Migratory birds—not subject to citizenship requirements or FAA regulations—cover the globe as they follow the seasons. How do scientists know where an individual bird has gone and where it’s going? Continue reading Every step you take, every flight you make, we’ll be watching you
One thing he’s learned: Don’t pee on a jellyfish sting (use vinegar instead!) Continue reading Allen Collins studies the diversity of jellyfish to help piece together answers about ocean ecosystems
Season 11 of Sidedoor starts off with a flourish of the counterfeiter’s pen. Continue reading When is a fake so real it becomes art? Ask Jim the Penman
The campaign’s goal of $2.5 billion is the largest amount ever achieved in a fundraising campaign by a cultural institution. Continue reading Smithsonian launches its most ambitious fundraising campaign to date
The dry cistern was discovered by construction crews working on the Smithsonian Castle’s renovation Continue reading Workers Uncover an Underground Chamber Sealed for More Than a Century Near the National Mall
Just ask the magic 8-ball! Continue reading Do the presidential debates still matter?
Tiny, compact galaxies are masters of disguise in the distant universe Continue reading Searching for the secrets behind the Little Red Dots
What happens if a red wolf has a bellyache? What if a cheetah suffers from tummy troubles? At the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, they call microbiologist Carly Muletz Wolz to investigate. Continue reading Carly Muletz Wolz looks at tiny microbes to answer big questions about our ecosystems
Political history curators from the National Museum of American History are collecting “ephemera” – items that people wear, carry, hand out, display or otherwise use during the political conventions. Continue reading ‘Coconut farmers for Harris,’ influencers and vertical signs – Smithsonian curators’ encounters at the Democratic National Convention
Morning at the Museum aims to boost inclusivity and reward early-bird visitors with an experience tailored especially for them. Continue reading Neurodivergent guests flock to the Zoo’s Bird House
The Smithsonian's 12th collaboration with USA Today honors American veterans. Continue reading America’s Veterans: Honor, Service, and Sacrifice
Secretary Bunch announces a generous gift from Lily Endowment to fund the Smithsonian's celebration of the United States' 250th anniversary in 2026. Continue reading A new $40 million grant will fund America’s 250th programming and events
After three decades answering visitors' questions, is there anything she doesn't know about the Smithsonian? Continue reading Bridget Balog celebrates 30 years with the Smithsonian
Meet the newest member of the OVS staff: An enthusiastic historian and writer with a touch of Army discipline. Continue reading Introducing Troy Huber
The Office of Visitor Services is excited to announce that we are recruiting for a new season of volunteer Smithsonian Ambassadors! Continue reading Ambassadors needed to meet visitors where they are
