
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ashok P. 1 year ago on Google
    This is one of the most visited and most popular museums in the world and it’s free (of course from our tax money). The museum has the largest natural history collection (145 million specimens) in the world. It is really interesting, informative and fun to delve into the story of our planet from the beginning and how the life evolved over a period of time. There are excellent exhibits for kids as well for all ages of people. Unfortunately, there is no public parking facility there. If you are lucky, you may get the metered parking otherwise you have to park in the commercial parking garages nearby. There is nice cafeteria with great food in the museum. There are lots of food trucks outside the museum serving variety of food. I loved the exhibit of minerals and gems. There are so amazing pieces of gems and rocks, I bet you have never seen before. There is so much to see that you can’t finish in one day. Some of the exhibits we even didn’t explore due to time constraints. But we will definitely go back and enjoy the same or remaining exhibits. It was busy but not too crowded, we didn’t have to fight for the space. May be it was a weekday, so it wasn’t too bad. This is a must see attraction in Washington DC.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jennifer C. 2 years ago on Google
    We had a great time! There was no wait to get in, even with security screenings at the door. It was quite crowded both days we visited, but we were still able to see every exhibit in a reasonable amount of time. Masks are required throughout the building, but that was no issue for us. My 7 and 10yo LOVED all the exhibits and were blown away every time we rounded a corner. I highly recommend it if you're in DC!
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mohammad Hasib Uddin M. 1 year ago on Google
    An amazing museum to visit. So much to discover and learn. We planned only 2-3 hours which was reasonable but not sufficient really. Kids loved various sections in the museum and so did we. A must visit if you happen to be in the Washington DC especially with kids and family. People of all ages will have things to learn and be amazed at. And entrance was free and parking was easily available 💕
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Laura R. 1 month ago on Google • 171 reviews New
    Definitely a must see! Not only is it free to get in but there is so much to do You don't have to do anything else with your entire day! Use a parking app to find the best parking rate. There is accessibility for strollers. The food in the food courts is decently priced and actually very tasty.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Luke C. 2 years ago on Google
    Free museum. Great for kids. Lots of interesting exhibits. I went during Cherry Blossom 🌸 peak week so it was pretty crowded on a Saturday. I spent 3+ hours exploring. There’s 3 floors. Definitely recommend. There something for everyone.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alan V. 1 year ago on Google
    An amazing (free) experience that was tons of fun for all of us and we all left smarter. Plan to spend at least 2 hours if you want to see most of the exhibits. If you want to read and learn about the exhibits it, allot at least 3 hours. They do have restaurants inside, ample restrooms and a nice gift shop. Our favorite exhibits were neanderthals exhibits and ancient animals, especially the dinosaur skeletons. They have many real looking animal exhibits, and detailed scientific background on them which was fun to learn.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tisha P. 2 months ago on Google • 61 reviews New
    What an experience. This place is a must visit if you are in Washington DC. They have captured everything so beautifully. Whether it's the ocean exhibit or the gemstones or the fossil or the butterfly conservation. Simply amazing. So much to learn and it would be best to spend hours in here. The human evolution exhibits and the amount of research done in this matter is just mind blowing. The fossil collection is vast. Truly a must visit place.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sonya Williams (Wildflowers and H. 2 years ago on Google
    What a wonderful place! I loved the diversity of exhibits and my son loved the animals. It was nice and warm inside on a cold night in DC do that was very appealing to us considering we didn’t want to do anything outdoors because of the cold. Anyways, wonderful place, very informative and extremely clean. It’s free to enter right now without any need to reserve advance passes. That was def a perk. We were able to see almost the whole thing in a few hours. I’m sure we missed a few exhibits but the point is is you are crunched for time, with kids, or looking for something memorable to do for free, this is def your spot.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tiffany Garces M. 1 month ago on Google • 118 reviews New
    Such a cool museum! Expect a crowd, it was elbow to elbow in most areas downstairs. BUT, totally worth going to. The elephant in the center of the lobby was such a cool focal point to be greeted with, and the dinosaurs are all set up perfectly. We thoroughly enjoyed seeing everything. For anyone wanting to do the butterfly exhibit, make sure you get tickets early because it is a timed ticket system and they sell out.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Rebecca s. 2 years ago on Google
    This was actually quite a nice museum. Of course a beautiful building. I really enjoyed the interactive features and videos. Exhibit stories were easy to follow. And of course who doesn’t like dinosaurs!!! Also the hope diamond and that whole section with jewels was surprisingly really cool and nice it just imagine wearing some of those jewels. A girl can only dream.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sassy S. 1 year ago on Google
    Great museum for kids and adults. We went on the weekend and it was packed with people but we were able to move around with moderate congestion. The gift store was reasonable and there was some unique items available. For the little ones, I would bring a stroller if you’re up to pushing it because their legs will get tired. There were places to sit but they weren’t plentiful. The food court was open but we didn’t purchase anything. You can bring your own goods and water inside the museum. There is plenty to see and read for everyone. Highly recommend for families with small kids (probably 2 and up)
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gennalyn D C. 7 months ago on Google
    Beautiful and best museum I been. First of all it is free, easy way in and easy way out. The museum has 3 floors. They have gift shop and food court. Ground floor is my favorite because in area located all interesting artifacts. The ground floor has different section like fossil area, mammals, ocean hall, human origins and more. Second floor was butterflies, bones of different species ( animals lives in water, land and air), mummies, elephants discoveries, gems and stone. This place is perfect for the whole family.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sriram Y. 2 months ago on Google • 32 reviews New
    This museum is MASSIVE. So many different exhibits and collections it is amazing. We spent around 6 hours in the museum so plan to spend a long time there. Has great access with the nearby Smithsonian metro station and on the national mall. Exhibits are interactive and plentiful with great information accompanying each item. Overall I highly recommend this museum for all ages it is truly a wonderful experience!!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 DWF 2 months ago on Google • 100 reviews New
    Fabulous museum if you are visiting DC - with lots to see for all ages. The museum is large and the exhibits go quite in depth - so don't expect to see everything unless you are planning to stay for a good bit of time. We chose the exhibits which most interested us (Hope Diamond, Gems, and some of the limited exhibits) and loved them all. The museum is clean, bright, and not stuffy/outdated. Get there around opening to avoid some of the crowds. The staff in the gift shop on the second floor were some of the kindest people! Definitely a must-stop on a DC trip.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ahmed S. 3 years ago on Google
    The National Museum of Natural History is a natural history museum administered by the Smithsonian Institution, located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., United States. It has free admission and is open 364 days a year. In 2016, with 7.1 million visitors, it was the eleventh most visited museum in the world and the most visited natural history museum in the world. Opened in 1910, the museum on the National Mall was one of the first Smithsonian buildings constructed exclusively to hold the national collections and research facilities. The main building has an overall area of 1.5 million square feet (140,000 m2) with 325,000 square feet (30,200 m2) of exhibition and public space and houses over 1,000 employees. The museum's collections contain over 145 million specimens of plants, animals, fossils, minerals, rocks, meteorites, human remains, and human cultural artifacts, the largest natural history collection in the world. It is also home to about 185 professional natural history scientists—the largest group of scientists dedicated to the study of natural and cultural history in the world.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Christine G. 3 years ago on Google
    Free and awesome place! A long line forms before it opens but everyone gets in and it really doesn’t take that long. Come an hour after it opens and there is no line during the week. The hope diamond was there in 2019 when I went.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Patrick P. 2 years ago on Google
    Such an incredible museum! It is one of the highlights of any DC trip, in my humble opinion. As soon as you walk in, you can tell you are entering another realm of awesomeness! I mean there is a gigantic elephant standing before you in the great hall! The fossil wing, the oceans wing and the mammals wing are really, really cool. You should also take the time to walk through the geology wing containing the infamous hope diamond! If you are in DC, take the time and go! 😊👍
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Eddie Getdown O. 1 year ago on Google
    A place you must visit. there's so much to see. Outside the museum there are food / drink trucks everyone. If your visiting in the months of June, July, August food price are extremely high. Example: 3 sandwich, chips and drink can be as high as $50.00. Bottle water $5.00. A bottle of Beer $7.00 . Pizza: large between $40.00 to $60.00. White house pizza is $60.00 not including tax, delivery and tip. Make sure to stop and shop for food before getting to Washington. You'll have a great time. Remember this tip.. Always stay to your right while walking anywhere. Local people trying to get work get up set very easily because they don't want to be held back and late for work so please be kind visiting. Have fun!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cashea S. 10 months ago on Google
    I've been to this museum on numerous trips to DC and it is always a highlight of our trip. This time we went back in order to avoid some rain. They thankfully are no longer doing times ticket entry, so it was a smooth entrance. Be forewarned there will probably always be a school group or five visiting, but the 3 floors of exhibits allow for you to mostly avoid crowds. I obviously wouldn't recommend going on the weekend if you don't like kids, but the weekday not on a school break is doable. The exhibits are well done and will have something for everyone. From bodies and bones to fish and other animals, you will dive into the world of nature. Over time, taxidermy does start to show it's age so in the near future some of the animals may need to be redone or repaired, but in the grand scheme of things they are still holding strong. The bathrooms are mostly clean. It depends on what time you go of course, but with school groups they can quickly get dirty. The staff is very pleasant upon entry and are used to big crowds. They still run everything smoothly with such a large turnout. I'll continue to go when I am in downtown DC as I feel like you learn something new every time.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Diana C. 4 months ago on Google
    So much to see! Loved it! I didn’t really get to fully enjoy it since I’m going at the pace of a child but he loves it!! The first floor (floor entrance is at) is where you will see the dinosaur fossils and the Mammal section where the animals are at. He always manages to find the food section and so I bought a coffee and a danish and he eat his snacks here. You are allowed to bring water and snacks. The food you aren’t allowed to eat inside the exhibits. I went to their website to try to find out where to park. There is street parking but I believe it’s only for 2 hours. They recommend Park Whiz. I decided to park in a parking garage that was like a 10 minute walk. We were here for like 3 hours and we still have so much more to cover.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kiara M. 2 months ago on Google • 8 reviews New
    This museum is worth visiting for sure. There's a decent amount to see and is great for families or just a cute date night. It's free which is a bonus and right near the national mall. So you can walk to other free and cool museums as well as see the white house ect. It's also walking distance from the metro which is super cheap as well as convenient. My only recommendation is don't eat at the food court there it is way to expensive and not that great of food is served so I'd recommend eating before you get there.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Arunraja M. 3 years ago on Google
    If there’s a combination that can draw the museum crowds almost as much as spaceships and airplanes it’s dinosaurs and whopping huge diamonds and having a life-size elephant just inside the main entrance doesn’t hurt either. It’s no wonder that the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History is one of the world’s most-visited museums. It might not be a combination that comes immediately to mind, but it’s one offered by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History on the National Mall. The theme that ties the whole place together is the natural world, that encompasses quite a lot, and the museum has impressive displays ranging from dinosaurs, ocean life, the Hope Diamond from India, geology, the animal kingdom, world indigenous cultures, and history of the human race. The museum also displays the live population of earth!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michelle D. 3 years ago on Google
    Was able to enjoy it before COVID-19. This was a great experience. Many things to see, get to know about and also learn. Dinosaur fossil collection is amazing and planetarium screening is fun.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ambi S. 2 years ago on Google
    Wow what a beautiful place!! I’m from nashville Tennessee and we certainly don’t have museums like this. The natural history museum is a great place for kids and adults. My personal favorite part was the dinosaurs and the gems in minerals! Even in Covid, everyone was wearing their masks, there was sanitizer all over the facilities, I felt very safe in that regard. The fact that this place is free is amazing! The exhibits are beautifully done and the flow of the building is great, took us about 3 hours walking very briskly to see it all in enough detail. Please go, you’ll be so glad you did!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ken M. 2 years ago on Google
    For me was the most impressive collections of specimens from around the world I was able to see I can spend the whole day in here and not be able to watch everything. The dinosaurs bones was my favorite part this place is definitely for the whole family and I will strongly recommend to visit it! This will be in my top five favorite museums for sure. The only thing is they close at 5:30 pm I wish they close later because I will need at least Two full days to cover the whole place.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brian W. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing place to visit. Although it was very crowded, staff was friendly and helpful and there weren't long waits to see any exhibits. The museum has an exceptional collection of truly one of a kind treasures. The galleries are all unique in their own way but flow in a way that makes sense. Highly recommended although set aside a few hours to really get a good tour in.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Yuthika S. 8 months ago on Google
    It is an amazing museum for kids who are eager to learn new things. This museum is a full day visit there is lots of knowledge to grasp and one can learn about a lot of things here. I had a limited time, but would love to visit this place again and spend enough time in each section by going through all the information one by one. I personally liked the fossil lab , where you could actually see individuals cleaning the Fossils, drawing images of fossils. It was a really amazing experience overall. I wish I had more time.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Swadhapriya S. 7 months ago on Google
    The National Museum of Natural History is an absolute treasure trove of wonder and learning. From the moment I stepped in, I was greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of the Hope Diamond, a symbol of the museum's immense collections. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, offering captivating insights into Earth's history, diverse ecosystems, and the marvels of our planet's flora and fauna. The Hall of Fossils transported me through time, while the Butterfly Pavilion brought me up close to nature's delicate beauty. The interactive displays engaged visitors of all ages, making learning a joyful experience. With each step, I felt a deeper connection to the natural world and a renewed appreciation for its intricacies. The National Museum of Natural History is a true celebration of our planet's majesty and a must-visit for inquisitive minds. Specially the Dinosaur fossils collections were awesome & mesmerizing. With kids don't miss this museum
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lisa S. 7 months ago on Google
    I love Natural History Museums and this one is truly fantastic. It is just as great as the one I visited in New York City, and what makes it even better is that it is free, with the exception of the butterfly exhibit. They have so much to see that you can literally spend the entire day here. Kids would not only enjoy the butterflies but the live bug and interactive cell phone exhibits as well. The museum itself is well maintained and clean, and there really isn't too much of a wait time to enter once you get past security. Be sure to check out the nifty gift shop before you leave to pick up a souvenir or two. I definitely recommend anyone visiting the area to check this place out.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Akshat J. 7 months ago on Google
    It is a must visit for everyone. There is so much to see, I was unable to cover it in a day. There is something for everyone to explore. The fossil section is amazing. Most of the fossils are copies though but it's incredible to witness the ancient giant in their true size. The jewel section is must see. Everyone was really looking forward to see the Hope Diamond. The human evolution section was brilliant. Loved it!!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Soumi G. 5 months ago on Google
    The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is one of the best museums in DC. A massive three-storied Victorian architecture that is filled with information about natural lives. From mummies to the tale of human origin, from the largest of whales to the oldest of rocks, from the beauty of the natural world to the light explosion in the modern world- this museum houses everything. And all of this information for free! Make sure to have more than a couple of hours in hand to explore all the sections. It is also very easily accessible by metro.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Xhill 3 months ago on Google • 43 reviews New
    The Museum of Natural History is an absolute gem. The exhibits are captivating, offering a fascinating journey through the wonders of our world. Admission being free is a huge plus, making it accessible to everyone. From dinosaurs to gems, each display is meticulously curated, providing an enriching educational experience. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. The museum’s grandeur can be overwhelming, so plan accordingly. A must-visit for anyone with an interest in history, science, or the marvels of nature.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amber M. 1 month ago on Google • 21 reviews New
    My first visit was over 30 years ago, and it's only gotten better. Literally the best museum experience there is, and has something for everyone from 2 to 102. Make sure to give yourself a whole day here if you can, because even rushing through, it's a lot to see. New exhibits are added throughout the year, and everything is constantly being updated. There are opportunities to see the scientific side of how they do things, which is very cool. Multiple gift shops and a cafe were reasonably priced and had many options. Plus it's free! I recommend the Smithsonian to everyone.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mac A. 2 months ago on Google • 11 reviews New
    Great time for my whole family. My 2 yr old really enjoyed the touch and feel additions. Such as the giant purple gem rock.The butterfly pavilion was definitely worth $8. So much to take in. We can't wait to come back again.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amit P. 4 years ago on Google
    It was a fabulous experience at this museum. It’s very informative museum showing various stages of earth’s extinctions and reformations happened million years ago. The fossil collection at this museum is excellent and extensive. I’d definitely go back to complete remaining portion of this place. It requires a great amount of time when you visit this museum. But all that time is worth it.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Keith R. 4 years ago on Google
    There is a lot of cool fossils and old cultural artifacts but the best part of this museum is its collection of rocks and gems. After visiting I have started my own gem collection. One would think that as an engineer I would muckiest prefer the Air and Space museum, but alas no, the gems here are just too entrancing. Granted, as an engineer I can find interest in understanding the atomic structure of each crystal matrix and how different impurities result in different types of gems. Anyways, just fascinating. My photos cannot capture the true beauty. Just consider it a prelude to your amazement when you visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Billie T. 4 years ago on Google
    If you only have time for one museum in Washington,DC.. This has to be the one! Such an AMAZING place to visit! Make sure your trip includes a full day here as there is three floors of priceless information about to give your brain overload! So many interesting historical, evolutionary, ecological & environmental artifacts, movies, oddities & scientific research & information that it deserves one full day! State of the Art displays & exhibits. This Museum is located on the National Mall in Washington, DC
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 beyondTabu 2 years ago on Google
    Really amazing displays and documented history. We’ve been there twice and we still haven’t seen everything, it’s that massive. The life size exhibits make you feel like you’re there in real life. The descriptions of the exhibits are also well put together. Cafeteria and shops are an added plus as you’ll need some refreshments after all that walking and as D.C.’s museums are all free, the gift shops help support them.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Carole K. 2 years ago on Google
    It was nice to see it again. There is a new multi angle ramp. Matched so nicely that it looks like the original building style. Sad to see timed passes needed and some nice exhibits I love closed.....like the gems and jewelry. Even the gift shop on gems was closed. Nice to see an old friend the elephant in the entrance. Fast entrance to enjoying the exhibit s.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sarah J. 2 years ago on Google
    This was the highlight of our trip to DC and I was impressed with all of the exhibits. It was a bit crowded for my comfort, but we were able to experience all the exhibits and my kids learned a lot. Plenty of bathrooms, water bottle fill stations and the gift shop had items at every price point. We were glad to find they had patches (many of the other museums do not). The food at the cafe seemed a little ridiculously expensive, but we figured it would be and planned accordingly. Make sure you visit all the floors that are open and try to catch every exhibit. It's well worth the trip and because it's free, we really didn't mind paying for the food and gift shop items.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alex L. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing Museum!! Considering it's free, it's a great place to bring the family and explore many different exhibits from animals to human history & so much more. Only bottleneck was security but didn't long to go through. The hours are somewhat limited so make to get here early if you want to explore everything in one visit. A must visit if your in the DC area for the first time.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ms. M. 2 years ago on Google
    Washington DC quickly became one of my most favorite places I’ve visited, partially because of their Smithsonian National Museum. This museum was spacious and very informative. The location was ideal and I would highly recommend to anyone who loves learning or considers themselves a visual learner.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anton B. 8 months ago on Google
    Fantastic experience packed full of so much content. Spent over 3 hours going through all the exhibits. Make sure to leave a good amount of time to enjoy all there is to see and read. I especially enjoyed the ancient Egypt aswell as the minerals and gemstone exhibit that is packed full of every type of stone imaginable. Unfortunately when we visited, there were some exhibits that were closed under renovation. It is a must see museum when visiting DC would highly recommend people to spend hours learning about our worlds history.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Rodrigo De L. 8 months ago on Google
    Once you’ve been to a couple of Natural History museums you’ve pretty much seen them all. This has the usual fossil and animal collections, but I’d say they’re very well organized and the exhibits seem designed with intent. They have some really nice fossils although it’s hard to determine how many replicas they have instead of the real thing. Their animal collection is also pretty good and the exhibits include plenty of useful information. Definitely a good option if you have kids or you like nature. Safe to skip if you’ve been to more than one similar museums elsewhere.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Faby F. 8 months ago on Google
    Get ready to walk, but also get ready to learn! What an amazing museum for the family. There are so many exhibits to enjoy. You can easily spend the entire day here. The gift shop is great and kids can collect coins from all Smithsonian museums, so ask at the gift shop. Enjoy!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Thaveesha C. 7 months ago on Google
    Amazing museum for all ages and possibly one of the best museums dc has to offer. Loved the animal fossil collection (especially the dinosaur skeletons) and the space artifacts. Kids would love it but it could easily take an entire day to leisurely view all of them. But even then it was an information overload, in a good way. Can be crowded on holidays or weekends (specially summer), but its not something that would dampen your experience, so visit when you can!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tabby H. 7 months ago on Google
    Really fantastic museum. There is so much to learn and see here! I recommend visiting at least once in your life. The way the portray the exhibits made me realize how precious this one life we get is, and how valuable this planet is to all other life. We need to take better care of our Earth before it’s too late :)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 John H. 6 months ago on Google
    This family-friendly museum is open and free to the public. No tickets or timed entry required. You can easily spend hours here. It's very informative, fun, and educational. Everything from rocks, minerals, gemstones, bones, birds, bees, mummies, to butterflies. There's plenty of food options in the museum, and vendor food trucks right outside. This is a great option for a rainy day or to beat the heat on a hot day.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gary B. 7 months ago on Google
    The Smithsonian Natural History Museum undoubtedly ranks among the finest museums I've ever visited. A treasure trove of exhibits awaits, catering to diverse interests, from dinosaurs and early hominids to safari animals, aquatic life, minerals, meteors, and even the famed Hope Diamond. Plan on dedicating a minimum of 4 hours to thoroughly explore the majority of exhibits, even at a brisk pace. It's important to note that reading every single detail may be a tall order within this time frame. Approach your visit with a clear plan, focusing on the topics that resonate most with you and your companions. Don't miss the chance to engage with the educational videos on offer and take occasional breaks to rest your feet. The museum's security process is seamless, and unlike my experience at the Air and Space Museum, personal water bottles were permitted here, a welcome relief. All in all, the Smithsonian Natural History Museum guarantees an enriching and immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 MJG 6 months ago on Google
    An iconic museum in the heart of DC museum row. This museum is iconic for their mammals, bones, gems and more. Including the most popular gem, the Hope Diamond. There were some Egyptian things for our Egypt loving son. Like most Smithsonian Museums, the architecture is top notch here. Definitely check this museum out on your Washington DC trip. 5/5. ________________________________________________ Follow me for more reviews, tips and photos.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Morgan B. 6 months ago on Google
    One of the best museums in the USA. It has more information that you could see and read in a day. If you want to just sprint passed everything then you could see it all in a day, but honestly to fully immerse yourself you'd need at least two full days here. So much to do, see, touch, watch... amazing. Also a Cafe on the bottom floor. Good food just very pricey. I would happily visit again.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Eden T. 5 months ago on Google
    What a detailed and beautiful museum. Definitely worth a visit. The taxidermy is beautiful, the exhibits impactful and informative and there is a lot to see. Can also get very crowded so I recommend taking two hours out of your day to stroll around.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Justine C. 5 months ago on Google
    So we had just went to the Natural history museum in New York 2 days before Smithsonian and had To pay $30 a person to get in. The Smithsonian was not only free but also so much better. I wish we Would have had more time but we had to hurry so much too see. The prices in the gift shop were so reasonable they had free activities for the kids. Just an amazing place a must see while in DC and so close to all the sites.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Asher M. 4 months ago on Google
    The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is a must see and an amazing museum for kids who are eager to learn new things. This museum takes a while to explore (around 3-4 hours) with all the interesting exhibits spread throughout the building. There are many facts and information in one place which makes it very impressive. The entry was free and there was no need for tickets. Overall, we had an amazing experience and hope to come back soon with more time.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Simon H. 3 years ago on Google
    Had a great time here. Exhibitions are great.

  • 5/5 Simone J. 3 years ago on Google
    The Smithsonian is an AWESOME museum. It is great for both kids and adults alike, with plenty to do if you want to fill the whole day, or just go through it quickly. Either way, it is a great place to visit

  • 3/5 tim g. 3 years ago on Google
    Lots of cool stuff to look at but I preferred the Air and Space Museum personally.

  • 5/5 Francisco R. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) TopXuxa (Original) TopXuxa

  • 3/5 Unego Y. 3 years ago on Google
    A variety of historical ite7

  • 5/5 Seadet S. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice👍👍👍

  • 5/5 Konstantinos X. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Excellent Museum of Natural History! Much higher than the New York counterpart. (Original) Εξαιρετικό Μουσείο Φυσικής Ιστορίας ! Πολύ Ανώτερο από το παρόμοιο της Νέας Υόρκης.

  • 4/5 Billy B. 3 years ago on Google
    Is a great place full on interesting items

  • 5/5 Olivia Z. 3 years ago on Google
    So cool especially the fossils!

  • 5/5 William W. 3 years ago on Google
    Fantastic archives from artifacts to documentaries. I found the Ted Nancy exhibit to be particularly exhilarating. I love their work and sense of humor.

  • 5/5 Graham K. 3 years ago on Google
    im 10 now i lived in dc for around 5 - 6 years and i used to go there evry saturday it is great there they have so much stuff

  • 5/5 Guangzhi 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) A perfect display of natural flora and fauna (Original) 大自然动植物的完美展示

  • 5/5 Marcel F. 3 years ago on Google
    Fun place with the kids, my daughters had a great time

  • 5/5 Dominik L. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) There is no elephant (Original) Da isn elephant

  • 5/5 Marky 3 years ago on Google
    Awesome experience there a dinosaurs and it is a good fact show for the whole family

  • 5/5 Le C. 3 years ago on Google
    Depending on the time you go, it can get incredibly crowded, but it is very much worth the trip. I was wonderstruck by the array of exhibits they had and cannot wait to visit again!

  • 4/5 최수웅 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) There is a lot to see and it feels like the museum is alive. (Original) 볼게 많고 박물관이 살아있다에 나오는 그런 느낌 입니다.

  • 5/5 Bob S. 3 years ago on Google
    The guard outside was kind of rude but the long lived ghouls inside were very pleasant. I hope they manage to thrive after the Brotherhood took control of all the clean water

  • 5/5 Angélica G. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Incredible place, a unique experience, wonderful pieces, perfect exhibitions, well worth a visit (Original) Lugar incrível, uma experiência única, peças maravilhosas, exposições perfeitas, vale muito a pena visitar

  • 5/5 Hong Z. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful museum.

  • 5/5 Oliver Z. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing

  • 4/5 K C. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) I prefer the Natural History Museum in NY. (Original) NYの自然史博物館の方が好きです。

  • 5/5 Honest T. 3 years ago on Google
    Fun and immersive museum, great for all ages.

  • 5/5 オランダ在住Traveler A. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) It's free to see so many things here. Washington DC is really free and has a lot of great museums! A variety of lively animal specimens are on display. Detailed explanations are also written as if you were really alive. What is the problem with what kind of influence people have on the earth now, not just animal specimens? I think that it is a place to bring to education because there is a big deck and an exhibition panel. (August 2015) (Original) ここ、これだけ色々見れて無料なんです。ワシントンDCは本当に無料公開で素晴らしいミュージアムが多くて最高!躍動感ある様々な動物の標本が展示されています。本当に生きている様な感じで細かな説明も書いてあります。動物標本だけじゃなくて、今人が地球にどういった影響を与えていて何が問題なのか?という問いかけもデカデカと展示パネルがあって教育にも持って来いの場所かと思います。(2015.8)

  • 5/5 Steven L. 3 years ago on Google
    I don't really have too much word on it, other than I went here during a field trip in April of 2009. The experience was okay, I guess... I personally liked seeing the world-famous Hope Diamond, despite losing my camera that day.

  • 4/5 C. F. 3 years ago on Google
    🙌 We were there for a short visit because my daughter had a project on Marian Anderson. We were able to take a brief look at the presidential exhibit. In summer of 2021, we can hopefully revisit.

  • 5/5 Shiran L. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice place.

  • 3/5 Jack B. 3 years ago on Google
    Pretty neat. Hope diamond was cool but the museum was not very extraordinary from other natural history museums.

  • 3/5 Kenneth C. 3 years ago on Google
    It was very impressive and gorgeous. Those exhibits are unique and informative.

  • 5/5 abhinav a. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing place to visit. It's a nice, knowledgeable, fun loving place especially for kids they'll enjoy for sure.

  • 5/5 KARIM A. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) It is an excellent museum of the history of mankind and of the earth. This is the museum to visit. In addition it is free. There is something to see and discover. And the museum is on three floors. (Original) C'est un excellent musée de l'histoire de l'humanité et de la terre. C'est le musée à visiter. En plus il est gratuit. Il y a chose à voir et découvrir. Et le musée est sur trois étages.

  • 5/5 Abraham C. 3 years ago on Google
    Excelent museum, very informative, there are so many things to watch there!

  • 5/5 Angel J. 3 years ago on Google
    The Gem exhibit is worth the trip alone. The living sea & Dino were very enjoyable. I have children from ages 11-18 and we all had a wonderful day.

  • 5/5 Holly M. 3 years ago on Google
    My favorite museum! Provided a spot for me to clear my head and be in a wonderful environment (before the COVID times hit lol). I hope the employees are doing okay while the museum is shut down, and look forward to you guys safely re-opening someday! This is such a magical place and I miss it so much.

  • 5/5 Interstate N. 3 years ago on Google
    Went there to see my ancestors from Egypt.

  • 5/5 Nier 3 years ago on Google
    Coming here is always an excellent time. Clean facilities and great staff. Looking forward to coming again when possible.

  • 5/5 Samurai Lady Zero 1. 3 years ago on Google
    Great Family Fun!!!

  • 5/5 Brandon S. 3 years ago on Google
    I planned an outing at the National Zoo, but the rain put a damper on my plans. So, I decided to take the kids to the National Museum of Natural History on 9/16/2017. We entered the museum and breezed through the security checkpoint. The staff smiled and greeted us at the door. I asked for directions to the dinosaur fossils, where our adventure started on the second floor. Both of my boys loved seeing the complete T-Rex and Triceratops skeleton on display. They were amazed at the life-size scale of the dinosaurs' skeletons and informative posters in the exhibit. I wished the exhibit contained a variety of complete dinosaur skeletons; however, the current space is too small. Next, we ventured out of the dinosaur exhibit and found a huge elephant overlooking another entry into the museum. My oldest son smiled wide and jumped with excitement after spotting the wisest of Africa's animals. We raced out of the elevator to marvel at this elephant. I must say the taxidermist did exceptional work! After viewing the elephant, we entered the mammal exhibit, which housed a variety of animals such as a giraffe, lion, buffalo, tiger, bear, hippo, wolf, rabbit, and gorilla. But there are too many to name and we spent most of our time in here taking pictures and admiring the excellent staging of a few of the animals. From the mammal exhibit, we migrated to the human exhibit. The exhibit contained well-placed art pieces, marking the origins of man. Although the exhibit was nicely designed, I spent the least time here due to my kids' restlessness. Additionally, the sculptures frightened them, especially the displays of heads in the center of the exhibit. However, I recommend this museum and all Smithsonian museums as an educational and informative alternative to your weekend routine.

  • 5/5 Keegan M. 3 years ago on Google
    So much to see.

  • 5/5 Return To N. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing museum. Years ago, this is where I first tried gelato as a child. Lots of exhibits to see, and definitely leaves a lasting impression.

  • 5/5 Cary 3 years ago on Google
    Perfect and spectacular

  • 5/5 Ashwin p. 3 years ago on Google
    Best museum to visit!

  • 5/5 Michael S. 3 years ago on Google
    For the film photographers out there. I was searching for the info before going but couldn’t find it. So maybe this will be useful for any film photographers out there. The indoor color temperature is around 3400k, so a Tungsten film is best for color. My meter read 1/60 @ 2.8 for most situations. Pretty standard indoor settings, but I wasn’t sure what lights they were using for the displays etc., so I used B&W film for the day we went here. A 24mm prime was all I needed, and a perfect length for every situation. If I were to go back knowing what I do now, I’d bring a single camera with 24mm prime, and shoot CineStill 800T pushed 1 stop. That’s a winning combo right there. Cheers.

  • 5/5 Oliver L. 3 years ago on Google
    Wow, I could spend days here looking at all the exhibits.

  • 5/5 Basia 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing displays

  • 5/5 Carlos A. 2 years ago on Google
    This one is a staple, you have to visit it. By far, the most crowded museum (October 2021) of the bunch. Beautiful architecture, exhibits, cleanliness and displays. You can’t go wrong. You can easily spend 4 hours here, even with the few renovations and exhibits closed at the time.

  • 5/5 Casey M. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful, historic museum full of dinosaur bones, gorgeous gemstones and beautiful animals. Absolutely free to visit and so many things to see. They even have the Hope diamond! Can't wait to visit again some day to see even more.

  • 5/5 Wakanda F. 2 years ago on Google
    My absolute favourite place to visit in DC! There’s soooo much to see, I can literally spend all day here and still wouldn’t get to fully visit everything. From every animal you could think of to how virus starts, and from natural stones to the history of how humans came about, this place is a must visit for everyone! My personal favourite was the Ocean section along with the live insectarium display. There were a lot of people when we went but the place is massive so it didn’t feel too crowded. It was unfortunate that none of the gift shops were open but the experience in itself made it more than worth it to come visit again! Many interactive displays for those looking for more than just sight-seeing as well. Definitely will be coming back here again!

  • 5/5 m w. 2 years ago on Google
    My favorite was the gems including the Hope diamond! Also enjoyed the Ocean viewing room. So much to take in. I need to go back to see the rest. Highly recommend.

  • 5/5 Nils H. 2 years ago on Google
    That is the real deal. So much to see so much to read. You can stay here for days. I was there with my 2 and 3 year old kids and at first I thought that was not fitting very well because there are a lot of skulls and bones that could be frightening but they both had a good time here. Staff is friendly and helpful. The only thing I don’t like was the loud nature sounds over the speakers.

  • 5/5 Kay W. 2 years ago on Google
    AMAZING! That's all you really need to know about going here. They have everything you could ever imagine in Natural History in one place. Elephants, skeletons, dinosaurs, sparkling gems, animals from the depths of the oceans, historical artifacts, ice age humans and so much more! They also have an awesome store as well! Just go you won't be disappointed I promise!

  • 5/5 Jenna M. 2 years ago on Google
    I love the Smithsonians. They're free. They house American history. They're our ability to peak into the past. I love how open the floor plan is. You can look around and sneak a peak at the next thing you want to to enjoy. I popped in to see the Ruby Slippers. The simplicity of the display made my heart sing. There is one star in that room, and it's the shoes. It gave me chills. I am grateful they were preserved. I also really loved the RCA window display. Really great nod to history.

  • 5/5 Lu 1 year ago on Google
    First time in D.C. and loved visiting this museum. Spent 3hrs here enjoying the exhibits. Nice that it’s free so anyone can go to enjoy learning something new. Gift shop is a must too! If you do make the trip I’d say bring a snack or lunch if you don’t feel like buying food there. Unfortunately the Space and air museum was closed due to construction when I was there.

  • 5/5 Marta M. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful exhibits, no lines to go inside, no entrance fees. The food at the Dining Area was also pretty good for a Museum. There’s plenty of fascinating artifacts to see, a must place to go too when you’re visiting Washington D.C. A part of The Butterfly Exhibit was closed when we went there, but we weren’t upset at all because there were so many other amazing exhibits to explore. Our favorite was definitely the “Human Origins” and “Ancient Egypt” Exhibits.

  • 5/5 China R. 1 year ago on Google
    This place is immense. Spent six hours there and still didn't get to see everything. Word to the wise? Plan ahead and tackle the exhibits you want to see the most first. The gemstone exhibit, located on the third floor, features some of the rarest jewelry in the world, including the Hope Diamond. The animal exhibit, located on the second floor, was my favorite as it featured life sized realistic replicas of wild animals. There is a cafe but forewarning, the prices are theme park rates. Food and drinks are not allowed with the exception of water and there is a security point check similar to an airport TSA check to ensure the safety of the public and artifacts. It was incredibly packed when we went so just keep that in mind if and when you decide to go. 10/10

  • 5/5 bEp p. 1 year ago on Google
    Great museum, fun and informative for all ages, children and adults alike. So much to see. Give yourself a few hours to take in how much there is here. In addition to the Hope Diamond, there is an extensive gem and minerals exhibit. There is something for everyones interest. Best of all, the admission is free! We had planned on seeing both the Natural History museum and the American History Museums of the Smithsonian, but had time for just one that day. Will go back and do the same to properly explore just as we did at the Natural History Museum. It is centrally located from the other Smithsonian museums and very close walk to Smithsonian Metro Station.

  • 5/5 Gina M. 1 year ago on Google
    Ive never been to a museum like this. Everything was just so cool to look at. The museum was massive. You could spend an entire day here. The 2 hours we were here we saw so many cool fossils-dinosaurs, human body’s/brains, how things have evolved over millions of years. There’s so much to be seen here & they have a good cafe for lunch! Very crowded on the weekend! But also free$$!

  • 4/5 Amanda R. 9 months ago on Google
    There are many cool things to look at. The kids all loved a lot of the things in there. The dinosaurs and fossils were really awesome and we spent the most amount of time there. The kids were also very interested in the mummy's, but were disappointed to see such a small area for them. It was a cool place, but it was very packed and very difficult to maneuver with a stroller and 3 kids and not lose anyone. (And we went on a random Wednesday!) The elevators in there are very small as well. Only 1 person with 1 stroller and maybe a couple kids fit in one, which made lengthy lines for the elevator for those of us with strollers and wheelchairs. High recommend not bringing a stroller if you can. It will save you a lot of hassle. All in all it was a cool place, but I've seen better in smaller locations then there.

  • 5/5 stephen c. 8 months ago on Google
    You can skim a majority of the museum and get lost in a single branch for a long time. Well worth the price (free)! Gift shop is a bit smelly, but I usually don't go to them anyway. Overall, the exhibits are top-notch and there are a lot that offer to touch the exhibit. Great time with the family and time well spent.

  • 5/5 Lindsey D. 9 months ago on Google
    The gem and rock collection is amazing. If you have even a passing interest in geology and mineralogy you will love it. The bones exhibit is also awesome. It is exactly what you would imagine a natural history museum exhibit that was designed in the 1960s would like like. Like you stepped into a World Book encyclopedia article with that beautiful bright and precise graphic design and layout. They don't make 'em like this anymore, so it is awesome that the museum is preserving the amazing design.

  • 5/5 Sayak D. 9 months ago on Google
    The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C., is a captivating treasure trove of knowledge, wonder, and discovery. After my recent visit, I am thrilled to give this extraordinary museum a well-deserved five-star rating. From the moment I stepped into the museum, I was transported into a world of awe-inspiring exhibits and fascinating displays. The sheer size and grandeur of the museum are awe-inspiring, reflecting the vastness and diversity of the natural world it represents. One of the highlights of my visit was the Hall of Gems and Minerals. The breathtaking array of sparkling gemstones, including the iconic Hope Diamond, left me mesmerized. The meticulously crafted exhibits not only showcase the beauty of these precious gems but also provide insights into their geological origins and the science behind their formation. Exploring the Dinosaur Hall was a journey back in time. The towering skeletons and life-sized replicas of these ancient creatures made me feel like I was walking among the giants that once roamed the Earth. The comprehensive exhibits, interactive displays, and informative signage allowed me to delve into the world of paleontology and gain a deeper understanding of prehistoric life. The Ocean Hall was a mesmerizing tribute to the mysteries of the sea. From the majestic life-sized models of whales to the vibrant coral reef ecosystems, the exhibits showcased the incredible diversity and fragility of marine life. It was a captivating exploration of the oceans and the urgent need for their conservation. The museum's commitment to education and engagement was evident throughout my visit. The interactive displays, hands-on activities, and engaging multimedia presentations made learning a truly immersive experience. The knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff members were always ready to answer questions and provide additional insights, adding to the overall educational value of the museum. I was particularly impressed by the museum's dedication to conservation and environmental awareness. Exhibits highlighting the importance of biodiversity, sustainability, and climate change showcased the museum's commitment to raising awareness and promoting responsible stewardship of our planet. The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History also excelled in providing a visitor-friendly experience. The well-designed layout, clear signage, and accessibility features made navigating the museum a breeze. The presence of comfortable seating areas, dining options, and gift shops added to the overall convenience and enjoyment of the visit. In conclusion, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is a true gem that celebrates the wonders of our natural world. Its awe-inspiring exhibits, educational value, and dedication to conservation make it a must-visit destination for all ages. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a science lover, or simply curious about the world around us, this museum will leave you with a deep appreciation for Earth's biodiversity and the need to protect it. It undoubtedly deserves its five-star rating as a world-class institution that continues to inspire and educate generations.

  • 5/5 Donny R. 8 months ago on Google
    incredible experience. I'd suggest allowing multiple days to fully enjoy everything DC. some museums require tickets. food trucks are all over the place and are great....do not waste your money inside at the cafeterias!! lots of walking...wear good shoes!

  • 5/5 Amy B. 8 months ago on Google
    It was just incredible. Hope diamond was a highlight. Our kids FAVORITE was the butterflies. It is an extra ticket but totally worth it. The room is relatively small so almost everyone has a butterfly land on them. It was pure magic. The other exhibits were fun as well. Loved the ones about gems and minerals as well as night sky. Just a big beautiful museum

  • 4/5 Dionisio H. 8 months ago on Google
    Well organized and educational. A fantastic place for young students and adults. Even do the weather was hot outside the museum itself had good air-conditioning. The only ugly parts are all the food trucks outside the museum. Very insightful.

  • 5/5 Georgia L. 8 months ago on Google
    One of the best museums to visit on the mall! You could wander here for hours and still not see everything. There are new and old exhibits but they all have great info and amazing specimens. There’s a cafeteria that’s open for lunch as well as two gift stores (one tailored more for kids). If you have sound sensitivity I would strongly suggest headphones as it’s very echoey and this is a popular museum.

  • 5/5 Tejinder P. 7 months ago on Google
    Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is good to watch if you have interest in animals, fossils, their life and origins. Specially good for the kids as they can enjoy as many visits to any natural history museum anywhere. The display of animals and fossils is good. There's Butterflies museum inside for which you need to buy tickets and most likely need to wait for an hour or so. Otherwise there's no entry ticket or fee for this museum. There's food trucks outside who serve just ok type of food. So cafe inside is better option.

  • 5/5 Bhaarat V. 7 months ago on Google
    Wonderful experience. In spite of the huge footfall the entire museum was neat and clean. Very much informative. Kids love the bird section. A day is not enough to complete the museum. Worth visiting if you are here.

  • 5/5 Taylor C. 7 months ago on Google
    This place was filled with wonder and surprise. It really was an amazing experience. Best part was it was 100% free. The food and everything else there is a pretty expensive like in the gift shop but other than that it was just a great time. Perfect for the family. I highly recommend this place.

  • 4/5 Reese C (. 7 months ago on Google
    We had a wonderful time at the natural history museum. I’m usually go for art museums but this was a nice change of pace. It was very informative but it did seem to be mostly catered to children info wise. On that note, if you’re choosing between the DC museums, this one had a lot of school trips the day I went so it made some of the more narrow rooms harder to navigate. Overall, lots of cool things to see! I recommend starting with the gem room if you get there first thing to avoid the crowds.

  • 4/5 Megan H. 6 months ago on Google
    The first floor is absolutely state of the art and top quality exhibits. All of the signs are accessible for all comprehension levels. Extremely impressive. The second floor is pretty dated. The geology section is old enough to have monitors about two feet deep. Further proof is the picture of NYC with the towers.

  • 5/5 Yuliya N. 5 months ago on Google
    Ugh, this is the best in all of the Smithsonian museums. There are tons of exhibits with so many fascinating things to see!! Their collection of rocks and minerals is magnificent and you can even buy some to take home. The amount of animals on display is crazy! There is so much to be learned at each display. I’ve visited twice (January and October of 2023) and the butterfly exhibit was closed both times. Be mindful of that if that what you hope to see.

  • 5/5 Chloe T. 5 months ago on Google
    Amazing hall of bones and hall of fossils, but also had a great exhibit on rocks and gems, the hall of mammals, and the sea creatures. Very interesting, learned a lot about dinosaurs and mass extinction events. You can even see in the dinosaur exhibits how many bones are casts vs real, so that was very neat. I also enjoyed watching the scientists work, one was drawing very detailed pictures of fossils, wish I could have given him a thumbs up but he was in the zone. Definitely recommend to people who like dinosaurs or bones in general.

  • 4/5 Dominic 4 months ago on Google
    Really cool museum, and definitely family friendly. They have a range of exhibits so there is sure to be something for everyone. My wife and I really enjoyed the Gems and Minerals exhibit. Biggest issue is the crowd. We went on a weekday and the place was still pretty crowded. They really should have timed entry passes like other museums in the area.

  • 5/5 Dan N. 5 months ago on Google
    The last time I visited the Natural History Museum it had not been renovated in decades. Visiting with the grand kids the museum was a delight. All of the exhibits have been modernized with the effective use of modern technology. We chose to see "everything" with the kids, and went through almost every museum area. Of course we only skimmed the museum, which was OK with younger children. If you really want to take in the whole museum you need at least 2 full days, maybe more. It was clear that the "humans cause global warming" narrative has been softened in many of the exhibits.

  • 5/5 Madelyn A. 5 months ago on Google
    Undoubtedly, the Smithsonian Natural History Museum stands out as one of the most exceptional museums I've ever had the pleasure of visiting. This museum’s exhibits cater to a wide array of interests, spanning from dinosaurs and early hominids to safari animals, aquatic life, minerals, and even the world-renowned Hope Diamond. When planning your visit, be prepared to allocate at least four hours to fully explore the majority of the exhibits, even if you keep a fast pace… it’s a lot to absorb! To make the most of your visit, it's probably even a good plan to have an idea of which exhibits you’d like to prioritize, as well as include time to enjoy the educational videos sprinkled throughout your tour. 😊 The museum's security procedures are smooth and efficient, and unlike some of my other museum experiences, I was pleased that personal water bottles are allowed. All in all, the Smithsonian Natural History Museum guarantees an immersive experience that is certain to leave a lasting impression.

  • 5/5 Poonam Kapoor P. 4 months ago on Google
    The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is one of the best museums in DC. A massive three-storied Victorian architecture that is filled with information about natural lives. When planning your visit, be prepared to allocate at least four hours to fully explore.. Definitely a good option if you have kids or you like nature. Safe to skip if you’ve been to more than one similar museums elsewhere. The museum's security process is seamless, and unlike my experience at the Air and Space Museum, personal water bottles were permitted here, a welcome relief.

  • 5/5 Sarah D. 3 months ago on Google New
    A great place to visit and learn. So much to see. Nice cafe area too. Took us about three hours to get around the whole museum as a comfortable pace. Lovely gift shop at the end. Helpful and polite staff. I use a wheelchair and would recommend using the family restroom as they are bigger than the disabled toilets. Free to enter. Definitely worth a visit.

  • 5/5 Nestor Jose L. 1 month ago on Google • 8 reviews New
    Definitely a place that you should visit if you are in town. If you are into history I definitely recommend visiting. Besides all the exhibits the architecture of the building is just beautiful. A great place to just get lost and take in all the sights and knowledge. Went on a Thursday around 2pm the crowds weren’t too bad and I didn’t need to rush through.


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Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair rental
    • ✓️ Assistive hearing loop
    • ✓️ Assisted listening devices
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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