Beyond the Meeting: A Brainy Guide to Washington, D.C.

Scientific treasures, curious museums, and a little sightseeing for neuroscience lovers

I confess that I love Washington, D.C.!

As a neuroscientist and self-described museum nerd, D.C. has always been one of my favorite cities. I attend the Society for Neuroscience (SfN) annual meeting every year, wherever it takes place, but returning to D.C. is always special.

Of course, between scientific sessions, inspiring discussions, reunions with colleagues, and the fantastic SfN social events, our schedules are already packed. But if you're lucky enough to extend your stay, D.C. has so much more to offer.

Here are a few of my favorite suggestions for exploring the city beyond the convention center.

Medical Curiosities and Scientific Landmarks

If you enjoy medical history and unusual anatomical specimens, the National Museum of Health and Medicine in nearby Silver Spring is a must. Its fascinating collection of pathological specimens, historical instruments, and medical artifacts provides a glimpse into the evolution of medicine.

For neuroscientists, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda is another notable landmark. Although access to research facilities is restricted, the campus and the National Library of Medicine offer a window into biomedical history.

Evolution, Language, and Perception

D.C.'s Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History creates a fascinating journey through human evolution, including the development of our extraordinary brains.

For those interested in cognition and communication, Planet Word is a delightful interactive museum dedicated to language.

If you'd rather challenge your visual cortex, the Museum of Illusions offers plenty of perceptual tricks, while ARTECHOUSE D.C. combines immersive digital art, technology, and sensory experiences.

For something completely different, the International Spy Museum explores espionage, deception, and human behavior. After all, what could be more entertaining than pretending to be a secret agent after a day spent discussing neural circuits?

My Next Discovery: National Geographic

One place I'm particularly excited to explore this year is the new National Geographic Museum of Exploration.

Despite my many trips to D.C., this will be my first time visiting the museum. Its combination of science, archaeology, photography, wildlife, and exploration sounds irresistible.

It may not be focused on neuroscience, but isn't curiosity what drives us all as scientists?

A City Worth Rediscovering

These are just a few possibilities in a city filled with scientific treasures, historical landmarks, and unexpected discoveries.

I certainly wouldn't suggest missing the scientific sessions or social gatherings that make SfN so special!

But if you have a little extra time, explore beyond the conference. Whether you're visiting for the first time or, like me, returning to the city, D.C. always has something new to offer.

After all, science isn't confined to laboratories and lecture halls. Sometimes it's hiding in an old anatomical specimen, an unusual museum, or a surprisingly convincing optical illusion.

See you at Neuroscience 2026 — and perhaps somewhere around D.C., chasing another scientific curiosity!

About the Contributor

Valéria Marques Figueira Muoio, MD, PhD

Valéria Marques Figueira Muoio, MD, PhD, is a neurosurgeon and neuroscientist based in São Paulo, Brazil, at the University of São Paulo, where she integrates clinical practice, research, and the training of neurosurgical residents. She transformed a childhood dream into her profession by becoming both a neurosurgeon and a neuroscientist. Inspired by the complexity and adaptability of the human brain, her mission is to push the boundaries of science in pursuit of the best possible outcomes for her patients. Her interests include movement disorders, brain–machine interfaces, deep brain stimulation, and neurogenesis.