Exploring the Majesty of Smithsonian Castle: A Gateway to America's Treasures
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural richness of the Smithsonian Castle, your gateway to the Smithsonian Institution's treasures in Washington, DC.
The Smithsonian Castle in Washington, DC, is an architectural marvel and a hub for cultural exploration, serving as the entrance to the Smithsonian Institution. With its stunning Gothic Revival design and rich history, this landmark invites tourists to discover an array of museums, research initiatives, and exhibitions that celebrate American heritage and innovation. Visitors can enjoy informative displays, guided tours, and beautiful gardens, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the arts, sciences, and history.
A brief summary to Smithsonian Castle
- 1000 Jefferson Dr SW, Washington, Southwest Washington, District of Columbia, 20560, US
- +1202-633-1000
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and make the most of your experience.
- Check the Smithsonian website for special exhibitions or events happening during your visit.
- Take advantage of the free guided tours offered at the Castle for a deeper understanding of its history.
- Don't forget to explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the Castle for a peaceful retreat.
Getting There
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Bus
From Waldorf, head to the nearest bus stop and take the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) Bus 301 towards Washington, D.C. Stay on the bus for approximately 30 minutes. Disembark at the 'Branch Ave Metro Station' stop. From there, take the Metro Green Line towards Greenbelt. Transfer at 'L'Enfant Plaza' to the Blue, Orange, or Yellow Line. Continue to the 'Smithsonian' station. Exit the station and walk approximately 5 minutes to reach the Smithsonian Castle located at 1000 Jefferson Dr SW.
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Metro
To reach the Smithsonian Castle, first head to the nearest Metro station in Waldorf, which is the Branch Ave Metro Station. From there, take the Green Line towards Greenbelt. After about 30 minutes, transfer at 'L'Enfant Plaza' to the Blue, Orange, or Yellow Line. Continue to the 'Smithsonian' station. Once you exit the station, walk for about 5 minutes towards 1000 Jefferson Dr SW, and you will arrive at the Smithsonian Castle.
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Rideshare
Using a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft, request a ride from your current location in Waldorf to the Smithsonian Castle. The ride will take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Provide the driver with the address: 1000 Jefferson Dr SW, Washington, DC 20560. Once you arrive, you’ll be right at the entrance of the Smithsonian Castle.
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