The Smithsonian Institution is home to some of the most popular museums in the world. Most of these museums are free and open to the public. However, a few special museums and exhibits require timed-entry tickets. In 2025, five Smithsonian museums will require visitors to reserve tickets in advance. These tickets are usually free, but they help manage crowds and improve the visitor experience.
In this article, we will explore the five Smithsonian museums that need tickets in 2025. We will explain why tickets are needed, how to reserve them, and what to expect when visiting.
What Are Smithsonian Museums?
The Smithsonian Institution is a group of museums, galleries, and research centers. It is funded by the U.S. government and offers free admission to most of its locations. There are 21 museums and the National Zoo, mostly located in Washington, D.C.
These museums cover a wide range of topics such as history, science, art, space, and culture. Millions of people visit them each year, making the Smithsonian a key part of American education and tourism.
Why Do Some Museums Require Tickets?
Most Smithsonian museums do not require tickets. However, a few do. Here are the main reasons:
Crowd control: Some museums are very popular. Timed-entry tickets help limit the number of visitors at any one time.
Visitor comfort: Tickets ensure that museums are not too crowded, which improves the experience.
Special exhibits or safety concerns: Some buildings have limited space or sensitive items that need more protection.
Health and safety: Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many museums have used tickets to manage public health guidelines.
Now, let’s explore the five Smithsonian museums that will require tickets in 2025.
1. National Museum of African American History and Culture
The National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) is one of the most visited Smithsonian museums. It tells the story of African American life, history, and culture. The museum opened in 2016 and has been very popular ever since.
Why Tickets Are Required
Because of high demand, the museum uses free timed-entry passes. These passes help manage the flow of visitors each day.
Ticket Information for 2025
- Cost: Free
- Booking: Required for entry, available online
- Release schedule: Passes are released 30 days in advance, with limited same-day passes available
- Group tours: Group tickets must be booked separately in advance
How to Reserve
Visitors can go to the museum’s official website or the Smithsonian ticketing portal. Choose your date and time, and print or show the digital pass at the entrance.
2. National Zoo (Smithsonian’s National Zoological Park)
The National Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals from around the world. It is located in Washington, D.C., and is part of the Smithsonian system. The zoo is known for its giant pandas, elephants, lions, and conservation programs.
Why Tickets Are Required
Timed-entry tickets are used to manage the number of daily guests. This helps protect animals and ensures visitor safety.
Ticket Information for 2025
- Cost: Free
- Booking: Required daily
- Release schedule: Passes available 30 days in advance; limited same-day availability
- Parking: Paid parking must be reserved in advance if needed
Special Events
Some seasonal events at the zoo, such as ZooLights and Boo at the Zoo, may require paid tickets. These are separate from the general timed-entry passes.
3. National Air and Space Museum (Washington, D.C. location)
This museum is undergoing a multi-year renovation. Because of the limited space during construction, timed-entry tickets are required. The museum contains historic aircraft, space vehicles, and educational exhibits about aviation and space travel.
Why Tickets Are Required
Construction has reduced the number of galleries open to the public. Tickets help control crowd size and improve safety.
Ticket Information for 2025
- Cost: Free
- Booking: Required every day
- Release schedule: Tickets released every six weeks; same-day tickets also available
- Note: The Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, does not require tickets
Tip for Visitors
Arrive early to get through security and enjoy your full time slot. Some exhibits may be closed due to renovations.
4. Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center (Certain Events Only)
The Udvar-Hazy Center is the companion site to the National Air and Space Museum. It is located in Chantilly, Virginia, near Washington Dulles International Airport. It features large aircraft, including the space shuttle Discovery and a Concorde jet.
When Tickets Are Required
General admission to the Udvar-Hazy Center is free and does not require tickets. However, some special events may require free or paid tickets.
These events include:
- Astronomy nights
- Space shuttle viewings
- Movie screenings in the IMAX theater
Ticket Information for 2025 Events
Cost: Varies by event (some free, some ticketed)
Booking: Required in advance for special events
Parking: Paid daily ($15 per car)
How to Stay Updated
Check the official Smithsonian Events Calendar or the Udvar-Hazy Center’s event page for ticket requirements.
5. Arts and Industries Building (For Special Exhibitions)
The Arts and Industries Building is one of the oldest Smithsonian buildings. It reopens occasionally for special exhibitions and pop-up events. When these events take place, free tickets are often required.
Why Tickets Are Required
The building is not open every day and only hosts temporary exhibitions. Tickets are used to control capacity and ensure safety.
Ticket Information for 2025
- Cost: Free
- Booking: Required during active exhibitions
- Release schedule: Depends on the event
- Event examples: FUTURES exhibition, technology showcases, interactive installations
How to Get Tickets
Event-specific ticketing pages are usually listed on the Smithsonian’s main site or the Arts and Industries Building website.
How to Reserve Smithsonian Tickets
To get tickets for these museums in 2025, follow these steps:
Choose the museum: Select the one you want to visit.
Pick a date and time: Look for available slots and confirm your preferred visit window.
Download or print: Show the ticket on your smartphone or bring a printed copy.
Arrive early: Allow time for entry lines and security screening.
Tips for Visiting Smithsonian Museums in 2025
Plan ahead: Reserve tickets early, especially for weekends or holidays.
Check policies: Some museums may still have safety guidelines or limited services.
Watch for updates: Construction or event changes may affect hours or ticket needs.
Travel smart: Use public transport when possible, especially for downtown D.C. museums.
Conclusion
While most Smithsonian museums are free and open without tickets, five of them require timed-entry passes in 2025. These include the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Zoo, the National Air and Space Museum (Washington location), the Udvar-Hazy Center (for special events), and the Arts and Industries Building (during exhibitions).
Tickets help ensure a safe, enjoyable, and organized experience for all guests. They are usually free and easy to reserve online. If you plan to visit Washington, D.C., in 2025, be sure to check the ticketing requirements early and book your spot.
