Giant pandas Tian Tian, Mei Xiang and Xiao Qi Ji began their journey to China this morning. The approximately 19-hour, trans-Pacific flight from Washington, D.C., to Chengdu, China, will include a brief refueling stop in Anchorage, Alaska. Continue reading The Giant Pandas are on their way to China
It is time once again to celebrate staff achievements in exhibition excellence! Award applications are being accepted through JANUARY 16, 2024.
Continue reading 2023 Smithsonian Excellence in Exhibitions Awards
Giant pandas Tian Tian, Mei Xiang and Xiao Qi Ji began their journey to China this morning. The approximately 19-hour, trans-Pacific flight from Washington, D.C., to Chengdu, China, will include a brief refueling stop in Anchorage, Alaska. Continue reading Giant Pandas are on their way to China
Join us as we launch Eye on Science, our new biweekly online series on Torch, which will shine a light on this vast and varied body of work by bringing Smithsonian science into sharper focus. Continue reading Introducing “Eye on Science”
Learn how arachnologist (that’s spider specialist to you and me) Hannah Wood uses the fossil record to track the evolution of these misunderstood critters.
PLUS! Bonus creepy spider facts about swallowing spiders in your sleep. Gulp! Continue reading Meet the Scientist Studying the Scary Speed of Spider Jaws
The modern “paleo” diet movement makes many assumptions about what our ancient human ancestors ate. But were those assumptions based on actual evidence? Continue reading What was the Paleo Diet really like?
The Smithsonian makes learning come alive for visiting field trip groups through memorable and engaging theater performances. Continue reading Heritage, Science, and Culture Take Center Stage with Discovery Theater Performances for Students
Applications are now being solicited for the 2024 Palmer Leadership Development Program. Continue reading 2024 Palmer Leadership Development Program
Object-based learning is a tool that any educator can use, no matter what subject they teach. Continue reading Using a museum’s approach in the classroom
Have you ever read an intriguing label that kept you thinking about a work of art, long after your visit to the museum? A carefully crafted exhibition label is not merely a description of the work on display, but an opportunity to add deeper context and appreciation for visitors. Continue reading The Writing on the Wall: Visitor-Centered Labels in Art Museums
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
