In 2022, the museum welcomed approximately 1.8 million guests, placing it among the top five most frequented museums across the United States.

This institution serves as a custodian of the United States’ legacy, offering a deep dive into its scientific, cultural, social, technological, and political milestones. Spanning from the colonial era to the present day, the museum’s expansive collection—boasting over three million items, including the iconic Star-Spangled Banner—provides a comprehensive exploration of the evolution of American identity and its global impact.

Evolution and Impact of the American History Museum

The inception of what is now known as the American History Museum commenced in the late 1950s, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the preservation and celebration of the United States’ cultural and technological advancements.

Officially opening its doors in January 1964 under the name Museum of History and Technology, it became the sixth Smithsonian establishment gracing the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Since its opening, the museum has welcomed around 4 million visitors annually, who engage with its diverse exhibitions, educational programs, and digital offerings through its website.

• The museum’s journey began on June 28, 1955, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a bill allocating $36 million towards its construction;
• The groundbreaking ceremony took place on August 22, 1958, with the architectural vision entrusted to McKim, Mead, and White, later continued by Steinman, Cain, and White. Mills, Petticord, and Mills took on the roles of associate and supervising architects and engineers;
• Spanning approximately 750,000 square feet, the museum includes a variety of spaces such as a basement, three main exhibition levels, two office collection levels, and a mechanical penthouse.

Positioned on the National Mall, the museum holds the designation of a National Historic Landmark and is recognized for its architectural significance, partly due to being among the last projects of the esteemed McKim, Mead, and White firm, which also contributes to its eligibility for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places.

In 1980, the institution was renamed the National Museum of American History to more accurately reflect its mission to collect, preserve, and study artifacts representing the American experience.

A significant milestone in the museum’s history was the completion of a comprehensive two-year renovation in 2008, costing $85 million. This renovation rejuvenated the building’s core, enhancing its architectural charm, and led to the creation of a new gallery for the Star-Spangled Banner, alongside updates to its infrastructure. By the end of 2022, the museum finalized an extensive renewal of its 120,000-square-foot west exhibition wing, culminating in the unveiling of the new Entertainment Nation exhibition.

Plan a Visit

Operating Hours: 

• 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily;
• Closed Dec. 25.

Wegmans Wonderplace operates from Wednesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and remains closed on Monday and Tuesday.

Draper Spark!Lab is available for visits from Wednesday to Sunday, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., and is closed on Monday and Tuesday.

• Admission Fees: Free, no tickets are required.

Contact Information

• Phone:  +1 202-633-1000; 
• Email:  archivescenter@si.edu. For parties consisting of 10 individuals or more, kindly utilize the email address NMAHGroupInfo@si.edu  for correspondence;
• Website: https://americanhistory.si.edu/. 

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History and Atmosphere

Opened in 1992, Six Flags Fiesta Texas has become an integral part of the Texas entertainment scene and draws crowds of visitors from across the country. The park is located on what was formerly a limestone quarry, giving it a unique blend of natural beauty and thrill rides.

Attractions for everyone

Six Flags Fiesta Texas offers a variety of rides to satisfy every visitor’s tastes. From thrill rides to toddler rides, there is fun for the whole family. High speeds, impressive twists and thrilling drops await adrenaline lovers, while those who prefer a more relaxed experience can enjoy shows and various entertainment activities.

Shows and Entertainment

Outside of the attractions, Six Flags Fiesta Texas offers a variety of shows and activities to complement your spectacular trip. From thrilling extravaganzas to live music and interactive activities, every visitor will find something to their liking here.

Family Time

Six Flags Fiesta Texas is the perfect place for a family vacation. With numerous rides and activities for kids, parents can enjoy time at the park knowing that their little ones are safe and having fun with them.

Six Flags Fiesta Texas is more than just an amusement park, it is a source of unforgettable experiences and fun for the entire family. Whether you’re here for adrenaline, entertainment, or just a good time with family and friends, an incredible adventure awaits you at Six Flags Fiesta Texas. Come and experience the world of fun and magic that this amazing amusement park has to offer!

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All 68 rides and 9 themed areas are decorated in the style of Hershey’s chocolate company. The park has 11 roller coasters, carousels, a Ferris wheel, children’s and family entertainment. In the summer, there is an outdoor water area with 16 slides and a children’s playground, and entertainment shows are held on the stage.

The ticket office sells Fast Track Passes, which allow you to go on rides without waiting in line. The park’s website allows you to buy entrance tickets and book a room in one of the three hotel complexes. The park has dozens of snack and beverage kiosks, as well as several cafes (including those with kosher and gluten-free food).

Check the website for opening hours. “Hersheypark is open in spring and summer, as well as during holidays and on Halloween.

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A bit of history, just a quick glimpse into the past

In the 1700s, French explorers identified a convenient control point (“Dulles” as they called it) in the western part of the Great Lakes region. The name was anglicized to “Dells” after the French left the land. The railroad “came” to the region in 1857, and a village called Kilbourn City (after the president of the railroad) was founded where the roads crossed the Wisconsin River. But locals and visitors continued to call the place Dells, and in 1931, Kilbourn was officially changed to Wisconsin Dells.

The name Wisconsin was first recorded in 1673 by Jacques Marquette as Meskousing, from the language of local Indian tribes – the original meaning of the word is not known for certain. French explorers followed Marchetti and changed the name to Ouisconsin, which is how the river was named on Guillaume Delille’s map (Paris, 1718). In the early nineteenth century, the name was simplified to the present-day Wisconsin, and the territory of Wisconsin and later the state of Wisconsin were named after it.

Native American legend has it that a large snake formed the course of the Wisconsin River, which winds its way from the north. Passing through the forests and fields, the snake’s huge body made a ditch in the ground, and the water rushed after it. When the snake reached the sandy ridge where the Dells begins, it stuck its head into a large gap between rocks and pushed them apart to form a narrow, twisting passageway. Smaller snakes also followed, forming canyons that lead away from the main channel.

The real story is just as interesting. When the great frozen Lake Wisconsin began to break free from its ice captivity, water rushed in, catastrophically flooding everything in its path and forming the bizarre cliffs we see here today.

Wisconsin Dells has become one of the oldest resort areas in the state. The natural, quaint and romantic setting of the Dells has made it a great vacation destination for adventure seekers and entertainment enthusiasts. It is often referred to as the “Waterpark Capital of the World” because there are about 200 indoor and outdoor waterparks in the Wisconsin Dells area. The largest outdoor water park in the United States, Noah’s Ark, and the largest indoor water park in America, Wilderness Territory, are also located here.

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