The Most Popular Smithsonian Museum, Ranked

Choose the Smithsonian Museum you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 24, 2024 07:05
Many visitors to the nation's capital are faced with the delightful challenge of choosing which museums to visit among the various offerings. While each one provides a unique glimpse into different spheres of knowledge, determining the crowd favorites can enhance the visitation experience, ensuring time is well-spent at exhibits that captivate a wide audience. We provide a dynamic list where your opinions help shape the ongoing rankings of these esteemed institutions. By participating, you contribute to a community-sourced guide that aids future museum-goers in making informed decisions. Your vote matters in highlighting the top museums, helping to spotlight where public interest and intrigue soar the highest.

What Is the Most Popular Smithsonian Museum?

  1. 1
    47
    votes

    National Air and Space Museum

    Dedicated to the history and technology of aviation and spaceflight, as well as planetary science and terrestrial geology and geophysics.
    • Annual Visitors: Over 7 million
    • Opened: 1976
  2. 2
    31
    votes

    National Museum of Natural History

    Features exhibits on the natural world, including the famous Hope Diamond and the Hall of Dinosaurs.
    • Annual Visitors: Over 6 million
    • Opened: 1910
  3. 3
    29
    votes

    National Museum of American History

    Dedicated to all aspects of U.S. history, culture, and science, it houses many national treasures, including the Star-Spangled Banner.
    • Annual Visitors: Over 4 million
    • Opened: 1964
  4. 4
    19
    votes

    National Portrait Gallery

    Features portraits of people who have made significant contributions to American history and culture.
    • Annual Visitors: Not specified
    • Opened: 1968
  5. 5
    8
    votes

    National Postal Museum

    Dedicated to the history of the American postal system and its role in the development of the nation.
    • Annual Visitors: Not specified
    • Opened: 1993
  6. 6
    7
    votes

    National Museum of African American History and Culture

    The newest Smithsonian museum, it explores the life, history, and culture of African Americans.
    • Annual Visitors: Over 2 million
    • Opened: 2016
  7. 7
    7
    votes

    Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

    Focuses on contemporary and modern art, featuring works by Picasso, Matisse, and Moore.
    • Annual Visitors: Not specified
    • Opened: 1974
  8. 8
    5
    votes

    Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery

    The Smithsonian's museums of Asian art, featuring artifacts from Japan, China, Korea, South and Southeast Asia, and the Near East.
    • Annual Visitors: Not specified
    • Opened: Freer in 1923, Sackler in 1987
  9. 9
    3
    votes

    National Museum of the American Indian

    Dedicated to the life, languages, literature, history, and arts of the Native Americans of the Western Hemisphere.
    • Annual Visitors: Not specified
    • Opened: 2004
  10. 10
    0
    votes

    Smithsonian American Art Museum

    Home to one of the largest and most inclusive collections of American art in the world.
    • Annual Visitors: Not specified
    • Opened: 1829

Missing your favorite Smithsonian Museum?

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular Smithsonian Museum. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Museum is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1917 views
  • 156 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Museum once every 24 hours. The rank of each Museum is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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Additional Information

More about the Most Popular Smithsonian Museum

National Air and Space Museum
Rank #1 for the most popular Smithsonian Museum: National Air and Space Museum (Source)
The Smithsonian Institution is a group of museums and research centers. It is based in Washington, D.C. and was founded in 1846. The museums are free to visit. They attract millions of visitors each year. The Institution's goal is to increase knowledge.

One museum stands out as the most popular. It draws countless visitors. This museum houses many famous artifacts. People come from all over the world to see them. The exhibits cover a wide range of topics. They include history, culture, and science. The museum offers something for everyone.

The museum's collection is vast. It includes items from different periods. Visitors can see ancient artifacts and modern pieces. The museum also has interactive exhibits. These engage visitors of all ages. They make learning fun and memorable.

The museum is also known for its educational programs. It offers tours, workshops, and lectures. These programs are designed for different age groups. They provide deeper insights into the exhibits. The museum also collaborates with schools. It helps teachers create lesson plans. This makes learning more effective and enjoyable.

The museum's architecture is notable. The building itself is a work of art. It blends old and new styles. The design enhances the visitor experience. It makes the museum a landmark in the city.

The museum also has a strong online presence. Its website offers virtual tours and online exhibits. This allows people to explore the museum from anywhere. The online resources are extensive. They include articles, videos, and interactive features. This makes the museum accessible to a global audience.

The museum's staff are experts in their fields. They work hard to maintain the exhibits. They also conduct research. Their findings contribute to the museum's knowledge base. The staff are also involved in public outreach. They engage with the community through various programs.

The museum's popularity is due to its diverse offerings. It appeals to a wide audience. Families, students, and tourists all find something to enjoy. The museum's commitment to education and accessibility sets it apart. It continues to be a top destination for visitors.

In summary, this Smithsonian Museum is a must-visit. It offers a rich and varied experience. Its exhibits, programs, and architecture make it unique. The museum's dedication to knowledge and education is evident. It remains a favorite among visitors from around the world.

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