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Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
A family looks out over Henry the elephant in the rotunda of the museum.

Discover the

Natural World

We're on the National Mall 10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW Washington, D.C. 20560
Free admission. Open every day from 10 AM to 5:30 PM, except December 25.

Plan your visit
David H. Koch Hall of Fossils now open
Group Visit School Visit
A female paleontologist works in the field while being photographed.
NMNH After Hours

Film, Dec. 16: The Bearded Lady Project

Join us for a free screening followed by a Q&A discussion exploring art as social commentary and the journey of women in paleontology.
Reserve Your Seat

Featured Exhibitions

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An illustration of a Pteranodon with fossil shadow on a yellow background.
FIRST FLOOR | EXHIBIT

David H. Koch Hall of Fossils - Deep Time
Scanning electron microscope image of MERS
Second Floor | Temporary Exhibit

Outbreak: Epidemics in a Connected World
a large piece of blue lapis lazuli
Second Floor | Temporary Exhibit

Objects of Wonder
Woman using cell phone in museum exhibition.

Deep Time Audio Description App

Using the accessibility features and settings on your own device, you can read or listen to visual descriptions of the new David H. Koch Hall of Fossils integrated with exhibit content.
Get Details on Exhibit Page
Two children put their hands on a mural at the Museum.

Today at the Museum

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10:00 am
Exhibition Interpreters
10:15 am
Butterfly Pavilion
11:30 am
Live Tarantula Feedings
A blue and black Blue Morpho butterfly and two red, orange, and black monarch butterflies
Visitor Favorite

Butterfly Pavilion

Stroll amid live butterflies and exotic plants in this tropical oasis.
Get Tickets

Understanding the Natural World and Our Place In It

Two children explore collections items in the Museum.
Education
Explore the World of Paleobiology
Research & Collections
A view of the gems and minerals exhibits.
Exhibits

Delve into the fascinating story of our planet, from its fiery beginnings through billions of years of transformation, and explore life on Earth through exhibitions and activities, collection objects and research that happens in the lab and in the field.

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