historic rendering of SI Castle

Welcome

The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex. Join us on a voyage of discovery in person or online.

blue whale
Smithsonian Insider

Only Recently Did Whales Become Giant

Scientists traced the evolution of whale size through more than 30 million years of history for a surprising find.
postcard
National Museum of American History

You Asked, We Answered: Why Do We Celebrate Memorial Day?

A Civil War military history researcher explains where Memorial Day celebrations came from.
Clara Bow
Smithsonian Spotlight

1927: First Solo Non-Stop Transatlantic Flight

Explore items related to the year, including the Spirit of St. Louis and its famous flight May 20-21, 1927.
Palm Beach
Smithsonian Spotlight

A Day at the Beach

Memorial Day signals the unofficial start of summer. Even if you are on a "staycation," you can enjoy our beach themed collections.
John F. Kennedy
Smithsonian Spotlight

John F. Kennedy

On the centennial of Kennedy's birth, May 29, 1917, the Smithsonian joins the nationwide celebration of his life and legacy.
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.
Circus
Smithsonian Spotlight

The Circus is Coming

The 2017 Smithsonian Folklife Festival will feature Circus Arts. Enjoy these related objects from across the Smithsonian.
Confiscated illegal ivory products
Smithsonian Insider

New Technique May Help Authorities Quickly ID Real and Fake Ivory Products

Fetching close to $1,500 per pound, ivory ranks fourth in black-market traded items just behind illegal drugs, weapons, and humans.
poster
Smithsonian Spotlight

Trains at Smithsonian Station

Pack your bags and take a trip on the many rails throughout our collections. 
scarlet tanager
Smithsonian Insider

A Cup of Joe That’s Also Good for the Birds

Learn about Bird Friendly coffee, an initiative spearheaded by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center.
Canadian Medic Mcpl. Marie Gionet age 31
Smithsonian Insider

An Unflinching Gaze into the Human Face of Battle

Artists offer their emotional and psychological perspectives of battle and its repercussions in a new exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery.

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MagazineSmithsonian Magazine

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ChannelSmithsonian Channel

Original programs exploring science, nature, history, and pop culture.