American and Natural History summer hours
I’ve seen mention of extended hours in the summer for the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History and also the American History Museum. I can’t seem to find info about it on their actual websites though. I read it is open til 7:30 Thursday thru Sunday somewhere. Does anyone know if this is actually true?
The Smithsonian museums in DC often have extended summer hours, but the official hours can vary each year and sometimes differ between the National Museum of Natural History and the National Museum of American History. As of recent summers, both museums generally extend their hours on certain days, but the exact times should be confirmed closer to your visit.
Based on typical summer schedules:
- The National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) usually opens at 10:00 AM and closes around 5:30 PM most days. In the summer, they sometimes stay open later, often until 7:30 PM Thursday through Sunday, but this can change depending on special events or maintenance schedules.
- The National Museum of American History (NMAH) typically opens at 10:00 AM and closes at 5:30 PM daily. Similar to NMNH, it may extend evening hours Thursday through Sunday during peak summer periods.
Some practical tips:
- Check the official Smithsonian website a few days before your visit, as the extended hours may only apply during specific weeks or for special exhibitions.
- If you plan to visit in the evening during extended hours, arriving later in the day can help avoid peak crowds in the early afternoon.
- Consider using the Smithsonian app or calling the visitor information line for real-time confirmation of hours on the exact dates of your trip.
In summary, the information you read about closing at 7:30 PM Thursday through Sunday is generally accurate for summer months, but it is not guaranteed and should be verified shortly before your visit.
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