Explore the Wonders of Flight at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Discover the history of aviation and space exploration at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, an iconic attraction in Washington, D.C.
The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., is a must-visit for tourists eager to delve into the history of aviation and space exploration, featuring iconic artifacts and engaging exhibits.
A brief summary to Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
- 600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, Southwest Washington, District of Columbia, 20560, US
- +1202-633-2214
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early in the day to avoid large crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Check the museum's schedule for special events, lectures, and film screenings during your visit.
- Make use of the museum's free guided tours for in-depth insights into the exhibits.
- Visit the museum's website for up-to-date information on health guidelines and timed entry tickets.
- Don't miss the museum's gift shop for unique souvenirs related to aviation and space themes.
Getting There
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Metro
From your location in Rockville, head to the Rockville Metro Station. Take the Red Line train towards Glenmont. Ride for about 15 stops, approximately 30 minutes, until you reach the National Gallery of Art stop. Transfer to the Blue, Yellow, or Orange Line at the Gallery Place-Chinatown station. From there, take the Yellow or Blue Line towards Franconia-Springfield or Largo Town Center respectively. Get off at the L'Enfant Plaza station. Exit the station and walk about 0.4 miles (approximately 10 minutes) to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum located at 600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560.
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Bus
In Rockville, find the nearest bus stop for the Ride On bus service. Take the Ride On Bus Route 46 towards the Twinbrook Metro Station. Ride for about 15-20 minutes, then transfer at the Twinbrook Metro Station to the Red Line. Travel towards Glenmont for about 10 stops until you reach the Gallery Place-Chinatown station. From there, switch to the Yellow or Blue Line and continue to L'Enfant Plaza station. Once you exit, it's about a 10-minute walk to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum at 600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560.
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Bicycle
If you prefer to bike, you can use bike-sharing services available in Rockville. Start at your location and head towards the Rockville Town Center. From there, follow the Rock Creek Trail southbound towards Washington, DC. The trail will take you through scenic areas and parks. Continue until you reach the Potomac River and then follow the signs to the National Mall area. Once you reach the National Mall, head towards Independence Ave SW. The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is located at 600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560.
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Walking
If you are close enough to the Rockville Metro Station, you can walk there. Once at the station, take the Red Line towards Glenmont and get off at the Gallery Place-Chinatown station. From there, transfer to the Yellow or Blue Line and disembark at L'Enfant Plaza station. After exiting the Metro station, walk approximately 10 minutes to reach the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, located at 600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560.
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