Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
District of Columbia
The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History (NMNH), located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., is the world's largest natural history museum. Established in 1910, it houses over 146 million specimens including plants, animals, fossils, minerals, meteorites, and cultural artifacts. The museum spans 1.5 million square feet with 325,000 square feet dedicated to exhibitions and public spaces. It serves as a hub for scientific research with approximately 185 dedicated natural history scientists. The Neoclassical building, designed by Hornblower & Marshall, was the first constructed on the north side of the National Mall as part of the McMillan Commission plan. Visitors can explore a vast array of exhibits showcasing Earth's biodiversity, human origins, and natural phenomena. The museum offers free admission and is open nearly year-round, attracting millions of visitors annually. Its blend of scientific importance, cultural heritage, and accessible public displays makes it a uniquely enriching destination for all ages.
Planen Sie Ihre Reise nach Vereinigte Staaten mit KI
Erstellen Sie in wenigen Minuten einen detaillierten Reiseplan. KI schlägt die besten Orte, Restaurants und eine optimierte Route vor.
Tipp: Plan your visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons. Admission is free, but consider reserving timed entry tickets online in advance for popular exhibits. The museum offers discounts for students, seniors, and military personnel. Don't miss the interactive exhibits and seasonal special events. Allocate several hours to fully explore the extensive collections and research displays.
Interessante Fakten
- •The museum houses over 146 million specimens, making it the largest natural history collection worldwide.
- •It employs about 185 professional natural history scientists, the largest group dedicated to natural and cultural history globally.
- •The building was the first constructed on the north side of the National Mall under the McMillan Commission plan in 1901.
- •The museum receives over 3 million visitors annually, reflecting its global significance and popularity.
- •A major $20 million donation in 1997 significantly modernized the museum's facilities and exhibits.
Geschichte
The United States National Museum was founded in 1846 and initially housed in the Smithsonian Castle.
Due to growing collections, a dedicated building was authorized in 1902 and designed by the architectural firm Hornblower & Marshall.
The National Museum of Natural History building opened to the public in 1910 and was fully completed in 1911, costing $3.5 million.
It was the first structure on the north side of the National Mall as part of the 1901 McMillan Commission plan.
Over the years, the museum expanded its scientific staff and collections, receiving significant donations such as a $20 million modernization gift in 1997.
Leadership changes from 1981 to 2003 included notable directors who guided the museum's growth and research focus.
OrtsfĂĽhrer
Hall of Geology, Gems, and Minerals
This hall showcases an extensive collection of minerals, gems, and meteorites, highlighting Earth's geological diversity and beauty.
Hall of Human Origins
Explores the story of human evolution with fossils, artifacts, and interactive exhibits explaining our ancestral past.
Hall of Mammals
Displays a wide variety of mammal species from around the world, including life-sized dioramas illustrating their natural habitats.
Ocean Hall
Dedicated to marine life, this hall features specimens ranging from tiny plankton to massive whales, emphasizing ocean biodiversity.
Butterfly Pavilion
An interactive space where visitors can observe live butterflies in a tropical environment, learning about their life cycles and habitats.
Kontakt
Telefon: (202) 633-1000
