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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Theaters and music

Discovery Theater

A Smithsonian-run performing arts venue in the S. Dillon Ripley Center, offering interactive, educational live shows for children and families based on the institution's vast research and collections.

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What is Discovery Theater known for?

Discovery Theater is a children's theater run by the Smithsonian Institution that presents live, interactive educational performances. Its programs draw on Smithsonian collections and research to explore topics such as cultural heritage, folklore, scientific exploration, and invention.

Is it good for kids?

Yes, it is specifically designed for young audiences, including students and families from pre-K through elementary school, using actors, musicians, and puppeteers to make learning memorable.

Where is it located?

It is located in the S. Dillon Ripley Center at 1100 Jefferson Drive, SW, Washington, D.C. The entrance is on Jefferson Drive between the Smithsonian Castle and the Freer Gallery of the National Museum of Asian Art.

How do I buy tickets?

Tickets can be purchased online through individual show pages on their website or by phone at 202-633-8700 on weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

How much does it cost?

While general pricing is not listed for all ages, a ticket for a child under 2 costs $3.00. Every attendee, including infants, is required to have a ticket for entry.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Discovery Theater is a specialized performing arts venue operated by Smithsonian Associates, designed to bring the institution's research and collections to life for young audiences. Located at 1100 Jefferson Drive, SW, the theater serves over 50,000 children, parents, and teachers annually. Its programming focuses on celebrating regional and global diversity through culturally accurate and entertaining productions. The theater's 2025-2026 season emphasizes interactive educational performances that invite families to explore science, heritage, and culture. To animate these topics, the venue employs a team of actors, musicians, and puppeteers who create engaging experiences for students ranging from pre-K through elementary school. Early offerings at the theater historically included mime, dance, and storytelling in a renovated 175-seat space. Situated within the S. Dillon Ripley Center, the theater is part of a larger complex on the National Mall. This underground facility connects to the Sackler Gallery and the African Art Museum, providing a hub for educational programming. The theater's entrance is marked by a copper domed structure on Jefferson Drive, positioned between the Smithsonian Castle and the Freer Gallery of the National Museum of Asian Art. Admission to the theater requires a ticket for every attendee, including infants. For those visiting with very young children, tickets for children under 2 are priced at $3.00. Tickets can be secured via the official website on individual show pages or by phone during weekday business hours.

Visitor tips

  • Purchase tickets online through the official show pages before arriving to ensure entry.
  • If calling for tickets, do so on weekdays between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
  • Note that every person entering requires a ticket, including infants.
  • Use the Smithsonian (Mall exit) Metro station for the most direct access.

Nearby context

The theater is housed in the S. Dillon Ripley Center on the National Mall. It is conveniently located between the iconic Smithsonian Castle and the Freer Gallery of the National Museum of Asian Art, and it provides underground access to the Sackler Gallery and the African Art Museum.

Sources

Evidence and links