Walter Larrimore

Gorgeous art, textiles and rich stories await visitors at the National Museum of the American Indian.

The Other Smithsonian

Let’s play a word association game: “Museums” and “D.C.” Chances are, you’re thinking “Smithsonian.” But which ones come to mind? For the record, there are 14 Smithsonian museums in Washington D.C., plus one opening up in 2015 (African American History & Culture Museum) and one closed for renovations (Arts and Industries building).

Here are some of the other less-popular museums under the Smithsonian umbrella that you'll love.

(Note: General information for all Smithsonian museums can be found by calling 202/633-1000. Unless otherwise noted, admission times are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. All museums are free.)

Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center (14390 Air & Space Museum Parkway, Chantilly, Va.; nasm.si.edu/UdvarHazy). The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is akin to the neglected younger sibling whose flashier older sibling—the National Air and Space Museum—basks in the attention of doting parents. Sure, it’s a bit farther than its National Mall counterpart, but the sights you’ll find are well worth the trek…and it’s at Washington Dulles International Airport. This space holds thousands of aviation and space artifacts that don’t fit on the Mall—stop by the Boeing Aviation Hangar for three stories of great finds, such as the suspended Boeing P-26A Peashooter. Other cool exhibits include the Space Shuttle Enterprise and an observation tower to see the air traffic at Dulles International. Oh, and don’t forget to pencil in the IMAX theater and flight simulations during your visit.[img credit: Dane Penland]

Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery (1050 Independence Ave., SW and Jefferson Dr. at 12th St., SW; asia.si.edu). D.C. is home to amazing global art, but not to be missed are the Freer and Sackler Galleries, which house Asian art. An underground exhibit connects the two spaces, so it makes for an easy few hours of exploration on a rainy day. Come here for artwork—sculptures, paintings, glass works and ceramics—from cultures such as the Egyptians, Islamic, Korean and Japanese among many others. We like its outstanding collection of Buddhist paintings and Korans ranging from the 9th to 19th century. Check its event calendar, too—the Galleries often host trunk shows and special tours.

National Museum of the American Indian (4th St. and Independence Ave., SW; nmai.si.edu). This Smithsonian space centers around the history of the Native American people, specifically how they interact and intersect with other cultures. These have included African Americans, Western culture and even generational clashes among Native American tribes. The messages mixed in with exhibits of authentic Native American historical garb, contemporary art from Native American artist Brian Jungen and photographic stories of recent Native American triumphs and tribulations show the importance of diversity and its ever-changing developments. Best-kept-secret in town: the café here is amazing, serving traditional Native American cuisine. [img credit: Adam Reich]

National Postal Museum (2 Massachusetts Ave. NE, D.C.; 202/633-5555; postalmuseum.si.edu). Was your grandfather a stamp collector? If so, you’ll understand why we find it fitting to give a nod to the National Postal Museum, conveniently adjacent to Union Station. Permanent exhibits include the history of mail service (way before UPS trucks blocked your driveway), postal technology advances and a feature on personal communication lending tribute to wartime letters. Famous faces are a staple in the museum—especially icons of FDR, who used stamps to communicate with his fellow Americans. This one gets our (wait for it…) stamp of approval.

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden (Independence Avenue at Seventh Street SW; hirshhorn.si.edu). Ever been told your taste is a bit abstract? You’ll appreciate Hirshhorn’s contemporary spin on all its artwork. The museum features technology-laden pieces of art, unusual sculptures, zany photos of human and non-human elements and lots of color. The museum, though only three floors, can be a quick or a long visit, depending on the depth of your inner artiste. And yes, there’s a gift shop, so you can take mementos of the next Andy Warhol home with you. Bonus? There’s a sweet view of the Mall from the top floor—bring your camera.