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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.

golden spike
National Museum of American History

Transcontinental Railroad at 150

Completed May 10, 1869, the railroad accelerated expansion into the American West leading to opportunities for some, challenges for many, and hardships for others.
woman’s bicycle embellished with jewels
Smithsonian Spotlight

Bicycles. Ride On

May is National Bike Month. Tour bicycle-related collection items and learn about the bicycle's impact on American culture.
photograph of Korematsu in a suit
Smithsonian Spotlight

Asian Pacific American Heritage in the Collections

Asian Pacific Americans have been central to the American story. Explore related collections from across the Smithsonian.
poster
Smithsonian Spotlight

Trains at Smithsonian Station

Pack your bags and take a trip on the many rails throughout our collections. 
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.
Boombox, used by Fab 5 Freddy
Smithsonian Spotlight

Hip-Hop and Rap

Learn about the Smithsonian Anthology of Hip-Hop and Rap and explore our related collections from across the Smithsonian.
Captain America 41 cent stamp
Smithsonian Spotlight

Excelsior! Super Superheroes

A look at superheroes in the Smithsonian's collections and remembering Stan Lee.
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.
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.
Broadcast News cover
Smithsonian Spotlight

All That’s Old Is News Again

Explore news-related collection items from across the Smithsonian.
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. 
Powell Peralta skateboard
Smithsonian Spotlight

Skateboarding and Invention

The skateboard sparked a vibrant culture of art, music, and sport around the world.