Washington, D.C. - Smithsonian Institution Building (The Castle)



Completed in 1855, the Castle is the signature building and home to the Smithsonian Visitor Center in Washington, D.C.

Volunteers and interactive tools are available to help you plan your Smithsonian Institution building aka the castle visit

Exhibitions reveal the history, scope, and scale of the Smithsonian Institutions

Tours are offered that highlight the history and architecture of the Castle

Free visitor Wi-Fi is also available at the Castle in Washington, D.C.

Address 1000 Jefferson Dr SW, Washington, DC 20560
Admission Fee

Smithsonian Castle Admission:

FREE

 

Smithsonian Castle Hours:

8:30AM- 5:30PM Daily except for Christmas Day
Getting There

By DC Metro to Smithsonian Castle:

-Take the DC Metro Blue, Silver, or Orange line.

- Exit at the Smithsonian Station

- Take the Mall exit and walk to the Castle


By DC Circulator bus to Smithsonian Castle in Washington DC:

- Take the DC Circulator bus (National Mall route) if you are around the National Mall area. 

- The DC Circulator bus is economical, convenient, and saves you from way too much walking. 

DC Circulator Bus Info - National Mall Loop Route

 

You can also take DC hop-on hop-off bus provided by companies like Big Bus or Old Town Trolley.

Big Bus Tours Washington DC information and Tickets
Recommendations

Tips for visiting Smithsonian Castle in Washington DC:

- Make sure to walk around the gardens behind the castle.  

 The Enid A. Haupt Gardens are serene and a great place to sit outside. 

- You can also see the iconic FBI building from the gardens behind the Castle building.

- Wear good shoes and bring water. 

- Go to the castle first before going to all the other Smithsonian museums, especially if you don't have time and only need to select a few museums to visit. 

  The visitor center will be helpful to narrow down your choices.

FYI:  if you have young children and need a quiet moment to yourself, there is a carousel ride a few feet away from the Castle.  Your child can enjoy the ride and you can enjoy a moment to yourself and sit at the nearby bench.
Website Smithsonian Institution Building (The Castle) Website