Visiting the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C.

Visiting Washington DC can be overwhelming to some. To others, it is truly fascinating. There are many sights to take in covering a range of topics from history and politics to art and culture. As the nation's capital, the city buzzes on a daily basis...not quite at the pace of New York City, but certainly faster than many other larger metropolitan areas. Washington DC draws in an international crowd, providing many tourists with days of sight-seeing opportunities and recreational adventures.

One of the largest sites available for people to explore and learn from is the Smithsonian Institute.  Nineteen museums and galleries, a zoo, and research facilities make up the Smithsonian Institute, with most of their buildings in Washington, DC in an area known as the National Mall. A handful of research facilities and galleries are situated elsewhere as satellite buildings. Their mission is "the increase and diffusion of knowledge," and their vision states that they are, "Shaping the future by preserving our heritage, discovering new knowledge, and sharing our resources with the world."

The Smithsonian Institute was funded by James Smithson, a British scientist, who made sure he left his estate to the United States. Smithson's requested that the Smithsonian be built in Washington DC. His mission was adopted and has never been changed.

James Smithson was the illegitimate son of a wealthy Englishman. When he died and left half a million dollars (1/66th of the US Budget) to the United States, many were baffled by his reasoning, especially since he had never set foot on American soil. Some people believe he did it because he was inspired by America's move to democracy. Others believe he did it because he was denied his father's legacy. Smithson never discussed his desires with anyone, leaving his intentions a mystery.

President Andrew Jackson, six years after James Smithson's passing, announced the bequest to the United States Congress.  On July 1, 1836, Congress acknowledged the bequested legacy.  On August 10, 1846, President James K. Polk signed an Act of Congress to name the Smithsonian Institute as a trust administered by a Board and a Secretary.  The current Board of Regents has 17 members who meet regularly to assure the Smithsonian Institute lives on.

The Smithsonian Institute, on the National Mall, is a place for all ages to enjoy their time in Washington DC. Even though most of the museums are centered around art, history, and culture, there are many sights that children will also be interested in learning about. The zoo is a definite must for children vacationing in Washington DC. There is a carousel near the Arts and Industries building. In some of the museums, such as the Air and Space Museum, have interactive computer screens that allow children to experience hands-on learning at the exhibits.

There is also an IMAX theater and planetarium for those who are looking for a break from walking around and looking at museum exhibits.

The best thing about visiting the Smithsonian museums is that they are all free. There are no museum entrance fees, so visiting more than one or two museums is very affordable. They are also within walking distance from each other around the Mall, allowing visitors to save on transportation costs as well. Most of the museums are open from 10:00am to 5:30pm. A visitor's center is located in the Smithsonian Institution Building, also known as the Castle.

Dining Options

There are many dining options in the Smithsonian Institution museums and galleries. The following buildings have cafés or restaurants in them:

• Smithsonian Castle
• National Air and Space Museum
• National Museum of American History
• National Museum of the American Indian
• National Museum of Natural History
• Reynolds Center
• National Zoo

In most cases, dining hours align with museum or exhibit hours in each of the buildings.