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.

whirlygig
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.
Outdoor living
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.
cleaning textile
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.
gorilla eatingn pumpkin
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.
orchid
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.
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.
lava erruption
Smithsonian Insider

Kilauea’s Activity Is Nothing New

Smithsonian Insider talks with volcano expert Richard Fiske, geologist emeritus at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History.
Captain America 41 cent stamp
Smithsonian Spotlight

Excelsior! Smithsonian Superheroes

The hero's journey is available to us all, but superheroes with their special powers restore hope that good guys and gals can indeed finish first.
girl on the beach with balloons
Smithsonian Spotlight

By the Beautiful Sea

A trip to the beach—without the sand in your shoes.
Broadcast News cover
Smithsonian Spotlight

All That’s Old Is News Again

Explore news-related collection items from across the Smithsonian.
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.