The Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo have closed their doors following the depletion of reserve funds, nearly two weeks after a federal government shutdown began on October 1, 2025. This closure, effective October 12, 2025, impacts 21 museums and the National Zoo, affecting tourism, federal employees, and local businesses in Washington, D.C.
Story Highlights:
- Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo have closed, impacting federal employees, tourists, and local businesses.
- Depletion of reserve funds following a government shutdown that commenced on October 1, 2025, due to congressional failure to pass funding bills.
Washington, D.C. – October 12, 2025 – The Smithsonian Institution announced today the closure of all its museums and the National Zoo, effective October 12, 2025. This action follows the depletion of reserve funds that had allowed the institutions to remain open for nearly two weeks after the federal government shutdown began on October 1, 2025. The shutdown resulted from Congress’s inability to pass necessary funding legislation.
Due to the government shutdown, we are temporarily closed beginning on Sunday, Oct. 12, along with Smithsonian museums, research centers, and the National Zoo. We will update our operating status as soon as the situation is resolved. pic.twitter.com/lqQ2A3yHMi
— National Portrait Gallery USA (@smithsoniannpg) October 10, 2025
The closure affects 21 museums and the National Zoo, impacting tourism and the approximately 19,000 federal employees who face furloughs or are working without pay. The Smithsonian had utilized reserve funds from October 1 to October 11 to maintain operations, providing a temporary continuation of services for visitors and local commerce.
The situation underscores the broader implications of federal budget impasses, affecting cultural and economic activities in the nation’s capital. Local businesses, including restaurants and hotels, which depend on tourism, are experiencing reduced activity. The closures also highlight the financial instability faced by federal workers and the disruption of educational and recreational opportunities for the public.
Discussions are ongoing regarding the need for alternative funding models for public institutions to mitigate the impact of political volatility on operations. The current circumstances emphasize the interconnectedness of federal policies, national heritage, and local economies, prompting calls for a timely resolution to budgetary issues.
Watch the report: Smithsonian museums close amid government shutdown
Source:
Washington.org: Government Shutdown – Things to Know
Smithsonian museums, National Zoo close as government shutdown drags on | CNN Politics
Smithsonian museums and National Zoo close temporarily as government shutdown drags on
The Shutdown Closes Smithsonian Museums, Shutting Out Tourists – The New York Times
