Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Washington DC

Really big museum so plan to spend 3+ hrs here. Every minute is worth the experience. Lots of different exhibits so there's something for everyone. Very impressive collection of gems. The mummies were one of my favorite displays. Lots of people so prepare to maneuver around them. Bring comfortable shoes.

I've been visiting since I was an infant and somehow it never ceases to amaze. Incredible taxidermy, beautiful habitat reconstructions, a gorgeous array of minerals and examples of mine shafts and layouts, and SO much more. Animals, rocks, fossils, insects, human history, anything you're interested in is probably here. I particularly enjoyed the staff members at certain areas that offered some extra fun activities and knowledge. Five-year-old twins had an incredible time and ask to go back at least once a week. Parking on the street was $3 for two hours and it was readily available. Only had to walk about a block.