When you go to Washington, D.C., make sure to visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.
Washington, D.C. is home to numerous museums and art galleries, and many of them offer free admission. Among them, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History stands out as the most popular, attracting a large number of visitors not only on weekends but also on weekdays.
When it comes to tourist attractions in the capital of the United Stat...
The highlight of the exhibits is undoubtedly the elephants.
At the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, various displays are centered around the 4.6 billion years of Earth’s history, showcasing remarkable items such as giant diamonds in the mineral area, fossils, and meteorites that we rarely encounter in our daily lives.
Among these displays, the one that captivates the most visitors is the exhibit featuring a giant African elephant captured in 1955. This display, which frequently appears in movies, can be considered the symbol and the most famous attraction of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.
The taxidermy of this African elephant, which is exhibited at the entrance of the museum, is affectionately named ‘Henry’ in honor of the founder, Joseph Henry.
Facilities established by Joseph Henry
This museum was led by Joseph Henry, who contributed significantly to the promotion of science in America. Born and raised in New York, he was a person of exceptional talent from his student days. He made contributions in various scientific fields, supporting the development of gas balloons in aeronautics and laying the foundation for weather forecasting in meteorology, among other things, which still greatly benefit our lives today.
A must-see attraction worth half a day
This museum is a luxurious and awe-inspiring facility, representing America’s serious commitment to science and education. The exhibits are so extensive that one day might not be enough to see everything carefully. When visiting, it’s highly recommended to allocate at least half a day. There is also a food court inside where you can have a meal.
