Smithsonian says it can stay open through at least Monday in event of shutdown

The Smithsonian Institution announced Tuesday that its museums, research centers and the National Zoo will remain open through “at least” Monday if the federal government shuts down.

In a post on the social platform X, the Smithsonian said that it will use “prior-year funds” to stay open. It will provide updates on its website.

The Smithsonian operates 17 museums and the National Zoo in Washington, two museums in New York City and eight research centers — from an astrophysical observatory at Harvard University to a marine station in Fort Pierce, Fla.

The Smithsonian estimated that its museums and the National Zoo had 16.8 million visits last year.

With hours remaining before the midnight deadline on Tuesday, Republicans and Democrats are far apart on reaching an agreement to avert a sh