See aviation and space history at the National Air and Space Museum

Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, Washington, DC - CC: Pedro Szekely

When people think of the Smithsonian Museums, or see a Smithsonian Museum in the movies (Captain America 2: Winter Soldier), the museum they are thinking about is the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum. The most visited Smithsonian Museum with 7.5 million visitors in 2016, this American icon on the south side of the National Mall is full of unique sites that draw in visitors including Apollo 11 module, the Friendship 7 capsule which was flown by John Glenn, the Bell X-1 which broke the sound barrier, and the Wright brothers' plane near the entrance. As it is the most popular Smithsonian, early arrivals are helpful as well as a well planned itinerary. 

Just as a reminder, there is a second Air and Space Museum out by Washington Dulles airport, which is where the Space Shuttle resides. That is unfortunately a 45 minute drive away. 

National Air and Space Museum: 600 Independence Ave SW, Open 10AM to 5:30 PM.