Top tip for kids, you might want to make your first stop the first-floor Discovery Room, which is filled with creative hands-on exhibits “for children of all ages.” Every now and then, the hall comes alive with animal sounds, all part of exhibit wizardry that helps make this a lifelike experience.
I had an awesome time at the Natural History museum… Two words: Giant Squid.I definitely appreciated the bottom level, which mainly dealt with Dinosaurs and other creatures accredited to be from the Palaeolithic, Cretaceous, and Jurassic era’s; however, I have to admit, being a person that loves Astronomy and the natural world, the top level with all the moon rocks, asteroid pieces, and precious gem’s was my favorite part.
I have not been here since they reopened it and they did a great job. The building is perfect for the topic with is wonderful architecture. Love the modernizations of the displays as well. Of course as a kid growing up in Washington DC this was one my favorite places to go. I remember how big the elephant seemed as a child and still have that experience of wonder today. Of course they did not have a iMax theater and hope to see it next time I visit.
My favorite museum ever! I’ve been to at least five, this place had great food, awesome exhibits, the gems and minerals were fantastic to look at and fits my interests. Although the dinosaur exhibit was empty, almost, the other things like mammals and insects were great! I recommend you to visit, and its absolutely FREE!
About 15 years ago I paid my first visit to the Smithsonian Natural history museum; at that time the museum seemed to be fading from glory – filled with dioramas from the 70’s and some impressive artifacts that sadly lacked much context. I finally went back the winter, and found that the museum has totally updated, almost to the point I didn’t recognize it. The artifacts are still impressive, but the old dioramas are gone, and now the items themselves are set up to tell a story. I was blown away – and if you are haven’t been to the museum in a while, you might find it’s changed enough that it will be a whole new experience for you.
The elephant in the middle of the entranceway is iconic. They have a good mix of new and old exhibits, so it’s never boring to explore. The collection is extensive and spans everything from butterflies to diamonds to evolution. Of course during the summer/tourist season it is insanely crowded