2 kid-friendly exhibits opening in D.C. (that adults will love, too)

Two new kid-friendly exhibits open in D.C. this weekend — and adults will want in.

Driving the news: The Library of Congress is launching a first-of-its-kind experiential research gallery for children — and it's free with timed-entry tickets.

• "The Source: Where Curiosity Sparks Discovery" opens Saturday, designed for ages 8–15.
• Think history meets play, with real artifacts, audio, film and creative activities.
• Opening weekend includes a full Family Day on Saturday with music, author talks, film screenings and drop-in activities.

What's cool: It's more do than look. The gallery is packed with interactive stations using text, images, sound and film.

• They can dig into topics like basketball history, cartoon art or even a WWII "Ghost Army" deception unit.
• There are color-coded zones and hands-on tools (like a phonograph and film projector replicas) for tangible adventures.

Zoom out: This has been seven years in the making and is part of a bigger push to make the Library more accessible — especially for younger audiences.

Also opening: "Bison: Standing Strong" debuted yesterday at the Natural History Museum.

• The exhibit highlights America's national mammal and its journey from near extinction to comeback, with eye-catching specimens — from a mounted bull to a giant prehistoric skull nicknamed "Junior."
• It runs through May 2029, but the new bronze bison out front may be there forever.