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The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. We are a community of learning and the opener of doors. Join us on a voyage of discovery in person or explore and learn online.

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All Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C., including the National Zoo, and in New York City are temporarily closed to support the effort to contain the spread of COVID-19. We are not announcing a re-opening date at this time and will provide updates on a week-to-week basis.

Learn about visiting our world-class museums and zoo.

Select a topic to discover featured collections and stories, OR search millions of digital records.
Cherry Blossom slide
Smithsonian Spotlight

Cherry Blossoms

No matter where you are, you can enjoy cherry blossoms in the Smithsonian collections.
two young women using computers.
Because of Her Story

Five Women's History Stories You Can Explore at Home

Learn about five women who made their mark on American history through Smithsonian Learning Lab.
one of the first phones
Smithsonian Spotlight

Can You Hear Me Now?

The evolution of the telephone since Alexander Graham Bell made the first phone call on March 10, 1876.
Barbara Dane with the Chambers Brothers
Smithsonian Folkways

Women's Liberation

Enjoy an online playlist of songs expressing the struggle for women's equality.
hair grower tin

Madam C.J. Walker - Hair Product Tin

The daughter of former slaves, Walker transformed herself into one of the 20th century’s most successful, self-made women entrepreneurs.
painting of yellowstone landscape with rainbow
Smithsonian Spotlight

Yellowstone National Park

Established as the first national park on March 1, 1872, Yellowstone has remained an enduring inspiration for artists.
Octavia Butler Typewriter
Smithsonian Snapshot

Keys to the Future

Octavia Butler was a master storyteller and considered the godmother of Afrofuturism.
yellow frog on green leaf
Smithsonian Spotlight

World Frog Day

In celebration World Frog Day on March 20, a look at the art and science of frogs across the Smithsonian.
dog figurine
Smithsonian Spotlight

Dog: Museum's Best Friend

Sit, stay, and explore dogs from across our collections.
Census jug
Smithsonian Spotlight

Be Counted

Every 10 years, the U.S. Census Bureau counts all the people residing in the U.S. Explore census-related materials in Smithsonian collections.
antique fire hat
Smithsonian Spotlight

Irish American History and Heritage

For Irish American History Month, explore our related collection images, videos, and music.
Captain America 41 cent stamp
Smithsonian Spotlight

Excelsior! Super Superheroes

A look at superheroes in the Smithsonian's collections and remembering Stan Lee.