Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum?
What makes it 97% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 enjoy free admission, hands-on STEM carts, Big Bird planetarium, story time, and child-height interactives, with family restrooms and staff guidance keeping things easy.
Positives:
- Free Admission: All permanent galleries are free with a timed-entry pass for each visitor.
- Indoors All Year: Exhibits and activities are indoors, so weather won’t affect your visit.
- Educational Fun: Hands-on demos and story time engage kids aged 3–12.
Challenges:
- Midday Crowds: Galleries and lines for shows fill up around noon, especially on weekends.
- Noise & Lights: IMAX and planetarium can be loud and dark for younger children.
- Busy Free Shows: Free planetarium tickets run out quickly; plan ahead.
What is Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum?
- A Smithsonian museum documenting the evolution of aviation and space exploration, from early biplanes to interplanetary missions
- Preserving world-changing artifacts such as the 1903 Wright Flyer, Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis and the Apollo 11 Command Module
- Occupying a monumental barrel-vaulted structure on the National Mall, with a light-filled central atrium and hangar-like galleries
What is so special about Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum for with kids?
- Free timed-entry galleries let families explore iconic aircraft and spacecraft.
- Hands-on STEM demos and story time engage kids aged 3–12.
- Kid-scaled “Pioneers of Flight” gallery encourages active play.
- Planetarium and IMAX offer both free and paid family shows.
- Indoor setting guarantees a dry, climate-controlled visit.
Recommended visit duration: 3-5 hours
Why 3-5 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: This time lets you explore galleries, try hands-on demos, and catch a show without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Discovery Stations & Hands-On Demos:
Join roving carts for simple STEM activities like build-and-launch foam rockets.
Tip: Drop in around main halls; best for kids aged 5 and up.
Flights of Fancy Story Time:
Listen to a picture book and make a quick craft with museum educators.
Tip: Thursdays at 11 AM; bring the free timed-entry pass to join.
Pioneers of Flight Children’s Gallery:
Explore a low-lighting, kid-scaled space with interactive flight controls.
Tip: No extra fee; let young children touch controls and explore freely.
Planetarium Family Shows:
Watch free Big Bird adventure or paid constellation tours.
Tip: Free shows at 10:30 AM on Thursdays and Sundays; pick up tickets early.
Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater:
See children’s documentaries on a five-story screen.
Tip: Buy same-day tickets onsite; arrive 15 minutes before showtime.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
- Reserve Passes Early: Book free timed-entry passes online as soon as they open.
- Plan Show Times: Check planetarium and IMAX schedules before you arrive.
- Use Family Restrooms: Lower-level Family Care Suite has nursing rooms and changing tables.
- Download Map: Grab the museum map on your phone to navigate quickly between exhibits.
Reviews of Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Vinodkumar Vemareddy
Fascinating and educational experience. The National Air and Space Museum offers an incredible collection of aircraft, spacecraft, and interactive exhibits that showcase the history and future of aviation and space exploration. The displays are well organized, informative, and engaging for visitors of all ages. From historic airplanes to space capsules and moon-landing exhibits, there’s so much ...
Nasim
Amazing museum where can find and see real passenger and military aircraft. No tickets needed and it is free . To enjoy more free options you can go after 4 pm so that the parking would be free as well. You can see the discovery shuttle that is wonderful ! What is more interesting than watching a giant aircraft that have had too many space adventures ! There are also planes from ww2 and also a con...
PL Lau
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A must-visit in DC for families, couples, or solo travelers! My visit to the National Air and Space Museum was absolutely incredible and easily one of the best museums out there for aviation enthusiasts. Pro-Tip on Entry: You definitely need to book your tickets online in advance. They use a timed-entry system, so you can't just walk in, but the effort is worth it to avoid long waits and e...
Liam Leeson
The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. was absolutely amazing! This museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in aviation, space exploration, or history. The exhibits are incredible and immersive, showcasing real historic aircraft, spacecraft, and fascinating artifacts that span the entire story of flight — from the earliest airplanes to lunar modules and space shut...
Charles Massey
I’ve visited this place several times, but this last visit meant the most to me. While on a staycation with my wife and kids, we decided to spend the day exploring the Smithsonian museums. We booked our tickets in advance, as recommended, and that was definitely the best choice. The entrance from the National Mall is stunning—just as shown in my photo. We also decided to attend one of the IMAX mo...
When is the best time to visit Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum (Washington, D.C., United States)?
Visit on weekday mornings outside school vacations to avoid crowds. Free timed-entry passes open 30 days ahead—reserve early.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Planetarium paid show (2 adults, 2 kids) | USD 34 |
| IMAX tickets (2 adults, 2 kids) | USD 34 |
| Lunch at Mars Café | USD 32 |
| Total Estimated | USD 100 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Address: 650 Jefferson Dr SW, Washington, DC 20004, USA
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About Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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