Best Museums near me in Washington DC
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Understanding our role in the natural world is our first goal. Museum artifacts provide a window into humankind’s relationship with the world and one another throughout history. Website
Smithsonian National Museum of American History
Explore, preserve and share the richness of our history to empower people to achieve an equitable and compassionate future. Website
National Gallery of Art
All are welcome to the National Gallery of Art, which serves the country by providing a haven for exploration and appreciation of art, creativity, and our common humanity. Website
Hirshhorn Museum
Museum of contemporary art, Hirshhorn, explores modern and contemporary art and ideas. We believe in the power of art to bring people together, inspire, and react to history in real-time, and we want everyone to have access to that power at no cost. Website
International Spy Museum
Intelligence is a critical component of national security in any country. Intelligence’s successes and failures are examined in the Museum and its challenges and controversies. Encouraging people to learn about espionage and intelligence is the Museum’s goal. Understanding the importance of intelligence in the past and this book facilitates the present. The Museum’s goal is to offer an impartial and apolitical arena for discussing key issues, including the effect of secrecy on civil rights, the evolving role of technology in intelligence operations, and the problems of misinformation in a social media context. Website
National Portrait Gallery
To communicate the narrative of America, the National Portrait Gallery aims to depict those who have shaped its history, growth, and culture. Website
National Museum of the American Indian
Through education, inspiration, and empowerment, we aim to improve the lives of Native Americans throughout the Western Hemisphere. Website
Smithsonian American Art Museum
The Smithsonian American Art Museum is devoted to acquiring, studying, and appreciating American art. The Museum honours artists whose work reflects the American experience and its global ties. Website
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Nazi Germany and its allies and collaborators were responsible for the deliberate extermination of six million Jewish people under the auspices of the state. Each year, millions of individuals are taught about the perils of unbridled hate and the need to avoid genocide by the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. Website
National Museum of African American History and Culture
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the only national museum dedicated to documenting African American history, life, and culture. Following a long-term effort to raise awareness of African American achievements, the National Endowment for the Humanities was formed in 2003. Nearly 100,000 people have joined the Museum’s membership since it opened. On September 24, 2016, the Smithsonian Institution’s 19th museum opened to the public. Website
Dumbarton Oaks Museum
As a gift to Harvard University and the humanities, Robert and Mildred Woods Bliss left behind the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection. Along with historic gardens and buildings and a world-class collection of materials for use by scholars and the public, The Blisses’ extraordinary donation also includes funding for fellowship programs and other academic activities on a local, national, and worldwide scale. First and foremost, our goal is to safeguard what the Blisses have entrusted us with. Also, to encourage humanities research in general, emphasizing Byzantine, Pre-Columbian, and Garden and Landscape Studies. Thirdly, to fulfil the donors’ intentions, Harvard and Dumbarton Oaks should work together to achieve the greatest possible mutual benefit. Finally, our Museum, garden, and music program are there to benefit the greater community. Website
The Phillips Collection
The Phillips Collection, founded in 1921 by art collector and philanthropist Duncan Phillips, has been collecting modern and contemporary art for almost a century. ” More than 5,000 pieces of art are now housed at Duncan Phillips’ old home in Dupont Circle, a famous Washington neighborhood. The Phillips Collection galleries are often reorganized per Phillips’ unusual approach to exhibits, allowing viewers to engage in new dialogues with artworks and gain new perspectives. Website
Freer Gallery of Art
A museum dedicated to preserving, exhibiting, and interpreting Asian art helps us better comprehend the world around us. Website
Museum of the Bible
The mission of the Museum of the Bible is to introduce people from all walks of life to the transformational power of the Bible. We use cutting-edge technology and interactive displays to provide visitors with a personal, immersive encounter with the Bible’s influence, narrative, and history. The Museum of the Bible offers something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned Bible scholar or just beginning to learn about it for the first time. Website
Smithsonian National Museum of African Art
African arts and traditions over the globe are beautiful, powerful, and diverse. Website
National Geographic Museum
Thanks to its diverse roster of rotating exhibits, the National Geographic Museum is an excellent choice for history buffs of all ages. As a part of the National Geographic Museum, visitors may see everything from iconic photographs to world-famous objects and interactive learning stations and behind-the-scenes tales. Website
National Archives Museum
By architect John Russell Pope (1874–1937), the National Archives Building is a shrine of history. By incorporating a sense of permanence and security into its design, Pope sought a visual representation of the National Archives’ importance and security. As the Rotunda soars 70 feet above the ground, the bronze doors, each standing 40 feet tall, heighten visitors’ sense of awe and devotion. Website
Hillwood Estate Museum & Gardens
The Hillwood Estate Museum & Gardens condemn unprovoked action toward Ukraine. People in Ukraine and Russia who reject these barbaric atrocities have our full support. Hillwood’s collection of Russian art spans the years, and we hope it will serve as a reminder to our guests of the residents who have and continue to stand apart from foreign military activity. Ukrainians are in our thoughts and prayers, and we extend our support and solidarity to them. Website
National Law Enforcement Museum
For the National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum, honoring Society’s role means acknowledging the contributions and sacrifices made by law enforcement, educating the public, and improving conditions for law enforcement officers themselves. Website