Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

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Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Address

600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560, USA

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Phone +1 202-633-2214

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The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum maintains the largest collection of historic air and spacecraft in the world. The museum features 22 exhibition galleries, displaying hundreds of artifacts including the original Wright 1903 Flyer, the "Spirit of St. Louis," and Neil Armstrong's Apollo 11 spacesuit. It is the most visited museum in the world and appeals to all ages. Many of the exhibits are interactive and great for kids. 

The Museum completed an extensive renovation of its main hall, “Milestones of Flight” in 2016. The expanded exhibition traces the interconnected stories of the world’s most significant aircraft and spacecraft. The square footage of the exhibition was enlarged, and the displays take full advantage of the atrium’s two-story height. New icons on display include the huge Apollo Lunar Module, John Glenn’s Mercury "Friendship 7" capsule and SpaceShipOne.

The entire museum is undergoing an multi-year renovation and currently around half the museum is closed to visitors.

Getting to the Air and Space Museum

The museum is located on the National Mall. The entrance is at 655 Jefferson Drive, SW, between 4th and 7th streets on the National Mall.
Phone: (202) 633-2214.

The easiest way to get to the Mall is by public transportation. The closest Metro stations are Smithsonian and L'Enfant Plaza. 

Museum Hours: Open daily except December 25. Regular hours are 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

What to See and Do at the Museum

The National Air and Space Museum continues to develop new exhibits on the history, science, and technology of aviation and space flight including several flight simulator rides. The museum is a center for research and provides guided tours, educational programs, and school group activities. The museum also offers grab and go dining with options like sandwiches, salads, hot dogs, and more.

Visiting Tips

• This is one of the busiest Washington DC museums. Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
• There's a companion facility, the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia. This museum can be easier to get to from the suburbs and is usually not as crowded as the Mall location.
• Official Website: www.nasm.si.edu

Attractions Near the Air and Space Museum

• National Museum of the American Indian
• Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
• National Gallery of Art
• U.S. Botanic Garden
• U.S. Capitol Building