The Smithsonian is a magical word here. It’s the world’s largest museum complex, and entry is free. No joke. You can see the original Star-Spangled Banner at the American History Museum. It’s huge, faded, and has a missing star. History nerd heaven.
At the Air and Space Museum, touch a moon rock. No, really—you can touch it. The same one astronauts brought back. Also: the Hope Diamond lives at the Natural History Museum. It’s blue, cursed, and worth more than your entire street. Don’t stare too long.
The National Zoo? Also free. And it’s famous for pandas. The baby pandas are internet celebrities. They roll around, eat bamboo, and steal hearts. Their enclosure costs millions. Worth it.
