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Arts and Industries Building

Opened in 1881 in time for the inaugural ball of President James A. Garfield, the building was constructed to exhibit materials acquired from the nations Centennial Exposition at Philadelphia. Over the years the Arts and Industries Building has served as a repository for many special exhibitions, from the first ladies gowns to the Spirit of St. Louis, now displayed in other Smithsonian museums on the Mall. The museum was partially restored in 1976 to its original appearance for the nations bicentennial. Also re-created for 1976 from the original patterns are geometric stencils in rich Victorian colors of yellow, red, green, and blue on the rotunda and hall spandrels. In the Rotunda a working fountain surrounded by seasonal plants provides a quiet respite in a picturesque setting. Located off the west hall is the Discovery Theater, which showcases programs for young children throughout most of the year.

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