Heads-up, mamas! Starting TOMORROW, Tuesday, July 20, most of the Smithsonian’s museums will not require timed-entry passes for visiting.
That means if you wake up and suddenly need to see paintings of the first ladies at the National Portrait Gallery (believe me, I understand) — or you simply get to an afternoon and just can’t take the heat anymore (again, I’m with you) — you can head on over to a number of the Smithsonian’s locations.
No Timed-Entry Starting July 20th
You can see an updated list of which museums are open — and which are requiring time entry passes — on the Smithsonian’s website. But here’s a sneak preview at the museums that will be dropping the timed-entry requirement on July 20:
- National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center (Chantilly, Va.)
- National Portrait Gallery
- Smithsonian American Art Museum
- Renwick Gallery
- National Museum of American History
- National Museum of the American Indian (D.C.)
- National Museum of Natural History
Museums That Require Timed Entry
A few museums will still require timed passes for entry, including the:
Museums that are Currently Closed, but will Reopen Soon!
Also, look out for this: Several museums that have been closed — either due to the pandemic or for ongoing renovation work — also are scheduled to reopen within the next month.
- National Air and Space Museum — July 30 — The popular D.C. museum, which has been undergoing a renovation, will reopen without timed entry passes required. (The Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly is also open.)
- Smithsonian Institution Building (a.k.a. The Castle) — July 30 — The Smithsonian’s visitor center also has its own exhibitions.
- Anacostia Community Museum — Aug. 6 — This hidden gem in Southeast D.C. has featured several outdoor exhibitions during the pandemic.
Please keep in mind: While museums and other spaces around D.C. continue to reopen, some areas or facilities at each location (including children’s exhibits or cafes) might remain closed. Check each museum’s website ahead of your visit for the most up-to-date details.
Happy exploring! And if you can’t make it to your favorite locations this summer, don’t fret. Fall is a great time for Smithsonian-ing — check out tips for making it work.
