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Stay out late June 23

Celebrate Solstice Saturday

Free parties and performances until midnight!
Renwick Gallery

No Spectators: The Art of Burning Man

Immersive room-sized installations transport visitors to the gathering’s famed “Playa.”
Smithsonian Global

Fishing for a Brighter Future

Learn how Smithsonian scientists are working with fisheries in Myanmar—and across the globe—to protect marine environments.
National Portrait Gallery

America's Presidents

Newly transformed, the "must see" exhibition has reopened.
Programs as diverse as our planet

Smithsonian Global: 7 continents. 140 + countries

Discover how our people and programs are making a difference across the world.

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.

Smithsonian Spotlight

Three Cheers for the Red, White, and Blue

The Stars and Stripes, Old Glory, the Star-Spangled Banner; discover the American flag in the Smithsonian's collections.

Smithsonian Insider

Inventing the American Backyard

Before you hit the summer barbecue circuit, here are five facts about the American backyard to ponder with your patio pals.

Smithsonian Insider

Protecting Puerto Rico’s Heritage

Following Hurricane Maria, a team from the Smithsonian is working with local citizens to save and protect their cultural heritage for the future.

Smithsonian Insider

The Zoo Guide to Fine Dining

Forget the reservations, white tablecloth, mother-of-pearl caviar spoons and the like. There is a lot to learn about the art of fine dining—zoo style.

red, white, and blue poster of Martin Luther King

Smithsonian Spotlight

1968: A Year in the Collections

A look back at 1968, a tumultuous, pivotal year marked by political and cultural change.

National Museum of Natural History

Bizarre and Beautiful Coral Reef Animals

Explore some of the oddest and most amazing creatures to see, from parrotfish to tiny pygmy sea horses.

Smithsonian Spotlight

Orchids: Nature's Art

The Smithsonian Gardens Orchid Collection has over 8,000 specimens. Explore a selection from the collection along with art inspired by these beautiful blooms.