This museum has drawn huge crowds ever since its addition to the Mall in 2016. The museum is 400,000 square feet, so visitors can spend hours learning more about African American history. The four stories above street level represent only half of the museum. Four below-grade floors provide a sprawling chronological journey of the moments and events that have shaped African American history. Guests can also use the museum's online collection to search through the scores of artifacts, from Zora Neale Hurston's commencement gown to some of Will Calhoun's drums. Admission is free, but visitors must reserve timed-entry passes.
Washington DC is a city of museums. Locals and visitors alike have a world of knowledge and beauty, all within a small footprint. The museums in DC house everything from Instagrammable modern art installations to mighty dinosaurs to iconic works of art and even the original Starship Enterprise.
With the wide variety of museums, there's something in DC to please every visitor. Most of the iconic museums are all within walking distance of the Smithsonian Metro exit – but some of the real beauties lie off the beaten path.
DC has dozens of museums and galleries nestled in neighborhoods across the city, so a museum crawl can feel more like a museum marathon. You'll find fabulous museums near Chinatown, Judiciary Square, Dupont Circle, and even up the scenic, hilly streets of Georgetown. Touring these far-flung exhibits can be the perfect way to explore different parts of the District.
With so many options to explore, our list of the best museums in DC higlights some of the best educational and entertaining experiences and attractions that the nation's capital has to offer. After all that walking and learning, refuel at one of the best restaurants in Washington DC.
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