American History Museum

Well, the museum was ok. The parts that hadn't been closed or dismantled were pretty good. The exhibit that was behind the cafeteria? Would've been helpful if the signage said it was only accessible when the cafeteria was open (the lunchbox exhibit). The Muppets? Only about 15 & they were in two different locations.

I was impressed with the transportation sections (old cars, trains, buses, boats, etc) was excellent. They even had a 1940's era orange school bus in there. Absolutely fascinating. The science displays- old computers, Pac Man & Big Blue amazed the kids. I noted that some of the negative, unforseen aspects of new science weren't glossed over. For example, Mme. Curie died of radiation from her experiments; factory workers from the 1930's died of radium poisoning when the glow in the dark watch dial ingredient built up in their system; falloout from the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima & Nagasaki; ecological damage; etc. There was a display discussing the social impact of birth control pills.

I'm very sad I waited so long to visit this particular museum. Much of it was closed & won't reopen until 2008. I've made a mental note to go back the year it opens.
Family Activity, Washington DC AMerican History Museum