Smithsonian National Museum of American History
Washington D.C. · United States · Founded 1964
Home to the original Star-Spangled Banner, Abraham Lincoln's top hat, and three million objects that tell the story of America. Free entry.
About Smithsonian National Museum of American History
Opened in 1964, the National Museum of American History holds some of the most iconic objects in the United States — from the flag that inspired the national anthem to pop culture artefacts, military history, and Julia Child's kitchen. It is a museum of things rather than fine art, and that makes it one of the most immediate and engaging museums in the country.
Major galleries cover American democracy, the history of war, innovation, entertainment, food, and sport. The museum underwent significant renovation and continues to update its galleries to reflect the full, diverse story of the United States.
Collections & Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions
A small ask before you go
You've just explored one of humanity's greatest collections of beauty. Art has the power to move us, inspire us, and change how we see the world. But millions of people will never see beauty like this — not because the art isn't there, but because they can't see at all.
Preventable blindness, caused by conditions like cataracts and trachoma, affects people of all ages across the world's poorest communities. A small gift — for the cost of a museum ticket — can provide a simple surgery to restore someone's sight and transform their life.