Both The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and The Prado Museum are world-renowned institutions offering unique cultural experiences. The Smithsonian is ideal for those interested in aviation and space, while The Prado is a must-see for art enthusiasts. Both museums provide accessibility options and educational programs, catering to a wide range of visitors.
| Attribute | The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum | The Prado Museum |
|---|---|---|
| Name | The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum | The Prado Museum |
| Collection Size | Over 78,000 objects, the world's largest and most significant collection of aviation and space artifacts. | Approximately 8,200 drawings, 7,600 paintings, 4,800 prints, and 1,000 sculptures. About 1,300 works are displayed in the main buildings, with around 3,100 on temporary loan. |
| Exhibition Variety | Twenty-three different galleries featuring items related to the history of aviation and space flight. Galleries are dedicated to major aspects of flight, including the Thomas W. Haas 'We All Fly' gallery. | European art from the 12th to the early 20th centuries, including Spanish, Flemish, and Italian art, Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces. |
| Historical Significance | Collection includes artifacts dating back to the late 19th century, with some pieces from the 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia. | Spain's main national art museum, founded in 1819. The building was designed in 1785 by Juan de Villanueva. |
| Interactive Exhibits | Flight simulators, hands-on exhibits, and interactive digital globes. The 'How Things Fly' gallery explains the principles of flight and space travel. | 'Touching the Prado' exhibition for visitors who are blind or have low vision. |
| Educational Programs | Educational materials for the study of aviation, public lectures, guided tours, summer programs, and educator workshops. | Guided tours and audio guides in multiple languages, free loan of sign language guides, audio guides with audio description and magnetic loop systems. |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Sensory bags with noise reduction headphones and fidget toys are available. Sensory-friendly visit times are also offered. | Adapted restrooms, accessible lifts, ramps, and platforms. Wheelchairs are available for loan, and guide dogs are welcome. Vehicle access for visitors with reduced mobility upon prior request. |
| Visitor Traffic | One of the most visited museums in the world. In 2023, it was the fourth-most visited museum in the United States, with 3.1 million visitors. | 3,457,057 visitors in 2024; 3,337,550 visitors in 2023, ranking it 13th globally. |
| Photography Policy | Still and video photography are permitted for noncommercial use unless otherwise posted. Tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are prohibited. | Photography and filming are not permitted except in the Jer imos Hall, Hall of the Muses, and Claustro de los Jer imos. |
| Guided Tours Availability | Guided tours are available. | Guided tours in English and Spanish. |
| On-site Amenities (Cafes, Shops) | On-site amenities such as cafes and shops are available. | Cloakrooms, restrooms, WiFi, a library, a cafe (Caf Prado), and gift shops. |
| Special Events and Temporary Exhibitions | The museum hosts special events and temporary exhibitions and is undergoing a large-scale, multi-year renovation that will introduce new galleries and public spaces. | Current and upcoming exhibitions include: The Painter Antonio Mu f1oz Degrain (1840 - 1924) (June 30, 2025 - January 11, 2026), So far, so close. Guadalupe of Mexico in Spain (June 10, 2025 - September 14, 2025), Paolo Veronese (1528-1588) (May 27, 2025 - September 21, 2025), The Martyrdom of Saint Andrew (March 3, 2025 - June 30, 2026), The Art Gallery of Cornelis van der Geest (March 1, 2024 - February 22, 2026), Anton Raphael Mengs. The greatest painter of the 18th century (November 25, 2025 March 1, 2026). |
| Curatorial Reputation | A center for research into the history and science of aviation and spaceflight, as well as planetary science, terrestrial geology, and geophysics. | Known for its extensive collection of Spanish art and masterpieces by artists like Goya, Vel zquez, El Greco, Rubens, Titian, and Bosch. |
| Price | Free admission, but timed entry passes are required for the National Mall location. | Not available |
| Ratings | Not available | Not available |
| Pros | World's largest collection of aviation and space artifacts, Interactive exhibits, Educational programs, Wheelchair accessible and sensory-friendly options, Free admission | Extensive collection of Spanish, Flemish, and Italian art, Accessibility for visitors with disabilities, Educational programs and guided tours, Interactive exhibits for visually impaired visitors, On-site amenities like cafes and gift shops, Temporary exhibitions |
| Cons | Often crowded, especially on weekends, holidays, and during peak season, Tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are prohibited for photography | Photography restrictions in most exhibition rooms, Crowds during peak hours (11:00 AM - 1:30 PM, especially on weekends) |
| User Feedback (Positive) | Hands-on area in the 'How Things Fly' gallery is appropriate for children., Floor plans are available to help navigate the museum., Museum staff and volunteers at the welcome center are available to answer questions. | Not available |
| User Feedback (Negative) | Not available | Not available |