What Kind of Museum is the Smithsonian?

The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum, research, and educational complex. Its headquarters are in Washington, D.C. and it consists of 19 museums and galleries, the National Zoological Park, and several research facilities. The Smithsonian museums hold over 154 million objects, artworks, and specimens in their collections that represent natural history, art, and culture from around the world.While most people know about the Smithsonian, many may not know the extent and diversity of its collections, research, and outreach programs. In this post, we’ll dive deeper into what makes the Smithsonian an incredible institution.

History of the Smithsonian

The Smithsonian Institution was founded in 1846 from a bequest made by British scientist James Smithson. He left his entire estate to the United States to found an “Establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge among men.”Based in Washington D.C., the Institution was created as an educational center to “increase and diffuse knowledge.” Congress officially established the institution following Smithson’s bequest in 1846.Since its inception, the Smithsonian has continued to lead the way in research and education. The Smithsonian has 6,000 scientists and researchers on staff and an annual budget of over $1 billion. This has allowed it to continue advancing scientific knowledge and cultural understanding for the benefit of all.

The Smithsonian Museums

As mentioned, the Smithsonian Institution has 19 museums and galleries. All the Smithsonian museums are free and open to the public 364 days a year. The Smithsonian museums include the following:

National Museum of American History

The National Museum of American History showcases some of the most significant objects in American history, from the original Star-Spangled Banner, to the First Ladies’ Inaugural Gowns, to the Greensboro Lunch Counter that was central to the civil rights movement. It also features the Ruby Slippers worn by Judy Garland in the Wizard of Oz.

National Museum of Natural History

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is home to the world’s largest collection of natural history specimens and artifacts. From dinosaur bones to butterfly specimens, the museum’s exhibits give visitors a glimpse of the natural world and evolution over millions of years.

National Air and Space Museum

The National Air and Space Museum houses the largest collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft in the world. The museum has exhibits on everything from space exploration to the Wright brothers’ first flight.

National Museum of African American History and Culture

Opened in 2016, the National Museum of African American History and Culture showcases the history, culture, and experience of African Americans. The museum’s collections include over 36,000 artifacts, including Harriet Tubman’s shawl and Chuck Berry’s red Cadillac.

National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery showcases over 23,000 portraits of prominent Americans, including presidents, poets, athletes, actors, and social activists. The museum aims to use portraiture to explore the story of America through its people.

The Smithsonian Research Centers and Programs

Along with its museums, the Smithsonian is home to several research centers and programs that focus on different aspects of science and culture. From environmental research to conservation, here are some of the programs and centers:

Smithsonian Environmental Research Center

The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center is dedicated to studying the impact of human activity on the world’s ecosystems. Its research focuses on a variety of topics, including climate change, habitat restoration, and invasive species.

Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute

The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute is a research center that focuses on conservation biology and learning how best to protect threatened species. The institute has a variety of research facilities, including a 3,200-acre research campus in Front Royal, Virginia.

Smithsonian Folklife Festival

The Smithsonian Folklife Festival is a yearly event that celebrates the traditions and cultures of various countries and regions from around the world. The festival began in 1967 and draws visitors from all over the world.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Smithsonian Museum

The Smithsonian Institution is a national research organization and a group of museums, galleries, and zoo that is commonly referred to as the Smithsonian. It is the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, and it is visited by millions of people every year. With its vast collection of artifacts, artworks, and exhibits, the Smithsonian has become one of the most famous museums in the world. Here are some frequently asked questions about the Smithsonian:

What is the Smithsonian?

The Smithsonian Institution is a group of museums, galleries, and a zoo that was established in 1846. It is a research organization and a group of diverse museums and galleries, cultural and educational programming, and scientific research that serves as a repository of national treasures, including the Star-Spangled Banner and the Hope Diamond.

What kind of museum is the Smithsonian?

The Smithsonian Institution is not just one museum, but a group of museums dedicated to preserving and presenting American history, art, science, and culture. The Smithsonian comprises 19 museums, nine research centers, and the National Zoo. Each of the museums has its own unique collections and exhibitions.

How many museums are in the Smithsonian?

The Smithsonian Institution consists of 19 museums and galleries, making it the largest museum complex in the world.

What are some of the popular museums in the Smithsonian?

Some of the most popular museums in the Smithsonian include:

• The National Museum of American History
• The National Museum of Natural History
• The Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery
• The National Air and Space Museum
• The National Museum of African American History and Culture

Are the Smithsonian Museums free?

Yes, all of the Smithsonian Museums are free to visit. The Smithsonian is a public institution and receives federal funding, which allows for free admission to all of the museums and galleries in the Smithsonian network.

How much time do I need to visit the Smithsonian?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as it depends on which museum you want to visit and how deep you want to delve into its collections. However, it is recommended that you plan a visit of at least an hour or two per museum.

Is photography allowed in the Smithsonian Museums?

Yes, photography is generally allowed in the Smithsonian Museums, but there might be some restrictions, especially in special exhibitions. Some museums may also prohibit the use of flash photography or tripods.

Are food and drinks allowed in the Smithsonian Museums?

Food and beverages are not permitted in the exhibition areas of the Smithsonian Museums, but there are designated areas for dining within some of the museums and galleries.

What can I expect to see at the Smithsonian?

You can expect to see a vast array of collections and exhibits at the Smithsonian, ranging from American history to space exploration, from art to science, and from cultural perspectives to natural wonders. The Smithsonian is a treasure trove of artifacts and interactive displays that is sure to appeal to visitors of all ages.

Can I purchase souvenirs from the Smithsonian Museums?

Yes, there are gift shops in all of the Smithsonian Museums where you can purchase a range of souvenirs such as books, museum guides, postcards, t-shirts, and many other items.

Does the Smithsonian have an app?

Yes, the Smithsonian Institution has a free mobile app that provides visitors with easy access to museum maps, hours, events, and tours. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices.In conclusion, the Smithsonian is a unique institution that offers a wealth of knowledge and history across a wide range of subjects. From the vast collections to the interactive exhibits and the impressive architecture, the Smithsonian is a must-see destination for anyone interested in learning about American culture, history, and science. With its free admission, there’s no reason not to visit and spend some time exploring the museum network.

How to Explore the Smithsonian Museums – A Step-by-Step Guide

If you are curious about American history, culture, art, or science, you might have heard of the Smithsonian. But what kind of museum is the Smithsonian, and how can you explore it? In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide to exploring the Smithsonian and its numerous museums.

Step 1: Discover the Smithsonian Institution

The Smithsonian Institution is a group of museums and research centers founded in 1846 “for the increase and diffusion of knowledge.” To get started exploring the Smithsonian, visit their official website at si.edu.On the website’s homepage, you will see a navigation bar at the top with the following sections: Visit, Explore, Learn, Support, and About. You can click on any of these sections to learn more about the Smithsonian and its museums.

Step 2: Choose the Smithsonian Museums You Want to Visit

At the Smithsonian Institution, you can find more than 20 museums and galleries, including the National Museum of American History, the National Air and Space Museum, and the National Museum of Natural History. Choose the ones you’re interested in and start exploring.On the Smithsonian’s website, you will find a complete list of all the museums available to visitors. You can click on the museum you’re interested in to learn more about its exhibitions, hours of operation, admission fees, and more.

Step 3: Check the Exhibition Time

Each museum has different exhibitions, and some might only be temporary, while others are permanent. Before you visit, check the museum’s official website to see what exhibitions are currently on display and if there are any upcoming temporary exhibitions.

Step 4: Plan Your Trip

Going to the Smithsonian Museums without any plan is not a good idea. To avoid getting overwhelmed, create an itinerary for your trip. Consider how long you want to spend in each museum, what exhibits you want to see, and when you want to take a break or have a meal.Remember that some of the museums inside the Smithsonian are vast and offer numerous exhibits. Therefore, it is wise to plan on visiting certain exhibits at certain times.Also, take note of the museum’s closing time so that you don’t end up missing significant exhibits.

Step 5: Know the Best Time to Visit

Some museums in the Smithsonian can receive a bevy of visitors, especially during peak visiting times. To avoid long lines and crowds, you can visit the museums during off-peak hours, which are weekdays and outside of the summer months.

Step 6: Get Tickets

While general admission to many Smithsonian museums is free, understanding the admission fee to specific exhibitions could save you a lot of waiting time at the museum. Some exhibits require tickets which come with admission fees, while others are free with the general admission ticket. It is best to purchase tickets in advance from the Smithsonian’s official website or by phone, as it saves you from standing in long queues.

Step 7: Explore the Smithsonian Museums

When you get to the Smithsonian museums, remember to take a map, stay hydrated, and wear comfortable shoes. When inside the museum, take your time exploring the exhibitions, and don’t be afraid to engage the staff and ask them questions about the exhibits.

Step 8: Takeaway

The Smithsonian Museum is an incredible place of knowledge, culture, and history. By following this step-by-step guide, you will be able to explore the Smithsonian Museum comfortably and without any fuss. Remember to get your tickets in advance, plan your visit and have a fantastic time exploring the numerous museums and exhibitions in the Smithsonian.