I scheduled us to visit the Smithsonian National Museum of American History as one of our first stops because it was one of the few museums that was open on Tuesdays (at least at the time).
As soon as you walk in, the first must-see exhibit features THE Star-Spangled Banner. No photos are allowed, but take our word for it that this huge flag is impressive.
The exhibits are set up to be a walk-thru of American history, although we did not always find ourselves looking at everything in chronological order.
This picture of a U.S. Customs uniform is for my dad.
Did my mom used to have one of these yogurt machines, or was it just my imagination?
This touch-sensitive wall lets you leave your mark, at least temporarily.
The Greensboro Lunch Counter Exhibit was a powerful reminder of America’s history of racial segregation. (We watched the short documentary film from these comfy chairs).
Dorothy’s iconic ruby slippers have their own separate wing in the museum.
The ruby slippers don’t actually look too glamorous up close, but they are still neat to see in person.
Can you imagine riding this bicycle around town?
I was excited to see my beloved Fisher Price Little People house on display. I used to love the ringing doorbell and rearranging the furniture.
This miniature dollhouse was fun to look at-so many details!
A replica of Julia Child’s kitchen is a main attraction in the FOOD: Transforming the American Table exhibit.
I ended up watching the 2021 Julia documentary on the plane ride home. Julia Child was quite a fascinating character in American history.
There was a small room that honored the birth of jazz. As a former jazz trombonist, I had to stop and take a picture.
This old school computer reminded me of the computers we used at my elementary school. It was fun to walk down memory lane!
n tried his hand at spinning, which was pretty cool.
I really enjoyed the National Museum of American History because we do not really have anything like it here in Southern California. If you are in DC, I would highly recommend making this one of your stops!