Photo courtesy of Washington.org
The Smithsonian Castle will open temporarily for the nation's 250th anniversary, starting this week.
Just in time for the nation's 250th anniversary, the Smithsonian Castle will reopen this week, inviting visitors to reconnect with familiar spaces and explore new stories about the American experience.
The Castle, located at 1000 Jefferson Dr. SW in DC, is easily accessible from Alexandria via driving, cycling, Metro or by water taxi.
The Castle will reopen to visitors Friday, May 22, following a closure for major renovations that began in 2023. The Smithsonian National Carousel resumed operation Friday, April 24, after an extensive restoration.
Together, these reopenings are part of the Smithsonian's “Our Shared Future: 250,” a multi‑year initiative commemorating the nation’s Semiquincentennial through exhibitions, programs and experiences that encourage reflection on America’s past and imagination of its future.
Smithsonian Castle
Photo courtesy of Smithsonian
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Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, Liberty, ca. 1884, painted terra cotta and tin, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Transfer from the U.S. Capitol.
The Smithsonian Castle will reopen from Friday, May 22, through Monday, Sept. 7, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily, as renovations temporarily pause to allow public access. Completed in 1855 and designed by architect James Renwick Jr., the Castle is the Smithsonian’s oldest building and its symbolic heart, originally housing the Institution’s first museum, library and administrative offices.
During the reopening, visitors will be able to explore the restored Great Hall, where interpretive displays trace the Castle’s history, transformation and future. The Castle will also host “American Aspirations” (Tuesday, June 2–Sunday, July 26), a special exhibition co-curated by Lonnie G. Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian.
Bringing together iconic objects from across Smithsonian museums for the first time in a single exhibition, “American Aspirations” examines moments of the nation’s founding, progress and change to explore themes of democracy, innovation and civic participation.
Highlights include the desk on which Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration of Independence, a flight suit worn by Amelia Earhart and a model of the Statue of Liberty by Frederic Auguste Bartholdi.
Photo courtesy of Smithsonian
In 1776 Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence on this portable desk of his own design. It features a hinged writing board and a locking drawer for papers, pens, and inkwell.
The Castle will also feature the Summer Shack café and retail spaces with seasonal offerings and 250th‑themed items. Visitors can join daily outdoor docent tours and learn more about the history of the Castle and the Smithsonian through educational carts.
This temporary reopening offers a rare opportunity to experience the Castle mid‑transformation and learn how the Smithsonian is preserving its historic core while preparing for the future.
Smithsonian National Carousel
Photo courtesy of Smithsonian
Built in 1947 by the Allan Herschell Company, the carousel first operated at Gwynn Oak Amusement Park in Baltimore and was desegregated Aug. 28, 1963, the same day as the March on Washington. It was installed on the National Mall in 1981, where it has remained a favorite for generations.
The Smithsonian National Carousel returned to permanent operation Friday, April 24, following a comprehensive restoration. Built in 1947 by the Allan Herschell Company, the carousel first operated at Gwynn Oak Amusement Park in Baltimore and was desegregated Aug. 28, 1963, the same day as the March on Washington. It was installed on the National Mall in 1981, where it has remained a favorite for generations.
Closed in November 2023, the carousel has been restored with refurbished hand‑carved horses, modernized safety and mechanical systems and newly designed ADA‑accessible chariots, as well as a redesigned platform, ticket booth and enhanced pathways. Located in front of the Arts and Industries Building, the carousel operates daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting. Rides cost $6 per person and do not require advance reservations.
By reopening these storied spaces and restoring a cherished landmark, the Smithsonian marks America’s 250th anniversary with a renewed sense of welcome. This summer offers visitors the opportunity to rediscover familiar icons, encounter new perspectives and engage with the Smithsonian’s role in connecting people with the nation’s past, present and future.
