Mall museums will be closed to the public on Inauguration Day

Most of the Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C., will be closed to the public Inauguration Day, January 20.

The Smithsonian is following the security guidelines provided by the Mayor’s office, National Park Service, and Metropolitan Police Department. In recent years, fences around buildings and road closures have made it very difficult for visitors and staff to get in and out of our buildings on Inauguration Day. Reducing traffic to and from the museums will help with crowd control, security, and safety. The National Zoo and the Anacostia Community Museum will remain open to the public on Inauguration Day.

In addition, on the evening of January 19, museums on the National Mall will be closed and will not be able to host special events; the National Portrait Gallery and Smithsonian American Art Museum will be able to host events that evening.  

In 2025, Inauguration Day is also a designated federal holiday in celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Smithsonian employees will follow regular OPM guidance for federal holidays.

Secretary Bunch and the senior leadership team will continue to monitor and assess the need for additional public closures. As always, our primary goal will be to ensure the safety and security of our visitors, staff, and volunteers.