Welcome

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 and explore and learn online.

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As a public health precaution due to COVID-19, all Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo are closed to the public. Outdoor gardens remain open.

Even when we are closed, you can visit us from home. Learn how Smithsonian cares and explore our digital resources, including online events, exhibitions, and podcasts. You can also find curated museum-inspired gifts at our online store.

Select a topic to discover featured collections and stories, OR search millions of digital records.
Harmony in Blue and Gold The Peacock Room
Smithsonian Open Access

Digital Backgrounds

Put yourself in the scene! Download high-resolution images to use in your next video meeting or as a computer background.
A man and woman sitting on the back of a bench with two little boys and a girl on the front.
Smithsonian Stories

Researching African American Family History

Learn about genealogy resources at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Whale shark
National Museum of Natural History

Whales

Whales have always captured our hearts—learn more about them and other cetaceans on Ocean Portal.
The front of a small card dated October 25 1809
National Museum of American History

12 Kids Who Helped a Doubting Public Accept the Smallpox Vaccine

An unassuming 3 x 5 inch card attests to a remarkable event that took place more than two hundred years ago.
kids in car
Smithsonian Events

Black History Month

Join us online to celebrate our nation's rich cultural heritage and understand our shared history.
Woman wearing a surgical mask.
National Museum of American History

Pandemic Perspectives: Stories Through Collections

Join our curators and historians for an engaging series of panel discussions.
orchid
Smithsonian Spotlight

Orchids: Nature's Art

Smithsonian Gardens has more than 8,000 specimens. Explore a selection from the collection along with art inspired by these beautiful blooms.
corona virus visualization.
Smithsonian Science Education Center

COVID-19! How Can I Protect Myself and Others?

Engage in activities to explore the impact of COVID-19, understand the science, and learn how to stay safe.
Portrait of Mary Mills in US Public Health Service uniform
Because of Her Story

Twelve Women to Know This Black History Month

Here are 12 women to celebrate this Black History Month whose stories you may not know.
The Chambers Brothers poster
Smithsonian Spotlight

The Art of Rock and Roll

A selection of rock and pop inspired art from concert posters and album covers to objects d'art.
Martin Luther King Jr. surrounded by supporters
Smithsonian Spotlight

Martin Luther King Jr.

The Smithsonian celebrates an American civil rights icon with a look through the collections.
Ida B. Wells-Barnett
National Portrait Gallery

Ida B. Wells

The daughter of former slaves, journalist and anti-lynching crusader Ida B. Wells vigorously investigated and exposed racial violence.