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Frequently Asked Questions
What are your admission fees and hours?
Washington, D.C. museums are open every day except December 25. For complete information on admission and hours go to Visit on this website or call 202.633.1000 (voice/tape).
Admission is free for all Smithsonian museums and the zoo in Washington, D.C., and the American Indian Museum's George Gustav Heye Center in New York. Tickets are not used for general admission.
A fee is required at the Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum in New York (Members and children under age 12 are admitted free).
How do I plan a visit to the Smithsonian?
You can plan your trip online. Go to Visit on this website or call 202.633.1000 (voice/tape). For lodging, transportation, and DC Deals, visit goSmithsonian.com.
What information is available for visitors with disabilities?
The booklet Smithsonian Access (currently out of print) provides information on the services available to visitors with disabilities—including parking, building access, and accessibility services. To obtain a printed copy of Smithsonian Access or a large-type, audio cassette, or Braille edition call 202.633.1000 (voice/tape).
- Web: Information for Visitors with Diabilities
How do I donate an object to the collections?
The Smithsonian Institution generally accepts donations of objects only if the items truly fill a gap in or complement the collections, and then only after careful consideration by museum curators, administrators and directors. Because of this rigorous selection process, the Smithsonian adds to its collections only a tiny percentage of what is offered. This is to ensure that the objects acquired are appropriate to the collections and can be properly cared for and used.
If you are considering making a gift or bequest of objects, please contact:
Smithsonian Information
Email: info@si.edu
Address: Smithsonian Information
PO Box 37012
SI Building, Room 153, MRC 010
Washington, DC 20013-7012
Phone: 202.633.1000
Please include a description, history of ownership, and photographs when applicable.
Under no circumstance should you mail any objects to the Smithsonian without first receiving permission to do so.
Can the Smithsonian provide appraisals?
The Smithsonian Institution does not, as a matter of policy, offer monetary evaluations. However, we have compiled information that we trust will be helpful. This information is not intended to be comprehensive and does not constitute an endorsement by the Smithsonian Institution.
What is the value of my violin? Is it authentic?
The Smithsonian Institution, as a matter of legal and ethical policy, does not determine the monetary value of musical instruments. For such an appraisal, we recommend that you have your instrument examined by a reliable violin dealer in your area.
Where can I buy Smithsonian Products?
All museums have stores with items related to the collections of the museum and our catalog and online store offer an even greater selection. Note: Smithsonian members are reminded to bring their membership card to receive a discount on purchases.
How do I change my address for the Smithsonian Magazine?
Fill out this easy online form: Internet Subscriber Services
How do I order back issues of the Smithsonian Magazine?
Articles from Smithsonian magazine are not reprinted. However, back issues can be purchased from the Smithsonian or can be found in many public or university libraries
How do I order back issues of the Air & Space Magazine?
Back issues of Air & Space magazine can be purchased from the Smithsonian or can be found in many public or university libraries.
How do I care for antiques and heirlooms?
Staff specialists at the Smithsonian Center for Materials Research and Education (SCMRE) are asked questions on a wide variety of subjects relative to caring for and preserving artifacts and heirlooms. Broad guidelines and strategies for artifact and collections care have been compiled into guideline pamphlets.
