Smithsonian MCP Server: Install & Setup

Install Smithsonian in Claude Code

Remote URL

Claude Code

claude mcp add --transport http cyanheads-smithsonian https://smithsonian.caseyjhand.com/mcp

mcp.json (Claude Desktop, Cursor, VS Code, Windsurf)

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "cyanheads-smithsonian": {
      "url": "https://smithsonian.caseyjhand.com/mcp"
    }
  }
}

npm

Claude Code

claude mcp add cyanheads-smithsonian -e SMITHSONIAN_API_KEY=... -- npx -y @cyanheads/smithsonian-mcp-server

mcp.json (Claude Desktop, Cursor, VS Code, Windsurf)

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "cyanheads-smithsonian": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": [
        "-y",
        "@cyanheads/smithsonian-mcp-server"
      ],
      "env": {
        "SMITHSONIAN_API_KEY": "..."
      }
    }
  }
}

Replace each ... with your own value.

Frequently asked questions

What does the Smithsonian MCP server do?

Search 14.5M Smithsonian Open Access objects, get CC0 images, find cross-collection connections.

Is the Smithsonian MCP server free?

The server is free, but you will likely need an account. The server itself is free, but it connects to a service that needs an account or API key, which may have paid tiers. Check the provider for current pricing.

Does Smithsonian run locally or remotely?

Local + Remote. Can run locally or be used as a hosted remote server.

How do I add Smithsonian to Claude Code?

Run: claude mcp add --transport http cyanheads-smithsonian https://smithsonian.caseyjhand.com/mcp

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