Museums, Landmarks, & More › Washington, DC
Whether interested in history, science, or space, these museums, landmarks, and planetariums have it covered!
African-American Civil War Museum
Washington, DC
Located directly across the street from the National Park Service’s African-American Civil War Memorial, the African-American Civil War Museum highlights the enormous contributions of the almost 210,000 members of the United States Colored Troops during the Civil War. It details their historic role in the abolition of slavery and keeping America united under one flag.
Albert H. Small Center
Washington, DC
The Albert H. Small Center boasts the Washingtoniana Collection, which documents the formation, development, and history of Washington, DC, from the eighteenth- to the mid-twentieth century. The collection includes more than 1,900 manuscripts, books, newspapers, broadsides, photographs, postage stamps, paper currencies, and a remarkable collection of prints and maps.
Congressional Cemetery
Washington, DC
Did you know Alain Leroy Locke, the first African American Rhodes Scholar, was laid to rest in Congressional Cemetery, formerly known as the Washington Parish Burial Ground? Take in some history like this and more as you stroll the 35 acres of the Congressional Cemetery. Open to the public daily, the Cemetery invites visitors to enjoy self-guided or seasonal docent-led tours. Watch a movie at their Cinema-tery, take an evening Soul Stroll, or join the Tombs & Tomes Book Club.
Daughters of the American Revolution Museum
Washington, DC
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution’s goals are historic preservation, education, and patriotism, achieved through collecting, preserving, exhibiting, and interpreting the material culture and social history of pre-industrial America. At their museum, visitors can enjoy galleries, exhibitions, and a look at 31 period rooms that illustrate American interiors from the 17th to the early 20th century.
Folger Shakespeare Library
Washington, DC
The Folger Shakespeare Library is currently undergoing a year-long renovation. Guests can still access online information and events. The world’s largest Shakespeare collection is at the Folger Shakespeare Library, located one block from the US Capitol. The Folger opened in 1932 and invites guests, scholars, and families to visit online or in person to enjoy performances, original works, and timely events.
Ford’s Theatre
Washington, DC
Ford’s Theatre was one of Washington, DC’s top entertainment destinations during the Civil War, but after President Lincoln’s assassination in 1865, the theatre was shut down for 100 years. Open since 1965, this national historic site invites the public to visit and enjoy theatrical performances, interactive exhibits, and educational programs for all ages.
Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden
Washington, DC
Adjacent to the National Mall, the Hirshhorn is one of the most visited modern art museums in the US. Home to one of the most important collections of post-World War II American and European art, this Smithsonian Institution museum offers a space where people encounter 21st-century artists through groundbreaking exhibitions, events, and more.
International Spy Museum
Washington, DC
Do you have a James Bond fan in the family? Then enter a whole world of intelligence and espionage. The Museum lifts the veil on the hidden world of intelligence and espionage, exploring its successes and failures, challenges, and controversies.
National Air & Space Museum
Washington, DC
The National Air & Space Museum showcases the history and science of aviation and spaceflight, as well as planetary science and terrestrial geology and geophysics. Popular attractions include the 1903 Wright Flyer, Apollo 11’s command module Columbia, and a real lunar rock.
Phoebe Waterman Haas Public Observatory
Washington, DC
Named for Phoebe Waterman Haas, this public observatory on the National Air & Space Museum’s terrace invites guests to participate in stargazing opportunities using a historic 16-inch telescope.
National Building Museum
Washington, DC
The National Building Museum is dedicated to the history and impact of architecture, engineering, landscape architecture, and design. The soaring Great Hall and rotating exhibitions make it a standout destination.
National Gallery of Art
Washington, DC
Comprising multiple buildings and a sculpture garden, the National Gallery of Art is one of the largest and most visited museums in North America, featuring works by Leonardo da Vinci, Alexander Calder, and others.
National Geographic Museum
Washington, DC
Located just blocks from the White House, the National Geographic Museum features ever-changing exhibits focused on exploration, scientific research, storytelling, and education.
National Museum of African American History & Culture
Washington, DC
This Smithsonian museum documents African American life, history, and culture through immersive exhibits spanning centuries.
National Museum of American History
Washington, DC
The National Museum of American History preserves and interprets objects that reflect the experience of the American people, including the Star-Spangled Banner and other iconic artifacts.
National Museum of the American Indian
Washington, DC
Dedicated exclusively to Native Americans, this Smithsonian museum advances understanding of Western Hemisphere Native cultures through architecture, exhibits, and collections.
National Museum of Natural History
Washington, DC
Open nearly year-round with free admission, the National Museum of Natural History houses more than 126 million specimens documenting the natural world and human history.
National Museum of Women in the Arts
Washington, DC
The only museum in the world dedicated exclusively to women artists, this destination offers exhibitions, events, and learning opportunities for all ages.
National Postal Museum
Washington, DC
Explore America’s postal history and philately through engaging exhibits and the William H. Gross Stamp Gallery.
O Street Museum
Washington, DC
Explore a historic mansion filled with art, creativity, secret doors, and immersive experiences for all ages.
President Lincoln’s Cottage
Washington, DC
This historic home is where Abraham Lincoln developed the Emancipation Proclamation during his presidency.
Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Washington, DC
Located on the Tidal Basin, this presidential memorial honors Thomas Jefferson and features inscriptions from his most influential writings.
United States Botanic Garden
Washington, DC
Located on the National Mall, the United States Botanic Garden showcases living plant collections and highlights the vital role plants play in the ecosystem.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Washington, DC
The US Holocaust Memorial Museum preserves the memory of the Holocaust through extensive collections, testimonies, and educational exhibits.
Washington Monument
Washington, DC
Enjoy breathtaking views of Washington, DC, from the top of this iconic monument, open daily with seasonal hours.
Washington National Cathedral
Washington, DC
An active Episcopal church and historic landmark, Washington National Cathedral is renowned for its Gothic architecture, services, and events.
Disclaimer: Event details are curated from public sources and subject to change. Verify all information via the provided links before attending.
