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National Museum of the American Indian

Fourth Street & Independence Ave

10am-5:30 Daily except Christmas

$

indoor-activities, museums

Educational Exhibits for All Ages at the National Museum of the American Indian in DC 

The National Museum of the American Indian has been my personal Smithsonian favorite for years. After visiting I always leave there somehow spiritually refreshed.  It has something for all ages.

There are multiple changing exhibits, many offering interactive displays. After entering the museum you are met with tranquil music and an open circular area with a soaring four-story ceiling.  We like to spend a few minutes sitting on the smooth marble bench, walk (or crawl) around the circle before heading to the 4th floor to the Lelawi Theater to watch the film Who We Are which is totally appropriate for toddlers as well as teens.

The theater exits into the Universe exhibit. There we like to sit in the dark to watch and listen to different Native American stories about how the constellations came to be. Both the 4th and 3rd floor have "window on" collections of assorted articles, pottery weaving, toys, clothing, and sports equipment.

The third floor also boasts the imagiNATION children's education area (closed Mondays).  They offer crafts, a library, teepee, kayak, an interactive game, and animal sounds as well as a gorgeous view of the Capital. Level 2 hosts an extensive gift shop. 

On Level 1 the Mitsitam Cafe offers native cuisine from 5 diverse regions of the Americas as well as some kid-friendly options, not economical but quite tasty. The dining area is lovely with large windows looking out into the courtyard. I often bring my own picnic for the kids and eat in the dining room. There is also a coffee bar on the first floor for lighter fare as well as a small gift shop. An outside area is also a wonderful place for a picnic, and though there are no tables, there is a curved wall perfect for sitting (or walking along) and some amazing water features.

It's a "must visit" place where you might leave with a newfound sense of peace as well as admiration for the American Indian Tribes. Of course you could spend days exploring all the museums on the National Mall after your visit at the National Museum of the American Indian, but if you're done with museums for the day then Hains Point Playground is a good place to get any remaining energy out. Shake Shack at the wharf is also pretty close if you're looking for a milkshake afterwards. 

Features

Restrooms Good for All Ages Changing Table Admission Free Has Food
Thoughtfully captured by:
The happyly team

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