The Smithsonian Castle is once again welcoming visitors—but not for long.
After spending years behind construction barriers, the iconic red sandstone landmark reopened temporarily this summer, giving the public a rare opportunity to step inside one of Washington, D.C.’s most recognizable buildings.
The reopening is part of the Smithsonian’s Our Shared Future: 250 celebration ahead of America’s 250th birthday, but the building will soon close once more so its massive restoration project can continue.
For locals and tourists alike, the coming weeks represent the final chance to experience the Castle before it disappears behind construction fencing again.
Whether you’ve never ventured inside or want to revisit a piece of Smithsonian history, now is the perfect time to add the Castle to your National Mall itinerary.
When is the Smithsonian Castle closing?
Visitors have until September 7th, 2026, to explore the Smithsonian Castle before it temporarily closes once again.
The building reopened on May 22nd after renovations paused specifically to allow public access during the Smithsonian’s nationwide Our Shared Future: 250 programming.
The reopening is only temporary, making this a rare opportunity to visit one of Washington’s most historic landmarks while restoration work is still underway. Once the Castle closes after Labor Day weekend, construction crews will resume work on the building’s long-term preservation project.
The Castle is currently open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., giving visitors several weeks to plan one last visit before the doors close again.
Why is the Smithsonian Castle closing again?
The closure is part of the largest historic preservation project in Smithsonian history. The landmark building first closed in 2023 for its first major renovation in more than five decades, with crews restoring both the historic interior and exterior while modernizing essential infrastructure.
The renovation includes installing new heating, ventilation, electrical, plumbing, telecommunications and life-safety systems while carefully restoring historic architectural details throughout the Castle.
Another major goal is to return significantly more space to public use by relocating mechanical equipment and support functions underground.
When the project is ultimately completed, visitors will have access to restored spaces that have been closed or altered for decades, preserving the 1855 landmark for generations to come.
Is the Smithsonian Castle free to visit?
Yes. Like nearly all Smithsonian museums, admission to the Smithsonian Castle is completely free, and no timed-entry passes or reservations are required.
During the temporary reopening, visitors can explore the restored Great Hall, the Smithsonian Visitor Center, the Castle Shop and café, along with the special exhibition American Aspirations, which runs through July 26th and features some of the Smithsonian’s most treasured artifacts.
Located at 1000 Jefferson Drive SW on the National Mall, the Castle has served as the symbolic heart of the Smithsonian since opening in 1855.
With its temporary reopening ending in early September, this summer offers a limited-time chance to experience one of Washington’s most recognizable landmarks before renovations resume.
