Washington D.C.,United States of America
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is a premier research and educational institution located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Established in 1910, it houses the largest natural history collection in the world, comprising over 146 million specimens of plants, animals, fossils, minerals, rocks, meteorites, human remains, and cultural artifacts.
The museum serves as a global center for scientific research, with a staff of hundreds of scientists dedicated to the study of the natural world and human history. Its public exhibitions provide an immersive look at the evolution of life on Earth, ranging from the depths of the oceans to the origins of the solar system.
Key Facts
- Materials
- Granite, Marble, Steel, Limestone
- Civilization
- United States
- Accessibility
- Fully wheelchair accessible with elevators and ramps
- Date(s)
- 1910
- Condition
- Active, well-maintained
- Original Function
- Natural history museum and research facility
- Key Figures
- James Smithson, Charles Doolittle Walcott
Founding and Early Years
1910The museum was opened to the public in 1910 to house the rapidly growing collections of the Smithsonian Institution, which had outgrown the original United States National Museum building (now the Arts and Industries Building).
Expansion and Modernization
1960s-1990sThroughout the 20th century, the museum underwent several major expansions, including the addition of the East and West wings to accommodate increasing research needs and public exhibition space.
Contemporary Era
2000-PresentIn recent decades, the museum has focused on major renovations of its permanent halls, including the David H. Koch Hall of Fossils and the Sant Ocean Hall, integrating modern interactive technology with traditional specimen displays.
Cultural Significance
As a cornerstone of the Smithsonian Institution, the museum plays a vital role in American scientific literacy and public education. It acts as a repository for the nation's natural heritage and a hub for international collaboration in biodiversity and climate research.
Interpretive Notes
Scholarly debates and areas of uncertainty
Ongoing discussions within the institution involve the ethical management and potential repatriation of human remains and cultural artifacts within the anthropology collections, reflecting broader global debates in museum studies.
Visiting Information
Entry Rules
Open daily. Admission is free to the public. Security screening is required for all visitors upon entry.
Best Times to Visit
Weekday mornings before 11:00 AM to avoid peak school group traffic and weekend crowds.
Photography
Personal photography is permitted in most exhibition areas. Flash and tripods are prohibited in specific sensitive galleries.
Nearby POIs
16 shown- National Archives Building0.3 km
- Smithsonian National Museum of American History0.4 km
- National Gallery of Art0.5 km
- National Museum of African American History and Culture0.6 km
- Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum0.6 km
- International Spy Museum0.8 km
- Washington Monument0.8 km
- National Museum of the American Indian0.9 km
Key Facts
- Materials
- Granite, Marble, Steel, Limestone
- Civilization
- United States
- Accessibility
- Fully wheelchair accessible with elevators and ramps