10 museums to visit for America’s 250th anniversary

ARTICLE | The Guardian | June 19, 2026 | By Adria R. Walker

From Arkansas to Washington DC, museums across the US are grappling with what it means to celebrate the country.

As the United States of America reaches its semiquincentennial this 4 July, museums across the country are grappling with what being American and celebrating the US means. Cultural institutions are digging deeper, highlighting American artists, imagery and artifacts to explore the nation’s history.

Artists from a multitude of backgrounds, spanning centuries and geographical locations, are put in conversation to examine what the last 250 years have meant for the country and what the future may hold.

Below, the Guardian has assembled a list of exhibits at museums across the nation.

1. Native Americans of New Jersey:

Past and Present

Monmouth Museum

Lincroft, New Jersey

Now through September 6, 2026

This exhibit was developed with guidance from Indigenous artists and authors, humanities experts, educators and Monmouth University’s provost.

Historical objects and contemporary artwork are put in conversation to help visitors understand Indigenous life across the region.

The exhibit features artifacts and items shared by tribal communities and the Monmouth County Historical Association, along with loans through a partnership with Art Bridges.

Also featuring bilingual interpretation, interactive elements and subsidized tours for Title I schools, the exhibit aims to make the history and presence of people Indigenous to what is now known as New Jersey accessible to all.

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