Smithsonian Sleepovers are Back

by Micaela Williamson

One of my favorite experiences with my son was sleeping over the Smithsonian National Archives last summer. It is a memory that neither of us will ever forget, and you can read all about our experience in this article here.  I am happy to announce the new 2016 Smithsonian Sleepover dates at the National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of American History, and for the first time ever, the National Air and Space Museum's Steven F. Udvar Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.  

Here is more information about the sleepovers via the official press release:

• National Museum of Natural History Sleepovers

Sleepover guests will experience the museum through an interactive exploration of exhibit halls consisting of games, puzzles and challenges; exhibit-based craft projects; watching an IMAX film; and sleeping under the museum’s giant North American right whale, Phoenix. Sleepovers at the National Museum of Natural History will be held May 27, June 18, July 2, July 15 and Aug. 26.

• National Museum of American History Sleepovers

Participants will solve a mystery of historic proportions during an interactive exploration of exhibit halls. When the devious diva Miss Rose steals six valuable objects from the museum, kids must discover what is missing before the evening’s end. Using their detective skills, they will collect clues to guide them to the crime scene—taking part in games, experiments and craft projects along the way. Sleepovers at the National Museum of American History will be held April 15, May 13, June 24, July 29 and Aug. 5 and Aug. 12.
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• National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar Hazy Center Sleepovers

Kids and their chaperones will explore the whole world of flight, from its pioneering days through the era of commercial aviation to the excitement of today’s space program. After they grab a flight checklist, they will take off for a night that includes plenty of games, art activities, an IMAX film or a visit to the Portable Planetarium and close-up looks at some of the most historic and fascinating craft ever to take to the skies. Udvar-Hazy Center staff will be on hand to offer information and insights about the aviation treasures on view. Sleepovers at the Udvar-Hazy Center will be held July 9, July 23 and Aug. 20.



Sleepovers are for children ages 8-12, and it is required that there be at least one adult for every three children. Chaperones must be 21 years or older.  All participants must pre-register by calling (202) 633-3030 or by visiting the Smithsonian Associates box office located in the S. Dillon Ripley Center at 1100 Jefferson Dr. S.W., Suite 3077.

Ticket prices are $135 for general admission and $120 for Associate members. The price includes exclusive access and activities in the museum, an evening snack, interactive exploration, arts and crafts activities and a light breakfast. T-shirts are available for purchase while at the sleepover. For more information and a detailed schedule of events, please visit www.smithsoniansleepovers.org.