Washington D.C is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, and with good reason. When you visit the capital city of the United States, you’ll want to take advantage of all it has to offer, and one way to do that is by visiting its many museums, both large and small.
From classic art and science museums to unique historical and cultural institutions, there’s always something interesting and exciting going on in the city, no matter your interests or hobbies. Here are the 10 Best Museums in Washington D.C you must visit.
1. National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art is one of the most visited museums in the world, and for good reason. With a collection that includes works by some of the most famous artists in history, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The museum is also home to several rotating exhibitions, so there’s always something new to see. If you’re visiting Washington D.C., be sure to add the National Gallery of Art to your list of must-see attractions.
2. Air and Space Museum
If you’re interested in space and aviation, the Air and Space Museum is a must-visit. With exhibits on the Wright brothers, the history of flight, and the Apollo program, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget to check out the IMAX theater for a truly immersive experience.
It doesn’t matter if you have kids or not; this museum has something for everyone. There are plenty of educational programs and fun hands-on activities that are perfect for all ages. Don’t miss it!
3. National Museum of Natural History
One of the most renowned museums in Washington D.C. is the National Museum of Natural History. It is also one of the largest museums in the world, with over 126 million specimens and objects on display.
The museum has exhibitions on dinosaurs, animals, plants, and human cultures from around the world. It also has a beautiful butterfly garden where you can see live butterflies up close.
The museum is located on the National Mall and is easily accessible by public transportation. It is free to enter, making it a great option for budget-minded travelers.
4. National Portrait Gallery
If you’re interested in the history of the United States, then you need to visit the National Portrait Gallery.
This museum houses portraits of all the former presidents, as well as other important historical figures. The collection is constantly rotating, so there’s always something new to see. And, best of all, admission is free!
5. Renwick Gallery
If you’re a fan of American art, the Renwick Gallery is a must-see. Located just a few blocks from the White House, this museum features a range of works from 19th and 20th-century artists.
Highlights include an extensive collection of quilts, paintings by Mary Cassatt, and sculptures by Augustus Saint-Gaudens. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore – there’s a lot to see!
6. Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
The Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum is one of the most unique and interesting best museums in Washington D.C. It’s dedicated to the history and evolution of design, from furniture to fashion and everything in between.
The museum has an extensive collection of both historic and contemporary pieces, making it a must-see for any design lover. In addition to the permanent collection, the museum also hosts rotating exhibitions that are always worth checking out.
The museum is located in the beautiful Andrew Carnegie Mansion on Fifth Avenue, making it a perfect spot for a day of exploring New York City’s famous Museum Mile.
7. Smithsonian American Art Museum
No trip to D.C. is complete without a visit to the Smithsonian American Art Museum. With over 7,000 works of art on display, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From paintings and sculptures to photographs and installations, the museum has something for everyone.
Plus, the best museums in Washington D.C. is always free, so you can come back again and again to explore all the different exhibits. If you’re looking for something to do with kids, then head over to the Kids Connect exhibit where they’ll have plenty of activities and hands-on games that are perfect for children ages three through eight.
And if you’re an artist yourself, then this is also the place to be! There are regular demonstrations as well as workshops that show aspiring artists how they can express themselves through art.
8. Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
One of the best museums in D.C. is the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden. The museum is dedicated to contemporary and modern art and has a collection of over 13,000 pieces from artists like Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, and Andy Warhol.
The sculpture garden is also a must-see, with over 60 different sculptures on display. Trust us, this museum is worth a visit!
9. National Museum of African Art
A trip to D.C. is not complete without a visit to the National Museum of African Art. This world-renowned museum is home to a vast collection of African art, ranging from ancient sculptures to modern paintings.
With so much to see, you could easily spend an entire day here exploring all the different galleries. Trust us, it’s worth the visit!
10. Freer Gallery of Art
The Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M Sackler Gallery are must-sees when you’re in town. These museums are home to some of the world’s most renowned art collections, and they offer a glimpse into different cultures from around the globe. If you only have time for one museum, make it these two!
