Arts and Industries Building

Over the years the Arts and Industries Building has served as a repository for many special exhibitions, from the first ladies' gowns to the Spirit of St. Louis, now displayed in other Smithsonian museums on the Mall. In 1999, the Arts and Industries' Office of Exhibitions was established in order to coordinate the variety of changing exhibitions on such topics as art, history, science, and culture that the building now hosts. These exhibitions are from the Smithsonian collections and research as well as from other museums, galleries, universities, and archives beyond the Smithsonian Institution. Located off the west hall is the Discovery Theater, which showcases programs for young children throughout most of the year.

The galleries are located on the National Mall, the grassy area between the Capitol and the Washington Monument, steps from the Smithsonian Metro stop.