Washington DC With Kids--Best Bets--Smithsonian National Museum Of African Art

National African Art Museum Is A Hidden Gem Celebrating the Art and Culture of Africa

Tucked underground beneath the Enid Haupt Garden directly behind the Smithsonian Castle, is the National Museum of African Art. This museum gets far less traffic than the neighboring Natural History, Air and Space and American History museums--- which makes it a great place to go on a weekend when these other museums are crowded.

It has wonderful exhibits and activities for kids. The "Artful Animals" exhibit showcases 125 works of art depicting African mammals, birds, reptiles, insects and even fantasy animals.  Kids friendly displays teach children about the symbolism of these animals in various cultures. A free activity guide available to children at the exhibit enables them to keep a journal of the animals they spot on their trip, the countries where the art works are from, and the features and symbolism depicted.

Also well worth seeing is the Disney--Tishman African Art Collection of more than 500 pieces of sculpture, figures, masks and pottery from Central, East, West and Southern Africa.  This collection is one of the finest in the world. It was originally acquired from the Tishman Family by Disney for a pavilion at EPCOT Center. When those plans failed to materialize, Disney made the collection available to museums around the country, and then ultimately donated the collection to the Smithsonian in 2005.

The Haupt Garden is a great place to get some fresh air and let kids spread their wings after visiting the Museum, and a cafe in the adjacent Smithsonian Castle has a kid-friendly lunch menu.

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The Wonder Rotunda is an online educational theme park (for ages 7-12) that sparks curiosity, helps kids find their interests and passions, and inspires them to think about making a mark in the world. Topics explored include marine life, space exploration, animal life, classical music, nutrition, American government, globalization, climate change, money and business, the visual and performing arts, film making and climate change. Take the Free Tour.

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