National Museum of the American Indian, George Gustav Heye Center

Frommer's Review

This impressive collection represents the Smithsonian Institution. The collection spans more than 10,000 years of native heritage, gathered a century ago mainly by New York banking millionaire George Gustav Heye. About 70% of the collection is dedicated to the natives of North America and Hawaii; the rest represents the cultures of Mexico and Central and South America. There's a wealth of material here, but it's not as well organized as it could be. The museum also hosts temporary themed exhibitions and interpretive programs, plus free storytelling, music, and dance presentations.

The museum is housed in the beautiful 1907 Beaux Arts U.S. Customs House, designed by Cass Gilbert and a National Historic Landmark that's worth a look in its own right.

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