Arts and Industries Building

Location                    900 Jefferson Dr. SW, Washington 20560

Phone                      (202)   357-2700

Hours                      Daily 10:00am- 5:30pm

Admission                 Free

Metro                       Smithsonian

Giftshop?                 Yes

Parking                      On Street

If the Smithsonian is the nation’s attic, then The Arts and Industries Building is the attic’s attic. The Smithsonian would like to open the National African American Museum here in 2002, so some exhibits have already been moved in, but they are an odd combination with the locomotive and steam engines that now have no home.

However, the Arts and Industries Building is still a worthwhile trip. The Discovery room offers great kids shows and programs (call to find out showtimes) , and the old carousel in front of the building is a nice diversion.