Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
From dinosaur exhibits to displays of rare gems, this acclaimed museum celebrates the natural world.
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is rated 4.8 / 5 from 58,583 Google reviews and sits about 3.3 km (41 min walk) from Arlington Cemetery station.
General overview
About Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History explores the natural world through collections and exhibitions on dinosaurs, human origins, oceans, mammals, gems, minerals, insects, and cultures. Admission is free, but timed-entry passes may be required or strongly recommended. The information below is based on general training knowledge and has not been live-verified.
- Dinosaur and fossil halls, including the famous Tyrannosaurus rex specimen
- David H. Koch Hall of Fossils—Deep Time
- Hall of Human Origins
- Sant Ocean Hall
- Hope Diamond and other gems and minerals in the National Gem Collection
- Butterflies and other live or interactive experiences, depending on the current exhibition schedule
- One of the largest natural-history research collections in the world
Things to do here
David H. Koch Hall of Fossils—Deep Time
A chronological journey through hundreds of millions of years of life on Earth, featuring fossils and reconstructed environments.
Dinosaur exhibits
See dinosaur fossils and related displays, including the museum’s iconic T. rex specimen and other prehistoric animals.
Hall of Human Origins
Exhibits examine human evolution, ancient relatives, migration, adaptation, and what it means to be human.
Sant Ocean Hall
Large-scale marine specimens and multimedia displays explore ocean life, ecosystems, exploration, and conservation.
National Gem and Mineral Collection
Includes the Hope Diamond, gemstones, minerals, and the spectacular Dom Pedro aquamarine.
Kenneth E. Behring Family Hall of Mammals
Displays mammals from around the world and explains adaptation, evolution, and ecological relationships.
Butterflies + Plants: Partners in Evolution
A seasonal live-butterfly experience may be available for an additional fee; availability and pricing can vary.
Insect Zoo
An area devoted to living insects and arthropods, subject to exhibit availability and operational schedules.
Use Metro or other public transportation when possible; the museum is on the National Mall and parking is limited. Allow time for security screening and entry queues. The Constitution Avenue entrance is a common visitor entrance.
Obtain a free timed-entry pass in advance if the museum requires one. Reserve special exhibitions or live-animal experiences separately when offered.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
See it before you go
Most asked
How to reach
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is about 3.3 km (~41 min walk) from Arlington Cemetery station on the Washington Metro.
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
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Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History from Arlington Cemetery station?
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is about 3288 m (roughly 41 min walk) from Arlington Cemetery station on the Washington Metro. Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History rated?
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History has a Google rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 58,583 reviews.
What's near Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Lincoln Memorial, Filomena Ristorante, National Mall.
Is Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking, wheelchair-accessible restroom, wheelchair-accessible seating.
Is there parking near Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History?
Google lists these parking options near Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History: paid parking lot, free street parking, paid street parking.
Is Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History good for children?
Yes — Google lists Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History as good for children.
Is the National Museum of Natural History free?
General admission has traditionally been free. Timed-entry reservations and special experiences may have separate requirements or charges.
Do I need a ticket?
A free timed-entry pass may be required or strongly recommended, especially during busy periods. Check the official visit page before going.
How long should I spend there?
Plan at least 2–4 hours for the major galleries. Families and visitors interested in fossils, gems, or human evolution may want most of a day.
Can I see the Hope Diamond?
Yes. It is displayed in the National Gem and Mineral Collection, although gallery layouts and objects can occasionally change.
Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes. It is one of Washington’s most family-friendly museums, with dinosaurs, animals, interactive exhibits, and engaging displays for different ages.
Can I bring a stroller?
Strollers are generally permitted, but access may be managed in crowded galleries or during special programs.
Where is the museum?
It is on the National Mall at 10th Street and Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20560.
Is parking available?
There is no general dedicated museum parking. Public transit, walking, or rideshare is usually more practical than driving.
Can I bring food?
Food-service options are generally available, but eating and drinking are usually restricted to designated areas. Confirm current rules with staff.
Are the hours and ticket rules guaranteed?
No. None of the details in this response are live-verified. Prices, hours, reservation requirements, exhibit availability, and policies may have changed and should be confirmed on the official website before relying on them.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 23, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.