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We invite you to explore your interests, discover something new, or spark a memory. Our vast collections and the research surrounding them are available to you online on a kaleidoscope of topics—from art to zoology.

Select a topic to discover featured collections and stories, OR search millions of digital records.

Smithsonian Spotlight

Don't Forget Your Jacket

Some amazing people have left their jackets at the Smithsonian.
Smithsonian Spotlight

Excelsior! Super Superheroes

A look at superheroes in the Smithsonian's collections and remembering Stan Lee.
Smithsonian Sparks

Why Do Leaves Change Color in the Fall?
The start of fall brings cooler temperatures and shorter days that transform trees.
Smithsonian Spotlight

Take Me Out to the Ball Game

Swinging for the fences with these items in our collections.
Smithsonian Spotlight

Freedom of the Press

Explore news media and journalism–related collection items from across the Smithsonian.
Smithsonian Spotlight

The Art and Science of Bats

Shy, nocturnal creatures, bats have been both feared and revered. The Smithsonian is home to the world's largest collection of bat specimens.
Smithsonian Spotlight

Natural Beauty

Enjoy a selection of landscape paintings and artwork inspired by nature's beauty.
Smithsonian Open Access

Digital Backgrounds

Put yourself in the scene! Download high-res images to use as your video meeting or desktop background.
National Museum of Natural History

Minerals and Gems

The Smithsonian's mineral and gem collection at the National Museum of Natural History is one of the largest of its kind in the world.
Smithsonian Spotlight

Ancient Egypt

Explore collections related to ancient Egypt from across the Smithsonian.
Smithsonian 3D

Apollo 11 Command Module

Explore the spacecraft that carried astronauts Neil Armstrong, Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin, and Michael Collins to the moon.
Smithsonian Spotlight

Hail! Hail! Rock 'n' Roll

Any old way you choose it, for many, it's got to be rock and roll music.

More to Explore

cases of butterflies

Collections

Learn about the artifacts, works of art, and specimens in our collections.

xo laptop Cooper Hewitt

Blogs

Insights and stories from inside the Smithsonian.

vintage listeners

Podcasts

Lend us your ears and we'll tell you a tale.

cellular phone stamp

Mobile Apps

Take the Smithsonian with you on the go.

library books

Research Resources

Libraries, archives, and more digital resources.

Collections Sampler

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