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 learn and explore online.

Cherry Blossom slide
Smithsonian Spotlight

Cherry Blossoms

Every spring in Washington, D.C., thousands of visitors savor the beauty of the cherry blossoms.
Big Jazz Painting
Smithsonian Spotlight

Jazzed About Art

It's Jazz Appreciation Month! Seeing sound through art in our collections.
Memorial poster for Martin Luther King, Jr.
Smithsonian Spotlight

1968: A Year in the Collections

A look back at 1968, a tumultuous, pivotal year marked by political and cultural change.
Earth from Space
Smithsonian Spotlight

Earth Day: April 22

Buttons, posters, and more reflect nearly 50 years of Earth Day celebrations. 
Moonwatch Volunteers, 1965
Smithsonian

National Volunteer Month

On-site, online, or behind the scenes, the Smithsonian has always relied on volunteers and citizen scientists.
forest path
Second Opinion

Do You Have Reason to Be Optimistic about the Earth’s Future?

Join some of the world's leading thinkers in a spirited discussion about our ever changing planet.
deco clock
Smithsonian Spotlight

1928: A Year in the Collections

Turn back the clock to the Jazz Age with objects from our collections.
lea beetle
Smithsonian Insider

Beetles Create Body Doubles to Hide from Predators

For millions of years these tiny beetles have chewed their way out of sight.
1918 soldier's identity card
Smithsonian Spotlight

1918: A Year in the Collections

The year saw the end of the Great War along with new technologies put to use at home and on the battlefield. 
silver oxfords
Smithsonian Spotlight

Fabulous Footwear

Along with the Ruby Slippers, the Smithsonian has some fabulous footwear in the collections.
Amy Winehouse
Smithsonian Insider

What Makes a Great Rock 'n' Roll Photo?

Rock ’n’ roll musicians live forever in the mind’s eye thanks to iconic photos of them in their element, playing live.
Miss Liberty Celebration
Smithsonian Spotlight

The Statue of Liberty: Symbol for a Nation

A gift from France in 1886, Lady Liberty in our collections and across America.