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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Museums

National Museum of the American Indian

A stunning Smithsonian institution dedicated to the Indigenous peoples of the Americas, featuring curvilinear architecture and one of the world's most expansive collections of Native American artifacts and media.

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National Museum of the American Indian
americanindian.si.edu, og_image_americanindian.si.edu

What is the National Museum of the American Indian known for?

The museum is devoted to the culture of the Indigenous peoples of the Americas and houses one of the world's most expansive collections of Native objects, photographs, artifacts, and media, covering the Western Hemisphere from the Arctic Circle to Tierra del Fuego.

How much does it cost to visit?

Admission is always free and no tickets are required.

What are the hours?

The Washington, D.C. location is open daily from 10 AM to 5:30 PM, except December 25. The New York, NY location is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, except December 25.

Where is the museum located in DC?

It is located on the south side of the National Mall at Fourth Street and Independence Avenue, Southwest, situated between the National Air and Space Museum and the US Botanic Gardens, across from the National Gallery of Art East Building.

Are there food options available at the museum?

Yes. The Mitsitam Foods Cafe is open daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the Espresso Bar is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. offering Native-inspired options like salads, sandwiches, corn muffins, and baked goods.

What should I check before going?

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

What to know

The National Museum of the American Indian is a cornerstone of the Smithsonian Institution, devoted to the culture of the Indigenous peoples of the Americas. Located on the south side of the National Mall at Fourth Street and Independence Avenue, Southwest, the museum opened its doors on September 21, 2004. Its creation was the result of enabling legislation passed in 1989, with a subsequent amendment in 1996, to ensure a comprehensive representation of Native heritage. The building is renowned for its sweeping curvilinear architecture and indigenous landscaping. These elements, along with the exhibitions, were designed in close collaboration with tribes and communities to evoke the spirit of Native America. The museum houses a massive collection of photographs, objects, and media that spans the entire Western Hemisphere, reaching from the Arctic Circle down to Tierra del Fuego. Beyond the galleries, the museum offers unique culinary experiences. The Mitsitam Foods Cafe is a local sensation, providing authentic flavors, while the Espresso Bar serves Native-inspired options like corn muffins and sandwiches. This facility is one of three museum sites, alongside the George Gustav Heye Center in New York City and a Cultural Resources Center in Suitland, Maryland. Visitors can explore the exhibits daily from 10 AM to 5:30 PM. The site is fully accessible to people with disabilities, ensuring that the expansive history of the Americas is available to all guests.

Visitor tips

  • Plan to visit the Mitsitam Foods Cafe between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. for a meal.
  • Admission is always free and no tickets are required, making it a flexible stop on your walk.
  • If you only have time for a snack, the Espresso Bar is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the museum is located on the south side of the National Mall.

Nearby context

The museum is situated on the south side of the National Mall, positioned between the National Air and Space Museum and the US Botanic Gardens, and sits directly across from the National Gallery of Art East Building.

Sources

Evidence and links