The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum opened its current building on July 1, 1976, during the United States Bicentennial.
The museum’s National Mall building was created as part of the nation’s extensive 1976 anniversary program. Its collections focus on aviation and spaceflight, including aircraft, spacecraft, engines, scientific instruments, and artifacts connected with major milestones in exploration.
The opening occurred three days before the Bicentennial’s central Independence Day celebration. Its location on the National Mall placed it near other Smithsonian museums and major commemorative events in Washington, D.C.
The date can be confused with the museum’s later history, because the institution has expanded and renovated its galleries several times. The original National Mall building, however, opened to the public on July 1, 1976, making it one of the most prominent permanent legacies of the Bicentennial.