If you’re a history buff or just someone who loves art and culture, Washington DC is the perfect destination for you. The bustling city boasts numerous museums that feature unique contemporary sculptures, marvelous paintings, thousands of artifacts, and a variety of archival materials. Read more about the best museums in Washington DC!
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The 8 Best Museums In Washington DC
The Museum Of African American History
This is the only national museum devoted to documenting African American culture and history. Some of the highlights are a jacket donated by a Soul Train dancer, a photograph of the crowd in the Reflection Pool, and images of the Women’s March. A must-visit!
Address: 1400 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560, United States
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Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Located in National Mall, this stunning museum is home to collections that reveal the history of the planet. Visitors can learn more about African elephants, view skeletons of different animals, discover the global influence of Africa’s communities, and see the breathtaking model of a 52-foot-long shark.
Address: 10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560, United States
National Building Museum
If you want to learn more about the built environment and the impact of architecture and design, head to the National Building Museum. Moreover, the museum is located inside the historic Pension Building and contains the magnificent Great Hall and its eight colossal Corinthian columns. The permanent collection shows the building process, architectural styles, and construction techniques.
Address: 401 F St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States
National Air and Space Museum
The National Air and Space Museum has over 60,000 artifacts and a variety of archival materials. For example, there’s a 1903 Wright Flyer, the Apollo 11 Command Module Columbia, spacesuits, and photographs that document the history of flight.
Address: 600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560, United States
International Spy Museum
International Spy Museum boasts a collection of espionage artifacts and offers visitors a chance to go on an undercover mission with a variety of digital interactives. Have a look at the tree stump listening device, a shoe with a heel transmitter, and the George Washington spy letter.
Address: 700 L’Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States
Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden
Hirshhorn is devoted to exhibiting works of modern and contemporary art. Discover talented artists of the 21st century and enjoy groundbreaking exhibitions. Furthermore, the Sculpture Garden is known for its incredible outdoor galleries, unique sculptures, and a number of contemporary works.
Address: Independence Ave SW &, 7th St SW, Washington, DC 20560, United States
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Smithsonian American Art Museum
This Smithsonian museum has one of the largest collections of American art. There are stunning pieces made by artists like Georgia O’Keeffe, John Singleton Copley, and Winslow Homer. The collection features Latino art, African American art, modern folk, self-taught art, early American art, contemporary art, and more!
Address: G Street Northwest &, 8th St NW, Washington, DC 20004, United States
The National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery aims to portray people who shape the history, development, and culture of the United States. View portraits of influential figures like Frida Kahlo, Abraham Lincon, Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, and others. Visitors are also invited to explore museums’ wide-ranging exhibitions.
Address: 8th St NW & G St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States
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FAQ
What is the #1 site visited in Washington DC?
National Mall.
Which Smithsonian Museum is the most popular?
National Museum of Natural History.
What are the best museums in Washington DC?
The Museum Of African American History;
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History;
National Building Museum;
National Air and Space Museum;
International Spy Museum;
Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden;
Smithsonian American Art Museum;
The National Portrait Gallery.
What else to visit in Washington DC?
National Museum of African Art;
Washington National Cathedral;
Arlington National Cemetery;
The White House;
Capitol Hill;
The Kennedy Center;
Ford’s Theater.
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