Little explorers. Big discoveries.

Hands-on words, living things and a museum full of questions for your next family day.

Choose nearby stops and confirm opening hours, timed passes and admission before setting out. Food, parking and special exhibitions may cost extra.

A local discovery

Archival location photograph

DOWNTOWN & PENN QUARTER · FAMILYFree admission · suggested donation $15

Planet Word

Play with language in a museum made for curious minds.

Mon/Wed–Fri 10am–5pm · weekends 10am–6pm

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A local discovery

Archival location photograph

NATIONAL MALL · FAMILYFree admission

National Museum of Natural History

Let fossils, gems and the natural world lead your next family afternoon.

Daily 10am–5:30pm

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A local discovery

Archival location photograph

NATIONAL MALL · FAMILYFree admission · timed pass required

National Air and Space Museum

Trade an ordinary afternoon for aircraft, spacecraft and big questions.

Daily 10am–5:30pm

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A local discovery

Archival location photograph

GEORGETOWN & NORTHWEST · FAMILYFree admission · timed pass required

Smithsonian National Zoo

Turn a day outside into a wildlife discovery.

Fall/winter 8am–4pm · last entry 3pm

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A local discovery

Archival location photograph

CAPITOL HILL & NORTHEAST · OUTDOORSFree admission

U.S. Botanic Garden

Swap city streets for a warm conservatory and a world of plants.

Conservatory daily 10am–5pm

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A local discovery

Venue photograph

NATIONAL MALL · FAMILYFree admission

National Museum of American History

Follow everyday objects into the stories behind the nation.

Daily 10am–5:30pm

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Updated November 1, 2026. Check dates and prices before making plans.