Anacostia Community Museum

This museum is inconveniently located, but that's because it was initially created in 1967 as a neighborhood museum (which makes it unique among the Smithsonian branches). Its mission today goes beyond D.C.'s local African-American experience to examine more generally the impact of social and cultural issues on a community from a historical and contemporary perspective. "Black Baseball in the District of Columbia," an ongoing exhibit, gives you an idea of the kinds of themes showcased here. The permanent collection includes about 6,000 items, ranging from videotapes of African-American church services to art, sheet music, historical documents, textiles, glassware, and anthropological objects, dating from the early 1800s. In addition, the Anacostia produces a number of shows each year and offers a comprehensive schedule of free educational programs and activities in conjunction with exhibit themes. Allow about an hour here.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.