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.

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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.
two young women using computers.
Because of Her Story

Five Women's History Stories You Can Explore at Home

Learn about five women who made their mark on American history through Smithsonian Learning Lab.
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. 
Malone and Walker photgraphs.
National Museum of African American History and Culture

Annie Malone and Madam C.J. Walker

Pioneers of the African American beauty industry, each woman launched highly successful businesses. 
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.
Barbara Dane with the Chambers Brothers
Smithsonian Folkways

Women's Liberation

Enjoy an online playlist of songs expressing the struggle for women's equality.
painting of yellowstone landscape with rainbow
Smithsonian Spotlight

Yellowstone National Park

Established as the first national park on March 1, 1872, Yellowstone has remained an enduring inspiration for artists.
Delvin Garcia Standing in Remains of the Santa Rosa de Lima Church
National Museum of the American Indian

Developing Stories: Native Photographers in the Field

Featuring never-before-seen photography, two essays provide thought-provoking insights into twenty-first century Native life.
Octavia Butler Typewriter
Smithsonian Snapshot

Keys to the Future

Octavia Butler was a master storyteller and considered the godmother of Afrofuturism.
dog figurine
Smithsonian Spotlight

Dog: Museum's Best Friend

Sit, stay, and explore dogs from across our collections.
antique fire hat
Smithsonian Spotlight

Irish American History and Heritage

For Irish American History Month, explore our related collection images, videos, and music.
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.