Washington, D.C., among many other accolades, is a city steeped in history and heritage, power and prestige. And at the heart of it all lies the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum and research complex.

With 20 museums, galleries, and a zoo — 17 of them in the capital, and the rest in other states — the Smithsonian, through the years, has captured many a heart. From the Air and Space Museum, where visitors marvel at the Wright brothers’ plane, to the National Gallery of Art, home to masterpieces by da Vinci and Vermeer — and let’s not forget the full-of-surprises National Zoo — each Smithsonian Museum has its own unique narrative.

On our most recent visit to Washington, my siblings and I debated which depository to further explore. After much deliberation, we settled on the National Museum of American History, to experience how much it has evolved since our previous trip some years back.

As we stepped inside, we were immediately struck by the richness of the nation’s history — love of country and a sense of patriotism, which is near infectious. And much to our anticipation, new installations and interactive exhibits have been added, which continues to captivate visitors!

Here are some of our favorites.

Among the most iconic artifacts are George Washington in uniform and his Presidential Chair. We could clearly imagine him seated as he shaped the future of American democracy.

We spotted Thomas Jefferson’s desk, where it is believed he wrote the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

How could we miss Abraham Lincoln’s top hat? Standing at 6’4” in height, plus the headpiece, we could imagine how imposing of a figure he must have been!

The museum also dedicates a spacious area to the legacies of US presidents and their spouses.