National Air and Space Museum
Air & Space Museum - Boeing Milestones of Flight Hall courtesy of washington.org
The Washington D.C installation of the National Air and Space Museum is a popular offshoot of the Smithsonian, an Independence Avenue gem here in D.C since 1976. This museum, oftentimes referred to as NASM, is known to be the ‘largest collection of historical aircraft and spacecraft in the world’. The facility works to document the history of aviation and space exploration in an educational and entertaining manner, which it does nicely through various displays of vehicles and other artifacts. Inside you and your group will see ‘thousands of objects on display, including the 1903 Wright Flyer, Charles Lindbergh Spirit of St. Louis, Apollo II Command Module, and an even a lunar rock that you can touch.’ (NASM).
Inside you will also find various exhibit galleries, the Albert Einstein Planetarium, the Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater, and the Public Observatory on the East Terrace. There are daily tours and educational activities that are suited for both kids and adults here, as well as regularly scheduled lectures and events such as Family Days and Star-Gazing Parties. The best thing about this place? It’s free!
Take the Metrorail or Metrobus if possible to avoid long walks once here and head to the Welcome Center in the South Lobby to get more info before or after your visit. If you get hungry during your visit head over to Wright Place Food Court, serving Boston Market, Donatos Pizzeria, and McDonald's. You can also opt for a picnic lunch on the National Mall for a really scenic view, or skip out on lunch altogether and head over to the Museum Store to pick up your aviation and space mementos and gifts!
