Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

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Shell & Magnifying Glass
Boy looking through microscope

The Discovery Room is a hands-on room featuring real Museum objects and artifacts. Visitors can look at fossils, skulls, shells and minerals, use a microscope, try on costumes from around the world and much more! School groups can take advantage of morning programs during the school year.

What's New?

  • There are no reservations available for the Discovery Room School Program for the rest of the school year. See the School Programs page for details on how to get on the waiting list.
  • The Discovery Room is in a new location on the first floor next to African Voices.

    Open Hours: (reservations are not necessary)
    Tuesday-Thursday, noon-2:30; Friday, 10:30-2:30; Saturday and Sunday, 10:30-3:30.

School Programs

  • There are no school programs during the summer season.
  • Details on logistics and lesson plans are on the school programs page.
  • We are able to accommodate most groups with special needs. Please call 202-622-1071 for details.

QUESTIONS? Please call Amy Bolton at (202) 633-1071.

Volunteers

The Discovery Room runs on "Volunteer Power" and we are always looking for new volunteers. Volunteers are asked to guide visitors through activities, help them find answers to their questions and encourage their curiosity. Weekday and weekend opportunities are available.

You must be 16 years old or older. Download an application. For more information call Amy Bolton at 202-633-1071.

Educator Enewsletter

The National Museum of Natural History offers a free quarterly electronic newsletter to educators interested in educational programs, exhibits, Web sites and special events. To receive the Educator’s E-newsletter, please register via email. You can also preview the latest edition of the Educator Enewsletter.

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