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The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. We are a community of learning and the opener of doors. Join us on a voyage of discovery and?explore and learn?online.

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Select a topic to discover featured collections and stories, OR search millions of digital records.
Among the Sierra Nevada
Smithsonian Spotlight

Natural Beauty

Enjoy a selection of landscape paintings and artwork inspired by nature's beauty.
Duke Ellington
Smithsonian Spotlight

Duke Ellington

Legendary performer Tony Bennett, portrays the man he celebrated as his mentor. Learn more about Duke Ellington from across the Smithsonian.
Census jug
Smithsonian Spotlight

Be Counted

Every 10 years, the U.S. Census Bureau counts all the people residing in the U.S. Explore census-related materials in Smithsonian collections.
Big Jazz Painting
Smithsonian Spotlight

Jazzed About Art

Seeing sound through art in our collections.
ruby slippers
Smithsonian Spotlight

Fabulous Footwear

Along with the Ruby Slippers, the Smithsonian has some fabulous footwear in the collections.
Masters of Tradition map of U.S.
Smithsonian Folkways

Masters of Tradition: A Cultural Journey Across America

Discover the broad array of musical styles and cultural stories that enliven our nation. 
Captain America 41 cent stamp
Smithsonian Spotlight

Excelsior! Super Superheroes

A look at superheroes in the Smithsonian's collections and remembering Stan Lee.
Moonwatch Volunteers, 1965
Smithsonian

National Volunteer Month

On-site, online, or behind the scenes, the Smithsonian has always relied on volunteers and citizen scientists.
3 bears caught on camera
Smithsonian Collaboration

eMammal: See Wildlife, Do Science

Place “camera traps” in your community to assist researchers in answering questions about mammal distribution and abundance.
Ali with his children on his lap.
Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service

Men of Change: Power. Triumph. Truth.

Profiles revolutionary men who have altered the history and culture of this country.
shark
National Museum of Natural History

Ocean Portal: All About Sharks

Learn about these incredible animals—and the ecosystems in which they play a role.
seed catalog
Smithsonian Libraries

Seed and Nursery Catalogs

With the arrival of spring, gardeners are dreaming of the growing season to come. Collection highlights date from the 1830s through the 1930s.