Smithsonian museums, National Zoo close as shutdown drags on

Smithsonian museums , research centers and the National Zoo are closed as the partial government shutdown continues.

The Smithsonian Institution touts itself as the world’s largest complex of museums, education and research, with 21 museums as well as 14 education and research centers. The institution had funding to keep facilities open until Sunday, Oct. 12. But as of Sunday, they are now closed to the public.