National Air and Space Museum, Washington DC

National Air and Space Museum, Washington DC

Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the National Air and Space Museum houses the largest collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft in the world and is one of the most visited museums in the world.

Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the National Air and Space Museum houses the largest collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft in the world and is one of the most visited museums in the world. The collection of over 60,000 artifacts is a testament to the exploratory spirit of man and serves as an inspiration to all visitors. On display are spaceship modules, exploration memorabilia, engines, instruments, equipment, space art, and flight artifacts. Highlights include the Apollo 11's command module Columbia, lunar module LM-2, a piece of moon rock that you can touch, the Friendship 7 capsule which was flown by John Glenn, the Bell X-1 which broke the sound barrier, David Scott's spacesuit on Apollo 15, replica of the space suit worn to the moon, Wright brothers' 1903 Flyer, and Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis. The museum has several interactive Discovery Stations where you can learn through discussion and hands-on activities. There are 25 minute long demonstrations of scientific concepts for kids. There is also an IMAX Theatre that features 3D films.