About Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
The Smithsonian's flagship natural history museum is one of the most-visited museums on Earth, with halls covering dinosaurs, oceans, mammals and human origins.
Founded in 1910, Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History has been welcoming visitors for over 116 years. Today it draws approximately 4,200,000 visitors annually, making it one of the most-visited natural history museums in the world. Located in Washington, United States, the museum holds a rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 47,000 traveller reviews, reflecting its enduring appeal to both first-time visitors and returning enthusiasts.
Why Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History ranks #15
Our editorial ranking blends data from TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice awards, AECOM/TEA annual attendance figures, and coverage in leading travel publications including Condé Nast Traveler, Time Out, National Geographic and The Times. Ranking at #15, Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is one of the fifty most acclaimed museums on our composite index — a destination that serious museum-goers and casual visitors alike should have on their list. Key recognitions include: AECOM Top 10, Free entry.
Must-see highlights
With a recommended visit time of 2–4 hours, planning your route through Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is essential. Here are the standout works and spaces that should be at the top of your list:
- ◆Hope Diamond
- ◆T. rex 'Nation's T. rex'
- ◆Hall of Human Origins
- ◆Sant Ocean Hall
- ◆Insect Zoo
- ◆African Elephant rotunda
Recognition & awards
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History has received recognition from multiple authoritative sources in the museum and travel industry:
Planning your visit
Opening hours: Daily 10:00–17:30. Free.
How long to spend: Most visitors recommend setting aside 2–4 hours for a thorough visit. If you are short on time, focus on the highlights listed above and consider purchasing a skip-the-line ticket to maximise your time inside.
Getting there: Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is located in Washington, United States at coordinates 38.8913°N, -77.0260°E. View on Google Maps →
Visitor tips: Given the size of this museum, comfortable shoes are essential. Consider splitting your visit across two days if your schedule allows. Check the official website for any temporary closures, special exhibitions and advance booking requirements.
History of Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History was established in 1910, making it a well-established institution with over a century of history. Over the centuries, it has grown from its original collection to become a major cultural landmark in Washington. With 4,200,000 annual visitors, it plays a vital role in United States's cultural tourism economy and stands as one of the most important natural history museums in the Americas region.
Other top natural history museums
If you enjoy natural history museums like Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, you may also want to explore these highly-ranked institutions in the same category:
- #16American Museum of Natural HistoryNew York, United States
- #17Natural History MuseumLondon, United Kingdom
- #44Field Museum of Natural HistoryChicago, United States
- #58Smithsonian National Zoo (& Conservation)Washington, United States
- #66Royal Ontario MuseumToronto, Canada
More museums in Washington
Washington is home to 7 museums on our editorial ranking. If you are visiting the city, consider combining your trip to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History with these nearby institutions:
- #27Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum🔬 Science & Industry
- #35United States Holocaust Memorial Museum🕯️ Memorial & Remembrance
- #37Smithsonian National Museum of American History🏛️ History & Civilization
- #38Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture🏛️ History & Civilization
- #58Smithsonian National Zoo (& Conservation)🦖 Natural History
- #61National Gallery of Art🖼️ Art & Encyclopedic
Frequently asked questions
What are the opening hours of Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History?
Daily 10:00–17:30. Free. We recommend checking the official website before your visit as hours may change on public holidays or during special events.
How long should I spend at Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History?
Most visitors recommend spending 2–4 hours for a comprehensive visit. If you are short on time, prioritise the must-see highlights listed above.
Where is Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History located?
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is located in Washington, United States. The exact coordinates are 38.8913°, -77.0260°. You can find directions via Google Maps.
What is Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History known for?
145 million specimens of Earth's natural heritage. Key highlights include Hope Diamond, T. rex 'Nation's T. rex', Hall of Human Origins. The museum holds a 4.7/5 rating from 47,000 reviews.
How many people visit Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History each year?
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History receives approximately 4,200,000 visitors per year, making it one of the most-visited museums in United States.
When was Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History founded?
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History was founded in 1910, making it 116 years old. It is categorised as a natural history museum in our directory.
