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Smithsonian National Museum of American History

1300 Constitution Ave. NW · Washington, DC

Why you should go…

This is where the flag that inspired the national anthem hangs in a dramatic low-lit chamber, the actual Star-Spangled Banner that flew over Fort McHenry in 1814. Nearby: Dorothy's ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz, Julia Child's home kitchen moved intact from Cambridge, First Ladies' inaugural gowns, and Abraham Lincoln's top hat. Free admission, open daily except December 25, and directly on the Mall between the Washington Monument and Natural History.

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  • #star-spangled banner
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  • #free

Good to know

General museums guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Check the special exhibition separately

    Touring shows usually carry their own ticket and their own opening hours, listed apart from general admission.

  • Look for the free window

    Many museums run community days, member evenings, or discounted late openings. It is worth a look before you pay full price.

  • Travel light through the door

    Large bags and backpacks often have to go to a coat check, and lines for it move slowly at opening.

  • Weekday mornings beat weekend afternoons

    School groups clear out by early afternoon midweek, while weekends stay busy from late morning on.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Smithsonian National Museum of American History, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Museums
    History Buff

    National Museum of African American History and Culture

    Free

    A powerful journey through African American history and culture, from the slave trade galleries to Motown and beyond.

    Steps awayMore like this

  • Museums
    Iconic

    Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

    Free

    The Hope Diamond, the Nation's T. rex, and Henry the elephant, the Mall's busiest free museum packs the whole natural world under one green dome.

    0.2 mi awayMore like this

  • Sightseeing
    Iconic

    Washington Monument

    Free

    Ride 500 feet up the world's tallest stone obelisk for the only aerial panorama of the White House, Capitol, and Mall.

    0.3 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Museums
    Powerful

    United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

    Free

    A profound, self-guided journey through Holocaust history just off the Mall, free, with timed passes for the Permanent Exhibition.

    0.3 mi awayMore like this

  • Sightseeing
    Iconic

    National Cherry Blossom Festival

    Free

    Annual spring celebration around DC's Tidal Basin with cherry blossoms, a parade and cultural events.

    0.4 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Theatre & Events
    History Buff

    Ford's Theatre

    Under $25

    Stand in the theatre where Lincoln was shot, then cross the street to the Petersen House where the story ended.

    0.4 mi awaySwitch it up: Theatre & Events