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1000, Jefferson Drive Southwest, 20560, Washington, US United States
contacts phone: +1 202-633-1000
website: www.si.edu
larger map & directionsLatitude: 38.8887861, Longitude: -77.0260229
Jennifer Schelly
::Good place to get a bite to eat and grab gift store goodies. Also had a nice map of the area to see all the museums to visit.
Ian White
::This is a beautiful piece of architecture that fits in and contrasts nicely with the buildings surrounding it. It has a lot of interesting things on display, but for me, it has a much more important function. It is the information gateway to the whole Smithsonian Complex. If you are visiting the Museum, then this is the place to start to ensure you get the best possible experience. The staff are very helpful and know their stuff!
Lorna Gates
::A great first stop to anyone's museum tours. Get the background on the Smithsonian museums, the lay of the land for your mueums' tour and get a copy of a map for all the museums and DC as well. Great that they are open as early as 8:30am and have a wonderful Cafe. Get your bearings over breakfast and plot your way to different museum destinations. Check out the photo machine that takes an artistic photo - FREE! Very cool! There is also a Penny Souvenir Machine right beside the photo machine.
Tim Spencer
::The Smithsonian Castle is simply an architectural gem. While not active as a typical Smithsonian museum, it does house interesting historical artifacts and photos. The grounds and gardens surrounding the building are kept in immaculate condition. The most interesting thing about visiting the castle is marveling in the splendid architecture. The castle was constructed in 1849 and was the official residence of the first Secretary of the Smithsonian, Joseph Henry. The crypt of James Smithson is contained within the building. As the castle is centrally located amongst other Smithsonian buildings on the National Mall, it is well worth a visit.
Chris Carlsson
::This is a beautiful historical building. Several parts were in the process of being renovated. It has an immense amount of information on the entire Smithsonian Museum system. You can utilize the resources to help plan out your trip. Make sure to walk all the way around (and view from the courtyard and the national mall side to see all of the Castle's beauty.