Location and Hours

10th St. and Constitution Ave., NW, Washington, DC
Open 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m; may have extended Hours

FAQs

What are the best exhibits to see with kids?
Popular exhibits for kids include the O. Orkin Insect Zoo, which is a special exhibit hall on the 2nd Floor of the Museum where visitors can observe live insects and their many-legged relatives. Volunteers conduct tarantula feeding demonstrations, work with live insects that visitors may touch and hold, and answer questions about the many-legged creatures that live in the Insect Zoo. Also, the Samuel C. Johnson IMAX Theatre with 5 to 6 shows rotating throughout the day.
What are the top places to eat?
The Museum of Natural History has the following dining options; all are open from 11:00am to 5:00pm; except the Atrium Café which closes at 3:00pm. When the Museum extends its hours to 7:30pm; all stay open 2 hours additional. There are also outdoor Kiosks located on the steps of the Museum on the National Mall.
- Atrium Café, located on the Ground Floor - Dogs, Sandwiches and all-natural and organic, sustainable dishes.
- Fossil Café, located in Dinosaur Hall on the 1st Floor - Featuring specialty coffees, gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, homemade desserts, organic fruit, beer, and soft drinks.
- Café Natural, located on the Ground Floor - Offering Ice cream, specialty coffees, and homemade desserts.

Parking, directions, public transportation

There is no public parking facility at the Smithsonian on the National Mall; on-street parking is limited and posted times are enforced. There are commercial parking lots and garages located within several blocks of the museums. There are also a limited number of parking spaces for vehicles with the appropriate license plate or permit for visitors with disabilities.

Must see permanent exhibits

The Hope Diamond; known as the "most famous diamond in the world" at 45.52 carats, and valued in today's dollars at between $200 and $250 million dollars.