Washington, DC is home to dozens of museums, each full of interesting and educational exhibits and displays on various topics. There are a number of museums that are a must-see for your family getaway to Washington, DC.
Washington, DC's most popular museums are featured in the Smithsonian Institution. The Smithsonian Institution is comprised of eighteen museums as well as the national zoo, and altogether these museums feature more than 142 million artifacts and objects. Admission to each Smithsonian museum in Washington is free. The best place to begin a tour of any of the Smithsonian museums is at the Smithsonian Institution Information Center, located in a historic building known more commonly as The Castle. Here you can get more information about the various museums before you begin exploring.
One of the most popular Smithsonian museums for families is the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. This museums takes a look at the world around us by examining evolution, the history of the oceans, the impact man has made on the planet and more. You will find fossils, ancient tools, artwork, and even live insects in the Insect Zoo.
The Days Gone By Museum just outside of Washington, DC transports you back in time to the early colonial days. You will see authentic carpenters' tools, antique tractors, and other restored and authentic items from days long gone. This museum is open from March through late October. Tours are available by appointed only.
You can also enjoy a look back in time at the Daughters of the American Revolution Museum. Here, you can view artifacts dating back to the 17th through the 19th centuries. The oldest item in the collection is a beaded bag that belonged to the wife of a Revolutionary War soldier, and the collection continues with quilts, clothing, toys, artwork, and more. Notable items include a pair of Dolly Madison's earrings, Thomas Jefferson's personal items, a China from George Washington. A visit to this museum is a great way to look back in time.
A family favorite in Washington, DC is the International Spy Museum. This is the world's only museum that is devoted to the art and history of espionage. You can explore a vast collection of espionage artifacts, photos, interactive displays, and audio-visual presentations. You'll also see more than 200 spy gadgets including bugs, cameras ans vehicles that have actually been used in espionage work.
Your family will love exploring these and the many other museums in the Washington, DC area on your vacation!
