Journey through time in American Stories

Preserve America's agricultural heritage

Share your story in our
online archive

Changing America

From the Emancipation Proclamation to the March on Washington

What will you find on a visit to the Museum?

Watch a welcome video

Teachers, find resources for your classroom on
Smithsonian’s History Explorer

Plan Your Visit

Hours Today: 10:00 am - 5:30 pm
Open every day except Dec. 25
Admission: Free
Maps & Guides
Directions

Events & Programs

Innoskate
Join a celebration of invention and creativity in skate culture through demonstrations, hands-on activities, discussions, and films. June 21-22.
Hands-on carts
Get your hands on history at one of our interactive carts. Activities include operating a cotton gin, peeking through a stereoscope, experiencing what it felt like to wear a corset, using a press to print a card, and copying a letter the way Jefferson did. Daily at the Museum.
Historic Theater Programs
Train for a civil rights demonstration, learn how the Star-Spangled Banner was made, or meet scientist Joseph Henry. Programs offered daily.

This Day In History

June 19, 1964

Today in 1964: The Civil Rights Act is passed by the Senate, outlawing discrimination and segregation in voting, education, and public facilities.

Exhibitions

America on the Move

FOOD: Transforming the American Table 1950–2000

I Want the Wide American Earth: An Asian Pacific American Story

Investigate history with The 39 Clues

Are you or someone you know a fan of The 39 Clues? Watch a webcast with Day of Doom author David Baldacci as he investigates history mysteries behind the scenes at the Museum. Or while visiting, test your clue-hunting skills like Amy and Dan Cahill with our downloadable 39 Clues self-guide.