Visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington D.C. can be a big undertaking. The museum has a collection of 146 million specimens, and most of it is on display, so it is easy to get overwhelmed while there and fail to get the proper experience. If you want to avoid this, make sure to follow the tips below.
Make a Plan Before You Visit
Having a plan will make your visit much better. Determine which exhibits interest you the most and know where they are so you don’t waste any time. The website of the National Museum of Natural History offers plenty of info that will help you do that.
Get There Early
The National Museum of Natural History is the most visited museum in the United States and also offers free admission. You can bet that a lot of people will want to get in at the same time, so long waiting lines and big crowds are guaranteed. However, if you arrive early in the morning, you can get in faster and see the things you want to see the most in more relaxing surroundings before other visitors start filling the exhibition halls.
Eat Something and Bring Plenty of Water
You can’t bring any food to the museums, and you’ll probably stay there for more than a couple of hours. So make sure to eat well before you get there. Also, bring plenty of water, because staying hydrated will help you be more energized for longer. It is also the only drink that you are allowed to bring in.
Don’t Try to See as Much as Possible
There is no way you can see even a fraction of what the National Museum of Natural History has to offer during one visit. So, instead of trying to see as much as possible, focus only on what interests you the most.