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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 learn and explore online.

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Learn about visiting our world-class museums and zoo.

gold nugget, 1848
National Museum of American History

Gold Discovered in California

This is the small piece of yellow metal believed to have been discovered at Sutter's Mill in California on this day in 1848.
Winter skating
Smithsonian Spotlight

Winter Wonderland

You don’t have to bundle up to enjoy these wintry works of art in our collections.
calendar with plastic tabs
Smithsonian Spotlight

Years Gone By

Marking the passage of days with varied types of calendars throughout history.
Martin Luther King Jr. surrounded by supporters
Smithsonian Spotlight

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The Smithsonian celebrates an American civil rights icon with a look through the collections.
vaccine vials
National Museum of American History

Chasing Influenza

Unlike other infectious diseases, where a single dose or series of doses confers long-term protection, flu vaccination is an annual affair.
Captain America 41 cent stamp
Smithsonian Spotlight

Excelsior! Super Superheroes

A look at superheroes in the Smithsonian's collections and remembering Stan Lee.
Woman and Cat by Window
Smithsonian Spotlight

Feline Finds

Cats as seen through the Smithsonian's collections.
dog figurine
Smithsonian Spotlight

Dog: Museum's Best Friend

Sit, stay, and explore dogs from across our collections.
3 bears caught on camera
Smithsonian Collaboration

eMammal: See Wildlife, Do Science

Place “camera traps” in your community to assist researchers in answering questions about mammal distribution and abundance.
Bronx Storefront
Smithsonian Spotlight

Latino Art and Artists

Explore Smithsonian collections reflecting the rich diversity of Latino art and expression.
native man in headdress on apple as
National Museum of the American Indian

Americans

Explore the online companion to the bold exhibition revealing the ways American Indian images, names, and stories are hidden in plain sight.
Chuck Berry’s Cadillac
Smithsonian Spotlight

Hail! Hail! Rock 'n' Roll

Any old way you choose it, for many, it's got to be rock and roll music.