Best Museums & Art Galleries in Washington, United States

1. National Museum of American History

Explore the rich history of America, from the First Ladies' gowns to the Star-Spangled Banner.

Rich Collection: Houses one of the largest collections in the U.S., representing over 3 million objects
Interactive Exhibits: Engaging, hands-on experiences that make history come alive for visitors
Educational Programs: Offers a variety of educational programs for all ages, including workshops and lectures

Enjoy world-class art collections from the Middle Ages to contemporary works.

Impressive Architecture: Features two stunning buildings, East and West Building, both architectural masterpieces
Rotating Exhibitions: Offers a variety of rotating exhibitions throughout the year, featuring various art movements
Free Admission: Admission is always free to the public, making it accessible for everyone

Discover art from Asia, Africa, the Americas, and the ancient world.

Unique Collection: Houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Asian art in the Western Hemisphere
Educational Resources: Provides educational resources, including publications and online content
Guided Tours: Offers guided tours for groups and individuals to help visitors better understand the collection

Pay tribute to America's heroes at this hallowed ground.

Historic Gravesites: Final resting place of numerous U.S. presidents, soldiers, and veterans
Changing of the Guard: Daily ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a poignant experience
Educational Programs: Provides educational programs, including guided tours and lectures

Explore the rich history and culture of African Americans, from slavery to present-day successes.

Powerful Exhibits: Features powerful exhibits that tell the story of African American history and culture
Community Engagement: Engages with the community through education programs, workshops, and events
Cutting-edge Research: Conducts cutting-edge research to expand knowledge of African American history and culture

Explore the wonders of the natural world, from dinosaur fossils to exotic gems.

Impressive Collections: Houses one of the largest collections in the world, with over 145 million specimens
Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages
Scientific Research: Conducts scientific research to further our understanding of the natural world

Step back in time and explore the opulent estate of Marjorie Merriweather Post.

Elegant Interiors: Features stunning, fully furnished rooms adorned with ornate art and antiques
Extensive Gardens: Boasts beautiful gardens designed by renowned landscape architects
Russian Art Collections: Houses one of the largest collections of Russian imperial art outside Russia

Experience a unique collection of modern and contemporary art in a historic mansion.

Intimate Setting: Housed in a beautiful, restored mansion, creating an intimate viewing experience
Significant Collections: Features significant works by artists such as Renoir, Monet, and van Gogh
Educational Programs: Offers educational programs, including lectures and workshops

Discover contemporary and modern art in a unique circular building.

Iconic Architecture: Features an iconic, cylindrical building designed by architect Gordon Bunshaft
Rotating Exhibitions: Offers rotating exhibitions of contemporary and modern art
Sculpture Garden: Features a beautiful sculpture garden with works by renowned artists

Explore the stories of America's presidents, first ladies, and cultural icons.

Diverse Portraits: Features a diverse collection of portraits of famous Americans
Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits that engage visitors in the stories of the portrayed individuals
Educational Programs: Provides educational programs, including lectures and workshops

Discover the beauty of Asian art in two interconnected museums.

Two Museums: Features two interconnected museums, Freer and Sackler, housing a diverse collection
Unique Collections: Houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Asian art in the Western Hemisphere
Educational Programs: Provides educational programs, including lectures and workshops

Explore the art of the ancient world, Asia, and the Near East.

Impressive Collection: Features an impressive collection of art from the ancient world, Asia, and the Near East
Educational Resources: Provides educational resources, including publications and online content
Guided Tours: Offers guided tours for groups and individuals to help visitors better understand the collection

Experience world-class performances in music, dance, and theater at this iconic arts center.

World-Class Performances: Hosts a wide variety of world-class performances in music, dance, and theater
Iconic Architecture: Features iconic architecture designed by architect Edward Durrell Stone
Educational Programs: Offers educational programs, including workshops and masterclasses for aspiring artists

Explore the history, culture, and art of Native Americans from across the continent.

Cultural Sensitivity: Emphasizes cultural sensitivity in its exhibits and programming
Rotating Exhibitions: Offers rotating exhibitions that highlight different Native American cultures
Community Engagement: Engages with the Native American community through education programs, workshops, and events

Explore a diverse collection of American art from the colonial period to the present day.

Diverse Collection: Features a diverse collection of American art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts
Rotating Exhibitions: Offers rotating exhibitions that highlight different aspects of American art history
Educational Programs: Provides educational programs, including lectures and workshops for all ages