Lindsey Mastis

The Smithsonian’s Museum of American History has been closed for renovations the past two years. It basically got an $85 million face lift. Well, it opened Friday with a lot of hype. There were some criticisms as well. For example, the New York Times reviewed the museum and concluded that it still lacks a clear focus. I would have to agree. I truly don’t understand the significance of having Dorothy’s ruby red slippers (from the Wizard of Oz ) on display next to Muhammad Ali’s boxing gloves. I guess this is why the museum is sometimes referred to as “America’s Attic .”

There’s a lot to see, including the Star-Spangled Banner and the original lyrics to the National Anthem by Francis Scott Key . Kermit and Oscar the Grouch from Sesame Street are also there, along with an entire section dedicated to transportation. There is a bus, an old street car, a locomotive, trolley, and even one of the first station wagons. It’s a young boy’s dream in there! From Disney , there’s part of the Dumbo ride . There’s still an entire section dedicated to Presidential memorabilia — including Lincoln’s hat and death mask. It’s nearly impossible to see everything in one day. But, there are still several areas not yet open to the public. A lot is still under construction.

The only major disappointment was the food area . Although I don’t drink coffee, I do think it’s a necessity for a lot of visitors. Well, there was none– and soda cost $3. There were chips, pretzels, and ready-made sandwiches. There were folding tables set up and coolers with food that you could buy. Much of the area was still under construction. One lady complained that her soda was warm. I wondered whether the food was being kept at the proper temperature. I would encourage people to eat elsewhere– at least until the restaurant is completely ready to go.

For $85 million and two years for completion, I would have expected the entire project to be completed– or at least the food area. And it looks like they completely forgot to renovate the downstairs bathrooms. (That’s all I have to say about that.)

Overall, it was a positive experience. I’m anxious to take some of my other friends with me. My friend Emily Stone went with me to the museum today, and afterward we visited some of the nearby monuments. It wasn’t as packed as I had expected, but there were still some lines. I put together this photo gallery.

I would also encourage you to see the Gettysburg Address . It’s usually off-limits to the public. (It’s on loan from the White House and they keep it in the Lincoln bedroom.) It’s a very rare look at a historic and monumental document. There’s a line, but it goes pretty fast. Definitely take the time catch a glimpse.