While the U.S. federal government is partially closed, our museums and the National Zoo will be OPEN through Jan. 1. If the partial shutdown continues beyond Jan. 1, all Smithsonian museums and the zoo will be closed starting Jan. 2.
The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, with 19 museums and the National Zoo—shaping the future by preserving our heritage, discovering new knowledge, and sharing our resources with the world.
The Institution was founded in 1846 with funds from the Englishman James Smithson (1765–1829) according to his wishes “under the name of the Smithsonian Institution, an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge.” We continue to honor this mission and invite you to join us in our quest.
