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 in person or explore and learn online.

Visit

All Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C., including the National Zoo, and in New York City continue to be closed to support the effort to contain the spread of COVID-19. We are not announcing a re-opening date at this time and will provide updates on a regular and as needed basis.

See our online exhibitions and events.

Select a topic to discover featured collections and stories, OR search millions of digital records.
Duke Ellington
Smithsonian Spotlight

Duke Ellington

Legendary performer Tony Bennett, portrays the man he celebrated as his mentor. Learn more about Duke Ellington from across the Smithsonian.
Census jug
Smithsonian Spotlight

Be Counted

Every 10 years, the U.S. Census Bureau counts all the people residing in the U.S. Explore census-related materials in Smithsonian collections.
Masters of Tradition map of U.S.
Smithsonian Folkways

Masters of Tradition: A Cultural Journey Across America

Discover the broad array of musical styles and cultural stories that enliven our nation. 
Xray image.
Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory

Chandra Data Tests "Theory of Everything"

Astronomers using NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory have made one of the first experimental tests of string theory.
beer graphic
Sidedoor Podcast

Red, White, and Brew

Celebrate National Beer Day with Smithsonian Sidedoor's podcast about American homebrewing.
Moonwatch Volunteers, 1965
Smithsonian

National Volunteer Month

On-site, online, or behind the scenes, the Smithsonian has always relied on volunteers and citizen scientists.
Captain America 41 cent stamp
Smithsonian Spotlight

Excelsior! Super Superheroes

A look at superheroes in the Smithsonian's collections and remembering Stan Lee.
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.
Big Jazz Painting
Smithsonian Spotlight

Jazzed About Art

Seeing sound through art in our collections.
shark
National Museum of Natural History

Ocean Portal: All About Sharks

Learn about these incredible animals—and the ecosystems in which they play a role.
To Ask Freedom for Women is not a Crime
Smithsonian Spotlight

Votes for Women

A look at the fight to get the right to vote through the Smithsonian's 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.