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.

Visit

Learn about visiting our world-class museums and zoo.

Captain America 41 cent stamp
Smithsonian Spotlight

Excelsior! Super Superheroes

A look at superheroes in the Smithsonian's collections and remembering Stan Lee (December 28, 1922–November 12, 2018).
Miles Davis' jacket
Smithsonian Spotlight

Don't Forget Your Jacket

Some amazing people have left their jackets at the Smithsonian.
rabbit on an alligator
Smithsonian Sidedoor

Cherokee Story Slam

Explore the power stories hold to keep people connected to their culture across time and geographic distance.
illustration of autumn leaf
Smithsonian Spotlight

Autumn Views

Celebrating the beauty of the changing season with art and objects in the collections.
Bronx Storefront
Smithsonian Spotlight

Latino Art and Artists

Explore Smithsonian collections reflecting the rich diversity of Latino art and expression.
red, white, and blue poster of Martin Luther King
Smithsonian Spotlight

1968: A Year in the Collections

A look back at 1968, a tumultuous year marked by political and cultural change.
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.
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. 
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.
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.
Ai Weiwei with Skorton
Second Opinion

Ai Weiwei on Why Authoritarian Regimes Censor Art

The Chinese artist speaks with Smithsonian Secretary David J. Skorton on how art provides us with perspective on our own humanity.