Bison Standing Strong at Natural History Museum

Bison Standing Strong at Natural History Museum

The Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History is unveiling Bison Standing Strong, a new exhibition on the second floor that tells the full story of the American bison through the eyes of the Indigenous peoples who have lived alongside them for thousands of years. The centerpiece is a life-size, six-foot bull bison model and the massive skull of B. latifrons, a prehistoric bison nicknamed Junior that dwarfs anything alive today. Kids can see traditional artworks, learn how bison shaped the ecology of the Great Plains, and understand why these animals nearly disappeared and how they are coming back. There is also a special family programming day on May 12 with hands-on activities tied to the exhibition. This is not a temporary pop-up, the exhibition runs through 2029, so there is plenty of time, but the opening weeks tend to be the most exciting with extra programming and fresh energy from the museum staff.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓The exhibition is on the second floor, so head upstairs after entering. Signs will direct you.
• ✓Combine this visit with the dinosaur hall or Ocean Hall on the same floor for a full morning.
• ✓Family programming on May 12 includes hands-on activities, arrive early for the best experience.
• ✓Strollers are welcome throughout the museum. There are elevators near the rotunda.
• ✓The museum cafeteria is on the ground floor if you need a lunch break.