Real Nova Network by Chris Colgan - family activities DC

Smithsonian Air and Space Museum Opens Five New Galleries After $1 Billion Renovation

Posted by Chris Colgan on June 24th, 2026

By Chris Colgan · Real Nova Network
Source: According to reporting by Stephen Lotz for the Washington Business Journal

One of Washington, D.C.’s most iconic museums is entering a new era.

According to the Washington Business Journal, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is set to open five brand-new galleries on July 1 as part of its massive $1 billion renovation, a project that began in 2018 and has transformed nearly every corner of the museum.

For anyone who grew up visiting the Air and Space Museum, taking kids there on a weekend, or bringing out-of-town family to the National Mall, this is a big deal. The museum is not just getting a fresh coat of paint. It is being rebuilt for a new generation.

The timing is also fitting. The Air…

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Baby Elephant Debuts at National Zoo: What to Know Before You Go

Posted by Chris Colgan on April 21st, 2026

The Smithsonian National Zoo just unveiled its newest star — Linh Mai, a baby elephant born February 2. Her public debut on April 22 (Earth Day) is already drawing major crowds and giving locals a fresh reason to head into D.C. this spring.

The big picture

• Linh Mai spent her first weeks off-exhibit bonding with her herd and caretakers.
• The Elephant Community Center remained closed during that time.
• As of April 22, the full exhibit is open again — and she’s now viewable alongside six other elephants.

What’s happening: This is her first time being publicly visible, making it a high-demand attraction immediately out of the gate.

What you’ll see

• The zoo’s Elephant Trails…

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