Smithsonian National Museum of American History | What to See + Visitor Tips (2026)

The Smithsonian National Museum of American History tells the complex history of the United States. Museum topics include American Culture, African American History, September 11, World War I, Food History, Infectious Disease History, and Latino History.

Museum highlights include the original flag that inspired Francis Scott Key to write the U.S. National Anthem. The First Ladies of America exhibit, which showcases the Presidential Inaugural Balls gowns worn by former U.S. First Ladies. And Dorothy’s red slippers from The Wizard of Oz.

Check out the complete list of museum topics and current exhibitions.

➡️Check out National Museum of American History: Guided

What to See Inside: Must-Visit Exhibits

With over 1.7 million objects in its collection, the National Museum of American History can feel overwhelming at first but don’t worry, I have narrowed it down to the exhibits you truly shouldn’t miss.

Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers from the Wizard of Oz

In the 1939 film classic The Wizard of Oz, 16-year-old Dorothy Gale (played by actress Judy Garland) famously stated, “There’s no place like home.” The National Museum of American History is home to Dorothy’s infamous ruby red slippers.

In the original book by L. Frank Baum, Dorothy’s magic slippers are silver. However, they were changed to ruby red in the 1939 Technicolor movie to show up more vividly against the yellow brick road.

The First Ladies China Collection

The National Museum of American History is home to the White House Entertainment collection. Hundreds of ceremonial, social, and political events take place at the White House each year.

Starting with Mary Todd Lincoln in 1861, each First Lady has chosen their own White House China. Check out the First Ladies China collection (below) and the White House Entertainment collection (online)!

First Lady Inaugural Gowns

For more than 100 years, the First Ladies Collection has been one of the most popular attractions at the Smithsonian.  It features gowns worn by First Ladies at their husband’s Presidential Inaugural Ball.

The collection includes gowns from First Ladies of times gone by, including Dolley Madison, Lucy Hayes, Frances Cleveland, Edith Wilson, Grace Coolidge, and Jacqueline Kennedy.

It also includes gowns from more recent First Ladies, including Nancy Reagan, Barbara Bush, Hillary Clinton, Laura Bush, Michelle Obama, and Melania Trump. Check out the below pictures!

Melania’s gown looks so plain on the hanger, but it was so beautiful on her.

There was no Inaugural Ball in 2021 due to Covid, so Jill Biden’s dress was short and had a matching mask.

Other National Museum of American History Exhibits

Where to Eat Inside the Museum

The National Museum of American History offers two on-site dining options that go beyond basic museum fare.

Eat at America’s Table

Eat at America’s Table serves traditional culinary dishes from our nation’s kitchens. This includes cheese and charcuterie, classic American sandwiches, great American barbecue and grill favorites (burgers, hot dogs, pulled pork sandwiches etc)

It also serves cooking inspired by Tex-Mex and Native-American traditions. In addition, the café also offers classic salads made fresh with seasonal inspiration. Guests will find freshly brewed coffee as well as wine, beer, and other bottled beverages. All desserts are made in house.

Eat at America’s Table Cafe is Open Daily from11:00am-4:00pm. It is located on the Ground Floor.

Jazz Café

The Jazz Café serves light lunch, specialty coffee, cold drinks, and delicious pastry.

The Jazz Café is Open Daily from11:00am-4:00pm. It is located on the 1st Floor.

Visitor Packing Guide: Permitted & Prohibited Items

Before heading out, make sure you’re packed appropriately as some everyday items aren’t allowed inside. Use this quick guide to know what you can and can’t bring into the museum:

Insider Tips for Visiting the National Museum of American History

Make the most of your visit with these quick tips:

• Pack Light: All visitors pass through metal detectors. Fewer bags = faster entry. Large groups should leave bags on buses when possible.
• Dress for Comfort: Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers. You’ll be walking and moving between temperature-controlled galleries.
• Wi-Fi Access: Connect to the SI-VISITOR network. Just open a browser and accept the terms.
• Food & Drink Rules: Water bottles are allowed. Sealed snacks can be carried but must be eaten in designated areas.
• Photography: Allowed in most areas but no photos in the Star-Spangled Banner gallery. Leave tripods, selfie sticks, and monopods at home.
• Wheelchairs: Free non-motorized wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Ask a security officer when you arrive.
• Use Escalators When Possible: Elevators are prioritized for visitors with disabilities and families with strollers. No strollers on escalators.
• Museum Maps: Download or print the floor plan ahead of time. Maps are also posted throughout the building.
• First Aid: In case of emergency, notify the nearest security officer immediately.

Where to Shop

Looking to bring a piece of history home with you? The Smithsonian National Museum of American History offers three museum stores, each with its own focus and flair. Here’s a quick guide:

Store Name	Location	Highlights
Main Museum Store	1 Center (First Floor)	The largest store (6,000 sq. ft.). Shop books, museum-inspired apparel, personalized leather bracelets, home goods, jewelry, and socks!
Mall Museum Store	2 Center (Mall Entrance)	Perfect for quick stops. Grab a souvenir, fun accessory, stylish jewelry, or even a quick snack.
Entertainment Nation Pop-Up Shop	3 West (Inside Exhibit)	Shop tees, totes, mugs, socks, and charms from your favorite shows, movies, and sports. Don’t miss their book: Entertainment Nation!

How to Visit the National Museum of American History

Public Transportation:
The easiest way to get there is by Metrorail.

• Federal Triangle and Smithsonian Stations (Blue, Orange, Silver lines) are closest.
• Every Metro station has elevators; most have escalators.
• Taxis and rideshares are also convenient and avoid parking stress.

Parking:

• No public museum parking.
• Limited 3-hour metered parking is available along Madison Dr and Jefferson Dr.
• Accessible parking is available with a valid permit.
• Reserve nearby garage spots in advance via ParkWhiz.

Bicycle Parking:
Bike racks are available on both the Constitution Avenue and Madison Drive sides of the building.

Bus Drop-Off:
Bus drop-offs are on Madison Drive (Mall side). No bus parking is provided.

Where to Stay Near the Museum

If you’re visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture, you’ll want to stay somewhere central, close to the National Mall and other Smithsonian museums. These hotel options place you right in the heart of D.C., with something for every budget.

Budget Accommodation – Motto by Hilton Washington D.C. City Center

For an affordable yet stylish stay just blocks from the National Mall, Motto by Hilton is a top pick. Rooms are compact but modern, and there’s a trendy rooftop bar with city views. Guests love the walkable location and easy Metro access.

Mid-Range Accommodation – Hotel Hive

Hotel Hive blends artistic design with budget-friendly comfort. Located near the Lincoln Memorial and Foggy Bottom, this micro-hotel is perfect for explorers who want a hip and cozy base without overspending. Great pizza downstairs and a buzzing rooftop bar add to the charm.

Luxury Accommodation – Willard InterContinental Washington D.C.

For timeless luxury and historic charm, the Willard InterContinental is unmatched. Just a short stroll from the museum and a block from the White House, this legendary hotel offers elegant rooms and a rich history, including hosting Martin Luther King Jr. and countless presidents.

FAQs: Smithsonian National Museum of American History

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding “Smithsonian National Museum of American History” along with my answers.

How big is the museum?

The museum features approximately 300,000 square feet of public exhibition space across three floors. It houses roughly 1.7 million objects in its collection.

Does the museum offer sensory-friendly visits?

Yes! The museum participates in Access Smithsonian’s Morning at the Museum, providing quiet, sensory-friendly early hours on select weekends. Advance registration is required.

How do I bring a large group or school class?

No advance registration is required for groups. If you’re visiting with 10 or more people, email NMAHGroupInfo@si.edu with your group’s name, size, visit date, and expected arrival time. For children under 18, one adult can chaperone up to five kids.

Final Thoughts

I have spent hours inside the Smithsonian National Museum of American History and I always walk away with a deeper appreciation for the stories that shaped the United States. It’s not just the big names and famous events, it’s the everyday objects, personal artifacts, and surprising exhibits that bring American history to life.

Whether you’re here for the First Ladies’ gowns, the original Star-Spangled Banner, or just a fun stop on your D.C. itinerary, this museum delivers. And with free admission, great food options, and plenty of engaging exhibits, it’s one of the most rewarding stops in the city.

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