Smithsonian Institution

Things to do near Smithsonian Institution

A trip to the Smithsonian Institution offers a wealth of activities, including exploring remarkable art galleries, indulging in some shopping, and enjoying captivating theatre performances nearby. This vibrant area provides a delightful mix of culture and entertainment, ensuring a memorable experience for every visitor.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near the Smithsonian Institution, visit Union Station Shopping Center, merely 62m away, or L'Enfant Plaza, just 621m away. If you're up for a drive, consider the Fashion Center at Pentagon City, located 2.5km from the institution.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Capital One Arena, where thrilling sports events come to life, only 435m from the Smithsonian. Enjoy a lively concert at the Howard Theatre, located 621m away, or catch a game at Nationals Park, situated 1.2km from your destination.

Adventure

At the East Potomac Tennis Center, located 1.2km from the Smithsonian Institution, you can enjoy thrilling tennis matches amidst vibrant adventure vibes. For a scenic experience, hike the Soapstone Valley Park, 2.5km away, where stunning outdoor views await. Alternatively, challenge yourself at Rock Creek Tennis Center, also 2.5km distant.

Nightlife

Catch a performance at the Shakespeare Theatre Company, just 497m away, for a cultural evening. Alternatively, enjoy a film at Regal Gallery Place, 435m away, or experience live music at The Anthem, 1.2km away, all offering a vibrant atmosphere for a memorable night out.

Find the best attractions near Smithsonian Institution

Within and around the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., visitors can explore a diverse array of attractions including memorials, museums, and historic civic buildings. Ideal for those seeking cultural and family-friendly experiences, highlights include the Smithsonian National Museum and various other Smithsonian museums that showcase the rich history of Washington. This vibrant area offers a perfect blend of educational and enjoyable activities for all types of travellers.

• National Mall: A vast expanse of green, the National Mall is perfect for outdoor adventures and scenic strolls. As you wander its paths, you'll encounter iconic monuments and memorials that celebrate American history, making it a must-visit for those seeking a blend of nature and culture.
• White House: The official residence of the US President, the White House is a symbol of American governance and culture. Its neoclassical architecture and lush gardens provide a stunning backdrop for photos and a deep dive into the nation’s political history.
• Walter E. Washington Convention Center: A hub for business and events, this convention centre features modern facilities and hosts diverse gatherings, from conferences to exhibitions. It's an ideal spot to experience the vibrant business culture of Washington, D.C.

Best time to go to Smithsonian Institution

The best time to visit Smithsonian Institution is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	35.1°F (1.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
February	38.3°F (3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	74.3°F (23.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	77.4°F (25.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
September	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
October	59.9°F (15.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	40.6°F (4.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Smithsonian Institution

To save money on your trip to the Smithsonian Institution, consider visiting between December and February when prices are generally lower. Fridays are the most affordable days to book accommodation, while Tuesdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to compare room rates and refine your search for budget-friendly options, including eco-certified hotels. Additionally, look for package deals that combine hotel stays, flights, and activities for extra savings. Exploring on foot is a great way to enjoy the area without spending much on transport.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Smithsonian Institution are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to June, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Smithsonian Institution is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Smithsonian Institution is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels right away. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel reservation near the Smithsonian Institution with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.