“In Pursuit of Life, Liberty & Happiness”

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History will lead the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations with a bold, immersive exhibition exploring the ideals of the Declaration of Independence. “In Pursuit of Life, Liberty & Happiness,” will open May 14, featuring 250 objects, across 250,000 square feet of the museum’s three public floors, including the desk Jefferson used to draft the Declaration of Independence. Another noteworthy Revolutionary War artifact is the only surviving ship of the early U.S. Navy, the gunboat Philadelphia. This National Historic Landmark helped stall British forces and now will undergo an on-site conservation to preserve it for future generations. A favorite with visitors is the Star-Spangled Banner the 1813 flag that inspired the National Anthem. A free guide will be available to help locate the artifacts, which range from the 1700s to the 21st century. The museum will also offer an extensive website to online visitors and those who want to take a deeper dive into this history following their visit. Visitors and online audiences can engage with both the triumphs and challenges of America’s journey through a series of dynamic programs, from hands-on activities and theatrical performances to educational tools and virtual field trips for classrooms across the country. The museum's Semiquincentennial exhibitions and events will welcome all Americans to reflect and commemorate on this significant anniversary. It closes in December 2026.