One can only imagine the exhilaration that Neil Armstrong felt as he took the very first steps on the moon in 1969; or the incredible thrill that the Wright brother’s experienced as they took that first flight in 1903. At the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, you can get an idea of how they felt when you see first-hand the original Wright 1903 Flyer, and the Apollo 11 Command Module which carried astronauts Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins and Buzz Aldrin on their mission to the moon. These historic air and spacecrafts are among a collection of more than 30,000 artifacts at the Air and Space Museum. 23 different galleries feature amazing items related to the history of aviation and space flight throughout the world. 'Milestones of Flight', 'Pioneers of Flight', 'Aviation in WWII' and 'Space Race' are some of the exhibits that fascinate visitors to the museum. From planes and space modules to flight simulators, interactive exhibits, the Albert Einstein planetarium and an IMAX theater, the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum educates and entertains guests of every age. Guided tours are also available as well as a three-level museum shop and food court.

The Museum of the American Indian is the newest among the Smithsonian Museums in Washington DC and is the only museum solely dedicated to the history, study and preservation of the American Indians. You’ll be instantly captivated by its masterful architecture. The curved limestone building appears to be a natural rock formation facing towards the sun and is surrounded by acres of authentic crops of the American Indian. Its very design stands out among the many granite and marble neoclassical structures in the National Mall. Once inside, you’ll be treated to an up-close look at the life, languages, history, art and traditions of the Native Americans. Through live performances and hands-on demonstrations their heritage and culture comes to life. Concerts, tours, lectures, craft demonstrations and special programs are also held at the museum throughout the year. And when you get hungry, sample the culinary delights of the Native Americans at the Mitsitam Native Foods Café. Since the Museum opened in 2004, it has rapidly become one of the most visited spots in DC.

The founder of the Hirschhorn Gallery and Sculpture Garden, Joseph Hirschhorn, left an impressive legacy of art and inspiration to the American People. He had an immense passion for art. So much so that at one time he had more than 6,000 pieces in his collection housed at several private locations. It was Hirschhorn’s adoration for the arts that inspired a new museum of art in Washington DC in the late 1960’s. The Hirschhorn Gallery and Sculpture Garden opened its doors in 1974, featuring Joseph Hirschhorn’s personal collection of paintings and sculpture, which he generously donated so that all of the American people could enjoy it as much as he did. Today, visitors can see marvelous works of International contemporary and modern art including a glorious sculpture garden modeled after Hirschhorn’s own at his Connecticut estate. Each year, thousands of people are in awe as they walk the galleries at the Hirschhorn and enjoy the lectures, tours, films and various other special events that make this museum a treasured Washington DC experience.

Approximate Time to Allow: 2 to 3 hours

No matter what time of year it is, the lush greenery and gorgeous plants are always thriving at the United States Botanic Garden. Located just next door to the Museum of the American Indian at the foot of the Capitol, the Botanic Garden is an oasis of beautiful plant life and flowers and home to 4,000 living species. The conservatory houses exhibits that focus on the importance of plants to people, and on the ecology and evolution of plants. Stroll through the many rooms both inside and outside, the colors, sights and even sounds of the gardens will delight and amaze you. Among the different rooms are
The Jungle, filled with palms, ferns and vines, the Orchid Room, a meditation garden, primeval garden and more. There’s also a special garden just for children. Tours are available on certain days, just stop by the front desk when you arrive.