Natural History Museum Exhibition Interpreters/Navigators
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Museum volunteer interpreters welcome visitors, answer questions, and help visitors navigate exhibitions. Interpreters may be stationed in several of the following exhibitions at various times throughout the day, subject to interpreter availability:
The David H. Koch Hall of Human Origins: What Does It Mean To Be Human?
, The Sant Ocean Hall
, Janet Annenberg Hooker Hall of Geology, Gems, and Minerals
, Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Life.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: Various exhibitions; ask at the museum's info desks for today's locations and schedules. Continues: Repeats most days.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013.
Orientation Film: Who We Are
Ongoing Tours & Activities
This unique, 13-minute, multimedia presentation transports visitors to the Arctic, the Northwest Coast, and the plateaus of Bolivia to reveal the diversity of contemporary Native life and to introduce themes and messages encountered throughout the museum.
Year-Round:
• Most days: Throughout the day; check at the museum's Welcome Desk for schedule
Note
- Hand-held translation devices are available in French, German, Japanese, and Spanish from staff who introduce the program.
Categories: Films. Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: Lelawi Theater, 4th Level. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013.
IMAX Films and Planetarium Shows
Ongoing Activities
At the Natural History Museum, the Air and Space Museum on the Mall, and its Udvar-Hazy Center, enjoy IMAX films related to that museum's collections and research. IMAX is the ultimate film experience; specially designed screens that are several stories high produce some of the most stunning visual images recorded.
At the Air and Space Museum on the Mall, you can also enjoy planetarium shows that give the sensation of zooming through the cosmos, enveloped in color-saturated moving images and spine-tingling sound.
Categories: Films. Kids & Families. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center. Natural History Museum. Event Location: Respective museum's IMAX Theater and Air and Space's Einstein Planetarium. Cost: See Purchase Tickets link. Purchase Tickets: http://www.si.edu/imax.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013.
For more info visit www.si.edu. Self-Guided Tour: Let’s Move! with Smithsonian Gardens
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Explore Smithsonian Gardens through this scavenger hunt. Discover garden treasures while learning how gardening promotes healthy living. Follow directions found in the brochure or on signs in the gardens to text answers to the challenges or send us pictures of your exploration.
Part of First Lady Michelle Obama’s "Let’s Move! Museums and Gardens" initiative to educate families and communities about childhood fitness and healthy diet choices.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Kids & Families. Event Location: Smithsonian Gardens. Cost: Free; brochure available at most museum information desks or click here to download. Continues: Daily through October.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013.
For more info visit www.gardens.si.edu. Smithsonian Tours by Segway
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Experience a fun and unique way to learn about the Smithsonian, the National Mall, and the rich history of Washington, D.C. Short on time? Ask about our 1.5 hour tour.
Note: Riders must be 16 years of age or older and weigh between 100 and 260 pounds. Safety is our top priority; therefore, a product orientation is provided and a helmet must be worn for the entire duration of the tour.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Event Location: American History Museum, Mall Entrance. Cost: $79.00 per person
Groups can be accommodated and group rates are available
Call 202-384-8516 for questions and pricing. Purchase Tickets: http://www.segway.com/smithsoniantours/. Continues: Daily.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
For more info visit www.segway.com. (Re)Searching an American Slave Ship
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) This program will highlight the history and people that lived the experience of the Middle Passage and explore the research that the Smithsonian is currently doing in recovering these stories. Visitors will interact with facilitators in a hands-on environment of early 19th century American maritime material culture—specifically, the material culture that helped anti-slavers identify slave carrying ships—and connect this with the stories of those people who would have lived this experience. Additionally, the cart will showcase the research that curators at the museum are doing, connecting the stories and tactics used by 19th century anti-slavers to the very similar methods employed by Smithsonian researchers to find slave ships today.
June, July, August 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays at 10:00, 12:30, and 3:00 , No programs July 4 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: On the Water, 1 East. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM.
For more info visit youtu.be. Ride Simulators
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Ride Simulators: (ride approximately 5 min.)
Take an exciting virtual trip on board one of four simulators. Experience the thrill of careening through an action-packed roller-coaster course or racing in futuristic high-speed hovercars. Choose your adventure: Cosmic Race, Bermuda Triangle, Solar Coaster, Grand Prix Raceway, Astro Canyon, or Glacier Run.
Note: Simulator accommodates up to 8 people per ride. Children must be 42 inches tall unless riding with an adult.
Year-Round:
, Daily: Open same hours as museum.
Categories: Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Lower Level, across from the Stars and Stripes Cafe. Cost: Tickets always available for purchase at the entrance to the simulator gallery and may also be available at either Welcome desk.
Admission Per Ride
- $7.00 per person
Payment Options:
- Cash, VISA, and MasterCard.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:00 AM.
Flight Simulators: Fly or Ride!
Ongoing Activities
Ride Simulators: (approximately 5 min.)
Take an exciting virtual trip on board one of two simulators. Choose your adventure: Ride aboard the Space Shuttle to the International Space Station or experience the thrill of a flight in both vintage and jet-age aircraft. Note: Ride Simulators accommodate up to 8 people per ride. For safety reasons, children must be 42 inches tall unless accompanied by an adult.
, Interactive Flight Simulators: (approximately 6 min.)
Try to become a jet combat "ace" -- in an F-4 Phantom II -- as you pilot the simulator into 360-degree barrel rolls. Choose either pilot or gunner responsibilities. Note: Interactive Flight Simulators accommodates 1 to 2 people per ride. For safety reasons, children must be 48 inches tall.
Year-Round , Daily: Open same hours as museum.
Categories: Kids & Families. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: West Wing, Gallery 103, Simulator Gallery. Cost: Tickets can be purchased at the Box Office or at the Simulator Gallery.
Admission Per Ride:
- Ride Simulator: $7.00 per person
- Interactive Flight Simulator: $8.00 per person
- Add a Simulator: $1.00 off with the purchase of an IMAX Theater or Planetarium ticket
- Groups: Discounts available; ask at the Box Office or at the Flight Simulators
- For reservations, call 202-633-4629 or 1-866-868-7774 (toll-free)
Payment Options
- At Simulators: Cash, VISA, or MasterCard
- At IMAX and…
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:00 AM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Flight Simulators: SpaceWalk or Wings
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Ride Simulators: (approximately 5 min.)
Take an exciting virtual trip on board one of three ride simulators. Choose your adventure: Take a 3-D journey aboard the Space Shuttle to the International Space Station or experience the thrill of a flight in both vintage and jet-age aircraft. Note: Ride Simulators accommodate up to 8 people per ride. For safety reasons, children must be 42 inches tall unless accompanied by an adult.
, Interactive Flight Simulators: (approximately 6 min.)
Try to become a jet combat "ace" -- in one of two F-4 Phantom II interactive flight simulators -- as you pilot your aircraft into 360-degree barrel rolls. Choose either pilot or gunner responsibilities. Note: Interactive Flight Simulators accommodates 1 to 2 people per ride. For safety reasons, children must be 48 inches tall.
Year-Round: , Daily: Open same hours as museum.
Categories: Kids & Families. Venue: Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center. Event Location: Main Level, near the simulators. Cost: Tickets can be purchased at the Box Office or at the Simulator Gallery.
Admission Per Ride:
- Ride Simulator: $7.00 per person
- Interactive Flight Simulator: $8.00 per person
- Add a Simulator: $1.00 off with the purchase of an IMAX Theater ticket
- Groups: Discounts available; ask at the Box Office or at the Flight Simulators
- For reservations, call 202-633-4629 or 1-866-868-7774 (toll-free)
Payment Options:
- At Simulator: Cash, VISA, or MasterCard
- At Box Office: Cash or major…
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:00 AM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. imagiNATIONS Activity Center
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Play an interactive skateboarding video game inspired by the sport’s popularity among Native youth. Test yourself at an interactive quiz show about Native American history and culture. Explore kid-friendly replicas of traditional Native homes, including an Amazonian stilt house adorned with photos by indigenous youth from the region. Learn about the diversity of tribal music with a variety of percussion instruments and try to match the rhythm and style of play at a playback station.
Group Reservations Required: Call 202-633-6644 (Mon.-Fri. 9 AM-5 PM) for details.
Categories: Kids & Families. Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: 3rd level. Cost: Free.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
For more info visit nmai.si.edu. Butterfly Pavilion
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Take a stroll among live butterflies and exotic plants! Located adjacent to Partners in Evolution, this tropical oasis offers visitors a rare opportunity to get close to a variety of living butterflies from all over the world.
Regular Hours: Daily: 10:15 AM-5:30 PM; last timed ticket at 5 PM. Extended Hours through September 1, 2013: Call 1-877-932-4629 (toll-free) or 202-633-4629.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Kids & Families. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: Butterflies + Plants: Partners in Evolution Exhibit, 2nd Floor, West. Cost: Tickets can be purchased in advance (see Purchase Tickets Web link below), or by phone at 202-633-4629 (IMAX) or 1-877-932-4629 (IMAX) (toll-free) (10 AM-5 PM), or in person on the day of your visit at the Butterfly Pavilion Box Office or at any Smithsonian IMAX Box Office. For more information about the hours of operation, timed entry policy, ticket prices, group rates, etc. visit the Butterflies + Plants: Partners in Evolution Web site.
Prices per ticket:
Adults $6
Seniors $5.50 (60+)
Children… Purchase Tickets: http://purchase.tickets.com/buy/TicketPurchase?organ_val=21156&venue_val=215878. Related Exhibition: Butterflies + Plants: Partners in Evolution.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:15 AM.
For more info visit www.butterflies.si.edu. Highlights Tours
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round:
• Daily: 10:15 AM and 1 PM
Notes
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
- Additional tours may be offered as announced; check at the Welcome Center.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at either Welcome desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:15 AM.
George Washington Carver Nature Trail Tour
One-Time Events
(recommended for ages 8 to adult) Walk the museum's Dr. George Washington Carver Nature Trail and learn how the principles of Kwanzaa are used to explain the benefits of natural recycling, the insect community, medicinal plants, and other outdoor offerings. A brief film on the life of Dr. Carver is shown before the walk.
Note: Not suitable for people with mobility impairments.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Kids & Families. Venue: Anacostia Community Museum. Event Location: Outdoors on nature trail (weather permitting). Cost: Free; for reservations, call 202-633-4844. Continues: Repeats 3rd Wednesday each month through September 2013.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM.
Discovery Room
Ongoing Tours & Activities
The Discovery Room is a hands-on room for families with children and students. The room features activities using real museum objects and artifacts that allow visitors to explore the natural world at their own pace, guided by their own interests and sense of wonder. Visitors can look at fossils, skulls, shells, and minerals; use a microscope; try on costumes from around the world; and much more. Docents are available to assist and answer questions.
Entry Procedures:
• Individuals:
- For families with children and students. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Through September 2, 2013:
• Tues.- Sun.: 10:30 AM-3:30 PM.
Categories: Kids & Families. Workshops. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: 1st floor, East Wing, near African Voices.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM.
Highlights Tours
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who gives a tour of the highlights of the museum.
June 2013, Most Tues.-Fri.: 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM
Notes
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
- No tours on most federal holidays.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Rotunda, 1st floor, near information desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:30 AM.
Live Tarantula Feedings
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Volunteers conduct tarantula feeding demonstrations, work with live insects that visitors may touch and hold, and answer questions about the many-legged creatures that live in the Insect Zoo.
Year-Round:
Tues.- Fri.: 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 1:30 PM
, Sat. and Sun.: 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 1:30 PM
Note
- Demonstrations offered unless otherwise posted.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: O. Orkin Insect Zoo, 2nd floor, West. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Insect Zoo, O. Orkin.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:30 AM.
For more info visit www.mnh.si.edu. Historic Theater: Broad Stripes and Bright Stars
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Mary Pickersgill, the seamstress who sewed the Star-Spangled Banner in 1813. Help her assemble the huge garrison flag and learn about its history. These 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: , Most Sundays - Thursdays at 10:30, 12:30, 2:00 and 3:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Flag Hall, 2nd floor, Center. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:30 AM – 10:50 AM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. Historic Theater: Meet Joseph Henry
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Joseph Henry, the first Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. Learn about life at the Smithsonian during the Civil War and interact with the man who shaped this national institution from 1846-1878.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays 10:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, and 3:30pm , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Please check Welcome Desks for locations. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:30 AM – 10:50 AM.
Interactive Carts (10:30 am - 3:00 pm)
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Docents stationed at carts help visitors get their hands on history and learn about the museum's collections. Activities include operating a cotton gin, peeking through a stereoscope, experiencing what it felt like to wear a corset, using a press to print a card, and copying a letter the way Jefferson did.
Year-Round:
• Available most days between 10:30 AM and 3 PM
Note
- Activity subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Kids & Families. Workshops. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Location of carts vary; for location and schedule, check at either Welcome desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM.
Spotlight Tours (10:30 am - 3:00 pm)
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Docents offer a 15-minute overview of an exhibition or briefly discuss a favorite museum object.
Year-Round:
• Most days: Available between 10:30 AM and 3 PM
Notes
- Look for the "Docent on Duty" signs posted outside the exhibition entrances.
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Locations vary; for location and schedule, check at the Welcome Center. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM.
Wash, Rinse, Wring, Repeat!: 19th-Century Laundry at Home
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Learn what it was really like to do laundry before the invention of washing machines! Try your hand at washing, rinsing, wringing, and repeating as Americans did at home during the 19th century. After the program, visit Within These Walls… to learn more about laundry at home for a family in the 1880s.
June, July, August 2013: Most Wednesdays-Saturdays at 10:30am (weather dependent) , No programs July 4 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Outside, South Side Mall Terrace. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM.
Highlights Tour
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round: Daily: 10:30 AM and 1 PM
Note
- Additional tours may be offered as posted at the Welcome Center.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: Meet at tour desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:30 AM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Exhibition Tour: Changing America
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who gives a tour of Changing America: The Emancipation Proclamation, 1863, and the March on Washington, 1963.
Through September 15, 2013: Most Tuesdays: 10:30 AM, 11:15 AM , Most Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays: 10:30 AM, 12 Noon, 1 PM , 4th Thursday of most months: 10:30 AM, 12 Noon, 1 PM , Every other Friday: 1 PM, 3 PM Note
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at the exhibition entrance, 2nd floor, East Wing. Related Exhibition: Changing America: The Emancipation Proclamation, 1863, and the March on Washington, 1963.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:30 AM.
Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round: Daily: 10:30 AM and 1 PM
Note
- Additional tours may be offered as posted at the tour desk.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center. Event Location: Meet at tour desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 10:30 AM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Public Observatory Project (11 AM-3 PM)
Ongoing Activities
(for all ages) Look through the 16-inch telescope to discover craters on the moon, spots on the sun (using safe solar filters), and other wonders of the universe. Participate in hands-on activities related to astronomy.
June 2013:
• Most Tues. through Sun.: 11 AM-3 PM (weather permitting)
Notes
- Observatory programs may not be offered during cloudy or rainy weather; confirm at the museum's Welcome Center.
- Hours may change monthly.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: Observatory located outside on SE terrace near Independence Ave. & 4th St.; entrance only available from outside. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Public Observatory Project (POP).
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a 30-minute tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round: Most days: 11 AM and 1 PM
Note
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Self-Guided Highlights Tours
- Brochures, which include a floor plan and information about the museum's exhibitions, are available in a kiosk at the bottom of the escalators at the entrance to the museum.
- A copy of the self-guided tour brochure can also be downloaded here: Download Self-guided Tour Brochure (PDF).
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Postal Museum. Event Location: Meet at the information desk, street level, near top of escalators to museum. Cost: Free.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 11:00 AM.
Interpreter's Choice Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Cultural interpreters lead tours showcasing their favorite highlights of the museum and discuss Native culture, history, and current events.
Through June-August 2013: Most Wed and Fri.: 11 AM-12 Noon Note
- Subject to cultural interpreter availability.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: Potomac Atrium, 1st Level. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
Hok-Noth-Da Story Time for Families
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for ages 4-8) People in all cultures have always told stories as a way to teach children. Come hear a Native staff member read stories by or about people from different Native communities throughout the Western Hemisphere. "Hok-noth-da" means "Did you hear?" in the Shawnee language.
June through August 2013: Most Sun. Wed. and Fri: 11:15-11:45 AM Note
- Subject to staff availability.
- Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis; children must be accompanied by an adult.
Categories: Kids & Families. Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: imagiNATIONS Activity Center, 3rd Level. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM.
Live Tarantula Feedings
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Volunteers conduct tarantula feeding demonstrations, work with live insects that visitors may touch and hold, and answer questions about the many-legged creatures that live in the Insect Zoo.
Year-Round:
Tues.- Fri.: 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 1:30 PM
, Sat. and Sun.: 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 1:30 PM
Note
- Demonstrations offered unless otherwise posted.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: O. Orkin Insect Zoo, 2nd floor, West. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Insect Zoo, O. Orkin.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 11:30 AM.
For more info visit www.mnh.si.edu. Historic Theater: Join the Student Sit-Ins at the Greensboro Lunch Counter
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet a Civil Rights activist in 1960, just after the Greensboro student sit-in began. Take part in a training session based on an actual 1960s manual and prepare for your first sit-in. Would you have the courage to fight for justice during the Civil Rights movement? These 15- to 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Sundays at 11:30, 1:30, 3:00 and 4:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at Greensboro Lunch Counter, 2nd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Landmark Object: Greensboro Lunch Counter and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 11:30 AM – 11:50 AM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. Highlights of the Portrait Gallery
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the gallery.
Year-Round:
Most Mon.-Fri.: 11:45 AM and 2:15 PM
, Most Sat. and Sun.: 11:45 AM and 3:15 PM
Note
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 11:45 AM.
Africa in Reel Time: La vie est belle
One-Time Events
(1987, French with English subtitles) Featuring Soukous music legend Papa Wemba, this film takes a look into the vibrant music scene of Kinshasa.
Categories: Films. Venue: African Art Museum. Event Location: Lecture Hall, Sublevel 2. Cost: Free: first come, first served.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 12:00 PM.
Historic Theater: Meet Joseph Henry
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Joseph Henry, the first Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. Learn about life at the Smithsonian during the Civil War and interact with the man who shaped this national institution from 1846-1878.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays 10:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, and 3:30pm , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Please check Welcome Desks for locations. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 12:00 PM – 12:20 PM.
Ask an Expert Lecture Series
Ongoing Activities
In this lecture series, a museum staff member talks about the history, collection, or personalities related to a specific artifact or exhibition in the museum. For today's topic and speaker, visit the museum's website.
Year-Round: Most Wed.: 12 Noon-12:15 PM.
Categories: Lectures & Discussions. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: Meet at the Museum Seal, Milestones of Flight, 1st Floor, Center, Gallery 100.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 12:00 PM – 12:15 PM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Exhibition Tour: Changing America
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who gives a tour of Changing America: The Emancipation Proclamation, 1863, and the March on Washington, 1963.
Through September 15, 2013: Most Tuesdays: 10:30 AM, 11:15 AM , Most Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays: 10:30 AM, 12 Noon, 1 PM , 4th Thursday of most months: 10:30 AM, 12 Noon, 1 PM , Every other Friday: 1 PM, 3 PM Note
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at the exhibition entrance, 2nd floor, East Wing. Related Exhibition: Changing America: The Emancipation Proclamation, 1863, and the March on Washington, 1963.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 12:00 PM.
Hirshhorn Museum Spotlight Tours (12 Noon-4 PM)
Ongoing Activities
Our friendly docents are stationed at the information desk for a casual conversation or an impromptu 30-minute tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round:
Mon.-Fri.: Available between 12 Noon and 4 PM
Note
- No tours on federal holidays.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Hirshhorn Museum. Event Location: At the information desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours
This highlights tour of the collection at the Renwick Gallery may include highlights of the temporary exhibitions.
Notes
- No tour on the 2nd Tuesday of each month.
- No tours on federal holidays.
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Renwick Gallery. Event Location: Meet in lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 12:00 PM.
Highlights of the American Art Museum
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round:
• Most days: 12:30 PM and 2 PM
Notes
- No tours on 2nd Tuesday of each month.
- Tours subject to docent availability.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American Art Museum. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 12:30 PM.
(Re)Searching an American Slave Ship
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) This program will highlight the history and people that lived the experience of the Middle Passage and explore the research that the Smithsonian is currently doing in recovering these stories. Visitors will interact with facilitators in a hands-on environment of early 19th century American maritime material culture—specifically, the material culture that helped anti-slavers identify slave carrying ships—and connect this with the stories of those people who would have lived this experience. Additionally, the cart will showcase the research that curators at the museum are doing, connecting the stories and tactics used by 19th century anti-slavers to the very similar methods employed by Smithsonian researchers to find slave ships today.
June, July, August 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays at 10:00, 12:30, and 3:00 , No programs July 4 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: On the Water, 1 East. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM.
For more info visit youtu.be. Historic Theater: Broad Stripes and Bright Stars
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Mary Pickersgill, the seamstress who sewed the Star-Spangled Banner in 1813. Help her assemble the huge garrison flag and learn about its history. These 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: , Most Sundays - Thursdays at 10:30, 12:30, 2:00 and 3:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Flag Hall, 2nd floor, Center. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 12:30 PM – 12:50 PM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. Smithsonian Tours by Segway
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Experience a fun and unique way to learn about the Smithsonian, the National Mall, and the rich history of Washington, D.C. Short on time? Ask about our 1.5 hour tour.
Note: Riders must be 16 years of age or older and weigh between 100 and 260 pounds. Safety is our top priority; therefore, a product orientation is provided and a helmet must be worn for the entire duration of the tour.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Event Location: American History Museum, Mall Entrance. Cost: $79.00 per person
Groups can be accommodated and group rates are available
Call 202-384-8516 for questions and pricing. Purchase Tickets: http://www.segway.com/smithsoniantours/.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM.
For more info visit www.segway.com. Hirshhorn Museum Highlights Tours
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who gives a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round:
• Most Mon.-Thurs.: 12:30 PM
• Most Fri.: 3 PM
Note
- No tours on federal holidays.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Hirshhorn Museum. Event Location: Meet at the information desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 12:30 PM.
The Scientist Is In: The Sant Ocean Hall
Ongoing Tours & Activities
An ocean scientist stationed within the exhibition shows collection specimens or artifacts (including some under the microscope and/or shown on a monitor) and talks with visitors about travels to various locations, field studies, collection of specimens, new discoveries, favorite topics of study, and more.
Year-Round:
Most Wed: 1 PM
Note
- On the third Wednesday of each month, a NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) scientist is in the exhibition to talk with visitors.
Categories: Kids & Families. Lectures & Discussions. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: Sant Ocean Hall, 1st Floor, Center. Cost: Free. Related Exhibition: The Sant Ocean Hall.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM.
CANCELED - Highlights Tours
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at either information desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM.
Highlights Tour
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round: Daily: 10:30 AM and 1 PM
Note
- Additional tours may be offered as posted at the Welcome Center.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: Meet at tour desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 1:00 PM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round: Most days: 11 AM and 1 PM
Notes
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Self-Guided Highlights Tours
- Brochures, which include a floor plan and information about the museum's exhibitions, are available in a kiosk at the bottom of the escalators at the entrance to the museum.
- A copy of the self-guided tour brochure can also be downloaded here: Download Self-guided Tour Brochure (PDF).
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Postal Museum. Event Location: Meet at the information desk, street level, near top of escalators to museum. Cost: Free.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 1:00 PM.
Expert Is In: How Bugs Work - A Survey of Insect Physiology
One-Time Events
Far from being the simplistic animals many think them to be, insects share many of the same physiological traits of more “advanced” animals, such as vertebrates. They have many unique adaptations as well. While they may individually lack the brains and brawn of the typical mammal, they have managed to succeed in every conceivable environment on the planet. Join Butterfly Pavilion Educator Eric Wenzel to learn more about "how bugs work.".
Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: Insect Zoo, 2nd floor. Cost: Free. Related Exhibition: Insect Zoo.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM.
Exhibition Tour: Changing America
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who gives a tour of Changing America: The Emancipation Proclamation, 1863, and the March on Washington, 1963.
Through September 15, 2013: Most Tuesdays: 10:30 AM, 11:15 AM , Most Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays: 10:30 AM, 12 Noon, 1 PM , 4th Thursday of most months: 10:30 AM, 12 Noon, 1 PM , Every other Friday: 1 PM, 3 PM Note
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at the exhibition entrance, 2nd floor, East Wing. Related Exhibition: Changing America: The Emancipation Proclamation, 1863, and the March on Washington, 1963.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 1:00 PM.
Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round: Daily: 10:30 AM and 1 PM
Note
- Additional tours may be offered as posted at the tour desk.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center. Event Location: Meet at tour desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 1:00 PM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Docent's Choice Tour of the Portrait Gallery
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of one of the following: highlights of the museum, the America's Presidents exhibition, or one of the special exhibitions currently on view.
Year-Round:
Most Mon.-Fri.: 1 PM and 3:30 PM
, Most Sat. and Sun.: 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM
Notes
- On the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month, the tour may be offered in Spanish (depending upon demand).
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 1:00 PM.
Enid A. Haupt Garden Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Join our knowledgeable horticulturist, who discusses some of the plants in the Victorian-style embroidered parterre, the Asian-inspired moongate garden, and the Moorish-inspired fountain garden that comprise the Enid A. Haupt Garden.
May 1-September 25, 2012: Every Wednesday: 1 PM, weather permitting
Note
- No tours on federal holidays.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Smithsonian Castle. Event Location: Meet in the Enid A. Haupt Garden, outside near the Castle doors, south entrance. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Enid A. Haupt Garden.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 1:00 PM.
For more info visit gardens.si.edu. Highlights Tours
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who gives a tour of the highlights of the museum.
June 2013, Most Tues.-Fri.: 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM
Notes
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
- No tours on most federal holidays.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Rotunda, 1st floor, near information desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 1:30 PM.
Live Tarantula Feedings
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Volunteers conduct tarantula feeding demonstrations, work with live insects that visitors may touch and hold, and answer questions about the many-legged creatures that live in the Insect Zoo.
Year-Round:
Sat. and Sun.: 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 1:30 PM
, Tues.- Fri.: 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 1:30 PM
Note
- Demonstrations offered unless otherwise posted.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: O. Orkin Insect Zoo, 2nd floor, West. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Insect Zoo, O. Orkin.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 1:30 PM.
For more info visit www.mnh.si.edu. Historic Theater: Join the Student Sit-Ins at the Greensboro Lunch Counter
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet a Civil Rights activist in 1960, just after the Greensboro student sit-in began. Take part in a training session based on an actual 1960s manual and prepare for your first sit-in. Would you have the courage to fight for justice during the Civil Rights movement? These 15- to 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Sundays at 11:30, 1:30, 3:00 and 4:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at Greensboro Lunch Counter, 2nd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Landmark Object: Greensboro Lunch Counter and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 1:30 PM – 1:50 PM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. Hands-On Family Craft Activities
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Learn about Native cultures through a a variety of hands-on activities, then make something to take home with you.
Through August 2013:
• Most Wed. and Sat.: 1:30-3:30 PM.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: imagiNATIONS Activity Center, 3rd Level.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM.
Highlights of the American Art Museum
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round:
• Most days: 12:30 PM and 2 PM
Notes
- No tours on 2nd Tuesday of each month.
- Tours subject to docent availability.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American Art Museum. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 2:00 PM.
Historic Theater: Broad Stripes and Bright Stars
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Mary Pickersgill, the seamstress who sewed the Star-Spangled Banner in 1813. Help her assemble the huge garrison flag and learn about its history. These 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: , Most Sundays - Thursdays at 10:30, 12:30, 2:00 and 3:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Flag Hall, 2nd floor, Center. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 2:00 PM – 2:20 PM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. Historic Theater: Meet Joseph Henry
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Joseph Henry, the first Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. Learn about life at the Smithsonian during the Civil War and interact with the man who shaped this national institution from 1846-1878.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays 10:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, and 3:30pm , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Please check Welcome Desks for locations. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 2:00 PM – 2:20 PM.
Highlights of the Portrait Gallery
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the gallery.
Year-Round:
Most Mon.-Fri.: 11:45 AM and 2:15 PM
, Most Sat. and Sun.: 11:45 AM and 3:15 PM
Note
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 2:15 PM.
Flag Folding
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Learn to fold a full-size replica of the 30x42-foot Star-Spangled Banner in Flag Hall. Get a sense of the true size of the flag that Francis Scott Key saw over Fort McHenry when he wrote our National Anthem.
June, July, August 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays at 2:30pm , No programs July 4 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Flag Hall, 2nd floor, Center. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 2:30 PM – 2:50 PM.
For more info visit youtu.be. (Re)Searching an American Slave Ship
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) This program will highlight the history and people that lived the experience of the Middle Passage and explore the research that the Smithsonian is currently doing in recovering these stories. Visitors will interact with facilitators in a hands-on environment of early 19th century American maritime material culture—specifically, the material culture that helped anti-slavers identify slave carrying ships—and connect this with the stories of those people who would have lived this experience. Additionally, the cart will showcase the research that curators at the museum are doing, connecting the stories and tactics used by 19th century anti-slavers to the very similar methods employed by Smithsonian researchers to find slave ships today.
June, July, August 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays at 10:00, 12:30, and 3:00 , No programs July 4 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: On the Water, 1 East. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM.
For more info visit youtu.be. Historic Theater: Join the Student Sit-Ins at the Greensboro Lunch Counter
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet a Civil Rights activist in 1960, just after the Greensboro student sit-in began. Take part in a training session based on an actual 1960s manual and prepare for your first sit-in. Would you have the courage to fight for justice during the Civil Rights movement? These 15- to 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Sundays at 11:30, 1:30, 3:00 and 4:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at Greensboro Lunch Counter, 2nd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Landmark Object: Greensboro Lunch Counter and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 3:00 PM – 3:20 PM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. ARTLAB+: Open Studio
Ongoing Activities
(ages 13-19) Open Studio is open to local teens. This time allows teens to explore the ArtLab space and direct their own experience and learning. Video games, laptop stations, socializing, etc. are encouraged activities during Open Studio.
Note: With limited space, priority is given to local DC/MD/VA teens. For local teens new to the program, drop-in the ArtLab with a guardian to register in person. Be sure to bring a school ID or other ID for age verification.
Categories: Workshops. Venue: Hirshhorn Museum. Event Location: ArtLab in Sunken Sculpture Garden. Cost: Free. Continues: Continues most weekdays through August 2.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
For more info visit artlabplus.si.edu. Behind-the-Scenes Introduction to the Lunder Conservation Center
Ongoing Activities
The Lunder Conservation Center is a special facility of several laboratories shared by the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Portrait Gallery where visitors can watch behind glass walls conservators examining, treating, and preserving artwork.
Today, in this behind-the-scenes introduction to the Lunder Conservation Center, learn how museum conservators use science, art history, and skilled hands to preserve objects in both museums' collections.
Year-Round:
• Most Wed.: 3-3:30 PM
Entry Procedures:
• Please register at the Luce Foundation Center information desk (3rd floor, west wing, mezzanine) before 3 PM on the day of the program. Participants also meet here.
Categories: Demonstrations. Venue: American Art Museum. Portrait Gallery. Event Location: Lunder Conservation Center, 3rd Floor, Mezzanine. Cost: Free, but registration requested; see Entry Procedures.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 3:00 PM – 3:30 PM.
For more info visit americanart.si.edu. Historic Theater: Broad Stripes and Bright Stars
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Mary Pickersgill, the seamstress who sewed the Star-Spangled Banner in 1813. Help her assemble the huge garrison flag and learn about its history. These 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: , Most Sundays - Thursdays at 10:30, 12:30, 2:00 and 3:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Flag Hall, 2nd floor, Center. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 3:30 PM – 3:50 PM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. Historic Theater: Meet Joseph Henry
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Joseph Henry, the first Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. Learn about life at the Smithsonian during the Civil War and interact with the man who shaped this national institution from 1846-1878.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays 10:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, and 3:30pm , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Please check Welcome Desks for locations. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 3:30 PM – 3:50 PM.
Docent's Choice Tour of the Portrait Gallery
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of one of the following: highlights of the museum, the America's Presidents exhibition, or one of the special exhibitions currently on view.
Year-Round:
Most Mon.-Fri.: 1 PM and 3:30 PM
, Most Sat. and Sun.: 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM
Notes
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
- On the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month, the 1:30 PM tour may be offered in Spanish (depending upon demand).
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 3:30 PM.
Smithsonian Tours by Segway
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Experience a fun and unique way to learn about the Smithsonian, the National Mall, and the rich history of Washington, D.C. Short on time? Ask about our 1.5 hour tour.
Note: Riders must be 16 years of age or older and weigh between 100 and 260 pounds. Safety is our top priority; therefore, a product orientation is provided and a helmet must be worn for the entire duration of the tour.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Event Location: American History Museum, Mall Entrance. Cost: $79.00 per person
Groups can be accommodated and group rates are available
Call 202-384-8516 for questions and pricing. Purchase Tickets: http://www.segway.com/smithsoniantours/. Continues: Daily.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
For more info visit www.segway.com. Historic Theater: Join the Student Sit-Ins at the Greensboro Lunch Counter
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet a Civil Rights activist in 1960, just after the Greensboro student sit-in began. Take part in a training session based on an actual 1960s manual and prepare for your first sit-in. Would you have the courage to fight for justice during the Civil Rights movement? These 15- to 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Sundays at 11:30, 1:30, 3:00 and 4:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at Greensboro Lunch Counter, 2nd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Landmark Object: Greensboro Lunch Counter and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 4:30 PM – 4:50 PM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. ARTLAB+: Artist Studio
Ongoing Activities
(ages 13-19) Artist Studio is open to local teens. This time allows teens to think critically about the media they consume and produce, build their technical skills, and produce meaningful projects. Each day of the week, Mentors offer a different focus:
Monday: invention, construction, and sculptural installation , Tuesday: graphic design and photography production , Wednesday: character design and animation , Thursday: music, video, and sound production , Friday: 3D software and 3D animation
Note: With limited space, priority is given to local DC/MD/VA teens. For teens new to the program, drop-in the ArtLab with a guardian to register in person. Be sure to bring a school ID or other ID for age verification.
Categories: After Five. Workshops. Venue: Hirshhorn Museum. Event Location: ArtLab in Sunken Sculpture Garden. Cost: Free. Continues: Continues most weekdays through August 2.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
For more info visit artlabplus.si.edu. Zoobiquity: Connecting Health in Animals and Humans
Resident Associate Program
Animals and humans get the same diseases. Drawing on the latest in medical and veterinary science as well as evolutionary and molecular biology, the authors of a new book explore how jaguar breast cancer, dolphin diabetes, flamingo heart attacks, and more cross-species ailments are transforming human medicine. View more details.
Categories: After Five. Lectures & Discussions. Venue: S. Dillon Ripley Center. Event Location: S. Dillon Ripley Center, 1100 Jefferson Drive, SW, Metro: Smithsonian Mall Exit (Blue/Orange). Cost: Click here to view prices. Purchase Tickets: http://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/tickets/reserve.aspx?utm_source=SI-Trumba-Calendar&utm_medium=SIWeb&utm_campaign=2012FY-Trumba-calend&tmssource=190358&performanceNumber=226324.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013, 6:45 PM.
Natural History Museum Exhibition Interpreters/Navigators
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Museum volunteer interpreters welcome visitors, answer questions, and help visitors navigate exhibitions. Interpreters may be stationed in several of the following exhibitions at various times throughout the day, subject to interpreter availability:
The David H. Koch Hall of Human Origins: What Does It Mean To Be Human?
, The Sant Ocean Hall
, Janet Annenberg Hooker Hall of Geology, Gems, and Minerals
, Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Life.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: Various exhibitions; ask at the museum's info desks for today's locations and schedules. Continues: Repeats most days.
Thursday, June 20, 2013.
Orientation Film: Who We Are
Ongoing Tours & Activities
This unique, 13-minute, multimedia presentation transports visitors to the Arctic, the Northwest Coast, and the plateaus of Bolivia to reveal the diversity of contemporary Native life and to introduce themes and messages encountered throughout the museum.
Year-Round:
• Most days: Throughout the day; check at the museum's Welcome Desk for schedule
Note
- Hand-held translation devices are available in French, German, Japanese, and Spanish from staff who introduce the program.
Categories: Films. Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: Lelawi Theater, 4th Level. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013.
IMAX Films and Planetarium Shows
Ongoing Activities
At the Natural History Museum, the Air and Space Museum on the Mall, and its Udvar-Hazy Center, enjoy IMAX films related to that museum's collections and research. IMAX is the ultimate film experience; specially designed screens that are several stories high produce some of the most stunning visual images recorded.
At the Air and Space Museum on the Mall, you can also enjoy planetarium shows that give the sensation of zooming through the cosmos, enveloped in color-saturated moving images and spine-tingling sound.
Categories: Films. Kids & Families. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center. Natural History Museum. Event Location: Respective museum's IMAX Theater and Air and Space's Einstein Planetarium. Cost: See Purchase Tickets link. Purchase Tickets: http://www.si.edu/imax.
Thursday, June 20, 2013.
For more info visit www.si.edu. Self-Guided Tour: Let’s Move! with Smithsonian Gardens
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Explore Smithsonian Gardens through this scavenger hunt. Discover garden treasures while learning how gardening promotes healthy living. Follow directions found in the brochure or on signs in the gardens to text answers to the challenges or send us pictures of your exploration.
Part of First Lady Michelle Obama’s "Let’s Move! Museums and Gardens" initiative to educate families and communities about childhood fitness and healthy diet choices.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Kids & Families. Event Location: Smithsonian Gardens. Cost: Free; brochure available at most museum information desks or click here to download. Continues: Daily through October.
Thursday, June 20, 2013.
For more info visit www.gardens.si.edu. Smithsonian Tours by Segway
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Experience a fun and unique way to learn about the Smithsonian, the National Mall, and the rich history of Washington, D.C. Short on time? Ask about our 1.5 hour tour.
Note: Riders must be 16 years of age or older and weigh between 100 and 260 pounds. Safety is our top priority; therefore, a product orientation is provided and a helmet must be worn for the entire duration of the tour.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Event Location: American History Museum, Mall Entrance. Cost: $79.00 per person
Groups can be accommodated and group rates are available
Call 202-384-8516 for questions and pricing. Purchase Tickets: http://www.segway.com/smithsoniantours/. Continues: Daily.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
For more info visit www.segway.com. (Re)Searching an American Slave Ship
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) This program will highlight the history and people that lived the experience of the Middle Passage and explore the research that the Smithsonian is currently doing in recovering these stories. Visitors will interact with facilitators in a hands-on environment of early 19th century American maritime material culture—specifically, the material culture that helped anti-slavers identify slave carrying ships—and connect this with the stories of those people who would have lived this experience. Additionally, the cart will showcase the research that curators at the museum are doing, connecting the stories and tactics used by 19th century anti-slavers to the very similar methods employed by Smithsonian researchers to find slave ships today.
June, July, August 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays at 10:00, 12:30, and 3:00 , No programs July 4 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: On the Water, 1 East. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM.
For more info visit youtu.be. Ride Simulators
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Ride Simulators: (ride approximately 5 min.)
Take an exciting virtual trip on board one of four simulators. Experience the thrill of careening through an action-packed roller-coaster course or racing in futuristic high-speed hovercars. Choose your adventure: Cosmic Race, Bermuda Triangle, Solar Coaster, Grand Prix Raceway, Astro Canyon, or Glacier Run.
Note: Simulator accommodates up to 8 people per ride. Children must be 42 inches tall unless riding with an adult.
Year-Round:
, Daily: Open same hours as museum.
Categories: Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Lower Level, across from the Stars and Stripes Cafe. Cost: Tickets always available for purchase at the entrance to the simulator gallery and may also be available at either Welcome desk.
Admission Per Ride
- $7.00 per person
Payment Options:
- Cash, VISA, and MasterCard.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:00 AM.
Flight Simulators: Fly or Ride!
Ongoing Activities
Ride Simulators: (approximately 5 min.)
Take an exciting virtual trip on board one of two simulators. Choose your adventure: Ride aboard the Space Shuttle to the International Space Station or experience the thrill of a flight in both vintage and jet-age aircraft. Note: Ride Simulators accommodate up to 8 people per ride. For safety reasons, children must be 42 inches tall unless accompanied by an adult.
, Interactive Flight Simulators: (approximately 6 min.)
Try to become a jet combat "ace" -- in an F-4 Phantom II -- as you pilot the simulator into 360-degree barrel rolls. Choose either pilot or gunner responsibilities. Note: Interactive Flight Simulators accommodates 1 to 2 people per ride. For safety reasons, children must be 48 inches tall.
Year-Round , Daily: Open same hours as museum.
Categories: Kids & Families. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: West Wing, Gallery 103, Simulator Gallery. Cost: Tickets can be purchased at the Box Office or at the Simulator Gallery.
Admission Per Ride:
- Ride Simulator: $7.00 per person
- Interactive Flight Simulator: $8.00 per person
- Add a Simulator: $1.00 off with the purchase of an IMAX Theater or Planetarium ticket
- Groups: Discounts available; ask at the Box Office or at the Flight Simulators
- For reservations, call 202-633-4629 or 1-866-868-7774 (toll-free)
Payment Options
- At Simulators: Cash, VISA, or MasterCard
- At IMAX and…
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:00 AM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Flight Simulators: SpaceWalk or Wings
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Ride Simulators: (approximately 5 min.)
Take an exciting virtual trip on board one of three ride simulators. Choose your adventure: Take a 3-D journey aboard the Space Shuttle to the International Space Station or experience the thrill of a flight in both vintage and jet-age aircraft. Note: Ride Simulators accommodate up to 8 people per ride. For safety reasons, children must be 42 inches tall unless accompanied by an adult.
, Interactive Flight Simulators: (approximately 6 min.)
Try to become a jet combat "ace" -- in one of two F-4 Phantom II interactive flight simulators -- as you pilot your aircraft into 360-degree barrel rolls. Choose either pilot or gunner responsibilities. Note: Interactive Flight Simulators accommodates 1 to 2 people per ride. For safety reasons, children must be 48 inches tall.
Year-Round: , Daily: Open same hours as museum.
Categories: Kids & Families. Venue: Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center. Event Location: Main Level, near the simulators. Cost: Tickets can be purchased at the Box Office or at the Simulator Gallery.
Admission Per Ride:
- Ride Simulator: $7.00 per person
- Interactive Flight Simulator: $8.00 per person
- Add a Simulator: $1.00 off with the purchase of an IMAX Theater ticket
- Groups: Discounts available; ask at the Box Office or at the Flight Simulators
- For reservations, call 202-633-4629 or 1-866-868-7774 (toll-free)
Payment Options:
- At Simulator: Cash, VISA, or MasterCard
- At Box Office: Cash or major…
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:00 AM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. imagiNATIONS Activity Center
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Play an interactive skateboarding video game inspired by the sport’s popularity among Native youth. Test yourself at an interactive quiz show about Native American history and culture. Explore kid-friendly replicas of traditional Native homes, including an Amazonian stilt house adorned with photos by indigenous youth from the region. Learn about the diversity of tribal music with a variety of percussion instruments and try to match the rhythm and style of play at a playback station.
Group Reservations Required: Call 202-633-6644 (Mon.-Fri. 9 AM-5 PM) for details.
Categories: Kids & Families. Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: 3rd level. Cost: Free.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
For more info visit nmai.si.edu. Butterfly Pavilion
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Take a stroll among live butterflies and exotic plants! Located adjacent to Partners in Evolution, this tropical oasis offers visitors a rare opportunity to get close to a variety of living butterflies from all over the world.
Regular Hours: Daily: 10:15 AM-5:30 PM; last timed ticket at 5 PM. Extended Hours through September 1, 2013: Call 1-877-932-4629 (toll-free) or 202-633-4629.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Kids & Families. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: Butterflies + Plants: Partners in Evolution Exhibit, 2nd Floor, West. Cost: Tickets can be purchased in advance (see Purchase Tickets Web link below), or by phone at 202-633-4629 (IMAX) or 1-877-932-4629 (IMAX) (toll-free) (10 AM-5 PM), or in person on the day of your visit at the Butterfly Pavilion Box Office or at any Smithsonian IMAX Box Office. For more information about the hours of operation, timed entry policy, ticket prices, group rates, etc. visit the Butterflies + Plants: Partners in Evolution Web site.
Prices per ticket:
Adults $6
Seniors $5.50 (60+)
Children… Purchase Tickets: http://purchase.tickets.com/buy/TicketPurchase?organ_val=21156&venue_val=215878. Related Exhibition: Butterflies + Plants: Partners in Evolution.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:15 AM.
For more info visit www.butterflies.si.edu. Highlights Tours
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round:
• Daily: 10:15 AM and 1 PM
Notes
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
- Additional tours may be offered as announced; check at the Welcome Center.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at either Welcome desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:15 AM.
Discovery Room
Ongoing Tours & Activities
The Discovery Room is a hands-on room for families with children and students. The room features activities using real museum objects and artifacts that allow visitors to explore the natural world at their own pace, guided by their own interests and sense of wonder. Visitors can look at fossils, skulls, shells, and minerals; use a microscope; try on costumes from around the world; and much more. Docents are available to assist and answer questions.
Entry Procedures:
• Individuals:
- For families with children and students. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Through September 1, 2013:
• Tues.- Sun.: 10:30 AM-3:30 PM.
Categories: Kids & Families. Workshops. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: 1st floor, East Wing, near African Voices.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM.
Highlights Tours
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who gives a tour of the highlights of the museum.
June 2013, Most Tues.-Fri.: 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM
Notes
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
- No tours on most federal holidays.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Rotunda, 1st floor, near information desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:30 AM.
Live Tarantula Feedings
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Volunteers conduct tarantula feeding demonstrations, work with live insects that visitors may touch and hold, and answer questions about the many-legged creatures that live in the Insect Zoo.
Year-Round:
Tues.- Fri.: 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 1:30 PM
, Sat. and Sun.: 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 1:30 PM
Note
- Demonstrations offered unless otherwise posted.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: O. Orkin Insect Zoo, 2nd floor, West. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Insect Zoo, O. Orkin.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:30 AM.
For more info visit www.mnh.si.edu. Historic Theater: Broad Stripes and Bright Stars
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Mary Pickersgill, the seamstress who sewed the Star-Spangled Banner in 1813. Help her assemble the huge garrison flag and learn about its history. These 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: , Most Sundays - Thursdays at 10:30, 12:30, 2:00 and 3:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Flag Hall, 2nd floor, Center. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:30 AM – 10:50 AM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. Historic Theater: Meet Joseph Henry
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Joseph Henry, the first Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. Learn about life at the Smithsonian during the Civil War and interact with the man who shaped this national institution from 1846-1878.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays 10:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, and 3:30pm , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Please check Welcome Desks for locations. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:30 AM – 10:50 AM.
Interactive Carts (10:30 am - 3:00 pm)
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Docents stationed at carts help visitors get their hands on history and learn about the museum's collections. Activities include operating a cotton gin, peeking through a stereoscope, experiencing what it felt like to wear a corset, using a press to print a card, and copying a letter the way Jefferson did.
Year-Round:
• Available most days between 10:30 AM and 3 PM
Note
- Activity subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Kids & Families. Workshops. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Location of carts vary; for location and schedule, check at either Welcome desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM.
Spotlight Tours (10:30 am - 3:00 pm)
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Docents offer a 15-minute overview of an exhibition or briefly discuss a favorite museum object.
Year-Round:
• Most days: Available between 10:30 AM and 3 PM
Notes
- Look for the "Docent on Duty" signs posted outside the exhibition entrances.
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Locations vary; for location and schedule, check at the Welcome Center. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM.
Wash, Rinse, Wring, Repeat!: 19th-Century Laundry at Home
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Learn what it was really like to do laundry before the invention of washing machines! Try your hand at washing, rinsing, wringing, and repeating as Americans did at home during the 19th century. After the program, visit Within These Walls… to learn more about laundry at home for a family in the 1880s.
June, July, August 2013: Most Wednesdays-Saturdays at 10:30am (weather dependent) , No programs July 4 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Outside, South Side Mall Terrace. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM.
Highlights Tour
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round: Daily: 10:30 AM and 1 PM
Note
- Additional tours may be offered as posted at the Welcome Center.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: Meet at tour desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:30 AM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round: Daily: 10:30 AM and 1 PM
Note
- Additional tours may be offered as posted at the tour desk.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center. Event Location: Meet at tour desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:30 AM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Family Program
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Learn about Native cultures through a variety of hands-on activities, including stories, discovery boxes, family tours, or a teaching cart.
Through June-August 2013: Most Tues. Thurs. and Sat.: 10:30 AM-12 Noon.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: imagiNATIONS Activity Center, 3rd Level.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Historic Theater: Time Trial of John Brown
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Join the jury as the public deliberates on John Brown’s contested legacy. Meet the man who committed his life to ending slavery…and used violent tactics to do it. How should history remember this disputed figure? When History is on trial, only Time can be the judge.
June 2013: Most Thursdays-Saturdays at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Price of Freedom Theater, 3rd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: The Price of Freedom: Americans at War and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 11:00 AM – 11:20 AM.
Flights of Fancy -- Stories for Children
Ongoing Activities
Hear museum staff read children's stories about aviation or space exploration; then try your hand at an art activity. For today's title, visit the museum's website at http://airandspace.si.edu/events/storytimes/.
Year-Round: Most Thurs. & Fri.: 11 AM , Most Sat.: 11 AM & 1:30 PM.
Categories: Kids & Families. Workshops. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: For location, ask at the museum's Welcome Center. Cost: Free.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 11:00 AM.
Public Observatory Project (11 AM-3 PM)
Ongoing Activities
(for all ages) Look through the 16-inch telescope to discover craters on the moon, spots on the sun (using safe solar filters), and other wonders of the universe. Participate in hands-on activities related to astronomy.
June 2013:
• Most Tues. through Sun.: 11 AM-3 PM (weather permitting)
Notes
- Observatory programs may not be offered during cloudy or rainy weather; confirm at the museum's Welcome Center.
- Hours may change monthly.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: Observatory located outside on SE terrace near Independence Ave. & 4th St.; entrance only available from outside. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Public Observatory Project (POP).
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a 30-minute tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round: Most days: 11 AM and 1 PM
Note
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Self-Guided Highlights Tours
- Brochures, which include a floor plan and information about the museum's exhibitions, are available in a kiosk at the bottom of the escalators at the entrance to the museum.
- A copy of the self-guided tour brochure can also be downloaded here: Download Self-guided Tour Brochure (PDF).
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Postal Museum. Event Location: Meet at the information desk, street level, near top of escalators to museum. Cost: Free.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 11:00 AM.
Film Screening - Finding Our Talk: Maya
Ongoing Tours & Activities
The Mayan people and their languages have survived and even thrived despite brutal conquest, book burnings and civil war in Guatemala. Today's Mayans fight for the right to have education and government services in their own language, in one of the few countries where the majority of the population is indigenous to the land.
Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: NMAI Rasmusson Theater. Cost: Free. Continues: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays through June 30.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 11:00 AM – 11:24 AM.
AFI DOCS Film Series: White Black Boy
One-Time Events
(2012) A fear of the sun’s cancerous effects on his skin is among the least of his worries for Shida, a boy with albinism in Tanzania. For some witchdoctors, the limbs of albinos are precious and poachers will hunt people with albinism for a high bounty. White Black Boy looks at Shida’s first year enrolled in a boarding school, where he can be kept safe from harm, but where personal and linguistic problems hold him back.
Categories: Films. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Warner Bros. Theater, 1st Floor, Center. Cost: $13; visit the American Film Institute's website. Continues: Series continues here and at Portrait Gallery through June 23.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 11:15 AM.
Live Tarantula Feedings
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Volunteers conduct tarantula feeding demonstrations, work with live insects that visitors may touch and hold, and answer questions about the many-legged creatures that live in the Insect Zoo.
Year-Round:
Tues.- Fri.: 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 1:30 PM
, Sat. and Sun.: 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 1:30 PM
Note
- Demonstrations offered unless otherwise posted.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: O. Orkin Insect Zoo, 2nd floor, West. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Insect Zoo, O. Orkin.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 11:30 AM.
For more info visit www.mnh.si.edu. Historic Theater: Join the Student Sit-Ins at the Greensboro Lunch Counter
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet a Civil Rights activist in 1960, just after the Greensboro student sit-in began. Take part in a training session based on an actual 1960s manual and prepare for your first sit-in. Would you have the courage to fight for justice during the Civil Rights movement? These 15- to 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Sundays at 11:30, 1:30, 3:00 and 4:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at Greensboro Lunch Counter, 2nd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Landmark Object: Greensboro Lunch Counter and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 11:30 AM – 11:50 AM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. Highlights of the Portrait Gallery
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the gallery.
Year-Round:
Most Mon.-Fri.: 11:45 AM and 2:15 PM
, Most Sat. and Sun.: 11:45 AM and 3:15 PM
Note
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 11:45 AM.
Peacock Room Shutters Open
Freer and Sackler Galleries
See the Peacock Room in a whole new light! When the shutters of Whistler’s “harmony in blue and gold” are open, a flood of natural light turns the Peacock Room into a glowing jewel of blue, green, and gold tones. Details, colors, and textures are revealed in the sunlight—and a special filtering film on the windows minimizes fading.
The shutters are open from noon to 5:30 pm every third Thursday of the month into spring 2013. On those days, docents are in the Peacock Room to answer questions (12–2 pm), and starting at 2:15, they lead a tour of Whistler’s works on view in the Freer Gallery.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Freer Gallery. Event Location: Peacock Room. Continues: Every third Thursday. Related Exhibition: The Peacock Room Comes to America.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM.
AFI DOCS Film Series: We Always Lie to Strangers
One-Time Events
(2013, 108 min) Branson, Missouri, is one of America’s most popular tourist destinations, where people from all over the country flock to enjoy a return to old-fashioned, down-home, wholesome entertainment. Amid the abundance of kitschy stage and music shows are an eclectic group of talented performers who have dedicated themselves to the show business Mecca of the Midwest. Come meet the colorful people who call Branson home and must cope with an uncertain future as the town faces economic adversity. Panel discussion follows.
Categories: Films. Lectures & Discussions. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: McEvoy Auditorium, Lower Level. Cost: $13; visit the American Film Institute's website. Continues: Series continues here and at American History through June 23.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 12:00 PM.
Three-Point Tour
One-Time Events
This program reveals the often-surprising connections among people represented in the museum’s collection. Today, chief curator Brandon Fortune draws a connective line through portraits of early American craftsmen and merchants: Benjamin Latrobe, Thomas Ash, and Samuel Blodget.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: Meet at the portrait of Benjamin Latrobe in American Origins (First Floor). Cost: Free.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM.
The Scientist Is In: The David H. Koch Hall of Human Origins
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Scientists stationed within the exhibition discuss their work, show collection objects and specimens, and answer visitors' questions about human origins.
Year-Round: 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month: 12 Noon-2 PM.
Categories: Kids & Families. Lectures & Discussions. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: David H. Koch Hall of Human Origins, 1st Floor, Northwest Wing. Cost: Free. Related Exhibition: The David H. Koch Hall of Human Origins: What Does It Mean To Be Human?
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM.
Historic Theater: Meet Joseph Henry
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Joseph Henry, the first Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. Learn about life at the Smithsonian during the Civil War and interact with the man who shaped this national institution from 1846-1878.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays 10:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, and 3:30pm , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Please check Welcome Desks for locations. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 12:00 PM – 12:20 PM.
Hirshhorn Museum Spotlight Tours (12 Noon-4 PM)
Ongoing Activities
Our friendly docents are stationed at the information desk for a casual conversation or an impromptu 30-minute tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round:
Mon.-Fri.: Available between 12 Noon and 4 PM
Note
- No tours on federal holidays.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Hirshhorn Museum. Event Location: At the information desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours
This highlights tour of the collection at the Renwick Gallery may include highlights of the temporary exhibitions.
Notes
- No tour on the 2nd Tuesday of each month.
- No tours on federal holidays.
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Renwick Gallery. Event Location: Meet in lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 12:00 PM.
Book Signings: Col. Wolfgang Samuel
Ongoing Activities
Col. Wolfgang Samuel signs copies of his books American Raiders, Coming to Colorado, German Boy, Glory Days, I Always Wanted to Fly, The War of Our Childhood, and Watson's Whizzers.
Categories: Shopping/Book Signing. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: Outside Museum Store. Cost: Books available for sale in Museum Store. Continues: Repeats Thursday, June 27.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Highlights of the American Art Museum
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round:
• Most days: 12:30 PM and 2 PM
Notes
- No tours on 2nd Tuesday of each month.
- Tours subject to docent availability.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American Art Museum. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 12:30 PM.
(Re)Searching an American Slave Ship
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) This program will highlight the history and people that lived the experience of the Middle Passage and explore the research that the Smithsonian is currently doing in recovering these stories. Visitors will interact with facilitators in a hands-on environment of early 19th century American maritime material culture—specifically, the material culture that helped anti-slavers identify slave carrying ships—and connect this with the stories of those people who would have lived this experience. Additionally, the cart will showcase the research that curators at the museum are doing, connecting the stories and tactics used by 19th century anti-slavers to the very similar methods employed by Smithsonian researchers to find slave ships today.
June, July, August 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays at 10:00, 12:30, and 3:00 , No programs July 4 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: On the Water, 1 East. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM.
For more info visit youtu.be. Historic Theater: Broad Stripes and Bright Stars
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Mary Pickersgill, the seamstress who sewed the Star-Spangled Banner in 1813. Help her assemble the huge garrison flag and learn about its history. These 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: , Most Sundays - Thursdays at 10:30, 12:30, 2:00 and 3:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Flag Hall, 2nd floor, Center. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 12:30 PM – 12:50 PM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. Smithsonian Tours by Segway
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Experience a fun and unique way to learn about the Smithsonian, the National Mall, and the rich history of Washington, D.C. Short on time? Ask about our 1.5 hour tour.
Note: Riders must be 16 years of age or older and weigh between 100 and 260 pounds. Safety is our top priority; therefore, a product orientation is provided and a helmet must be worn for the entire duration of the tour.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Event Location: American History Museum, Mall Entrance. Cost: $79.00 per person
Groups can be accommodated and group rates are available
Call 202-384-8516 for questions and pricing. Purchase Tickets: http://www.segway.com/smithsoniantours/.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM.
For more info visit www.segway.com. Hirshhorn Museum Highlights Tours
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who gives a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round:
• Most Mon.-Thurs.: 12:30 PM
• Most Fri.: 3 PM
Note
- No tours on federal holidays.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Hirshhorn Museum. Event Location: Meet at the information desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 12:30 PM.
Highlights Tours
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round:
• Daily: 10:15 AM and 1 PM
Notes
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
- Additional tours may be offered as announced; check at the Welcome Center.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at either information desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM.
Historic Theater: Time Trial of John Brown
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Join the jury as the public deliberates on John Brown’s contested legacy. Meet the man who committed his life to ending slavery…and used violent tactics to do it. How should history remember this disputed figure? When History is on trial, only Time can be the judge.
June 2013: Most Thursdays-Saturdays at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Price of Freedom Theater, 3rd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: The Price of Freedom: Americans at War and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 1:00 PM – 1:20 PM.
Highlights Tour
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round: Daily: 10:30 AM and 1 PM
Note
- Additional tours may be offered as posted at the Welcome Center.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: Meet at tour desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 1:00 PM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round: Most days: 11 AM and 1 PM
Notes
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Self-Guided Highlights Tours
- Brochures, which include a floor plan and information about the museum's exhibitions, are available in a kiosk at the bottom of the escalators at the entrance to the museum.
- A copy of the self-guided tour brochure can also be downloaded here: Download Self-guided Tour Brochure (PDF).
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Postal Museum. Event Location: Meet at the information desk, street level, near top of escalators to museum. Cost: Free.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 1:00 PM.
The Scientist Is In: The Genome Zone
One-Time Events
Dr. Nikhil K. Basu is a Staff Scientist at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). He studies one of the most important pathways for the human body’s elimination of drugs and toxic chemicals. The pathway is a detoxifying enzyme system called UDP-glucuronosyltransferse (UGT). This enzyme system protects our bodies from toxic chemicals by increasing their water solubility and excretion.
Our own body can generate toxic chemicals like bilirubin that can cause Jaundice. Our bodies are also exposed to chemicals through our daily diet, medicines, or directly from the environment (cigarette smoke and other toxic chemicals). Cell based communication (cell signaling) can alter these enzyme activities and reduce our body’s ability to detoxify these chemicals. These changes can result in cancer. Recently, Nikhil’s lab found a chemical from the spice Turmeric that can alter enzyme activity. This discovery may improve chemotherapy and other therapeutic drugs. In his spare time, Nikhil loves gardening, travelling, ru…
Categories: Kids & Families. Lectures & Discussions. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: The Genome Zone, adjacent to Genome: Unlocking Life's Code, 2nd Floor. Cost: Free. Related Exhibition: Genome: Unlocking Life's Code.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round: Daily: 10:30 AM and 1 PM
Note
- Additional tours may be offered as posted at the tour desk.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center. Event Location: Meet at tour desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 1:00 PM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Docent's Choice Tour of the Portrait Gallery
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of one of the following: highlights of the museum, the America's Presidents exhibition, or one of the special exhibitions currently on view.
Year-Round:
Most Mon.-Fri.: 1 PM and 3:30 PM
, Most Sat. and Sun.: 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM
Notes
- On the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month, the tour may be offered in Spanish (depending upon demand).
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 1:00 PM.
Heirloom Garden Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Join our knowledgeable horticulturist, who discusses some of the many types plants in the Heirloom Garden that have been passed down from generation to generation and that were cultivated in American gardens prior to 1950.
June 6 through September 19, 2013: Every other Thursday: 1 PM, weather permitting
(alternating with Victory Garden tours)
Note
- No tours on federal holidays.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American History Museum. Smithsonian Gardens. Event Location: Meet outside on Mall Terrace, near entrance. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Heirloom Garden.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 1:00 PM.
For more info visit gardens.si.edu. National Museum of the American Indian Garden Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Join our knowledgeable horticulturist, who discusses some of the native plants in the National Museum of the American Indian Native landscape gardens and answers questions about gardening with native plants.
June 6-September 26, 2013: Every Thursday: 1 PM, weather permitting
Note
- No tours on federal holidays.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: Meet at the sign near the museum entrance on Maryland Ave. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 1:00 PM.
For more info visit www.gardens.si.edu. AFI DOCS Film Series: Teenage
One-Time Events
(2013) Those magical and often difficult years between childhood and adulthood didn’t always have a label. In fact, the word “teenager” didn’t even exist until 1945. This fascinating documentary based on the Jon Savage book of the same name illuminates the period in which teenagers emerged to claim their unique place in history. Constructed from archival footage, creative re-enactments, diary readings, and a lively musical soundtrack, Teenage is an innovative and fresh portrait of youth culture.
Categories: Films. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Warner Bros. Theater, 1st Floor, Center. Cost: $13; visit the American Film Institute's website. Continues: Series continues here and at Portrait Gallery through June 23.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 1:15 PM.
Highlights Tours
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who gives a tour of the highlights of the museum.
June 2013, Most Tues.-Fri.: 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM
Notes
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
- No tours on most federal holidays.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Rotunda, 1st floor, near information desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 1:30 PM.
Live Tarantula Feedings
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Volunteers conduct tarantula feeding demonstrations, work with live insects that visitors may touch and hold, and answer questions about the many-legged creatures that live in the Insect Zoo.
Year-Round:
Sat. and Sun.: 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 1:30 PM
, Tues.- Fri.: 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 1:30 PM
Note
- Demonstrations offered unless otherwise posted.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: O. Orkin Insect Zoo, 2nd floor, West. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Insect Zoo, O. Orkin.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 1:30 PM.
For more info visit www.mnh.si.edu. Historic Theater: Join the Student Sit-Ins at the Greensboro Lunch Counter
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet a Civil Rights activist in 1960, just after the Greensboro student sit-in began. Take part in a training session based on an actual 1960s manual and prepare for your first sit-in. Would you have the courage to fight for justice during the Civil Rights movement? These 15- to 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Sundays at 11:30, 1:30, 3:00 and 4:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at Greensboro Lunch Counter, 2nd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Landmark Object: Greensboro Lunch Counter and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 1:30 PM – 1:50 PM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. Highlights of the American Art Museum
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round:
• Most days: 12:30 PM and 2 PM
Notes
- No tours on 2nd Tuesday of each month.
- Tours subject to docent availability.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American Art Museum. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 2:00 PM.
Historic Theater: Broad Stripes and Bright Stars
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Mary Pickersgill, the seamstress who sewed the Star-Spangled Banner in 1813. Help her assemble the huge garrison flag and learn about its history. These 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: , Most Sundays - Thursdays at 10:30, 12:30, 2:00 and 3:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Flag Hall, 2nd floor, Center. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 2:00 PM – 2:20 PM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. Historic Theater: Meet Joseph Henry
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Joseph Henry, the first Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. Learn about life at the Smithsonian during the Civil War and interact with the man who shaped this national institution from 1846-1878.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays 10:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, and 3:30pm , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Please check Welcome Desks for locations. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 2:00 PM – 2:20 PM.
Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Join a cultural interpreter for a general overview of the museum's history, landscape, building, exhibitions, and other points of interest.
June through August 2013: Most Sun. Tues. Thurs. and Fri.: 2-3 PM Note
- Subject to cultural interpreter availability.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: Potomac Atrium, 1st Level. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM.
Butterfly Habitat Garden Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Join our knowledgeable horticulturist, who gives discusses some of the plants in the four habitats of the Butterfly Garden: wetlands, meadow, wood's edge, and backyard. Pick up some tips for attracting butterflies to your own garden.
June 6-September 26, 2013: Every Thursday: 2 PM, weather permitting
Note
- No tours on federal holidays.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Natural History Museum. Smithsonian Gardens. Event Location: Meet at the sign at the Butterfly Garden entrance on Madison Dr. & 9th St. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Butterfly Habitat Garden.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 2:00 PM.
For more info visit gardens.si.edu. Highlights of the Portrait Gallery
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the gallery.
Year-Round:
Most Mon.-Fri.: 11:45 AM and 2:15 PM
, Most Sat. and Sun.: 11:45 AM and 3:15 PM
Note
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 2:15 PM.
CANCELED - Flag Folding
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Flag Hall, 2nd floor, Center. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 2:30 PM – 2:50 PM.
Historic Theater: Time Trial of John Brown
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Join the jury as the public deliberates on John Brown’s contested legacy. Meet the man who committed his life to ending slavery…and used violent tactics to do it. How should history remember this disputed figure? When History is on trial, only Time can be the judge.
June 2013: Most Thursdays-Saturdays at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Price of Freedom Theater, 3rd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: The Price of Freedom: Americans at War and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 2:30 PM – 2:50 PM.
AFI DOCS Film Series: The Genius of Marian
One-Time Events
(2013, 85 min) Filmmaker Banker White’s mother, Pam, is slowly succumbing to the ravages of Alzheimer’s disease, which is the same fate that befell her own mother, Marian, a noted artist, before her. In this intimate portrait of a woman at her most vulnerable, Pam works to help preserve a meaningful personal legacy before it is too late. This beautiful film pays moving tribute to the strong women in one remarkable family. Panel discussion follows.
Categories: Films. Lectures & Discussions. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: McEvoy Auditorium, Lower Level. Cost: $13; visit the American Film Institute's website. Continues: Series continues here and at American History through June 23.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 3:00 PM.
(Re)Searching an American Slave Ship
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) This program will highlight the history and people that lived the experience of the Middle Passage and explore the research that the Smithsonian is currently doing in recovering these stories. Visitors will interact with facilitators in a hands-on environment of early 19th century American maritime material culture—specifically, the material culture that helped anti-slavers identify slave carrying ships—and connect this with the stories of those people who would have lived this experience. Additionally, the cart will showcase the research that curators at the museum are doing, connecting the stories and tactics used by 19th century anti-slavers to the very similar methods employed by Smithsonian researchers to find slave ships today.
June, July, August 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays at 10:00, 12:30, and 3:00 , No programs July 4 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: On the Water, 1 East. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM.
For more info visit youtu.be. Historic Theater: Join the Student Sit-Ins at the Greensboro Lunch Counter
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet a Civil Rights activist in 1960, just after the Greensboro student sit-in began. Take part in a training session based on an actual 1960s manual and prepare for your first sit-in. Would you have the courage to fight for justice during the Civil Rights movement? These 15- to 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Sundays at 11:30, 1:30, 3:00 and 4:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at Greensboro Lunch Counter, 2nd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Landmark Object: Greensboro Lunch Counter and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 3:00 PM – 3:20 PM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. ARTLAB+: Open Studio
Ongoing Activities
(ages 13-19) Open Studio is open to local teens. This time allows teens to explore the ArtLab space and direct their own experience and learning. Video games, laptop stations, socializing, etc. are encouraged activities during Open Studio.
Note: With limited space, priority is given to local DC/MD/VA teens. For local teens new to the program, drop-in the ArtLab with a guardian to register in person. Be sure to bring a school ID or other ID for age verification.
Categories: Workshops. Venue: Hirshhorn Museum. Event Location: ArtLab in Sunken Sculpture Garden. Cost: Free. Continues: Continues most weekdays through August 2.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
For more info visit artlabplus.si.edu. Film Screening - Finding Our Talk: Maya
Ongoing Tours & Activities
The Mayan people and their languages have survived and even thrived despite brutal conquest, book burnings and civil war in Guatemala. Today's Mayans fight for the right to have education and government services in their own language, in one of the few countries where the majority of the population is indigenous to the land.
Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: NMAI Rasmuson Theater. Cost: Free. Continues: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays through June 30.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 3:00 PM – 3:24 PM.
AFI DOCS Film Series: If You Build It
One-Time Events
(2013) A David and Goliath story for the recession era, If You Build It documents a year in an experimental high school classroom of the architectural program “Studio H.” The film tracks the program’s pioneers, Emily Pilloton and Matt Miller, as they build the innovative studio from the ground up. Fighting overwhelming odds, they work tirelessly to give the teens of a crumbling rural town a chance to build a better future for themselves and their community.
Categories: Films. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Warner Bros. Theater, 1st Floor, Center. Cost: $13; visit the American Film Institute's website. Continues: Series continues here and at Portrait Gallery through June 23.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 3:30 PM.
Historic Theater: Broad Stripes and Bright Stars
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Mary Pickersgill, the seamstress who sewed the Star-Spangled Banner in 1813. Help her assemble the huge garrison flag and learn about its history. These 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: , Most Sundays - Thursdays at 10:30, 12:30, 2:00 and 3:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Flag Hall, 2nd floor, Center. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 3:30 PM – 3:50 PM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. Historic Theater: Meet Joseph Henry
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Joseph Henry, the first Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. Learn about life at the Smithsonian during the Civil War and interact with the man who shaped this national institution from 1846-1878.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays 10:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, and 3:30pm , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Please check Welcome Desks for locations. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 3:30 PM – 3:50 PM.
Docent's Choice Tour of the Portrait Gallery
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of one of the following: highlights of the museum, the America's Presidents exhibition, or one of the special exhibitions currently on view.
Year-Round:
Most Mon.-Fri.: 1 PM and 3:30 PM
, Most Sat. and Sun.: 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM
Notes
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
- On the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month, the 1:30 PM tour may be offered in Spanish (depending upon demand).
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 3:30 PM.
Historic Theater: Time Trial of John Brown
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Join the jury as the public deliberates on John Brown’s contested legacy. Meet the man who committed his life to ending slavery…and used violent tactics to do it. How should history remember this disputed figure? When History is on trial, only Time can be the judge.
June 2013: Most Thursdays-Saturdays at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Price of Freedom Theater, 3rd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: The Price of Freedom: Americans at War and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 4:00 PM – 4:20 PM.
Smithsonian Tours by Segway
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Experience a fun and unique way to learn about the Smithsonian, the National Mall, and the rich history of Washington, D.C. Short on time? Ask about our 1.5 hour tour.
Note: Riders must be 16 years of age or older and weigh between 100 and 260 pounds. Safety is our top priority; therefore, a product orientation is provided and a helmet must be worn for the entire duration of the tour.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Event Location: American History Museum, Mall Entrance. Cost: $79.00 per person
Groups can be accommodated and group rates are available
Call 202-384-8516 for questions and pricing. Purchase Tickets: http://www.segway.com/smithsoniantours/. Continues: Daily.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
For more info visit www.segway.com. Historic Theater: Join the Student Sit-Ins at the Greensboro Lunch Counter
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet a Civil Rights activist in 1960, just after the Greensboro student sit-in began. Take part in a training session based on an actual 1960s manual and prepare for your first sit-in. Would you have the courage to fight for justice during the Civil Rights movement? These 15- to 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Sundays at 11:30, 1:30, 3:00 and 4:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at Greensboro Lunch Counter, 2nd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Landmark Object: Greensboro Lunch Counter and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 4:30 PM – 4:50 PM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. Take 5! - Tim Whalen Quintet:The Music of Bud Powell
One-Time Events
Relax and Take 5! with free, live jazz in the Kogod Courtyard. Stop by the Courtyard Café for refreshments. For added fun, borrow a board game to play during the concert.
Feeling inspired to create? During concerts, ArtJamz sets up a temporary studio, offering registered participants an opportunity to paint while the entire audience mingles. For registration information, visit artjamzdc.com.
The Tim Whalen Quintet explores the music of Bud Powell, one of the most influential modern jazz pianists and composers. This concert showcases Whalen's arrangements of Powell's compositions, as well as other songs associated with this jazz giant. The quintet features Whalen on piano, Elijah Balbed on tenor saxophone, Paul Pieper on guitar, Eliot Seppa on bass, and Shareef Taher on drums.
Categories: After Five. Performances. Venue: American Art Museum. Event Location: Kogod Courtyard. Cost: Free.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
ARTLAB+: Artist Studio
Ongoing Activities
(ages 13-19) Artist Studio is open to local teens. This time allows teens to think critically about the media they consume and produce, build their technical skills, and produce meaningful projects. Each day of the week, Mentors offer a different focus:
Monday: invention, construction, and sculptural installation , Tuesday: graphic design and photography production , Wednesday: character design and animation , Thursday: music, video, and sound production , Friday: 3D software and 3D animation
Note: With limited space, priority is given to local DC/MD/VA teens. For teens new to the program, drop-in the ArtLab with a guardian to register in person. Be sure to bring a school ID or other ID for age verification.
Categories: After Five. Workshops. Venue: Hirshhorn Museum. Event Location: ArtLab in Sunken Sculpture Garden. Cost: Free. Continues: Continues most weekdays through August 2.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
For more info visit artlabplus.si.edu. AFI DOCS Film Series: The Kill Team
One-Time Events
(2013, 79 min) A powerful and disturbing portrait of wartime atrocities and the men who commit them, this riveting film focuses on a platoon of American soldiers in southern Afghanistan who waged a campaign of terror against the very Afghani civilians that they were sworn to protect. Through the eyewitness testimony of the soldiers involved, director Dan Krauss gives the viewer a chilling look at the madness of war that very few will be able to forget. Panel discussion follows.
Categories: After Five. Films. Lectures & Discussions. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: McEvoy Auditorium, Lower Level. Cost: $13; visit the American Film Institute's website. Continues: Series continues here and at American History through June 23.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 5:30 PM.
AFI DOCS Film Series: Best Kept Secret
One-Time Events
(2013, 85 min) Graduation is a bittersweet prospect for the special education students in Janet Mino’s high school classroom. Erik, Rahamid, Kareem, among others, have found an unexpected haven in a Newark, New Jersey, public high school, where a fiercely dedicated staff supports students with autism and learning disabilities. Looming over the students, however, is a ticking clock: at the age of 21 they will “age out” and be thrust into a world with few resources and little support.
Categories: After Five. Films. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Warner Bros. Theater, 1st Floor, Center (enter from Constitution Ave.). Cost: $13; visit the American Film Institute's website. Continues: Series continues here and at Portrait Gallery through June 23.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 6:00 PM.
Luce Design with Heidi Hess
One-Time Events
A summer series on design brings in local experts to share their influences and creative process. Visitors will hear about the designers’ aesthetics and glean tips from these experts.
Heidi Hess, jewelry designer and owner of POPPY, will speak about her design process and how storytelling, legacy, and personal myth inform her creative approach to jewelry making.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American Art Museum. Event Location: Luce Foundation Center, 3rd Floor. Cost: Free.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 6:15 PM – 7:00 PM.
For more info visit americanart.si.edu. Artist Talk: Roger Ballen
One-Time Events
Guest curator Craig Subler converses with artist Roger Ballen about his photography. Book signing follows.
Categories: Lectures & Discussions. Venue: African Art Museum. Event Location: Lecture Hall, Sublevel 2. Cost: Free. Related Exhibition: Lines, Marks, and Drawings: Through the Lens of Roger Ballen.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM.
Color Theory, 5-Session Evening Course
Resident Associate Program
Through lecture, demonstration, and hands-on experimentation, students enhance their experience of color as they learn about the color wheel, the Munsell color chart, and the attributes of value, chroma, and hue. View more details.
Categories: After Five. Workshops. Venue: S. Dillon Ripley Center. Event Location: S. Dillon Ripley Center, Room 3040, 1100 Jefferson Drive, S.W. Metro: Smithsonian (Blue/Orange Lines). Cost: Click here to view prices. Purchase Tickets: http://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/tickets/reserve.aspx?utm_source=SI-Trumba-Calendar&utm_medium=SIWeb&utm_campaign=2012FY-Trumba-calend&tmssource=190358&performanceNumber=226513.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 6:30 PM.
The Jews of Britain
Resident Associate Program
Though Jews have been part of British society since the 11th century, that long relationship was often a troubled one. Historian Virginia W. Newmyer surveys a cultural and religious history in which achievement and acceptance prevailed over suspicion and ignorance. View more details.
Categories: After Five. Lectures & Discussions. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: National Museum of Natural History, Baird Auditorium, 10th & Constitution Avenue, NW, Metro: Federal Triangle or Smithsonian. Cost: Click here to view prices. Purchase Tickets: http://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/tickets/reserve.aspx?utm_source=SI-Trumba-Calendar&utm_medium=SIWeb&utm_campaign=2012FY-Trumba-calend&tmssource=190358&performanceNumber=226356.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 6:45 PM.
AFI DOCS Film Series: Muscle Shoals
One-Time Events
(2013, 111 min) Rising out of the Deep South of 1960s America, a sound emerged that began to attract artists as diverse as Otis Redding, Paul Simon, Aretha Franklin, and the Rolling Stones. That sound, and the people who helped create it, would go on to leave its mark on music history. The place was Muscle Shoals, Alabama, and this is the story of how it gave birth to some of the most memorable music of our time. Panel discussion follows.
Categories: After Five. Films. Lectures & Discussions. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: McEvoy Auditorium, Lower Level. Cost: $13; visit the American Film Institute's website. Continues: Series continues here and at American History through June 23.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 7:45 PM.
Pup Tense Film Series: Cujo
One-Time Events
(1983, directed by Lewis Teague) Like the Stephen King bestseller that gave birth to him, a once lovable Saint Bernard has become—ahem—unputdownable. In Lewis Teague’s “classic” adaptation, bats figure prominently at both the beginning and the end. So does a Ford Pinto. “Can he eat his way in here?” asks little Tad. “Can he?” Just you wait, kid—just you wait.
Categories: After Five. Films. Venue: Hirshhorn Museum. Event Location: Ring Auditorium, Lower Level. Cost: Free.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 8:00 PM.
For more info visit www.hirshhorn.si.edu. AFI DOCS Film Series: The Crash Reel
One-Time Events
(2013, 90 min) A mere two months before the 2010 Winter Olympics, game-changing pro snowboarder Kevin Pearce suffered a traumatic brain injury that derailed his life, career, and a much-anticipated rivalry with competitor Shaun White. Oscar®-nominee Lucy Walker's engaging, intimate portrayal of Pearce's recuperation advances the dialogue on disability and explores the understated heroism of a recovering champion struggling to understand the new rules of the road with the support of extraordinary family and friends.
Categories: After Five. Films. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Warner Bros. Theater, 1st Floor, Center (enter from Constitution Ave.). Cost: $13; visit the American Film Institute's website. Continues: Series continues here and at Portrait Gallery through June 23.
Thursday, June 20, 2013, 8:45 PM.
Natural History Museum Exhibition Interpreters/Navigators
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Museum volunteer interpreters welcome visitors, answer questions, and help visitors navigate exhibitions. Interpreters may be stationed in several of the following exhibitions at various times throughout the day, subject to interpreter availability:
The David H. Koch Hall of Human Origins: What Does It Mean To Be Human?
, The Sant Ocean Hall
, Janet Annenberg Hooker Hall of Geology, Gems, and Minerals
, Dinosaurs and Prehistoric Life.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: Various exhibitions; ask at the museum's info desks for today's locations and schedules. Continues: Repeats most days.
Friday, June 21, 2013.
Orientation Film: Who We Are
Ongoing Tours & Activities
This unique, 13-minute, multimedia presentation transports visitors to the Arctic, the Northwest Coast, and the plateaus of Bolivia to reveal the diversity of contemporary Native life and to introduce themes and messages encountered throughout the museum.
Year-Round:
• Most days: Throughout the day; check at the museum's Welcome Desk for schedule
Note
- Hand-held translation devices are available in French, German, Japanese, and Spanish from staff who introduce the program.
Categories: Films. Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: Lelawi Theater, 4th Level. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013.
IMAX Films and Planetarium Shows
Ongoing Activities
At the Natural History Museum, the Air and Space Museum on the Mall, and its Udvar-Hazy Center, enjoy IMAX films related to that museum's collections and research. IMAX is the ultimate film experience; specially designed screens that are several stories high produce some of the most stunning visual images recorded.
At the Air and Space Museum on the Mall, you can also enjoy planetarium shows that give the sensation of zooming through the cosmos, enveloped in color-saturated moving images and spine-tingling sound.
Categories: Films. Kids & Families. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center. Natural History Museum. Event Location: Respective museum's IMAX Theater and Air and Space's Einstein Planetarium. Cost: See Purchase Tickets link. Purchase Tickets: http://www.si.edu/imax.
Friday, June 21, 2013.
For more info visit www.si.edu. Self-Guided Tour: Let’s Move! with Smithsonian Gardens
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Explore Smithsonian Gardens through this scavenger hunt. Discover garden treasures while learning how gardening promotes healthy living. Follow directions found in the brochure or on signs in the gardens to text answers to the challenges or send us pictures of your exploration.
Part of First Lady Michelle Obama’s "Let’s Move! Museums and Gardens" initiative to educate families and communities about childhood fitness and healthy diet choices.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Kids & Families. Event Location: Smithsonian Gardens. Cost: Free; brochure available at most museum information desks or click here to download. Continues: Daily through October.
Friday, June 21, 2013.
For more info visit www.gardens.si.edu. Smithsonian Tours by Segway
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Experience a fun and unique way to learn about the Smithsonian, the National Mall, and the rich history of Washington, D.C. Short on time? Ask about our 1.5 hour tour.
Note: Riders must be 16 years of age or older and weigh between 100 and 260 pounds. Safety is our top priority; therefore, a product orientation is provided and a helmet must be worn for the entire duration of the tour.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Event Location: American History Museum, Mall Entrance. Cost: $79.00 per person
Groups can be accommodated and group rates are available
Call 202-384-8516 for questions and pricing. Purchase Tickets: http://www.segway.com/smithsoniantours/. Continues: Daily.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
For more info visit www.segway.com. Castle Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours
Did you know that the Castle is the Smithsonian’s first and oldest building? Join us as one of our dynamic volunteer docents takes you on a tour to explore the highlights of the Smithsonian Castle. Come learn about the founding and early history of the Smithsonian; its original benefactor, James Smithson; and the incredible history and architecture of the Castle. Here is your opportunity to discover the treasured stories revealed within James Smithson's crypt, the Great Hall, and the West Wing. We’ll see you at the Castle!
Year-Round:
Mon. and Fri.: 9:30 AM
, Sat.: 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM
, Sun.: 10:30 AM
, Selected Tues.: Times as announced
Note
- Tour subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Smithsonian Castle. Event Location: Meet at information desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 9:30 AM.
(Re)Searching an American Slave Ship
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) This program will highlight the history and people that lived the experience of the Middle Passage and explore the research that the Smithsonian is currently doing in recovering these stories. Visitors will interact with facilitators in a hands-on environment of early 19th century American maritime material culture—specifically, the material culture that helped anti-slavers identify slave carrying ships—and connect this with the stories of those people who would have lived this experience. Additionally, the cart will showcase the research that curators at the museum are doing, connecting the stories and tactics used by 19th century anti-slavers to the very similar methods employed by Smithsonian researchers to find slave ships today.
June, July, August 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays at 10:00, 12:30, and 3:00 , No programs July 4 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: On the Water, 1 East. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM.
For more info visit youtu.be. Ride Simulators
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Ride Simulators: (ride approximately 5 min.)
Take an exciting virtual trip on board one of four simulators. Experience the thrill of careening through an action-packed roller-coaster course or racing in futuristic high-speed hovercars. Choose your adventure: Cosmic Race, Bermuda Triangle, Solar Coaster, Grand Prix Raceway, Astro Canyon, or Glacier Run.
Note: Simulator accommodates up to 8 people per ride. Children must be 42 inches tall unless riding with an adult.
Year-Round:
, Daily: Open same hours as museum.
Categories: Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Lower Level, across from the Stars and Stripes Cafe. Cost: Tickets always available for purchase at the entrance to the simulator gallery and may also be available at either Welcome desk.
Admission Per Ride
- $7.00 per person
Payment Options:
- Cash, VISA, and MasterCard.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 10:00 AM.
Flight Simulators: Fly or Ride!
Ongoing Activities
Ride Simulators: (approximately 5 min.)
Take an exciting virtual trip on board one of two simulators. Choose your adventure: Ride aboard the Space Shuttle to the International Space Station or experience the thrill of a flight in both vintage and jet-age aircraft. Note: Ride Simulators accommodate up to 8 people per ride. For safety reasons, children must be 42 inches tall unless accompanied by an adult.
, Interactive Flight Simulators: (approximately 6 min.)
Try to become a jet combat "ace" -- in an F-4 Phantom II -- as you pilot the simulator into 360-degree barrel rolls. Choose either pilot or gunner responsibilities. Note: Interactive Flight Simulators accommodates 1 to 2 people per ride. For safety reasons, children must be 48 inches tall.
Year-Round , Daily: Open same hours as museum.
Categories: Kids & Families. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: West Wing, Gallery 103, Simulator Gallery. Cost: Tickets can be purchased at the Box Office or at the Simulator Gallery.
Admission Per Ride:
- Ride Simulator: $7.00 per person
- Interactive Flight Simulator: $8.00 per person
- Add a Simulator: $1.00 off with the purchase of an IMAX Theater or Planetarium ticket
- Groups: Discounts available; ask at the Box Office or at the Flight Simulators
- For reservations, call 202-633-4629 or 1-866-868-7774 (toll-free)
Payment Options
- At Simulators: Cash, VISA, or MasterCard
- At IMAX and…
Friday, June 21, 2013, 10:00 AM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Flight Simulators: SpaceWalk or Wings
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Ride Simulators: (approximately 5 min.)
Take an exciting virtual trip on board one of three ride simulators. Choose your adventure: Take a 3-D journey aboard the Space Shuttle to the International Space Station or experience the thrill of a flight in both vintage and jet-age aircraft. Note: Ride Simulators accommodate up to 8 people per ride. For safety reasons, children must be 42 inches tall unless accompanied by an adult.
, Interactive Flight Simulators: (approximately 6 min.)
Try to become a jet combat "ace" -- in one of two F-4 Phantom II interactive flight simulators -- as you pilot your aircraft into 360-degree barrel rolls. Choose either pilot or gunner responsibilities. Note: Interactive Flight Simulators accommodates 1 to 2 people per ride. For safety reasons, children must be 48 inches tall.
Year-Round: , Daily: Open same hours as museum.
Categories: Kids & Families. Venue: Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center. Event Location: Main Level, near the simulators. Cost: Tickets can be purchased at the Box Office or at the Simulator Gallery.
Admission Per Ride:
- Ride Simulator: $7.00 per person
- Interactive Flight Simulator: $8.00 per person
- Add a Simulator: $1.00 off with the purchase of an IMAX Theater ticket
- Groups: Discounts available; ask at the Box Office or at the Flight Simulators
- For reservations, call 202-633-4629 or 1-866-868-7774 (toll-free)
Payment Options:
- At Simulator: Cash, VISA, or MasterCard
- At Box Office: Cash or major…
Friday, June 21, 2013, 10:00 AM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. imagiNATIONS Activity Center
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Play an interactive skateboarding video game inspired by the sport’s popularity among Native youth. Test yourself at an interactive quiz show about Native American history and culture. Explore kid-friendly replicas of traditional Native homes, including an Amazonian stilt house adorned with photos by indigenous youth from the region. Learn about the diversity of tribal music with a variety of percussion instruments and try to match the rhythm and style of play at a playback station.
Group Reservations Required: Call 202-633-6644 (Mon.-Fri. 9 AM-5 PM) for details.
Categories: Kids & Families. Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: 3rd level. Cost: Free.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
For more info visit nmai.si.edu. Butterfly Pavilion
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Take a stroll among live butterflies and exotic plants! Located adjacent to Partners in Evolution, this tropical oasis offers visitors a rare opportunity to get close to a variety of living butterflies from all over the world.
Regular Hours: Daily: 10:15 AM-5:30 PM; last timed ticket at 5 PM. Extended Hours through September 1, 2013: Call 1-877-932-4629 (toll-free) or 202-633-4629.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Kids & Families. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: Butterflies + Plants: Partners in Evolution Exhibit, 2nd Floor, West. Cost: Tickets can be purchased in advance (see Purchase Tickets Web link below), or by phone at 202-633-4629 (IMAX) or 1-877-932-4629 (IMAX) (toll-free) (10 AM-5 PM), or in person on the day of your visit at the Butterfly Pavilion Box Office or at any Smithsonian IMAX Box Office. For more information about the hours of operation, timed entry policy, ticket prices, group rates, etc. visit the Butterflies + Plants: Partners in Evolution Web site.
Prices per ticket:
Adults $6
Seniors $5.50 (60+)
Children… Purchase Tickets: http://purchase.tickets.com/buy/TicketPurchase?organ_val=21156&venue_val=215878. Related Exhibition: Butterflies + Plants: Partners in Evolution.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 10:15 AM.
For more info visit www.butterflies.si.edu. Highlights Tours
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round:
• Daily: 10:15 AM and 1 PM
Notes
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
- Additional tours may be offered as announced; check at the Welcome Center.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at either Welcome desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 10:15 AM.
Native Festival - Choctaw Days: A Cultural Awakening
One-Time Events
The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma celebrates its tribal history and heritage with two days of food, workshops and performances, all in the theme of “Cultural Awakening.”
Activities and demonstrations include Native dancers, singers, storytellers and booths showcasing beadwork, pottery, flutes, the Choctaw language and tribal cooking. Hands-on activities for kids and families along with being able to meet Choctaw Nation princesses of all ages will allow visitors to learn more about Choctaw culture.
SCHEDULE:
10:30 – (Potomac Atrium)
Princesses – Lord’s Prayer in Sign Language
Choctaw Social Dancing
Flutist Presley Byington
Historian Olin Williams – Stickball
Dr. Ian Thompson – History of Choctaw food
(imagiNATIONS Activity Center)
Cultural Make and Take Session
11:30 – (Rasmuson Theater)
Choctaw Cinema
1:00 – (imagiNATIONS Activity Center)
Cultural Make and Take Session
(Potomac Atrium)
Princesses – Four Directions Ceremony
Choctaw Social Dancing
Flutist Presley Byingt…
Categories: After Five. Celebrations. Culinary Arts. Demonstrations. Films. Gallery Talks & Tours. Kids & Families. Lectures & Discussions. Performances. Webcasts & Webinars. Workshops. Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: Potomac Atrium, imagiNATIONS Activity Center and various museum locations. Webcast: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/national-museum-of-the-american-indian. Cost: Free. Related Events: Indian Summer Showcase.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM.
Discovery Room
Ongoing Tours & Activities
The Discovery Room is a hands-on room for families with children and students. The room features activities using real museum objects and artifacts that allow visitors to explore the natural world at their own pace, guided by their own interests and sense of wonder. Visitors can look at fossils, skulls, shells, and minerals; use a microscope; try on costumes from around the world; and much more. Docents are available to assist and answer questions.
Entry Procedures:
• Individuals:
- For families with children and students. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Through September 1, 2013:
• Tues.- Sun.: 10:30 AM-3:30 PM.
Categories: Kids & Families. Workshops. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: 1st floor, East Wing, near African Voices.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM.
Highlights Tours
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who gives a tour of the highlights of the museum.
June 2013, Most Tues.-Fri.: 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM
Notes
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
- No tours on most federal holidays.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Rotunda, 1st floor, near information desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 10:30 AM.
Live Tarantula Feedings
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Volunteers conduct tarantula feeding demonstrations, work with live insects that visitors may touch and hold, and answer questions about the many-legged creatures that live in the Insect Zoo.
Year-Round:
Tues.- Fri.: 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 1:30 PM
, Sat. and Sun.: 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 1:30 PM
Note
- Demonstrations offered unless otherwise posted.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: O. Orkin Insect Zoo, 2nd floor, West. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Insect Zoo, O. Orkin.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 10:30 AM.
For more info visit www.mnh.si.edu. Historic Theater: Meet Joseph Henry
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Joseph Henry, the first Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. Learn about life at the Smithsonian during the Civil War and interact with the man who shaped this national institution from 1846-1878.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays 10:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, and 3:30pm , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Please check Welcome Desks for locations. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 10:30 AM – 10:50 AM.
Interactive Carts (10:30 am - 3:00 pm)
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Docents stationed at carts help visitors get their hands on history and learn about the museum's collections. Activities include operating a cotton gin, peeking through a stereoscope, experiencing what it felt like to wear a corset, using a press to print a card, and copying a letter the way Jefferson did.
Year-Round:
• Available most days between 10:30 AM and 3 PM
Note
- Activity subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Kids & Families. Workshops. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Location of carts vary; for location and schedule, check at either Welcome desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM.
Spotlight Tours (10:30 am - 3:00 pm)
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Docents offer a 15-minute overview of an exhibition or briefly discuss a favorite museum object.
Year-Round:
• Most days: Available between 10:30 AM and 3 PM
Notes
- Look for the "Docent on Duty" signs posted outside the exhibition entrances.
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Locations vary; for location and schedule, check at the Welcome Center. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM.
CANCELED - Wash, Rinse, Wring, Repeat!: 19th-Century Laundry at Home
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Outside, South Side Mall Terrace. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM.
Highlights Tour
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round: Daily: 10:30 AM and 1 PM
Note
- Additional tours may be offered as posted at the Welcome Center.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: Meet at tour desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 10:30 AM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round: Daily: 10:30 AM and 1 PM
Note
- Additional tours may be offered as posted at the tour desk.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center. Event Location: Meet at tour desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 10:30 AM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. AFI DOCS Film Series: A Will for the Woods
One-Time Events
(2013, 93 min) Psychiatrist, classical musician, and folk dancer Clark Wang has been diagnosed with terminal lymphoma. Facing his own mortality, he opts for a "green" burial over what he believes are toxic, wasteful modern funeral arrangements engineered to preserve the body at the ecosystem's expense. In this touching story of a charismatic, ebullient advocate's final days, environmentalism takes on a deeply human intimacy as the film follows Clark's efforts to leave a loving, permanent legacy for family, friends, and nature.
Categories: Films. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Warner Bros. Theater, 1st Floor, Center. Cost: Free. Continues: Series continues here and at Portrait Gallery through June 23.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 11:00 AM.
Historic Theater: Time Trial of John Brown
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Join the jury as the public deliberates on John Brown’s contested legacy. Meet the man who committed his life to ending slavery…and used violent tactics to do it. How should history remember this disputed figure? When History is on trial, only Time can be the judge.
June 2013: Most Thursdays-Saturdays at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Price of Freedom Theater, 3rd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: The Price of Freedom: Americans at War and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Friday, June 21, 2013, 11:00 AM – 11:20 AM.
Flights of Fancy -- Stories for Children
Ongoing Activities
Hear museum staff read children's stories about aviation or space exploration; then try your hand at an art activity. For today's title, visit the museum's website at http://airandspace.si.edu/events/storytimes/.
Year-Round: Most Thurs. & Fri.: 11 AM , Most Sat.: 11 AM & 1:30 PM.
Categories: Kids & Families. Workshops. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: For location, ask at the museum's Welcome Center. Cost: Free.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 11:00 AM.
Public Observatory Project (11 AM-3 PM)
Ongoing Activities
(for all ages) Look through the 16-inch telescope to discover craters on the moon, spots on the sun (using safe solar filters), and other wonders of the universe. Participate in hands-on activities related to astronomy.
June 2013:
• Most Tues. through Sun.: 11 AM-3 PM (weather permitting)
Notes
- Observatory programs may not be offered during cloudy or rainy weather; confirm at the museum's Welcome Center.
- Hours may change monthly.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: Observatory located outside on SE terrace near Independence Ave. & 4th St.; entrance only available from outside. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Public Observatory Project (POP).
Friday, June 21, 2013, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. CANCELED - Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Postal Museum. Event Location: Meet at the information desk, street level, near top of escalators to museum. Cost: Free.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 11:00 AM.
Interpreter's Choice Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Cultural interpreters lead tours showcasing their favorite highlights of the museum and discuss Native culture, history, and current events.
Through June-August 2013: Most Wed and Fri.: 11 AM-12 Noon Note
- Subject to cultural interpreter availability.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: Near elevators, 4th Level. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
Hok-Noth-Da Story Time for Families
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for ages 4-8) People in all cultures have always told stories as a way to teach children. Come hear a Native staff member read stories by or about people from different Native communities throughout the Western Hemisphere. "Hok-noth-da" means "Did you hear?" in the Shawnee language.
June through August 2013: Most Sun. Wed. and Fri: 11:15-11:45 AM Note
- Subject to staff availability.
- Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis; children must be accompanied by an adult.
Categories: Kids & Families. Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: imagiNATIONS Activity Center, 3rd Level. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM.
Live Tarantula Feedings
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Volunteers conduct tarantula feeding demonstrations, work with live insects that visitors may touch and hold, and answer questions about the many-legged creatures that live in the Insect Zoo.
Year-Round:
Tues.- Fri.: 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 1:30 PM
, Sat. and Sun.: 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 1:30 PM
Note
- Demonstrations offered unless otherwise posted.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: O. Orkin Insect Zoo, 2nd floor, West. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Insect Zoo, O. Orkin.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 11:30 AM.
For more info visit www.mnh.si.edu. Historic Theater: Join the Student Sit-Ins at the Greensboro Lunch Counter
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet a Civil Rights activist in 1960, just after the Greensboro student sit-in began. Take part in a training session based on an actual 1960s manual and prepare for your first sit-in. Would you have the courage to fight for justice during the Civil Rights movement? These 15- to 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Sundays at 11:30, 1:30, 3:00 and 4:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at Greensboro Lunch Counter, 2nd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Landmark Object: Greensboro Lunch Counter and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Friday, June 21, 2013, 11:30 AM – 11:50 AM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. Highlights of the Portrait Gallery
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the gallery.
Year-Round:
Most Mon.-Fri.: 11:45 AM and 2:15 PM
, Most Sat. and Sun.: 11:45 AM and 3:15 PM
Note
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 11:45 AM.
AFI DOCS Film Series: The Trials of Muhammad Ali
One-Time Events
(2013, 86 min) When charismatic fighter Cassius Clay famously embraced Islam and renamed himself Muhammad Ali in the late 1960s, the boxing icon came under fire for refusing to serve in the Vietnam War over his religious beliefs. Using incredible archival footage and new interviews from the people who were there, this enlightening film examines the tumultuous period in Ali’s life that saw him forced into a legal battle with the U.S. government that almost cost him his livelihood. Panel discussion follows.
Categories: Films. Lectures & Discussions. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: McEvoy Auditorium, Lower Level. Cost: $13; visit the American Film Institute's website. Continues: Series continues here and at American History through June 23.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 12:00 PM.
Book Signing: Pat Duggins
Smithsonian Sponsored Events
Pat Duggins signs copies of his book Trailblazing Mars: NASA's Next Giant Leap.
Categories: Shopping/Book Signing. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: Outside Museum Store. Cost: Books available for sale in Museum Store.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM.
For more info visit www.nasm.si.edu. Historic Theater: Meet Joseph Henry
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Joseph Henry, the first Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. Learn about life at the Smithsonian during the Civil War and interact with the man who shaped this national institution from 1846-1878.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays 10:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, and 3:30pm , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Please check Welcome Desks for locations. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 12:00 PM – 12:20 PM.
Hirshhorn Museum Spotlight Tours (12 Noon-4 PM)
Ongoing Activities
Our friendly docents are stationed at the information desk for a casual conversation or an impromptu 30-minute tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round:
Mon.-Fri.: Available between 12 Noon and 4 PM
Note
- No tours on federal holidays.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Hirshhorn Museum. Event Location: At the information desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours
This highlights tour of the collection at the Renwick Gallery may include highlights of the temporary exhibitions.
Notes
- No tour on the 2nd Tuesday of each month.
- No tours on federal holidays.
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Renwick Gallery. Event Location: Meet in lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 12:00 PM.
Friday Gallery Talk: Stan Brakhage
One-Time Events
Hirshhorn writer and editor Glenn Dixon talks about Stan Brakhage's Mothlight.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Lectures & Discussions. Venue: Hirshhorn Museum. Event Location: Meet at information desk. Cost: Free. Continues: Continues most Fridays. Related Exhibition: Over, Under, Next.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM.
For more info visit www.hirshhorn.si.edu. Summer Concert Series: United States Air Force Band
One-Time Events
Gather family and friends for this concert series featuring ensembles from the renowned U.S. military bands. Enjoy vocal and instrumental selections from a variety of musical genres, including big band, jazz, popular, patriotic, and classical. Today's concert is presented by the United States Air Force Band.
Categories: Performances. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: Gallery 104, 1st Floor, West Wing. Cost: Free. Continues: Series continues most Fridays through August.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM.
Highlights of the American Art Museum
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round:
• Most days: 12:30 PM and 2 PM
Notes
- No tours on 2nd Tuesday of each month.
- Tours subject to docent availability.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American Art Museum. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 12:30 PM.
(Re)Searching an American Slave Ship
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) This program will highlight the history and people that lived the experience of the Middle Passage and explore the research that the Smithsonian is currently doing in recovering these stories. Visitors will interact with facilitators in a hands-on environment of early 19th century American maritime material culture—specifically, the material culture that helped anti-slavers identify slave carrying ships—and connect this with the stories of those people who would have lived this experience. Additionally, the cart will showcase the research that curators at the museum are doing, connecting the stories and tactics used by 19th century anti-slavers to the very similar methods employed by Smithsonian researchers to find slave ships today.
June, July, August 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays at 10:00, 12:30, and 3:00 , No programs July 4 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: On the Water, 1 East. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM.
For more info visit youtu.be. Smithsonian Tours by Segway
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Experience a fun and unique way to learn about the Smithsonian, the National Mall, and the rich history of Washington, D.C. Short on time? Ask about our 1.5 hour tour.
Note: Riders must be 16 years of age or older and weigh between 100 and 260 pounds. Safety is our top priority; therefore, a product orientation is provided and a helmet must be worn for the entire duration of the tour.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Event Location: American History Museum, Mall Entrance. Cost: $79.00 per person
Groups can be accommodated and group rates are available
Call 202-384-8516 for questions and pricing. Purchase Tickets: http://www.segway.com/smithsoniantours/.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM.
For more info visit www.segway.com. Highlights Tours
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round:
• Daily: 10:15 AM and 1 PM
Notes
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
- Additional tours may be offered as announced; check at the Welcome Center.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at either information desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM.
Historic Theater: Time Trial of John Brown
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Join the jury as the public deliberates on John Brown’s contested legacy. Meet the man who committed his life to ending slavery…and used violent tactics to do it. How should history remember this disputed figure? When History is on trial, only Time can be the judge.
June 2013: Most Thursdays-Saturdays at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Price of Freedom Theater, 3rd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: The Price of Freedom: Americans at War and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Friday, June 21, 2013, 1:00 PM – 1:20 PM.
Highlights Tour
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round: Daily: 10:30 AM and 1 PM
Note
- Additional tours may be offered as posted at the Welcome Center.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Air and Space Museum. Event Location: Meet at tour desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 1:00 PM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round: Most days: 11 AM and 1 PM
Notes
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Self-Guided Highlights Tours
- Brochures, which include a floor plan and information about the museum's exhibitions, are available in a kiosk at the bottom of the escalators at the entrance to the museum.
- A copy of the self-guided tour brochure can also be downloaded here: Download Self-guided Tour Brochure (PDF).
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Postal Museum. Event Location: Meet at the information desk, street level, near top of escalators to museum. Cost: Free.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 1:00 PM.
AndyRoo & the AndyRooniverse: Music for All Ages
One-Time Events
AndyRoo & the AndyRooniverse is the children’s music project of singer-songwriter Andrew Karnavas. He has been a featured performer on Radio Disney AM 1590, with PBS Kids at SXSW, and on the Kids Country Stage with Radio Disney at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo.
The AndyRooniverse is made of the expanding landscape of every child’s imagination! Join AndyRoo on a musical journey to a town of animals, where you’ll encounter Silly Sal the Salamander, Monkeys climbing trees, and an affable Platypus. Explore a new place with a smile on your face! Album signing follows at 2pm.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Shopping/Book Signing. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: Discovery Room, 1st floor. Cost: Free.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM.
Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round: Daily: 10:30 AM and 1 PM
Note
- Additional tours may be offered as posted at the tour desk.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center. Event Location: Meet at tour desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 1:00 PM.
For more info visit airandspace.si.edu. Docent's Choice Tour of the Portrait Gallery
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of one of the following: highlights of the museum, the America's Presidents exhibition, or one of the special exhibitions currently on view.
Year-Round:
Most Mon.-Fri.: 1 PM and 3:30 PM
, Most Sat. and Sun.: 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM
Notes
- On the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month, the tour may be offered in Spanish (depending upon demand).
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 1:00 PM.
Open Studio Fridays
Ongoing Activities
Join us on Friday afternoons for some creative fun! Check out a Portrait Discovery Kit to explore the museum and try a different art material each week.
Categories: Kids & Families. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: Education Center, Room E151. Continues: Repeats most Fridays through June 21.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
Highlights Tours
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who gives a tour of the highlights of the museum.
June 2013, Most Tues.-Fri.: 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM
Notes
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
- No tours on most federal holidays.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Rotunda, 1st floor, near information desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 1:30 PM.
Live Tarantula Feedings
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Volunteers conduct tarantula feeding demonstrations, work with live insects that visitors may touch and hold, and answer questions about the many-legged creatures that live in the Insect Zoo.
Year-Round:
Sat. and Sun.: 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 1:30 PM
, Tues.- Fri.: 10:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 1:30 PM
Note
- Demonstrations offered unless otherwise posted.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: Natural History Museum. Event Location: O. Orkin Insect Zoo, 2nd floor, West. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Insect Zoo, O. Orkin.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 1:30 PM.
For more info visit www.mnh.si.edu. Art + Coffee: Luce Foundation Center for American Art
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Learn about the more than 3,300 treasures of the Luce Foundation Center for American Art during this tour or talk. Afterwards, enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee or tea.
Year-Round:
• Friday through Sunday: 1:30 PM.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American Art Museum. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM.
Historic Theater: Join the Student Sit-Ins at the Greensboro Lunch Counter
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet a Civil Rights activist in 1960, just after the Greensboro student sit-in began. Take part in a training session based on an actual 1960s manual and prepare for your first sit-in. Would you have the courage to fight for justice during the Civil Rights movement? These 15- to 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Sundays at 11:30, 1:30, 3:00 and 4:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at Greensboro Lunch Counter, 2nd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Landmark Object: Greensboro Lunch Counter and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Friday, June 21, 2013, 1:30 PM – 1:50 PM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. Highlights of the American Art Museum
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round:
• Most days: 12:30 PM and 2 PM
Notes
- No tours on 2nd Tuesday of each month.
- Tours subject to docent availability.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American Art Museum. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 2:00 PM.
Historic Theater: Meet Joseph Henry
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Joseph Henry, the first Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. Learn about life at the Smithsonian during the Civil War and interact with the man who shaped this national institution from 1846-1878.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays 10:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, and 3:30pm , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Please check Welcome Desks for locations. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 2:00 PM – 2:20 PM.
Highlights Tour
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Join a cultural interpreter for a general overview of the museum's history, landscape, building, exhibitions, and other points of interest.
June through August 2013: Most Sun. Tues. Thurs. and Fri.: 2-3 PM Note
- Subject to cultural interpreter availability.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: Near elevators, 4th Level. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM.
AFI DOCS Film Series: Brave Miss World
One-Time Events
(2013, 97 min) Two months before she was crowned Miss World in 1998, Linor Abargil, an Israeli beauty queen, was raped in a violent attack by an acquaintance. Ten years later she is ready to talk about her ordeal as she travels the world to hear the stories of other rape victims. Filmmaker Cecilia Peck traces Linor’s inspiring journey as the beauty queen helps women find strength to speak out and works to heal while battling for justice. Panel discussion follows.
Categories: Films. Lectures & Discussions. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: McEvoy Auditorium, Lower Level. Cost: $13; visit the American Film Institute's website. Continues: Series continues here and at American History through June 23.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 2:15 PM.
Highlights of the Portrait Gallery
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of the highlights of the gallery.
Year-Round:
Most Mon.-Fri.: 11:45 AM and 2:15 PM
, Most Sat. and Sun.: 11:45 AM and 3:15 PM
Note
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 2:15 PM.
Flag Folding
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Learn to fold a full-size replica of the 30x42-foot Star-Spangled Banner in Flag Hall. Get a sense of the true size of the flag that Francis Scott Key saw over Fort McHenry when he wrote our National Anthem.
June, July, August 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays at 2:30pm , No programs July 4 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Flag Hall, 2nd floor, Center. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 2:30 PM – 2:50 PM.
For more info visit youtu.be. Historic Theater: Time Trial of John Brown
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Join the jury as the public deliberates on John Brown’s contested legacy. Meet the man who committed his life to ending slavery…and used violent tactics to do it. How should history remember this disputed figure? When History is on trial, only Time can be the judge.
June 2013: Most Thursdays-Saturdays at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Price of Freedom Theater, 3rd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: The Price of Freedom: Americans at War and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Friday, June 21, 2013, 2:30 PM – 2:50 PM.
(Re)Searching an American Slave Ship
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) This program will highlight the history and people that lived the experience of the Middle Passage and explore the research that the Smithsonian is currently doing in recovering these stories. Visitors will interact with facilitators in a hands-on environment of early 19th century American maritime material culture—specifically, the material culture that helped anti-slavers identify slave carrying ships—and connect this with the stories of those people who would have lived this experience. Additionally, the cart will showcase the research that curators at the museum are doing, connecting the stories and tactics used by 19th century anti-slavers to the very similar methods employed by Smithsonian researchers to find slave ships today.
June, July, August 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays at 10:00, 12:30, and 3:00 , No programs July 4 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Demonstrations. Kids & Families. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: On the Water, 1 East. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM.
For more info visit youtu.be. Historic Theater: Join the Student Sit-Ins at the Greensboro Lunch Counter
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet a Civil Rights activist in 1960, just after the Greensboro student sit-in began. Take part in a training session based on an actual 1960s manual and prepare for your first sit-in. Would you have the courage to fight for justice during the Civil Rights movement? These 15- to 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Sundays at 11:30, 1:30, 3:00 and 4:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at Greensboro Lunch Counter, 2nd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Landmark Object: Greensboro Lunch Counter and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Friday, June 21, 2013, 3:00 PM – 3:20 PM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. ARTLAB+: Open Studio
Ongoing Activities
(ages 13-19) Open Studio is open to local teens. This time allows teens to explore the ArtLab space and direct their own experience and learning. Video games, laptop stations, socializing, etc. are encouraged activities during Open Studio.
Note: With limited space, priority is given to local DC/MD/VA teens. For local teens new to the program, drop-in the ArtLab with a guardian to register in person. Be sure to bring a school ID or other ID for age verification.
Categories: Workshops. Venue: Hirshhorn Museum. Event Location: ArtLab in Sunken Sculpture Garden. Cost: Free. Continues: Continues most weekdays through August 2.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
For more info visit artlabplus.si.edu. Hirshhorn Museum Highlights Tours
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who gives a tour of the highlights of the museum.
Year-Round:
• Most Mon.-Thurs.: 12:30 PM
• Most Fri.: 3 PM
Note
- No tours on federal holidays.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Hirshhorn Museum. Event Location: Meet at the information desk. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 3:00 PM.
Interactive Cart: Dolls
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Learn how dolls have served as both toys and teaching tools for Native communities.
June through August 2013: Most Sun. Tues. and Fri.: 3-4 PM.
Categories: Kids & Families. Venue: American Indian Museum. Event Location: Sealaska Gallery, Level 2. Related Exhibition: Grand Procession: Dolls from the Charles and Valerie Diker Collection.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
Historic Theater: Meet Joseph Henry
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet Joseph Henry, the first Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. Learn about life at the Smithsonian during the Civil War and interact with the man who shaped this national institution from 1846-1878.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Saturdays 10:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, and 3:30pm , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Please check Welcome Desks for locations. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 3:30 PM – 3:50 PM.
Docent's Choice Tour of the Portrait Gallery
Ongoing Activities
Look for our friendly docent who will give a tour of one of the following: highlights of the museum, the America's Presidents exhibition, or one of the special exhibitions currently on view.
Year-Round:
Most Mon.-Fri.: 1 PM and 3:30 PM
, Most Sat. and Sun.: 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM
Notes
- Tours subject to docent availability; last-minute cancellations may occur.
- On the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month, the 1:30 PM tour may be offered in Spanish (depending upon demand).
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: Meet in the F Street Lobby. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 3:30 PM.
Historic Theater: Time Trial of John Brown
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Join the jury as the public deliberates on John Brown’s contested legacy. Meet the man who committed his life to ending slavery…and used violent tactics to do it. How should history remember this disputed figure? When History is on trial, only Time can be the judge.
June 2013: Most Thursdays-Saturdays at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet in Price of Freedom Theater, 3rd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: The Price of Freedom: Americans at War and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Friday, June 21, 2013, 4:00 PM – 4:20 PM.
Smithsonian Tours by Segway
Ongoing Tours & Activities
Experience a fun and unique way to learn about the Smithsonian, the National Mall, and the rich history of Washington, D.C. Short on time? Ask about our 1.5 hour tour.
Note: Riders must be 16 years of age or older and weigh between 100 and 260 pounds. Safety is our top priority; therefore, a product orientation is provided and a helmet must be worn for the entire duration of the tour.
Categories: Gallery Talks & Tours. Event Location: American History Museum, Mall Entrance. Cost: $79.00 per person
Groups can be accommodated and group rates are available
Call 202-384-8516 for questions and pricing. Purchase Tickets: http://www.segway.com/smithsoniantours/. Continues: Daily.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
For more info visit www.segway.com. Historic Theater: Join the Student Sit-Ins at the Greensboro Lunch Counter
Ongoing Tours & Activities
(for all ages) Meet a Civil Rights activist in 1960, just after the Greensboro student sit-in began. Take part in a training session based on an actual 1960s manual and prepare for your first sit-in. Would you have the courage to fight for justice during the Civil Rights movement? These 15- to 20-minute performances reveal the people behind the objects on view and the emotion in their stories.
June 2013: Most Tuesdays-Sundays at 11:30, 1:30, 3:00 and 4:30 , Please check listings for the day of your visit.
Categories: Kids & Families. Performances. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Meet at Greensboro Lunch Counter, 2nd Floor, East Wing. Cost: Free; walk-in. Related Exhibition: Landmark Object: Greensboro Lunch Counter and Race: Are We So Different? (on view at the Natural History Museum).
Friday, June 21, 2013, 4:30 PM – 4:50 PM.
For more info visit www.youtube.com. AFI DOCS Film Series: Gideon's Army
One-Time Events
(2013) In this smart, insightful documentary, filmmaker Dawn Porter sheds light on the plight of one of our country’s most valuable and unsung warriors: the public defender. Following a small group of dedicated public defenders in the South, this film highlights the daily battles they face within a flawed legal system where a defendant’s very life can be on the line. Overworked and underpaid with little support, these committed individuals sacrifice a great deal in the name of justice. Panel discussion follows.
Categories: After Five. Films. Lectures & Discussions. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: McEvoy Auditorium, Lower Level. Cost: $13; visit the American Film Institute's website. Continues: Series continues here and at American History through June 23.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 5:00 PM.
ARTLAB+: Artist Studio
Ongoing Activities
(ages 13-19) Artist Studio is open to local teens. This time allows teens to think critically about the media they consume and produce, build their technical skills, and produce meaningful projects. Each day of the week, Mentors offer a different focus:
Monday: invention, construction, and sculptural installation , Tuesday: graphic design and photography production , Wednesday: character design and animation , Thursday: music, video, and sound production , Friday: 3D software and 3D animation
Note: With limited space, priority is given to local DC/MD/VA teens. For teens new to the program, drop-in the ArtLab with a guardian to register in person. Be sure to bring a school ID or other ID for age verification.
Categories: After Five. Workshops. Venue: Hirshhorn Museum. Event Location: ArtLab in Sunken Sculpture Garden. Cost: Free. Continues: Continues most weekdays through August 2.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
For more info visit artlabplus.si.edu. Sold Out -- Innoskate: Bones Brigade: An Autobiography
One-Time Events
(2012, 90 min) This documentary from Stacy Peralta looks at the Bones Brigade, six teenage boys who came together as a skateboarding team in the 1980s. Follow along as they reinvent not only their chosen sport, but also themselves as they evolve from insecure outsiders to the most influential athletes in the field. Discussion with original members Tony Hawk and Rodney Mullen follows. Note: Film may contain strong language.
Categories: After Five. Films. Lectures & Discussions. Venue: American History Museum. Event Location: Warner Bros. Theater, 1st Floor, Center. Cost: Free, but tickets needed (see Purchase Tickets link to reserve a spot)
Doors open at 6 PM. Purchase Tickets: http://innoskate2013-bonesbrigade.eventbrite.com/#.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 6:30 PM.
For more info visit innoskate2013.tumblr.com. Motorway
Films
A rubber-burning car chase movie, Motorway stars Shawn Yue as Sean, a hotshot rookie cop. He’s a member of the Stealth Riders, a secret police unit in charge of hunting down illegal auto racers and fugitives on the run. After nabbing a legendary getaway driver—only to have him escape from prison—Sean enlists soon-to-retire veteran Lo (Anthony Wong) to teach him some new driving tricks. Given both the Best Picture and Best Director awards by the Hong Kong Film Critics Association, this thrilling cat-and-mouse caper from Soi Cheang (Accident) is at once a tribute to American car-chase movies of the 1970s and a throwback to the glory days of Hong Kong action flicks. As Christopher Huber raves in Cinema Scope, "Motorway is part of a nearly lost art: a world and its inhabitants expressed almost exclusively through action." Supplied by Media Asia Distribution. (Dir.: Soi Cheang, Hong Kong, 2012, 90 min. Cantonese with Chinese and English subtitles).
Categories: After Five. Films. Venue: Freer Gallery. Event Location: Meyer Auditorium. Cost: Free; walk-in.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 7:00 PM.
AFI DOCS Film Series: Documented
One-Time Events
In 2011, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Jose Antonio Vargas outed himself as an undocumented immigrant in the New York Times Magazine. This film chronicles the aftermath as he travels around the country as an immigration reform activist and provocateur, lands a historic Time magazine cover story, and unexpectedly re-connects with his mother in the Philippines, whom he hasn't seen in nearly 20 years. Panel discussion follows.
Categories: After Five. Films. Lectures & Discussions. Venue: Portrait Gallery. Event Location: McEvoy Auditorium, Lower Level. Cost: $13; visit the American Film Institute's website. Continues: Series continues here and at American History through June 23.
Friday, June 21, 2013, 8:00 PM.