D.C.’s Natural History Museum is the largest Smithsonian museum and one of the most fascinating. One exhibit is the Ocean Hall, which is on the first floor of the museum. Upon walking inside, it may look overwhelming, since the space is so large. Luckily, entry to the museum is free, so you can explore the room at your own pace, and return for another visit whenever you want.

There are plenty of fascinating facts about different kinds of animals living in oceans around the world. The most commonly known fish that we saw were clownfish and starfish, which are in most of the aquariums in the room. There are also more uncommon species, such as sex-changing fish— living proof that nature is both diverse and beautiful.

Another section features geology facts about the ocean floor. It explains how you can find centuries of history from old sediments (pieces of small rock). They accumulate at the ocean floor, and, when analyzed, can help scientists discover what species may have lived nearby.

The Natural History Museum is right next to the metro station, so it’s an easy trip to make. Whether you want to learn a new fun fact, go on a scavenger hunt to find different kinds of fish, or just look at cool fossils, the Ocean Hall offers something for everyone.