National Museum of American History
Smithsonian National Museum of American History
The national history museum displaying the original Star-Spangled Banner that inspired the national anthem, Dorothy's ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz, and Julia Child's kitchen.
One of the Smithsonian museums, it tells American history through everyday objects. Its treasure is the giant flag that flew over Fort McHenry in 1814 and inspired the national anthem, displayed in a climate-controlled dark room. Other exhibits include first ladies' gowns, Lincoln's top hat, the Greensboro lunch counter, the ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz, and galleries on transportation and science. Admission is free and no reservation is needed. It is next to the Natural History Museum, so the two can be visited on the same day.
Opening hours
10:00–17:30 (closed Dec 25)
Nearby sights
- National Museum of African American History and Culture
- Freer Gallery of Art
- National Museum of Natural History
- United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
- Washington Monument
- Ford's Theatre
- National Archives Museum
- International Spy Museum