Millions of people visit the downtown national park and its surrounding museums (think: the National Gallery of Art and the Natural Museum of American History) each year. But, as fabulous as the Mall is, there are equally awesome (and kid-friendly) museums in other parts of D.C. Want to expose the kids to a little culture or history, but not in the mood for the crush of tourists? Here are six spots to check out this winter.

National Museum of Health and Medicine

This museum, referred to by locals as the “Museum of Medical Oddities”, recently moved into a new building in Silver Spring after leaving its long-time digs in Walter Reed Medical Center. Kids who don’t get grossed out too easily will want to see the huge hairball (that came from a person!). Grown-ups might be interested in examining the museums collection of Civil War-era medical implements.

2500 Linden Ln. (Silver Spring, Md)
Open: Daily, 10 am-5:30 pm
Cost: Free
Online: medicalmuseum.mil

What is your favorite “off the Mall” museum? Tell us in the Comments section below.

—Katherine Gustafson

Photos courtesy of National Air and Space Museum via Facebook, CraigShipp.com Photos via Flickr, National Museum of Health and Medicine via Facebook, Madame Tussauds DC via Facebook, Ralph Toyama via Flickr, Aguilas2011 via Flickr

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