What’s New at the Smithsonian Museums?

The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, with 19 museums and galleries, the National Zoological Park, and numerous research facilities. Each year, millions of visitors come to the Smithsonian Museums located on the National Mall in Washington D.C. to explore their extensive collections and exhibits. With so many exhibits, collections, and programs, the Smithsonian Museums are constantly introducing new and exciting exhibits. Here is a breakdown of what’s new at the Smithsonian Museums in 2021.

National Museum of American History

The National Museum of American History is one of the most popular museums in the Smithsonian complex. The museum tells the story of America through its collections and exhibits, covering everything from the nation’s founding to the present day. One of the newest exhibits at the museum is “Girlhood (It’s complicated),” which explores the many experiences of girlhood in America. The exhibit showcases stories of girls from different backgrounds and diverse communities, highlighting the intersections of class, race, ethnicity, and sexuality.Another exhibit that opened in 2020 is “Creating Icons: How We Remember Woman Suffrage,” which explores how the women’s suffrage movement has been remembered and commemorated through the years.

National Museum of African American History and Culture

The newest museum in the Smithsonian complex, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, opened its doors to the public on September 24, 2016. The museum explores the rich history, culture, and contributions of African Americans in the United States.One of the newest exhibits at the museum is “Reckoning: Protest. Defiance. Resilience.”, which examines the intersection of social justice movements and American democracy. The exhibit examines the history of protest and resistance in America, from the Civil War to today.

National Air and Space Museum

The National Air and Space Museum is one of the most visited museums in the United States, attracting over 7 million visitors annually. The museum houses the largest collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft in the world.One of the newest exhibits at the museum is “Moonshot: Inside Apollo 11,” which tells the story of the landmark Apollo 11 mission to the moon. The exhibit features artifacts, archival footage, and interactive displays, allowing visitors to experience the mission in a more immersive and interactive way.

National Museum of Natural History

The National Museum of Natural History is the most visited natural history museum in the world, with over 6 million visitors annually. The museum’s exhibits showcase the diversity of life on Earth, from dinosaurs to the oceans to the human body.One of the newest exhibits at the museum is “Fossil Hall: Deep Time,” which opened in 2019 after a 5-year renovation. The exhibit features over 700 specimens, including a Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton and a giant squid, showcasing the history of life on Earth.

National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery is located in the historic Old Patent Office Building and houses a collection of portraits of notable Americans. The museum features everything from presidents and first ladies to artists, writers, and musicians.One of the newest exhibits at the museum is “Her Story: A Century of Women Writers,” which features portraits of women writers over the last century, including Toni Morrison, Sandra Cisneros, and Marianne Moore.

National Museum of the American Indian

The National Museum of the American Indian explores the diversity of Native American cultures and history. The museum’s collections include over 800,000 objects and span over 12,000 years of history.One of the newest exhibits at the museum is “Americans,” which reflects on the American identity and how it has been shaped by migration and immigration. The exhibit highlights the voices of many Native people, recent immigrants, and other Americans in shaping an American identity.

What is new at the Smithsonian museums?

Are you planning to visit the Smithsonian museums any time soon? If so, you’re in for a treat! The Smithsonian museums, located throughout Washington D.C., have plenty to offer visitors of all ages. But what’s new at the Smithsonian museums? To help you plan your visit, we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about the newest additions to the Smithsonian museums.

What is the newest Smithsonian museum?

The newest Smithsonian museum is the National Museum of African American History and Culture. It opened on September 24, 2016, and has quickly become one of the most popular museums in the country. The museum tells the story of African Americans through their history, culture, and contributions to American life. The museum is located on the National Mall, near the Washington Monument.

What are some of the latest exhibits at the Smithsonian museums?

There are several new exhibits that have recently opened at the Smithsonian museums. Here are just a few:-‘Fossil Hall’ at the National Museum of Natural History: This exhibit features one of the largest dinosaur exhibits in the world, with over 700 specimens on display. It also includes interactive displays and a 31,000-pound Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton.-‘Creating Icons: How We Remember Woman Suffrage’ at the National Museum of American History: This exhibit tells the story of the woman’s suffrage movement and how it has been remembered over time.-‘Watching Oprah: The Oprah Winfrey Show and American Culture’ at the National Museum of African American History and Culture: This exhibit explores the impact that Oprah Winfrey and her show have had on American culture.

Are there any new events or programs at the Smithsonian museums?

Yes, there are always new events and programs happening at the Smithsonian museums! Here are a few examples:-‘Latin Sounds’ at the National Museum of American History: This concert series highlights Latin American music and its influence on American culture.-‘Smithsonian Sleepovers’ at the National Museum of Natural History: This program allows families to spend the night in the museum and participate in fun activities, such as scavenger hunts and behind-the-scenes tours.-‘LGBTQ+ Programming’ at the National Museum of American History: The museum offers a variety of programs throughout the year that focus on LGBTQ+ history and culture.

Are there any renovations or new buildings at the Smithsonian museums?

Yes, there are several renovations and new buildings in the works at the Smithsonian museums. Here are a few examples:-The National Air and Space Museum is currently undergoing a multi-year renovation that will include new exhibits, interactive displays, and improved visitor amenities.-The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden is planning a major renovation that will include a new entrance, improved galleries, and expanded outdoor spaces.-The Smithsonian is also planning to build a new National Museum of the American Latino on the National Mall.

What is the best way to plan a visit to the Smithsonian museums?

The Smithsonian museums are free to visit, but tickets are required for some special exhibits and events. You can check the Smithsonian website for more information on current exhibits and programs.The best way to plan your visit is to decide which museums and exhibits you want to see, and then plan your itinerary accordingly. Since the museums are located throughout the city, it’s a good idea to group them by location and plan your visits accordingly.Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as you may need to walk between museums. And don’t forget to bring a camera and plenty of energy, as there’s always something new and exciting to see at the Smithsonian museums!In conclusion, the Smithsonian museums are always adding new exhibits, events, and programs to their already impressive collection. Whether you’re interested in history, art, science, or culture, there’s something for everyone at the Smithsonian museums. Plan your visit today and discover what’s new!

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to the Smithsonian Museums?

The Smithsonian Museums in Washington DC are some of the most iconic and informative museums in the world. With over 19 museums and galleries to choose from, it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors to decide which ones to visit and how to make the most of their experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make the most of your visit to the Smithsonian Museums.

Step 1: Plan Your Visit Ahead of Time

Before visiting the museums, it’s crucial to plan your visit ahead of time. The Smithsonian Institution website has detailed information on each museum, including hours of operation, location, and suggested itineraries. Take some time to research which museums align with your interests and how much time you want to spend there.

Step 2: Reserve Your Free Admission

All Smithsonian Museums offer free admission, but certain exhibits may require tickets. It’s best to reserve your free admission online ahead of time to avoid long lines. You can reserve up to six free tickets per order.

Step 3: Create an Itinerary

Now that you know which museums you want to visit and have reserved your admission, it’s time to create an itinerary. This will help ensure you have enough time to see everything you want to see. Start by estimating how much time you want to spend in each museum and what exhibits you don’t want to miss. According to the Smithsonian, it takes approximately two hours to visit each museum without seeing everything, so plan accordingly.

Step 4: Check Exhibition Schedules

Some exhibits may have limited hours or be closed on certain days, so it’s important to check the exhibition schedules before arriving. You can find this information on the Smithsonian website or by calling the museum directly.

Step 5: Arrive Early

To avoid crowds, it’s best to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays. The museums are open every day except for Christmas Day, and they typically open at 10 am.

Step 6: Bring a Map and Comfortable Shoes

The Smithsonian Museums are massive, and it’s easy to get lost. Bring a map or download the museum’s mobile app to help navigate. Additionally, some museums offer free tours, so be sure to check the schedule. Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.

Step 7: Check Out the Highlights

Each museum has its own set of highlights, but here are a few must-see exhibits:

• National Museum of Natural History: The Hope Diamond and Butterfly Pavilion
• National Air and Space Museum: Wright Brothers Flyer and Apollo Lunar Landing Module
• National Museum of American History: Star-Spangled Banner and First Ladies’ Inaugural Gowns
• National Museum of African American History and Culture: Slavery and Freedom and the Emmett Till memorial

Step 8: Take Breaks

Visiting the museums can be exhausting, so be sure to take breaks. Each museum has a food court or café where you can grab a snack or lunch. Some museums also have seating areas where you can rest your feet.

Step 9: Don’t Rush

Finally, don’t rush. The museums are packed with information, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Take your time and absorb everything you see. If you don’t get to see everything, don’t worry. You can always come back and see more during your next visit. In conclusion, visiting the Smithsonian Museums can be an incredible experience, but it’s essential to plan ahead, arrive early, and take your time. Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to making the most of your visit to the Smithsonian Museums.