If you’re not a local, you might not know that the Smithsonian museums are open on Thanksgiving Day. When family is in town and you’re looking for fun activities, you can definitely take advantage of the free admission at the Smithsonian’s fantastic museums including the National Zoo. Any young nieces or nephews? They might even see the newest baby orangutan, the first orangutan birth at the zoo in 25 years. If you just want to look a gorgeous pictures of wildlife, try the National Museum of Natural History’s “Nature’s Best Photography Awards” exhibit. If you don’t get to it on Thanksgiving Day, Natural History will extend its hours on Black Friday. Looking for something more educational? Learn about the Algonquian communities in the Chesapeake area at the National Museum of the American Indian (fitting for the holiday). The National Gallery of Art, while not part of the Smithsonian, is also open for the holiday. Its East Building has reopened, and a trip to the top floor can be very rewarding. Another historic attraction that’s open is George Washington’s Mount Vernon mansion and museum – from antique furniture to gorgeous gardens.
Rosa is a senior editor at Bitch Magazine. She’s written for Washingtonian and Smithsonian magazine.
