This is the heart and soul of D.C., America's front lawn, so to speak. Everyone knows about the Smithsonian Institution's museums on the Mall, but not everyone knows about the Renwick Gallery just across from the White House. In addition to smaller crowds, the gallery offers a space small enough that even children aren't overwhelmed. Set in an historic home, the gallery itself is worth seeing. Free tours are offered Monday through Friday at noon.
Admission is free.
Time your arrival with its 10 AM opening. You could easily spend all day exploring these amazing halls, so set a time limit. Choose from dinosaur fossils, a live insect zoo, gems and minerals, meteorites from Mars, giant squid, and more. Favorites are Dorothy's ruby slippers worn in The Wizard of Oz and the display of first ladies' dresses. You can also watch repairs being made on the original Star-Spangled Banner.