The Smithsonian’s Natural History Museum

There was a long line the Saturday I visited the Natural History Museum. It included nationalities from around the globe. Upon entering the Museum, you are immediately greeted by the iconic elephant in the center of the lobby. It must be the most photographed elephant in the world!

I love this museum. There are exhibits of little-known exotic animals, the secrets of the ocean, and treasures from underneath the earth’s surface. My favorite exhibit there, however, has to be the gems and minerals. Huge blocks of quartz and other minerals and geodes, a gigantic sheet of mined copper and other sub-terrain finds are on display there. But the most photographed item of all has to be the Hope Diamond. It is huge!

On a human note, it was humorous to witness the women admiring and photographing the elaborate necklaces, bracelets and earrings on display. Regardless of nationality from country after country, women far outnumbered those clustered around the jewelry. I overheard more than one male good naturedly complain as the women lingered and commented about their beauty. And they were all stunning!

But there is a lot more to see, which makes this museum a great one for students and their entire families. It brings the sciences to life—how minerals are used in technology, the revelations of oceanography, and the discovery of unique animal science from the various continents.

Ideas and helps for school studies can actually be picked up for reasonable costs in the museum gift shop. And while you’re there, be sure to visit the Butterfly Pavilion housed there. You can read more about it in the next post!