Two of Washington, D.C.’s Must-See Museums

Our nation's capital is home to some the most visited museums and attractions in the world. Take advantage of D.C.'s diverse cultural scene with a visit to these fascinating museums, which are two of the city's very best.

Smithsonian Museum of Natural History
Marvel at more than 126 million natural science specimens and cultural artifacts at The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. Some of the must-see attractions include the Hope Diamond, an incredibly old, mummified cat, and the Neanderthal exhibit. Take a journey through the past at this fine American institution and see with your own eyes why it's the most visited natural history museum in the world.

International Spy Museum
Since 2002, the International Spy Museum has engaged the public with the largest collection of international espionage artifacts ever to be on display. Attempt to stay as stealthy as a spy when you participate in the exhibits and learn the important role of espionage throughout history.

Public Domain/Public Domain

Traveling on a Budget? Check Out These Kid-Friendly Attractions in Washington, D.C.!

Washington, D.C.'s Smithsonian Institution provides some of the most visited museums in the world, and they cover a wide variety of topics to suit any person's interests. Their vast collections have something for everyone, including the kids! Here are two of the best kid-friendly attractions in our nation's capital. Bonus: Both offer free admission!

Smithsonian National Zoological Park
Also known as the National Zoo, the Smithsonian National Zoological Park is home to more than 400 species of animals. They offer daily tours and interactive exhibits just about every day out of the year. Stop by the Asia Trail to see the famous giant pandas, clouded leopards, and sloth bears. Go on safari through the African Savanna exhibit to find cheetahs, Cape buffalo, black rhinos, and more. The National Zoo is dedicated to providing a fun learning experience for everyone who visits, so admission is always free!

Smithsonian Museum of Natural History
See for yourself why the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History is the most visited natural history museum in the world. The kids will never grow tired of the more than 126 million natural science specimens and cultural artifacts. Enjoy a guided tour that will take you back in time, or set your gaze upon the world famous Hope Diamond. The little ones will love to walk among mummies and grow their minds with one of the richest collections of historical artifacts in the world. The museum is open 364 days a year, and admission is free of charge.

Three of the Country’s Most Unique Museums

Who says you have to leave the country to find a truly fascinating, unique museum? These impressive American museums offer plenty of wonder, and you won’t even have to dig out your passport to visit them.

Mutter Museum
One of the country’s only museums devoted entirely to medical history, the Mutter Museum in Philadelphia is a great choice for anyone interested in anatomy or the history of the healthcare field. This cabinet-style museum features preserved anatomical specimens, models, and medical instruments so that viewers might ponder the human body’s mysteries and the wonders of medical treatment. 

Museum of Osteology
Oklahoma City’s Museum of Osteology is a sprawling 7,000 square foot museum showcasing skeletons from creatures all over the world. A unique educational experience that aims to show visitors the form and function of each unique creature, this museum also features exhibits with themes like locomotion, diversity and adaptation. 

Burlingame Museum of Pez Memorabilia
Full of over 900 pieces of Pez memorabilia, this California museum is dedicated to the fun, whimsical novelty behind the popular candy. If you’re a collector yourself, the museum also has a gift shop full of new, vintage and imported Pez dispensers to add to your own collection.

Herndon Historical Society: Local History

Chances are you haven't noticed the Herndon Historical Society. An unassuming train depot in the middle of the downtown area, the building actually houses a collection of artifacts about the city’s history. Founded in 1971, its aim is to bring together those interested in history and those who want to find out more about the Herndon area. In it, you’ll find glassware and furniture displays, dress and hat collections, U.S.S. Central America ship artifacts, and many train collectibles. In addition to housing invaluable items, the museum is a part of the Historic Homes Registry, which invites Herndon residents to tour historic houses and buildings. The museum holds five meetings a year, free and open to the public, in January, May, and September beginning at 7:30 p.m. These meetings feature guest speakers, including authors, journalists, and historians. The museum is open every Sunday from noon until 3 p.m. Check the website for details.

Herndon Historical Society
717 Lynn Street
Herndon, VA 20170
(703) 437-6366

National Sporting Library and Museum: A One-of-a-Kind Archive

Housed in two beautiful and historic buildings, the National Sporting Library and Museum is completely dedicated to the culture of equestrian and field sports. The Library has been open to researchers and the general public for over 50 years, but the Museum is an exciting new addition! There are over 24,000 books and works of art here dedicated to the histories of angling, foxhunting, horsemanship, and steeplechase. Museum exhibitions focus on one particular artist, theme, or time period, like Afield in America: 400 Years of Animal & Sporting Art 1585-1985. There are special events and lectures as well, including a children’s program and even interviews with trainers of Kentucky Derby winners. Admission is free, though the museum and library have different hours of operation, so check the website ahead of time if you want to visit both. Anyone interested in this unique subculture should definitely check out the National Sporting Library and Museum.

National Sporting Library and Museum
102 The Plains Road
Middleburg, VA 20117
(540) 687-6542     

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